and Investment Division
Studies in Trade and Investment, Nos. 1-50
The publication reviews and discusses issues related to investment promotion and facilitation in Central Asian and Caucasian countries. Foreign direct investment is a crucial factor in the development process. An analysis of best practices and successful experiences in attracting foreign direct investment shows that the institutional framework plays a significant role, particularly when taking the form of a powerful and resource-rich Investment Promotion Agency. The publication offers policy conclusions and recommendations for the attraction of foreign direct investment for Central Asia. It includes a general paper on "Policies and Strategies for the Promotion and Attraction of Foreign Direct Investment in Least Developed Economies and Economies in Transition". The document also presents country-studies on investment climate based on fact-finding missions to five countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The country-studies discuss the business and investment policies, institutional and legal frameworks of the countries concerned, as well as general concepts of investment promotion, attraction and implementation.
This volume is a compilation of papers presented at the Regional Round Table on Foreign Direct Investment for Central Asia, held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, from 3 to 4 April 2003. The Round Table was jointly organized by ESCAP and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe under the Special Programme for the Economies of Central Asia.
The publication reviews the experiences of ESCAP developing countries in their process of WTO accession. It considers how their accession to WTO can be facilitated through the role of regional cooperation and a sharing of experiences between developing countries of the region. Experiences of ESCAP developing countries show that the documentary and other requirements of accession are cumbersome and tedious which place a heavy burden on the limited financial, human and administrative resources. These small economies and LDCs have, therefore, called for streamlining of these processes. At the same time, they need to maintain ownership of the accession process. WTO membership and the reforms it induces should be grounded in long-term national development strategies and should be driven by strong political commitment at the highest levels. Countries covered in this publication include Bhutan, Cambodia, Fiji, Lao PDR, Mongolia, Nepal, Thailand, Tonga, and Vanuatu.
This volume is a compilation of papers presented at the Regional Seminar on Facilitating the Accession of ESCAP Developing Countries to WTO, held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 18 to 21 February 2002.
The publication aims to provide general understanding of the WTO accession process. It intends to assist countries with economies in transition currently in the accession process, or contemplating to start membership application formalities, in their efforts to become WTO members in the most effective and efficient manner. It concludes that the accession process is long and arduous and requires full commitment from Governments. Accession involves the allocation of the necessary resources for all stages of the process, including data and information collection, translation of the memorandum, and attending the numerous negotiation sessions. Specialized skills are needed to undertake the negotiations and to be able to cope with the implementation of the required legislative changes as part of the WTO membership.
This volume is a compilation of Proceedings and papers presented at the Subregional Workshop on Accession to the World Trade Organization, Economies in Transition, held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from 25 to 27 July 2001.
The publication provides a brief overview of different types of regional trading arrangements (RTAs). It aims to assess the relationship between regional and multilateral liberalization, as well as to consider the future of regionalism with particular focus on the ESCAP region. It reviews the economic development trends and the trade policy environment of ESCAP least developed countries (LDCs) over the past decade. It examines some of the key trade issues facing LDCs over the next decade in the context of WTO trade liberalization initiatives. Technical assistance needs are reviewed. The study examines the market access obstacles facing these countries and the elements of possible negotiating strategies that countries could pursue in future WTO negotiations. It gives a broad summary of negotiation proposals on agriculture. Other issues discussed include service trade liberalization, development dimension and issues in GATS 2000 negotiations, competition policy in WTO with particular reference to the experience of the Republic of Korea and the role of the North-South debate within the trade-environment context.
This volume is a compendium of papers presented at the "ESCAP/ UNCTAD High-level Meeting of ESCAP Developing Countries in Preparation for the Fourth WTO Ministerial Conference" and at the "Doha and Beyond: Expert Group Meeting on the Future WTO Agenda", held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 24 to 26 September 2001.
The publication offers an overview of the recent economic and trade development within the ESCAP region. It discusses export competitiveness policy, regionalism and multilateralism, monetary cooperation and new sources of productivity growth such as knowledge-based industries and the service sectors. It provides a broad overview of the role of business in regional economic recovery. It examines the opportunities offered by information and communications technologies and regional integration to enhance the competitiveness of Asian enterprises in the international market place. The prevailing infrastructures and policy environment for business within the region are examined to identify desirable changes. Policy recommendations are provided to prevent capital account crises.
Proceedings of the Workshop on Trade Promotion for Economies in Transition of Central Asia and South-Caucasus, held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from 15 to 17 August 2000. The objective of the workshop was to assist the Central Asian Republics and Azerbaijan in reorienting their trade promotion organizations (TPOs) within the context of the privatization of state trading organizations, and skill upgrading of trade personnel. The report introduces the concepts of "export promotion" and "export development", and explains how responsibilities are distributed among various organizations and agencies to formulate, approve and implement policies that promote and develop exports. The report describes the strength, weakness, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis and its relevance to the implementation of national export strategies. It examines the position of a trade promotion organization within the national structure, and the various strategic options available for varying products and markets. The concept of privatizing state trading enterprises (STEs) is discussed and the forms of collaboration between a TPO and STEs for the development of privatization policies beneficial to exporters are assessed.
