INTRODUCTION

With the objective of liberalizing cross border trade and creating economic integration in the South Asian region,  over the years ASEAN[1] has put in place a number of regulatory frameworks under the ASEAN Economic Community (“AEC”) blueprint.[2] In the implementation stage, the broader objectives will be completed by promoting the free flows of goods and services across the borders of the ASEAN members by eliminating various trade restrictions and limitations.

With the framework to liberalize trade in goods currently in place and operating to reduce both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers, the schedules for actual execution have brought into focus  gaps in economic development between ASEAN members with consideration being given on how to best  accommodate the economic growth of all members, not widen the gap.