Non-Tariff Measures in ASEAN

Abstract

Over the years, multilateral trade negotiations have helped to substantially reduce tariff rates. While tariffs have been reduced, the number of non-tariff measures (NTMs) is increasing and is often blamed to be a source of the lack of integration in ASEAN. Yet, in spite of their growing number, we generally have little understanding and information, and thus there is an urgent need to develop a better understanding and transparency of existing NTMs. The Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), in collaboration with the United Nations Conference for Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and ASEAN national teams consisting of economists and government officials of ASEAN countries collected and classified NTMs in the 10 ASEAN countries (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam) based on the latest Multi Agency Support Team February 2012 classification. They worked on all regulations and official documents, including international conventions adopted by countries which had been in effect by January 2015.