Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI)

The Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative (EAI) was announced on October 26, 2002, by President George W. Bush. EAI was established because the United States believes that a strong relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a force for stability and development in the Southeast Asian region. The EAI will enhance already close U.S. ties with ASEAN.

The EAI offers the prospect of bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) between the United States and ASEAN countries that are committed to economic reforms and openness. EAI is expected to create a network of bilateral FTAs, which will increase trade and investment, tying more closely together U.S.-ASEAN economies and futures. The EAI will encourage both bilateral and regional liberalization and help the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum reach the Bogor goals for achieving free and open trade and investment in the Asia Pacific region.

Resources:

The White House

Enterprise for ASEAN Initiative