Which term refers to a group of countries that have come together to enhance trade?

The term that refers to a group of countries that have come together to enhance trade is a trading bloc. Trading blocs are formed to reduce or eliminate trade barriers, such as tariffs and quotas, among member countries, thereby facilitating free trade within the group. This not only promotes economic cooperation but also can lead to deeper political relationships.

Trading blocs can take various forms, such as free trade areas, customs unions, and common markets, each with its own degree of economic integration. The primary goal of these arrangements is to increase economic efficiency and competitiveness among the member countries while helping them leverage their collective market size to gain favorable terms in negotiations with external nations or regions.

In contrast, a monetary union involves a group of countries that adopt a common currency, which may not necessarily focus solely on trade enhancement. A trade agreement is a general term that refers to any contract between countries outlining the terms of trade but isn't necessarily limited to a specific grouping of countries working cooperatively. An economic zone typically refers to a designated area within a country or region where specific economic regulations are applied, aimed at promoting economic activity, but does not inherently imply that the countries involved are working together as a cohesive group for trade enhancement.