What are the different stages of economic integration?

A Free Trade Area is the foundational stage of economic integration where member countries agree to eliminate tariffs and quotas on goods traded among themselves. Crucially, each member country maintains its own independent trade policies with non-member countries. This stage is vital for fostering cooperation and building trust among participating states, promoting trade creation by reducing internal trade barriers. In Africa, the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) provides the framework for establishing such an area.