Which of the following are commonly cited impediments to establishing economic integration between countries?

• A. Differences in national regulations and political opposition
• B. High levels of consumer surplus and perfect competition
• C. Uniform tax policies and identical languages
• D. Unlimited factor mobility and zero transportation costs

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of economic integration, which refers to the process where countries reduce trade barriers and coordinate economic policies to facilitate closer economic ties.
2. Identify common impediments to economic integration, such as differences in national regulations and political opposition, which can create obstacles to harmonizing policies and cooperation.
3. Recognize that high levels of consumer surplus and perfect competition are not impediments but rather market conditions that do not prevent integration.
4. Note that uniform tax policies and identical languages would actually facilitate integration rather than impede it, so they are not considered obstacles.
5. Understand that unlimited factor mobility and zero transportation costs are ideal conditions that promote economic integration, not impediments.