The publication discusses the relationship between industrialization and environmental degradation, and their effect on export competitiveness of the ASEAN countries. It reviews the environmental markets in Lao PDR, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Viet Nam. The study reviews trade and environmental issues and prospects relating to organic agriculture products (OAPs) with focus on the export opportunities for developing countries. It presents a brief review of current thinking and practices concerning social and environmental questions in the European clothing sector including conclusions and implications for Asian producers. The publication also discusses the new social and/or environmental pressures faced by exporters in developing countries with particular focus on South Asian 8000 standard. It analyzes the environmental impact of the leather industry and describes the cleaner production (CP) as an integrated preventive environmental strategy applied to processes, products and services in order to increase eco-efficiency and reduce risks to humans and the environment.
The monograph contains selected papers presented at ESCAP National Workshops on Enhancing, Exporting Opportunities through Environmentally Sound Business Development, held in Nepal, Lao PDR, Sri Lanka and Viet Nam, from 18 to 26 September 2000.
The compilation of six studies indicate that trade and investment relationship between Asia and the Pacific and Latin America are far below their potential in spite of the dynamism that exists on both sides. The creation of institutional mechanisms to foster and promote economic ties between the two regions is emphasized. Such mechanisms should focus on economic interaction and links between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both regions. Information technology, on a private-sector-driven basis, is needed for exchanging information on trade and investment opportunities.
The publication includes papers and proceedings presented at the Seminar on Interregional Cooperation in Trade and Investment: Asia-Latin America, held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 15 to 16 February 2000.
PERSPECTIVES IN THE GREATER MEKONG SUBREGION. (ST/ESCAP/2065). 2000.
The publication highlights the need to promote private sector activities in the areas of trade and investment in the "Greater Mekong Subregion", comprising of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, Viet Nam and Yunnan Province of China. It also recommends utilizing the Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG) more effectively under the Forum for the Comprehensive Development of Indo-China. In particular, the symposium discussed the enhancement of trade and investment activities in the context of human resources development and the role of the private sector in economic cooperation in the subregion. It also addressed the new concept of "economic corridors" in the subregion and discussed the impact Asian economic crisis on subregional development.
The publication contains background studies and proceedings presented at the Symposium on the Comprehensive Development of the Greater Mekong Subregion under the Indo-China Development Forum (FCDI), held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 7 to 8 April 1999.
The publication examines trade and investment trends in the ESCAP region in light of the recent financial crisis and then focuses on the implications for a future trade round. It presents specific suggestions to developing countries in their preparations for future negotiations and analyzes the main current issues affecting the negotiations in the multilateral trading system. The study discusses the initiatives undertaken by WTO and other multilateral agencies for the least developed countries in the ESCAP region within the Integrated Framework. It also presents the preparatory process for the third WTO Ministerial Conference and the new trade round; objectives and general principles governing the negotiations; and main elements for consideration from the perspective of developing countries. The document considers the elements of a positive agenda for developing countries in future trade negotiations and discusses trade in services of developing countries and the new round of negotiations on services. It presents the interests of developing countries in the resumed round of WTO agricultural negotiations.
The publication contains background papers prepared for and presented at the ESCAP/UNCTAD/ADB Meeting of Senior Officials on the Future WTO Agenda and Developing Countries, held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 23 to 25 August 1999.
MEASURES WITH POTENTIALLY RESTRICTIVE MARKET ACCESS IMPLICATIONS EMERGING
IN A POST-URUGUAY ROUND CONTEXT. (ST/ESCAP/2024). 2000.
The publication presents the trade effects of non-tariff measures (NTMs) on exports from ESCAP countries. The country studies included in this publication demonstrate that identifying current non-tariff measures facing exports of the ESCAP region is a difficult task. Measuring their trade restrictive or protective impacts becomes even harder due to the lack of comprehensive information on the domestic price effects of non-tariff measures. The existing collections of data on NTMs need to be improved. Having good estimates of their economic impacts is very important to both developed countries and developing countries for future trade negotiations. ESCAP and other international organizations could make a significant contribution by monitoring the use of non-tariff measures affecting trade from developing countries.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE TRANSACTION (ITT) MODELS AS AN AID TO THE PROCESS
OF HARMONIZATION. (ST/ESCAP/1963). 1999.
The publication aims at introducing the use of International Trade Transaction (ITT) Modelling to re-engineer trade procedures in enhancing trade efficiencies among the countries in the Asia and the Pacific region. The country ITT models for the clearance of express consignments were developed for India, Malaysia, the Philippines and Sri Lanka. The country ITT models are compared with the World Customs Organization's Guidelines for clearance of express consignment, which is an internationally accepted best practice. The study intends to assist countries in the Asia and Pacific region to meet the challenges ahead under the key paradigms of liberalization, globalization and informatization.
ALIGNMENT OF THE TRADE DOCUMENTS OF CAMBODIA, MYANMAR AND VIET NAM.
The publication describes the trade documentation procedures of Cambodia, Myanmar and Viet Nam. Trade documents play a vital role in international trade. These documents include licenses, permits, customs declarations, certificates, invoices, packing lists, inspection reports and bills of lading. This publication identifies the trade documents in use in these countries, as well as the data elements included in such documents. It incorporates the requirements of ASEAN and recommends the alignment of trade documents of the three countries, as guided by the "United Nations Layout Key for Trade Documents". It will facilitate their use by both, the public and the private sectors in Cambodia, Myanmar and Viet Nam. Moreover, faster processing and approval of these documents will expedite the delivery, clearance and turnover of goods for customers. A simplified trade documentation system could help to place the economies of these three countries on a sound footing and foster their continued growth in investments, international trade and development.
