The Pan-PRD and ASEAN-China FTA as agents of regional integration in Pacific Asia

Abstract

The Pan-Pearl River Delta (PPRD or 9+2, for short) is the pioneer in the regional cooperation design within China, with a demonstration effect on how other regions in China will decide on a similar grouping for their future. On the other hand, ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA or 10+1, for short) as a regional trade agreement (RTA) comes in the company of a large number of comparable RTAs worldwide. They have similar aims to achieve and advance collective economic and social goals; they are by-products of the age of globalization. They will shape the development of China and ASEAN and their relationship in early 21st century; they will also influence the speed and scope of regional integration within Pacific Asia in future.