Use the globalEDGE^TM site to complete the following exercises:

1. Your company is considering an expansion by opening new customer representative and sales offices in the European Union (EU). Nevertheless, the size of the investment is significant and top management wishes to have a clearer picture of the current and probable future status of the EU. A colleague who spent some time living in the EU indicated that Eurostat might be a comprehensive source to assist in your project. Prepare an executive summary describing the features you consider as crucial in making such a decision.



2. Trade agreements can impact the cultural interactions between countries. In fact, the establishment of the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) can be considered a threat as well as an opportunity for your company. Identify the countries participating in negotiations for the FTAA. What are the main themes of the negotiation process?