Which of the following is NOT a reason for restricting trade?

The correct answer is centered on the idea that promoting international cooperation is generally not a reason for restricting trade. In fact, international cooperation typically encourages the opposite—removing barriers to trade to foster better relationships between countries and to enhance global economic partnerships. When nations collaborate, they often seek to reduce tariffs and other trade restrictions to promote mutual benefits, share resources, and create stronger economic ties.

In contrast, the other options reflect motivations that countries might have for imposing trade restrictions. Protecting domestic jobs is a common rationale as governments may implement tariffs or quotas to shield local industries from foreign competition. Retaliation against unfair trade practices, like dumping or subsidies offered by other nations, is another reason countries may decide to impose trade barriers. Ensuring fair competition can also be a motive, as countries may restrict imports to level the playing field for their domestic businesses that would otherwise struggle against subsidized or otherwise unfairly advantaged foreign competitors.