What was the main purpose of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) enacted in 1994?

The primary purpose of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which came into effect in 1994, was to eliminate tariffs on products traded between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. By reducing or removing these tariffs, NAFTA aimed to facilitate smoother and more efficient trade among the three countries. This trade agreement was designed to create a more integrated and competitive North American market, which in turn was expected to lead to economic growth, job creation, and increased investment across the region.

The focus on tariffs and trade barriers was crucial, as they can significantly hinder cross-border commerce. By fostering easier access to each other's markets, NAFTA intended to boost exports and imports, allowing businesses in all three countries to benefit from lower costs and increased trade volumes. The agreement was instrumental in shaping the economic landscape in North America during the late 20th century.

While the other options may relate to broader trade discussions, such as labor rights and environmental sustainability, they were not the central focus of NAFTA. A unified currency was not a goal of NAFTA; that concept typically aligns more with integrated monetary systems like those found in the European Union.