This publication intends to assist developing countries to identify new opportunities and challenges arising from implementation of the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS). It also intends to enhance their understanding of the approaches that developing countries could take as they prepare for the year 2000 round of negotiations in the services sector. It aims to introduce the UNCTAD-developed database called "Measures Affecting Services Trade" (MAST) which could be used as a tool for undertaking cross-country, cross-sectoral analysis of legal information related to GATS. Selected country papers on the implications of the General Agreement on Trade and Services are also included in this publication covering the following countries: Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
The publication contains papers presented at the Regional Seminar on Implications of the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) for Asia-Pacific Economies, held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 25 to 26 May 1998.
TRADE AND INVESTMENT SCENARIOS AND
LIBERALIZATION AGENDA FOR ASIA AND THE PACIFIC. (ST/ESCAP/1965). 1999.
The publication presents some of the issues regarding the Asian economic crisis as it affects trade and investment flows, policy responses and scenarios, and how the affected countries should respond. It includes detailed analyses on the need to reduce trade protection, the effects of temporary reversals of trade and investment growth, and analyzes the importance of exchange rate policies. It also discusses the continuing opening of the markets of the United States of America and the European Union, highlighting the importance of sub-regional arrangements and subregional integration processes. It examines the appropriate environment for growth in order to foster financial systems' reform and the restoration of integrity. A matrix is presented indicating the trade and investment policy and liberalization agenda, and explaining how economic cooperation among ESCAP member countries could take place. It also contains comparative tables co-relating various economic indicators and the status of non-tariff measures in selected member countries of ESCAP.
The publication contains papers presented at the Seminar on Emerging Trade and Investment Scenarios and Liberalization Agenda for Asia and the Pacific, held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 7 to 8 September 1998.
TRADE AND INVESTMENT COMPLEMENTARITIES
AMONG THE SOUTH-WESTERN MEMBER COUNTRIES OF ESCAP. (ST/ESCAP/1932).
The publication presents an analysis on trade and investment complementarities among the South-western Member Countries of ESCAP, which are also members of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), and Armenia. Formed in 1985 as a forum for cooperation and trade, the ECO has grown to add seven new members (Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) to the founding ones (Islamic Republic of Iran, Pakistan and Turkey). It describes the physical facilities and infrastructures now in place in the region, and reviews trade and investment policies and practices at the national level. It examines the constraints on further expansion of trade and investment, and tries to identify how trade and investment complementarities could be enhanced through the development of soft infrastructure, focusing on information and electronic commerce interchange.
The publication contains papers presented at the seminar on Trade and Investment Information Networking in the South-western Subregion, held in Teheran, Islamic Republic of Iran, in February 1999.
ENHANCEMENT OF TRADE AND INVESTMENT COOPERATION
IN SOUTH-EAST ASIA: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES TOWARD ASEAN-10 AND
BEYOND. (ST/ESCAP/1882). 1998.
The publication examines the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and its implications. It analyzes the investment flows in Southeast Asia and addresses the role of the private sector's cooperation in complementing the efforts made by governments in trade and investment-related areas. It also reviews the subregional cooperation in Southeast Asia and the integration of Cambodia, the Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam in ASEAN as one step towards broader efforts to further integrate their economies into the world market. The expansion to the ASEAN-10, the implementation of growth areas and growth triangles, and the progress towards AFTA would enrich and multiply the concept, framework and scope for cooperation among ASEAN countries. The effectiveness of a regional response to global development challenges and opportunities requires more defined responses both by national governments and by ASEAN as a whole.
The publication contains papers and proceedings of the ESACP/ASEAN Joint Seminar on Enhancement of Trade and Investment Cooperation in Southeast Asia: Opportunities and Challenges Toward ASEAN-10 and Beyond, held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 19 to 22 February 1997.
OF THE APEC PROCESS FOR INTRAREGIONAL TRADE AND INVESTMENT FLOWS (ST/ESCAP/1886).
Formed in 1989 as a forum for cooperation and trade, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) has become one of the most important trade policy forums in the global economy. The publication includes a description of APEC's trade linkages with Asia, APEC process and structure, subregional arrangements and the Manila Action Plan. It reviews APEC's approach to economic and technical cooperation by examining the role of ASEAN in APEC, and revising the business dimension of APEC. A key conclusion of the study is the scope for non-APEC economies to benefit from APEC through active engagement. This would very much depend on the development of greater awareness and better understanding of APEC-related matters among business communities and policy makers in the non-APEC economies.
This publication contains papers presented at the Seminar on the Implications of the APEC Progress for Interregional Trade and Investment Flows in Asia and the Pacific, held at Bangkok, Thailand, from 17 to 19 September 1997.
TO ECONOMIES IN TRANSITION IN EXPORT PROMOTION. (ST/ESCAP/1808). 1998.
Transitional economies have embarked on a number of reforms to accelerate economic growth and increase foreign exchange earnings. To achieve these objectives, transitional economies have realized that it is necessary to strengthen their national capabilities in the area of trade policy formulation and export promotion. Papers included in the publication analyze relevant WTO issues and the accession status of these economies. They review the international framework for trade promotion and examine the establishment of basic trade promotion programmes worldwide. The International Trade Centre UNCTAD/WTO programme in trade development and promotion with transition economies, as well as at the trade and investment information services are presented.
