What is one of the primary purposes of a trading bloc?

The primary purpose of a trading bloc revolves around the facilitation of trade among its member countries. A trading bloc enables its members to engage in free trade, which means that tariffs, quotas, and other trade barriers are significantly reduced or eliminated. This encourages higher levels of trade and investment within the bloc, allowing countries to specialize in what they produce most efficiently and benefit from economies of scale. Such arrangements can lead to greater economic stability and growth among member nations by expanding their markets and promoting competition.

While some options mention tariffs and trade restrictions, these are contrary to the core goal of a trading bloc, which aims to promote economic collaboration and integration among its members rather than isolation or protectionism.