RCEP 체결 이후 ASEAN 지역내 주요 산업 경쟁력 변화와 시사점

A Comparative Study on the International Competitiveness of Major Industries in the ASEAN Region after RCEP

Purpose - This research seeks to assess the trade volume and international competitiveness of RCEP member countries post-agreement, taking into account the diverse economic structures within the ASEAN countries. Design/Methodology/Approach - This investigation focuses on three variables: exports, imports, and the trade specification index. A paired t-test was employed to measure the impact before and after the signing of RCEP. Findings - The results show that the trade characteristics of partner countries, including Korea, China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, are influenced by factors such as comparative advantage, industrial situation, and local market demand, as aligned with the industrial development stage of ASEAN countries. Research Implications - Despite the RCEP agreement, Korea appears inclined to enhance trade, particularly with less developed ASEAN countries, in order to offset solidifications within the domestic industry, high wages, and intensifying competition with China. In addition, except for the electronics industry, Korea’s contribution to the expansion of ASEAN market demand is limited. To foster a global value chain in ASEAN and broaden the ASEAN market, Korea needs to focus on product diversification targeting lower-income groups that share characteristics similar to those found at bottom of the pyramid, and establish systematic economic cooperation with other ASEAN countries which are not yet prepared for industrialization for sustainable economic development.