ASEAN Regionalism in the Context of RCEP

Abstract

This case study examines regionalism within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), in the context of the region's largest free trade agreement (FTA), the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The RCEP reveals insights on the characteristics of ASEAN-centric Asian regionalism, as opposed to the trans-Pacific approach. It also highlights the myriad challenges of negotiating a comprehensive and modern trade agreement involving members with varying levels of economic development. The case study looks at all these issues and reflects on the prospects of RCEP in addressing some of the critical challenges of modern trade.