Trade agreements significantly influence national sovereignty as they establish rules and regulations that member countries must follow. Such agreements often require governments to lower tariffs and adhere to standards that may conflict with national laws. This can lead to concerns about autonomy since states may have to prioritize international obligations over domestic interests. Additionally, trade agreements can limit a government's ability to implement protectionist policies, affecting local industries. Consequently, the balance between pursuing economic benefits and maintaining sovereignty becomes a contentious issue in political discourse.