东南亚-中国自由贸易区对该区域经济各方面所产生影响.docx

efficiency gains and policy coordination, amongst others. In fact, these would possibly be of
greater importance than the static effects in the long run.
It is crucial to highlight that the numerous benefits that could ensue from the ACFTA
will not materialize if the environment does not support it. One of the critical ess factors
for implementation calls for all members to approach integration with a view of open
regionalism. This refers to an outward looking strategy whereby moves are made towards
lowering of external barriers faced by non-members, alongside the liberalization
commitments panying the formation of a FTA.
The thesis concludes that China’s accession to WTO does affect Southeast Asian
nations negatively. Rather peting head-on with China or maintaining status quo, the
ACFTA should be viewed as a timely arrangement for both parties to work towards greater
solidarity and linkages that would spur future growth. It should negate the challenges posed
and enhance the benefits for both parties. Finally, collaboration will also bring about political
stability, which will make the region more attractive as an investment spot.
The thesis is not meant to be another empirical exercise but has instead depended on
extensive literature research to fulfill the objectives set out to achieve.
Keywords:

tax reduction, non-trade barriers, free trade agreement, trade, foreign
direct investment, gross domestic products, critical ess factors
FOREWORD
The recent spate of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations within Asia and other
parts of the world has raised questions about the popularity of such Preferential Trading
Arrangements (PTA) and the reasons for this policy option. With two of the world’s largest
continents forming economic blocs, namely the NAFTA and EU, it leads to the question of
what lies ahead for Asia, the next high growth area. Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN) was Asia’s fastest growing region during the late 1980s