Crossword Genius

Market of free commerce, initially (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

eec

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'market' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both groups as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'free commerce initially' is the wordplay.
'EEC' is hidden in amongst the letters.
But, I am unsure how this is indicated.

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for eec that I've seen before include "Organisation created by the Treaty of Rome in 1957" , "It's now the EU" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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