Abstract
Purpose of the Study. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in achieving economic integration through the implementation of the Unified Economic Agreement. Methodology. The research design of this study was descriptive. The total population of 117 of the Federation of Arab Gulf Chambers of Commerce were selected for this research. Archival data, and questionnaires were chosen as sources of collecting the information. The data collected through the questionnaire were defined by utilizing percentages of responses and frequency. Since this is a descriptive study, this simple approach would clarify the meaning of the data. Findings. The findings are summarized as follows: (1) problems with customs lead the problems of early implementation of the Unified Economic Agreement; (2) "Red tape" is a major problem in the GCC; (3) lack of transportation; (4) poor information concerning aspects of the Unified Economic Agreement; (5) equal treatment of all citizens has not been totally achieved; (6) possible unequal competition between industries because of local subsidies; (7) local interpretations of the Unified Economic Agreement is another problem faced by the GCC; (8) the need for a single monetary system and value system is critical. In spite of the problems shown by the respondents' replies, the archival data show that all six GCC member nations now have in effect: (1) laws required to accomplish the free access of any GCC citizen from his home nation into any other GCC nation; (2) equal ability of professional personnel to practice in any GCC nation; (3) the ability of any citizen within the GCC to enter into business and execute contracts with citizens of other GCC nations. Conclusions and Implications. The goal of the Unified Economic Agreement is to accelerate the growth of the six member GCC nations, stabilize the economy of all nations in the group, expand exports, and reduce imports. A common customs tariff for each nation has been established, with free exchange of goods and services within the GCC. Ignorance of the new Unified Economic Agreement by many border officials, has become a problem faced by GCC citizens. Slower integration of some other parts of the Unified Economic Agreement plan has become apparent; however, contractors and businessmen are, at present, being hampered by local laws of the six countries. Coordination of the expansion of manufacturing requires the utmost care in planning to assure fair and equal benefits to each participating nation. If this is worked out, the real benefits of the Unified Economic Agreement can be realized. Recommendations. Recommendations for legal, technical and industrial, agricultural and monetary changes to aid implementation are made. (Abstract shortened with permission of author.).