Economic communities,which are also known as ________,have developed as a result of political changes in the last half-century.

A) free trade zones
B) open market channels
C) international entities
D) productivity communities

Economic communities refer to groups of countries that have established free trade zones among themselves. These are also known as customs unions or regional trade agreements. The formation of economic communities has been driven by political changes such as the end of colonialism, the breakup of the Soviet Union, and the globalization of trade. Free trade zones allow member countries to trade with each other without tariffs or other barriers, which can lead to increased economic growth and development.