Free trade areas refer to regions where goods and services can be traded freely between participating countries without tariffs or other trade barriers. Phonetically, the word "freetrade areas" is spelled as /friːtreɪd ɛrɪəz/. The stress is on the second syllable "trade" and the vowel sound in the first syllable is a long "ee" sound. The phonetic transcription shows that there are two syllables in "freetrade" with a glide sound between "ee" and "t". The ending "-ed" in "freetrade" is pronounced as the syllable "id" /ɪd/ due to the presence of the preceding consonant sound /d/.
Free trade areas, also known as free trade zones or economic zones, refer to designated geographical regions in which member countries agree to reduce or eliminate tariffs, quotas, and other trade barriers between themselves. These areas are established with the aim of promoting international trade, enhancing economic cooperation, and stimulating economic growth among the participating countries.
In a free trade area, member countries agree to remove restrictions on imports and exports, allowing goods and services to flow freely across the borders without burdensome tariffs or quotas. This enables businesses within the area to access larger markets, increase their competitiveness, and enjoy cost reductions from economies of scale. By eliminating trade barriers, member countries also seek to attract foreign direct investment and encourage the establishment of industries and businesses within the area.
Free trade areas are typically formed through trade agreements between two or more countries, which outline the terms and conditions for trade within the zone. These agreements may cover various sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Member countries may also establish common trade policies and regulations to ensure fair competition and prevent non-participating countries from exploiting the benefits of the area.
Examples of free trade areas include the European Union (EU), the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Free Trade Area (AFTA), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These areas have varying degrees of integration, ranging from the elimination of tariffs on most goods to the creation of a single market with free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor.
The word "freetrade" is a combination of "free" and "trade". "Free" originates from the Old English word "freo" meaning "not in bondage, acting without restraint". "Trade" comes from the Middle English word "traden", which was derived from the Old English word "tradian" meaning "carry on commerce".
The term "freetrade areas" refers to regions or zones where trade barriers such as tariffs, quotas, or taxes are reduced or eliminated between participating countries or regions. The concept of free trade emerged in the late 18th century during the Industrial Revolution. The etymology of "areas" itself is traced back to the Latin word "area" meaning "open space" or "level ground".
Therefore, the etymology of "freetrade areas" can be understood as combining the notions of unrestricted or unrestrained commerce with designated zones or regions where these trade practices are implemented.