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The Application of TRIZ in Resolving the Indo‐Pacific Economic Framework Paradox

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  • Wei Chien Ng
  • Yu Qing Soong
  • Sin Yin Teh

Abstract

The Indo‐Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) is an unconventional economic initiative in that it excludes tariff reductions and market access. Instead, it focuses on trade, supply‐chain resilience, sustainability, and fair practices. However, without conventional trade incentives, the IPEF may struggle to secure long‐term commitment for costly reforms, which is a paradox that requires some significant unraveling. This study contributes to the search for solutions to the paradox by attempting to apply the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) to resolve this contradiction. TRIZ identifies and addresses conflicts within systems by balancing opposing objectives. In the context of the IPEF, the challenge is incorporating trade incentives to enhance commitment without undermining its non‐traditional design. Using TRIZ's “engineering contradiction” approach, the study proposes four innovative solutions by strengthening the IPEF's effectiveness while preserving its unique structure. The findings offer strategic insights to ensure sustained engagement and drive inclusive economic growth in the Indo‐Pacific region. 印太繁荣经济框架 (IPEF) 是一项非传统的经济倡议, 它不涉及关税减让和市场准入, 而是侧重于贸易、供应链韧性、可持续性和公平贸易实践。然而, 由于缺乏传统的贸易激励措施, IPEF可能难以确保各方对高成本改革的长期承诺, 这构成了一个需要深入探讨的悖论。本研究尝试运用发明问题解决理论 (TRIZ) 来解决这一矛盾, 从而为寻求解决方案做出贡献。TRIZ通过平衡相互对立的目标来识别和解决系统内部的冲突。在IPEF的背景下, 挑战在于如何在不破坏其非传统设计的前提下, 纳入贸易激励措施以增强各方承诺。本研究运用TRIZ的“工程化矛盾”方法, 提出了四项创新解决方案, 旨在增强IPEF的有效性, 同时保留其独特的结构。研究结果为确保印太地区持续参与并推动包容性经济增长提供了战略性见解。 El Marco Económico del Indopacífico para la Prosperidad (IPEF) es una iniciativa económica no convencional que excluye las reducciones arancelarias y el acceso a los mercados. En cambio, se centra en el comercio, la resiliencia de la cadena de suministro, la sostenibilidad y las prácticas justas. Sin embargo, sin incentivos comerciales convencionales, el IPEF podría tener dificultades para asegurar un compromiso a largo plazo para reformas costosas, lo cual constituye una paradoja que requiere un análisis profundo. Este estudio contribuye a la búsqueda de soluciones a esta paradoja al intentar aplicar la Teoría de la Resolución Inventiva de Problemas (TRIZ) para resolver esta contradicción. TRIZ identifica y aborda los conflictos dentro de los sistemas equilibrando objetivos opuestos. En el contexto del IPEF, el desafío reside en incorporar incentivos comerciales para fortalecer el compromiso sin socavar su diseño no tradicional. Utilizando el enfoque de “ingeniería de la contradicción” de TRIZ, el estudio propone cuatro soluciones innovadoras que fortalecen la eficacia del IPEF, preservando al mismo tiempo su estructura única. Los hallazgos ofrecen perspectivas estratégicas para garantizar una participación sostenida e impulsar el crecimiento económico inclusivo en la región del Indopacífico.

Suggested Citation

  • Wei Chien Ng & Yu Qing Soong & Sin Yin Teh, 2026. "The Application of TRIZ in Resolving the Indo‐Pacific Economic Framework Paradox," World Affairs, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 189(1), January.
  • Handle: RePEc:wly:woraff:v:189:y:2026:i:1:n:waf270055
    DOI: 10.1002/waf2.70055
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