The publication contains papers presented at the Training Course on Assistance to Economies in Transition in Export Promotion organized at Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from 17 to 20 June 1997.
ELECTRONIC COMMERCE INITIATIVES
OF ESCAP: BUSINESS FACILITATION NEEDS. (ST/ESCAP/1854). 1997.
MARKET PROSPECTS FOR PULSES
IN SOUTH ASIA: INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC TRADE. (ST/ESCAP/1825). 1997.
Based on recent trends and prospects in production, consumption and marketing systems, this study was commissioned to assess the future trade potential of selected pulses- namely chickpea, black gram, mung bean, lentil and pigeon pea- in South Asia. The countries selected include India, Myanmar Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Myanmar was found to play a significant role in the South Asian pulses economy being one of the major suppliers. The study shows that international trade in crops such as pulses, which are usually thought of as marginal land crops, is increasing in importance. At present, consumption of pulses in the South Asian countries continues to increase and shortfalls in production are met through imports. The South Asian subregion therefore offers considerable potential for future growth in trade in pulses.
BORDER TRADE AND CROSS-BORDER TRANSACTIONS OF SELECTED ASIAN COUNTRIES.
The four studies presented in this publication examine border trade and cross-border transactions among specific groups of countries in the Asian and Pacific region. Each study covers: (a) the background and evolution of trade and cross-border transactions; (b) the extent and composition of border trade; (c) the various forms and conditions defined by government policies and bilateral agreements or arrangements; (d) an assessment of this current policy and operational framework; and (e) evaluation and recommendations, where appropriate, on how to overcome constraints and increase opportunities for future growth of border trade and development of border regions.
ASSISTANCE TO SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES FOR ENHANCING THEIR
CAPACITY FOR EXPORT MARKETING. (ST/ESCAP/1816). 1997.
The role of general trading companies in providing support and services for trade promotion to export-oriented SMEs is reviewed and relevant information on successful experiences in promoting exports by SMEs through the association of Governments and general trading companies are also presented. It includes case studies from a number of developing countries where SMEs have played a crucial role in shaping the trends of diversification from raw materials and primary commodities to manufactures. Development and strengthening of export-oriented SMEs in the region would enable developing countries to take advantage of emerging opportunities in international markets.
The publication includes papers presented at the Seminar on Assistance to SMEs for Enhancing their Capacity for Export Marketing, held in Beijing, China from 29 to 30 January 1997.
TRADE EFFECTS OF ECO-LABELLING. (ST/ESCAP/1792).
This publication includes discussions on market access implications for export competitiveness in the ESCAP region eco-labelling environmentally preferable products and international trade in textiles and clothing; and norme franšaise (NF) environment mark and the European eco-label. Country studies cover India, Indonesia and Singapore. Also presented are country studies of China and Sri Lanka dealing with relationships between eco-labelling, international trade, development policies and strategies, and the report on certified organic food development and export prospects from the Chinese perspective.
The publication presents the proceedings of a Seminar on Trade Effects of Eco-labelling, held in Bangkok, from 17 to 18 February 1997.
IMPLICATIONS OF THE SINGLE EUROPEAN MARKET FOR ASIAN AND PACIFIC
ECONOMIES: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES. (ST/ESCAP/1744). 1997.
The compilation assesses the effects which European integration has had on trade between the European Union and Asia, with special reference to some of the "sensitive sectors" including. a perspective based on careful examination of facts, highlighting non-tariff barriers, the need for more effective action by Asian traders, and sets out the requirements for success in a difficult, but promising, European market place. The study addresses the implications of the Single European Market (SEM) for trade in textiles and clothing, electrical goods and electronics, leather and leather products, and financial services.
This publication contains papers and proceedings presented at the Seminar on the Implications of the Single European Market for Asian and Pacific Economies: Opportunities and Challenges, held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 10 to 12 July 1996.
PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND ODA IN INDO-CHINA.
This report analyzes the current status of private sector development in how the three countries of Indo-China- Cambodia, the Lao PDR and Viet Nam with focuses on the extent to which the three countries have moved towards the goal of private sector development and considers the extent to which the legal and practical obstacles to the growth of the private sector have been removed and progress made toward initiating new legal framework and policy measures to encourage the growth of a vibrant private sector in the context of increasing regional integration and globalization. It provides background recommendations on enhancing the effectiveness of official development assistance (ODA) in achieving the stated goals of fostering an improved environment for the private sector.
SYSTEMS IN BANGLADESH, CHINA, INDIA, INDONESIA, AND SRI LANKA. (ST/ESCAP/1716).
The publication examines the basic characteristics of the current marketing arrangements for tea: the advantages and disadvantages of the marketing systems, feasible alternatives and options for reform and improvement. It presents, along with a general description and analysis of the prevailing tea marketing systems, an in-depth critical examination of the local tea auction system and systems prevailing for the supply of tea to the domestic market, as well as any alternative marketing systems which have emerged. Includes details such as packaging, types, tables on production, consumption, yields, cost of production, prices, other useful data, conclusions and recommendations for each country.
