This chapter reiterates some truisms about the linkages between trade, trade liberalization and development. It also provides a statistical overview of the Asia-Pacific LDCs’ performance in trade and investment since 2000.

This chapter provides a picture of post-crisis trade and investment interventions in the Asia-Pacific region. It focuses not only on restrictions on merchandise trading, but also on new obstacles to services trade and movements of people, including service providers.

The last Chapter explores the role of Aid for Trade (AfT) in enabling LDCs to utilize the opportunities from the increased preferential market access and integrate more effectively into the global economy.

List of tables on trade performance indicators

This chapter provides a discussion on the various issues related to LDCs’ enhanced market access through the multilateral process (such as the so-called Duty Free Quota Free or DFQF package) or through use of Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) provided unilaterally by developed and some...

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Asia and are effective job creators and income generators. In addition, SMEs play a key role in poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth. However, SMEs in the subregion often face considerable resource constraints and have limited capabilities...

This book analyzes existing trade agrements in the region and their product coverage, particularly agricultural products, as well as associated tariff and non-tariff barriers.