Regionalism in trade policy is seen as a solution to global economic issues. Dividing the world into three trading blocs - Europe, the Americas, and East Asia - is believed to be the quickest path to free trade. Regional integration is attractive due to nontariff barriers in the industrial world. South-South integration has not been successful, but North-North integration in Europe has been. This has led to increased trade within regions without harming trade with nonpartners. North-South integration shows promise for developing countries, solidifying reforms, ensuring access to large markets, and promoting growth through foreign investment and technological diffusion.