In recent years, the free trade movement has come under increasing fire as markets have opened and barriers to trade have fallen.

Discuss the pros and cons of free trade, considering the perspectives of both advocates and critics.

Do you believe the benefits of free trade outweigh the drawbacks? Explain why or why not. Your response should be 250-300 words. Please include in your posting at least one pro and one con of free trade in economic terms. Be sure to include:

• Your position on whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
• Your reason(s), supported by research, and at least one of the following:
  • A specific example of a business in your area that is vulnerable to layoffs or closure, or has been downsized as a result of outsourced operations
  • A specific example of a new business or service that has been created or transformed, or has grown as a result of free trade.
  • A specific example of an increase or decrease in the availabilityof specific products/services in terms of cost, quality and differentiation.