The Task There are hundreds of economic integration agreements in effect around the world. Virtually every country is party to one or more free trade agreements. Supporters argue that free trade is good for nations. Undertake a research that would enable you to address the following task: Critically evaluate the specific benefits that countries seek by joining an economic bloc. To support your argument assess the main economic bloc for one of the MINT countries (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria or Turkey). From your perspective, what advantages has bloc membership brought in the country? How does membership to the economic integration initiative impact upon the competitive position of the firms from this country? Illustrate by discussing the experience of a firm (or firms) from this country. Details of marking criteria are as follows: Assignment Marking Criteria (see also marking grid) While marking your assignment we will be looking for evidence for how well you have addressed the question / issues. The following part explains the key points you should consider in preparing your assignment. It is also important to review the specifications and guidelines outlined in your unit handbook, such as 'Learning outcomes' along with the 'Assessment Criteria', 'the Assignment Strategy', etc. 1. Introduction: A brief introduction that provides the purpose of the report or its objectives and how the report is structured. Interpreting the question - this ideally should be clear within the introduction along with background / context. 2. Addressing the question / topic: The main body of the report where the question is addressed. (This part may have a few sections / sub-sections). The key criteria here include: a. Research – evidence of systematic research approach, depth and breadth of research undertaken; application of some conceptual (theoretical / empirical) framework(s), etc. b. Analysis – well focussed on answering the question, depth and clarity of argument, organising / summarising collected information; answering the questions/tasks fully. c. Scholarly practice – a proper referencing within the report (citations), employing appropriate International Business vocabulary, etc., the quality of the Reference section. (Harvard style of referencing). 3. Conclusion: A clear, concise, and relevant conclusion (and recommendations where appropriate). A conclusion where the key points that have emerged from the discussion are summarised, implications and where further investigation may be appropriate are stated. 4. Presentation: Neat layout, and headings / sub-headings where appropriate. Clarity of expression (appropriate language, grammar, spelling, etc.). Length of the report should be 3,500 (+/-10%) without including the reference section. Word-count at the end of the report. No attachments / appendices allowed. Please note that the above does not necessarily provide you with the headings / subheadings to be used in your report. While generic headings such as 'Introduction', 'Conclusion', and 'Recommendations' would be appropriate and could be used in your report, other headings / subheadings would emerge from the issues you are researching. Headings / subheadings give a logical, sequential, and meaningful structure for your report.