Trade and environment issues in APEC

Abstract

The central argument of this article is that regional economic integration must be complemented by the creation of regional frameworks for environmental management. Beyond working to expand market access, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Mechanism (APEC) countries must cooperate to create conditions which provide incentives for sustainable resource and ecosystem use. In this way, trade and environmental policies can mutually reinforce each other. In one way or another, it is likely that environmental issues will be on the agenda. The crucial issue is how deep and broad will be the integration of trade and environmental concerns. This article suggests some guiding principles and innovative strategies.