Eocnomic feasibility of an asian common market : Study of the ESCAP region

Economically, the vast material resources scattered in different parts of the ESCAP (Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific) region provide problems, challenges and potential for regional economic co-operation. While there has been a considerable discussion on the topic of regional economic co-operation, and, a number of regional institutions have been established, there is a conspicuous lack of a comprehensive study of the ESCAP region.

The present study covers that gap. The study gives a relevant historical background of the Free Trade Movement in different parts of the world. With the international perspective in economic co-opera tion, the author takes a closer look at the ESCAP region. The regional economic problems are brought to clearer focus by a study of the individual member countries.

After analysing the barriers to intra-regional trade and economic co-operation, the author gives a proper perspective to the achieve ments of intra-regional co-opera tive efforts in establishing regional institutions. Based on the above observations, this scholarly book suggests a phased programme for promotion of eco nomic co-operation and trade deve lopment for the ESCAP region.