The Asia-Pacific Rim is still potentially one of the most dynamic areas of the global economy, and the European Union (EU) is the world's most prosperous market. The development of relations between the EU and Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) is vitally important for the future economic evolution of both regions. This book traces the relationship between the EU and ASEAN, considering the current and future position of trade relations.

After discussing international commerce and trade at the beginning of the twenty-first century, the authors explore regionalism in the global economy and the establishment of regional trade organizations, in particular the EU and ASEAN. They then contrast the direct organization-to-organization approach which has characterized EU-ASEAN relations with that of APEC (Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation). The book concludes with a substantial discussion of the institutional and policy changes that the EU and ASEAN need to enhance their future trading relationship. In addition, the authors offer insights from the EU-ASEAN experience for relations among other regional trade organizations.

Regional Trading Blocs in the Global Economy will be welcomed by scholars and students interested in international trade, regional economics, European and Asian studies.