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Changes in the Trade Pattern in China Under the RCEP: An Analysis of Trade Creation and Diversion Using the SMART-WITS Model

Author

Listed:
  • Wenjie Zhang
  • Muhammad Daaniyall Abd Rahman
  • Mohamad Khair Afham Muhamad Senan

Abstract

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), one of the globe's most expansive free trade agreements (FTAs), has profoundly influenced its member countries' trading patterns. This fact is especially critical for a major economic powerhouse such as China. Understanding its trade creation and trade diversion within the RCEP context can facilitate successful formulation strategies and result in effective economic policies. In this study, we utilize the World Integrated Trade Solution Software for Market Analysis and Restrictions on Trade (WITS-SMART), a partial equilibrium modeling tool, on both state-level and industrial-tier tariff reductions under two distinct scenarios. Our findings confirm that China will benefit from impactful trade results across all RCEP members. Looking from industry point of view- machinery, chemicals, metals sector together with plastics and rubber production are projected to enjoy maximum rewards through increased trade creation and diversion opportunities from Japan and Korea. On the contrary, Australia and ASEAN have the greatest influence on the animal and vegetable sector. This crucial understanding creates strategic indicators that aid in evaluating the most appropriate alignments to harness the untapped potential in the RECP domain.

Suggested Citation

  • Wenjie Zhang & Muhammad Daaniyall Abd Rahman & Mohamad Khair Afham Muhamad Senan, 2024. "Changes in the Trade Pattern in China Under the RCEP: An Analysis of Trade Creation and Diversion Using the SMART-WITS Model," Asian Social Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 20(4), pages 1-1, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:assjnl:v:20:y:2024:i:4:p:1
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Lin Sun & Michael R. Reed, 2010. "Impacts of Free Trade Agreements on Agricultural Trade Creation and Trade Diversion," American Journal of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association, vol. 92(5), pages 1351-1363.
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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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