The Asia-Pacific region at the beginning of the 21st century has witnessed a rise in bilateral preferential trade agreements which could have potentially dramatic effects on the trading patterns of countries in the trans-Pacific region.

"Bilateral Trade "Arrangements in the Asia-Pacific examines the underlying political and economic factors driving these accords and the implications of these arrangements for broader trading arrangements. The book contains detailed case analysis of the trade strategies of Japan, China, Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, the United States, and Mexico.

With a growing numbers of countries both in the region and elsewhere in the world now considering further negotiation of bilateral trade accords, the book highlights how these arrangements will fit or conflict with existing institutions in the Asia-Pacific and what this will mean for broader trade institutions.