March 10, 2007
a. what is your understanding of the main features of ASEAN FTAs?
1. ASEAN endeavored to push FTAs based on the notion that the member countries have a competitive advantage
2. The agreements contained in FTA look like the WTO agreements entered into by countries at the regional level
b. What are your comments and concerns on ASEAN FTAs template? What are its good points? Its bad points?
1. The FTAs benefit the rich countries in the region, where exports from rich countries dominate local products. Eventually market for local products will cease.
2. It is difficult for ASEAN countries to come up with a common framework or agreement, because of varying political and socio-economic realities.
3. Most FTAs are secret agreements; there is little or no transparency at all.
c. What are your recommendtions to ASEAN and your governments when it forges FTAs with otheer countries?
1. Fully consider the competitiveness of weak sectors. If they cannott compete, the negative effects will be rampant.
2. Governments must have policies to protect the local products .
3. Basic sectors should be involved in ASEAN level negotiations.
4. There must be sharing information among ASEAN members on the process and content and strategies in negotiating with other countries on FTAs.
5. Governments should do participatory researches on the potential impact of FTAs to the basic sectors.
6. Provide timely information to the public about the content , process and status of FTA negotiations.
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