INTER-NETWORKING THROUGH ELECTRONIC
COMMERCE TO FACILITATE INTRA-REGIONAL TRADE IN ASIA. (ST/ESCAP/1721).
The publication includes concerns relating to: customs, competition and inter-networking to facilitate intra-regional trade in Asia; the - Asia EDIFACT Board's (ASEB) pilot project to inter-network selected customs organizations in Asia; global customs interaction; and legal issues concerning inter-networking of customs organizations using electronic commerce. Of notes are technical papers presented, on the technical and commercial options for linking value-added networks (VANs) in Asia., and commerce in cyberspace: underlying the technical issues relating to communication and security.
This publication contains papers presented and conclusions of the Fourth Meeting of the ESCAP Network of Trade Facilitation, held in New Delhi, India, from 31 October to 1 November 1996.
ASIAN AND PACIFIC DEVELOPING ECONOMIES
AND THE FIRST WTO MINISTERIAL CONFERENCE. (ST/ESCAP/1705). 1996.
This volume examines the concerns of developing countries of the Asia-Pacific region about different aspects of the implementation of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement, particularly matters relating to agriculture, textiles and clothing, and services. The papers review the implementation of multilateral agreements under the Uruguay Round; the built-in agenda for further liberalization in selected product areas and services; trade and the environment; new issues of investment and competition policy; and the linkage of international trade to social issues, including trade and gender.
The publication contains papers presented at the senior officials meeting, held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from 4 to 6 September 1996, to assist the developing countries of the region in their preparation for the first WTO Ministerial Conference. It was organized by ESCAP in collaboration with UNCTAD and UNDP.
ENHANCING TRADE AND ENVIRONMENT LINKAGES IN SELECTED ENVIRONMENTALLY
VULNERABLE EXPORT-ORIENTED SECTORS OF THE ESCAP REGION. (ST/ESCAP/1704).
This publication examines environmentally-related trade measures and their effects upon exports of the Asia-Pacific region, especially of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). Preliminary evidence suggests that SMEs face greater difficulties in complying with domestic and international environmental measures than other industries. The publication examines support measures to SMEs through the formulation of strengthened roles for industry associations, trade promotion organizations, and national standards institutes. It identifies environmentally sensitive sectors, offers empirical evidence from national studies, and examines the status of work at the WTO Committee on Trade and Environment and the recommendations for a regional approach. Country-specific perspectives for certain export-oriented sectors are presented for China, Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka.
The publication includes studies and papers presented at a Seminar held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 31 July to 1 August 1996.
PROMOTING EXPORTS OF FISH AND
FISERY PRODUCTS IN SELECTED ISLAND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES OF THE ESCAP
REGION. (ST/ESCAP/1677). 1996.
The publication presents a regional perspective on ways and means of enhancing seafood export competitiveness and strengthening export capabilities of selected island developing countries. It also examines the product quality requirements and other factors that are crucial in determining export capacities, including stock management and licensing, marketing arrangements, human resource development and training requirements of the industry. Countries covered by this study are Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu.
The publication contains proceedings of the seminar on Promoting Exports of Fish and Fishery Products in Selected Island Developing Countries of the ESCAP Region held in Bangkok, Thailand from 27 to 29 March 1996.
MYANMAR: TRADE AND
INVESTMENT POTENTIAL IN ASIA. (ST/ESCAP/1671). 1996.
The publication offers an overview of Myanmar's main economic activities and examines the developments in Myanmar's programme for economic reform. It reviews the trade and investment environment in the country and presents a comparative advantage (RCA) study. It identifies products for export to other Asian countries and suitable export strategies for Myanmar, including the expansion of information services, linkages to agents and distributors, and subcontracting linkages. The study also looks at investment opportunities, as well as the framework for targeting foreign investment. It offers statistical tables for determining areas of priorities in trade and investment, as well as a list of foreign investment activities in Myanmar.
The publication contains papers presented at the Symposium on Fostering Myanmar's Interdependency in Trade and Investment with its Neighboring Countries and Japan, held in Yangon on 29 January 1996.
TRADE AND INVESTMENT COMPLEMENTARITIES IN NORTH-EAST
ASIA. (ST/ESCAP/1640). 1996.
The publication explores ways and means in which trade and investment complementarities of the North-East Asian subregion, comprising the northern part of China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Japan, Mongolia, Republic of Korea and the far eastern part of the Russian Federation, could be harnessed through economic cooperation. In the area of trade and investment, this subregion has significant potential for viable economic cooperation due to its diversity and abundant supply of natural resources, as well as to the large availability of labour, capital and technology. This potential for economic cooperation could be enhanced by the new possibilities emerging from the transition processes underway in several parts of the subregion, and a generally more conducive environments for these countries to jointly pursue common objectives.
The publication contains background papers prepared for the Roundtable on Economic Cooperation Possibilities through Exploitation of Trade and Investment Complementarities in the North-East Asian Subregion, held in Seoul, Republic of Korea, from 10 to 12 July 1995.
FOR THE TEXTILE AND CLOTHING SECTOR OF THE ESCAP REGION IN THE POST-URUGUAY
ROUND CONTEXT. (ST/ESCAP/1642). 1996.
