7. 1. Patterns of trade in Asia - Over 50% of trade by countries in the region is within the region - China’s role as a major exporter and importer, as well as investor looms ever larger - When seen in terms of sub-regions, however, it is clear that within South Asia, intraregional trade is much more limited (6%). India’s major markets are now in East Asia
8. 2. Role and impact of FTAs and RTAs - Various questions were raised: does trade expand more as a result of trade agreements, or is their impact quite marginal in practice? Are they “weak and light”? - Is there such a proliferation of the noodle bowl that trade becomes more complicated and may as well revert to MFN principles? - Do trade agreement pose a threat to, or do they reinforce WTO agreements?