There are a variety of ways in which countries can "protect" their domestic economies from competition from abroad. One of them is through trading blocs.

A trading bloc is a type of intergovernmental agreement, often part of a regional intergovernmental organisation, where regional barriers to international trade, (tariffs and non-tariff barriers) are reduced or eliminated among the participating states, allowing them to trade with each other as easily as possible.

The idea is that member countries freely trade with each other, but establish barriers to trade with non-members, which has had a significant impact on the pattern of global trade.

International trade agreements can open up new opportunities for exporters. They can also ensure access to competitively priced imports from other countries.1. What is a trade bloc, and how does it differ from a free trade agreement? 2. List and explain the main types of trade blocs that exist globally. 3. How do trade blocs promote regional economic integration? 4. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of participating in a trade bloc. 5. Explain the concept of preferential trade agreements within trade blocs. 6. How do regional trading blocs impact international trade patterns and market access? 7. Discuss the role of trade blocs in promoting economic growth and development. 8. What are the key factors that influence the success of a trade bloc? 9. Explain the impact of trade blocs on domestic industries and employment. 10. How do trade blocs affect the pricing of goods and services within member countries? 11. Discuss the challenges faced by countries in negotiating and implementing trade bloc agreements. 12. Explain the concept of rules of origin and their significance in trade blocs. 13. What are the potential implications of trade blocs on global trade and the multilateral trading system?