The publication examines key features of the textile and clothing exports from the Asian and the Pacific region, which account for more than half of the world's exports of such commodities. It evaluates the impact of the phasing out of the Multifibre Arrangement (MFA). It analyzes the emerging shifts in trade competitiveness which have taken place as a result of the new Agreement on Textiles and Clothing implemented within the Uruguay Round. The study reviews the protection systems operating in these countries, and it examines the adjustments made by the governments in their industrial and trade policy strategies. The impact of quota acceleration as well as the impact of MFA abolition in 2005 under the integration programme of the Agreement have been modelled. The model used for the exercise is the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) model developed by Hertel at Purdue University.
IMPLICATIONS OF THE NORTH
AMERICAN FREE-TRADE AGREEMENT FOR THE ASIAN AND PACIFIC REGION. (ST/ESCAP/1627).
The publication examines the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) as a regional body with trade preferences based on geographical contiguity. The objective of the study is to enhance the understanding of the nature and pervasiveness of NAFTA with a view to assessing its implications particularly for the ESCAP developing countries. It identifies the trade policy adjustments that might be necessary to ensure that the dynamic growth of trade in the Asian and Pacific region is sustained. The publication presents NAFTA-country perspectives on Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, and NAFTA-organization perspectives on United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.
The study includes papers presented at the Symposium on the Implications of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 27 to 29 September 1994.
IMPLICATIONS OF THE URUGUAY
ROUND AGREEMENTS FOR THE ASIAN AND PACIFIC REGION. (ST/ESCAP/1535).
The publication presents the likely consequences of the Uruguay Round agreements for ESCAP member countries and the emerging trade policies concerns. Strategy papers included in this study deal with trade in services, multilateral trade rules, the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the future of the trading system. These strategy papers indicate the wide scope for developing Asian and Pacific countries to benefit from mutual cooperation and exchange of experiences. The papers highlight the importance of promoting public understanding and awareness in each country of the net benefits from the Uruguay Round agreements, and the need for cooperation between the public and private sectors. The question of better coordination between agencies and departments within the government is also addressed. Countries covered by this study are Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, Republic of Korea, Lao PDR, Macao (China), Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
The publication presents the proceedings of the ESCAP/UNDP/KDI Regional Symposium on the Uruguay Round Agreements, held in Seoul, Republic of Korea, from 30 November to 3 December 1994.
PROMOTION OF INVESTMENT
IN COUNTRIES IN THE EARLY STAGES OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT: MONGOLIA, MYANMAR,
NEPAL, VIET NAM. (ST/ESCAP/1597). 1995.
The publication identifies investment opportunities, and investment promotion activities in tourism, which preserve nature and which promote the diversification of the tourist sector and its supporting industries. Four countries in the early stages of their tourism development were selected as countries with a generally favourable investment potential, namely Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, and Viet Nam. The country studies point to a number of specific areas identified for foreign investment in tourism, obstacles to the inflow of foreign direct investment, measures to improve the investment climate, and recommendations with regard to tourism development in the region. Selected tables are presented on visitor statistics, tourist expenditures and hotel infrastructure, among other investment factors in the tourism industry.
ELECTRONIC COMMERCE INITIATIVES OF
ESCAP: ROLE OF ELECTRONIC COMMERCE IN TRADE FACILITATION. (ST/ESCAP/1557).
The publication provides interdisciplinary perspectives on the role of electronic commerce in facilitating international trade. Papers included focus on practical applications of electronic commerce in the region. Case studies of successful applications deal with the EDI networks in Singapore, the Port Klang Community Systems in Malaysia, and the EDI application in the shipping industry in Japan. The publication examines the framework for adopting electronic commerce by the developing countries of the ESCAP region. It analyzes the development of systems for pre-transaction processing, the integration of international trade information initiatives, and the introduction of EDI in the customs environment in the ESCAP region. The Network in Trade Facilitation was initiated by ESCAP as a forum to review the status and role of trade facilitation in introducing efficiencies in trade management.
The publication contains papers presented at the Third Meeting of the ESCAP Network on Trade Facilitation held in Bangkok, Thailand, on 8 and 9 June 1995.
TRADE PROSPECTS FOR THE YEAR 2000 AND
BEYOND FOR THE ASIAN AND PACIFIC REGION (ST/ESCAP/1516). 1995.
The publication examines the emerging issues and critical factors in international trade of concern to the ESCAP region. It intends to assist governments and public officials in their preparations to maximize the gains from the Uruguay Round agreements. On the assessment of the Uruguay Round results, the study identifies the following areas which need to be addressed urgently: multilateral trade rules, trade in services, trade and the environment, and emerging issues of competition policy and labour standards. In order to sustain the growth of trade, governments need to consider the vulnerability of some areas, which have so far not benefited from the dynamism, flexibility and diversity that economic growth and trade have brought to other parts of the region. The study identifies critical factors to influence future trade outcomes, and recommends future policy directions.
This publication presents proceedings of an ESCAP/UNCTAD Seminar on Trade Prospects for the Year 2000 and Beyond for the Asian and Pacific Region, held in Beijing, China, from 3 to 5 September 1994.
BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES FACING
ASIA-PACIFIC AGRICULTURAL TRADING COUNTRIES IN THE POST-URUGUAY ROUND
PERIOD (ST/ESCAP/1526). 1995.
