Final answer:
A strategic channel alliance is the most suitable type of marketing channel arrangement for a firm aiming to enter the international market without incurring the high costs and time associated with establishing its own distribution network. It enables economies of scale and exposure to international competition, while integrating finance helps with transactions and investment for these efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a firm engaged in international marketing where creating marketing channel relationships is costly and time-consuming, a strategic channel alliance would be suitable. This involves a collaborative agreement between a domestic firm and a foreign company to use the other's already established distribution channel. This allows the domestic firm to access the international market without the need to build its own distribution network from scratch, saving time and resources. International trade enables even small economies to enjoy economies of scale by producing larger quantities for a global market, thereby reducing the cost per unit. Additionally, international competition and a wide range of providers enhance the quality and diversity of goods available to consumers, promoting efficiency and innovation.
Integrating finance through international trade involves linking financial systems between nations, facilitating investment, and providing firms with access to capital markets. While not directly related to the formation of channel alliances, financial integration is crucial for supporting the underlying transactions in international marketing efforts. On the other hand, integrating child care through international trade is not directly relevant to the question, as it pertains to the application of trade policies and agreements to improve access to child care services globally rather than marketing channel strategies.