Which one of the following modes of entry brings the firm closer to international markets?

(a) Licensing

(b) Franchising

(c) Contract manufacturing

(d) Joint venture

The mode of entry that brings a domestic firm closer to international markets is contract manufacturing. This is because contract manufacturing enables the firm to be associated with international markets and reap benefits from the opportunities available. On the other hand, modes such as licensing and franchising and joint ventures do not allow much access to foreign markets.

Hence, the correct answer is option (c).