The publication focuses on the implications of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) of the Uruguay Round Agreements on Agriculture for major agricultural commodity countries of the ESCAP region. It examines the policies these countries should follow to maximize the benefits emerging from the agreements on reductions in barriers against agricultural commodity imports and in subsidies on agricultural exports, as well as from the agreed reductions in domestic supports for agricultural production. The study also explores the question of the benefits to be gained from cooperative action on a regional basis. Furthermore, it analyzes the likely changes in the terms of trade for ESCAP countries, in investment flows, in productivity gains, and in the potential for increases in exports. Given that, even after the full phase-in of the agreements, significant trade barriers against agricultural commodities will still remain, the study examines the incentives for these countries to engage in individual or collective action. The study presents data showing agricultural patterns of major agricultural exporting countries in the ESCAP region and details on the bilateral flows in the trade of selected commodities, particularly of rice, wheat, cotton, vegetable oils and fruits and vegetables.
ASSESSING THE POTENTIAL AND DIRECTION
OF AGRICULTURAL TRADE WITHIN THE ESCAP REGION. (ST/ESCAP/1517). 1995.
The publication surveys the determinants of agricultural trade flows according to commodity and geographical groupings. It aims to increase the understanding of the patterns of production and trade flows of the main agricultural trading countries and areas of the ESCAP region. The countries who although do not account for significant shares in inter-and intraregional trade, are almost solely dependent on the exports of agricultural products for their foreign exchange earnings. The prospects for the region's agricultural trade seem to point towards an expansion of intraregional trade, while still being restrained by policies which discriminate against particular commodities traded in the region. Reforms that encourage technological progress and attempt to increase productivity, trade, rural employment, and the welfare of people have become a necessary condition to bring about economic and social development. The publication presents a compendium of papers on selected commodities of importance to the ESCAP region, that is, coconut oil, pepper and natural rubber. It also examines the experiences of selected countries who are significant exporters and importers of agricultural products in the ESCAP region, namely Australia, China, India, Japan, Malaysia and Pakistan.
The publication includes the proceedings presented at the Regional Seminar on "Assessing the Potential and Direction of Agricultural Trade within the ESCAP Region" held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 23 to 25 November 1995.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE EXPORT-ORIENTED
ELECTRONIC GOODS SECTOR IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC. (ST/ESCAP/1512). 1995.
The publication presents the key features of the electronic industry in four countries: China, India, Malaysia, and the Republic of Korea. Republic of Korea has shown a continued success in the export growth of electronics goods, Malaysia a shift from less than successful to a successful performance and India a consistent lack of export success. The study reviews domestic markets, qualitative and quantitative features of production and exports, and the role of foreign direct investment and regional interdependence. It presents the development of export-oriented electronic goods sectors in each of the four countries including their strengths and weaknesses. It analyzes governmental interventions, investment trends and future prospects, as well as the implications of the Uruguay Round agreements under the World Trade Organization (WTO).
AN ANALYSIS OF FIJI'S EXPORT POTENTIAL
TO ASIA. (ST/ESCAP/1511). 1995.
The publication presents an evaluation of Fiji's export policy environment, identifies products and product groups that Fiji-based producers might export to Asia and provides recommendations to strengthen exports and promote investment in the country. It covers topics such as basic country data, Fiji's economic structure and policies in the manufacturing sector, its recent export performance and foreign investment activity. It examines Fiji's trade and industry policies, which include trade liberalization, export promotion, and export finance facilities. Asian markets are presented as potential trade partners. The study suggests products which could be Fiji's export opportunities to Asia such as fruit, vegetables, flowers, cocoa, confections, coffee, seafood products, processed meat products, wood products (veneer, mahogany, furniture), cosmetics, marine wear and marine products. Other possibilities also identified include clocks and watches, leather and leather goods, optical goods, spices, and offshore ranking.
PROSPECTS OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH COOPERATION IN NORTH-EAST
ASIA. (ST/ESCAP/1472). 1995.
The publication examines problems and prospects of economic cooperation and evaluates the development potentials in China, Japan, Mongolia, Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation. The major issues and conclusions presented are that North-East Asia forms an economically-viable subregion, considerable benefits would accrue from cooperation and future benefits outweigh the difficulties and costs involved in efforts to cooperate.
The publication includes papers presented at the Expert Group Meeting on the "Development of Transition Economies in North-East Asia through Intra-Regional Trade Expansion and Subregional Economic Cooperation", held in Changchun, China, from 30 June to 1 July 1993.
REVIEW AND ANALYSIS
OF INTRAREGIONAL TRADE FLOWS IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC. (ST/ESCAP/1506).
The publication presents an analysis of the factors underlying intraregional trade flows in the Asia and Pacific region, identifying obstacles, constraints and reasons for success in some countries including policy lessons for further expansion of intraregional trade. It analyzes the desegregated intraregional export flows data at the 3-digit SITC level. It examines the determinants of the region's intraregional trade performance focusing on issues such as the comparative advantage of Asia-Pacific economies and the compatibility between trade and production specialization. It presents discussions on the policy implications for sustaining the momentum of interregional trade in particular for the group of least developed countries.
FLOWS OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN ASIA AND THE PACIFIC. (ST/ESCAP/1501).
