7 - Conclusion

Summary

Fast-growing trade and investment agreements in the Asia-Pacific have attracted tremendous academic and government attention. This book introduces theoretical lenses and assesses major regional economic initiatives and institutions, as well as trade policies of Asian powers, the EU and the United States. Distinct from the conventional country-specific approach to understanding regionalism, the book focuses on the ASEAN Plus Six framework and its international implications. Building on case studies in preceding chapters, this final chapter summarizes key findings and recommendations for the Global South and the multilateral trading system.