Convergence and Its Implications for a Common Currency in ASEAN

Abstract

The successful introduction of the euro brings renewed interest to the topic of whether similar approaches might be successfully implemented in other regions. One region that may be a promising candidate for this process is Southeast Asia, comprising the ASEAN member countries. These nations have long seen the value of co-operation in order to promote peace, stability, and economic growth. Nonetheless, important differences between the euro area and the ASEAN zone suggest that a wholesale importation of the European approach may be inopportune at the moment. The issues are examined by using economic convergence modelling perspectives. In general, the findings clearly suggest that further work remains before ASEAN will be able to fully benefit from having a single currency area.