The publication presents an analysis of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) flows in the Asia and Pacific region. It examines the sectors that have attracted FDI flows, and the potential sectors for future FDI inflows. It identifies the countries and the types of corporations from which FDI has originated, and analyzes the performance of industrializing economies (NIEs) and some countries of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN). Empirical and theoretical findings of the study indicate that variations of the host country variables can explain the vast majority of the variation in FDI inflows. The study presents the role of growth-promoting economic policies and those which contribute to macroeconomic stability in positively affecting the level of FDI flows. Country studies include China, Hong Kong China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore.
A MORE VIBRANT PEPPER ECONOMY. (ST/ESCAP/1494). 1995.
The publication presents a general outlook of the pepper economy and community in the Asia and Pacific region. It reviews past and future price trends, pepper quality requirements, pepper product development and processing, market potential and constrains in marketing pepper in the region. The study presents a summary of national perspectives on the issues and problems that the pepper industry has been facing in each country. The publication presents the discussion on measures of increasing earnings through quality improvement, product development and enhancement of market capabilities.
The publication includes the proceedings of the International Pepper Seminar 1994 under the theme "Towards a More Vibrant Pepper Economy", held in Bangkok, Thailand from 17 to 19 August 1994.
EXPANSION OF MANUFACTURED EXPORTS BY SMALL AND
MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs) IN ESCAP REGION - VOLUME I: REGIONAL STUDY;
VOLUME II: NATIONAL STUDIES. (ST/ESCAP/1457). 1995.
The publication provides a comparative analysis and strategies for developing and expanding exports of manufactured products of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the ESCAP region. It provides information for the development and promotion of SME exports, a list of organizations which administer, promote and assist SMEs in participating countries, facilitate the exchange of information for the promotion of SME exports and the development of cooperation among SMEs. Countries included in the study are Bangladesh, China, India, Islamic Republic of Iran, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Viet Nam.
REGIONAL COOPERATION IN EXPORT CREDIT AND EXPORT
CREDIT GUARANTEES. (ST/ESCAP/1438). 1995.
The publication reviews current policies and institutional arrangements for export finance and export credit guarantees in selected economies in the ESCAP region. It examines the needs and possible modalities for regional cooperation to improve export financing services, particularly for small and medium enterprises in the region. The study highlights the need to review the feasibility of regional cooperation in export finance with regards to the scope, coverage, and utility of the existing mechanisms and institutions. It reviews institutional factors, issues related to the existing financial infrastructures and provides an assessment of current national and regional systems of export financing. It offers an overview of linkages between export finance/export credit guarantees and the expansion of exports. It analyzes the rationale and modalities of regional cooperation required for improving export-financing services, particularly those for small and medium enterprises in the region.
THE ENVIRONMENT FOR THE COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT OF INDO-CHINA. (ST/ESCAP/1482). 1995.
The publication examines the need for a policy framework and institutional development in order to facilitate trade and investment within Indo-China and with ASEAN neighbours. The study identifies the comparative advantages of the subregion in natural-based industries such as forestry and mineral sectors. It aims to demonstrate how environmental policy guidelines will help ensure sustainable development in the subregion. The publication emphasizes the adoption of subregional approaches for building capacities in trade, investment and environmental management, which are not only of concern to individual countries but also have regional consequences. In this aspect, the study finds that strengthening linkages with the neighbouring dynamic economies of ASEAN becomes essential. The study focuses on Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam.
The publication includes papers presented both at the Forum for the Comprehensive Development of Indo-China, held in Tokyo, Japan from 26 to 27 February 1995, and at the Private Sector Symposium "Together We Advance" held in Bangkok, Thailand, on 24 March 1995.
Trade Facilitation Handbook for the Greater Mekong Subregion. (ST/ ESCAP/2224). 2002 Trade facilitation has emerged as one of the key issues in the development of trade, as highlighted in the WTO Doha Development Agenda. This Handbook introduces the concept of trade facilitation, and provides some guidance and ideas on how to actively pursue trade facilitation at the national and regional level. It is not a technical manual and is suitable for non-trade specialists as well as for high-level decision makers who want to know why and how to develop national institutional capacity for trade facilitation. The Handbook focuses on selected issues thought to be of particular importance for the facilitation of trade in the developing economies of the Greater Mekong Subregion, including: the costs and benefits of trade facilitation; standards and tools to improve import and export procedures and documentation; and how to develop public-private sector cooperation. The Handbook also discusses how trade facilitation practices can result in more effective control and enforcement and examines the role of the government in trade financing.
This publication was prepared under the Forum for the Comprehensive Development of Indo-China and it is a compilation of training materials prepared during the UNESCAP Trade Facilitation Workshops held 2001-2002 in Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam.
The manual was tailored for the training of trainers. It is intended to help ESCAP member countries, in particular least developed countries in the region, to strengthen their capacity to understand and address complex issues in trade policy and trade promotion. The manual contains seven modules dealing with 1) globalization, development and trade, 2) the World Trade Organization, 3) regional approaches to trade liberalization, 4) institutional support for trade promotion, 5) accessing global markets, 6) trade facilitation and e-commerce, and 7) basic training principles.
This publication was prepared under the UNESCAP project entitled "Increasing capacities in trade and investment promotion - pilot training programme with selected trade-related training facilities", which was implemented from 1999 to 2001 and which involved training needs assessments in the following countries: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Laos PDR, Nepal and Viet Nam.
Last updated: 23 July 2003