A Shift from Market-driven to Institution-driven Regionalization in East Asia

East Asia has been witnessing a shift from market-driven regionalization to institution-driven regionalization since the late 1990s.Prior to the financial crisis in 1997, a market mechanism, which became to function efficiently thanks to substantial liberalization in trade and foreign direct investment polices, was a major promoter of regionalization in East Asia.Since the crisis, institutional factors such as free trade agreements and cooperation programs have increased their importance in regionalization.To achieve further economic growth, East Asian countries need to establish a region-wide FTA and an economic community.Japan, the most advanced country in the region, is expected to play a leading role in establishing such institutions.