Abstract
This paper takes a look at the process of building up a free trade zone for the Americas, focusing on the five main points that have been finalized. According to this paper, the most problematic issue is getting all the countries involved to come to formal agreement in order that the conditions of free trade are improved.

Contents:
Introduction
Analysis
Conclusion

From the Paper
"The group also agreed that decision on trade agreements were a part of the right of nations, but at the same time, it was important to realize the enforcement of international commitments of nations. Thus for the purpose of developing trade agreements it was essential that each government takes action in line with its legislative processes and procedures so that the plan of action is moved ahead. The final point was an acceptance of the need for some of the nations to receive assistance from the bigger countries in the region and it was decided that this will be given. This was expected to help them to move ahead. (The Summit of the Americans (1994)) Thus the plan seems clear and well thought about, yet from 1994 till today, the plan does not seem to have moved ahead further and it is important to find out why such a situation has taken place and what actions will help the movement forward.
For business one has to remember that there are both good times and bad times. On certain occasions, the difficulties of business spread over many countries and since one particular country is not able to pay another country from which it would like to import goods, the importer solves the problem by stopping imports. One of such a major occasion occurred during what is now called the Great Depression and renowned economists of that time felt that an organization was required to help governments tide over their difficulties during periods of crisis so that the entire system of trade and development does not break down. This was the need for an organization like the IMF which became evident during the Great Depression that ravaged the world economy during the 1930s. (What is the International Monetary Fund?)"

Tags: CAFTA-DR, CONCAUSA, World, Bank, mexico, FTAA, brazil