An Introduction to Integrated Economic Unions

Based in North Grafton, Massachusetts, Paul Andrew is an experienced public policy expert who has published works related to a wide range of issues at the local, state, national, and international levels. From his North Grafton home, Paul Andrew has advised a number of Caribbean countries regarding the development of an integrated economic union.

An integrated economic union is formed following an agreement among multiple nations to collaborate on various fiscal policies and to reduce, if not outright eliminate, trade barriers between participating nations. Sometimes referred to as regional integration, economic integration provides all countries involved with several key benefits, including a considerable reduction in expenses associated with international trade. Furthermore, integrated economies regularly enjoy an increased availability of goods and services, not to mention a higher range of choices between related products.

In addition to benefits directly related to trade, integrated economies also typically create new employment opportunities as a result of trade liberalization. They can also assist in the development and maintenance of political ties between countries. An example of an integrated economic union would be the European Union, which has achieved complete economic integration.