What is a Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?

A Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is fundamentally designed to facilitate trade between countries by reducing or eliminating tariffs and other trade barriers. The key purpose of an FTA is to promote economic growth and cooperation among the participating nations by making it easier and less costly to import and export goods and services. This can lead to increased market access, enhanced competitiveness, and the overall boosting of international trade.

Countries that enter into an FTA aim to create a more open trading environment. By cutting tariffs, which are taxes imposed on imports, countries can lower the cost of goods for consumers, ultimately fostering a healthier economic relationship. FTAs also often involve commitments to uphold certain standards related to labor, environment, and intellectual property to ensure that trade benefits all parties involved.

The other options do not accurately represent the purpose of an FTA. Increasing tariffs goes against the very essence of trade agreements intended to facilitate exchanges between nations. Regulating shipping routes pertains to maritime law and logistics, which is a different facet of international trade. Lastly, sharing resources is more aligned with bilateral or multilateral agreements focused on collaboration rather than trade specifically.