This is the first book which contains an in-depth analysis of aspects of the ASEAN Charter and its implementation, and the new goods and investment instruments that ASEAN has recently adopted. It is intended to start the process of creating a better understanding of the Charter and its implementation issues and the instruments underpinning the push towards economic integration and the ASEAN Economic Community.

A special feature of the book is the “Summary of Key Points” at the end of each chapter. I have prepared the summaries to enable readers to obtain an overview and a quick appreciation of each chapter.

I am indebted to Ambassador K. Kesavapany, Director of the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS) for his advice, guidance and encouragement in this book project. I am also grateful to the Head of the ASEAN Studies Centre at ISEAS, Mr Rodolfo Severino, who kindly read through the draft manuscript and offered useful suggestions.

I would like to thank all paper presenters and my colleagues, Mrs Y.L. Lee, Head of Administration, Ms Moe Thuzar, Ms Karthiani Nair, Mr Deepak Nair, Ms Emillia Amin and Mr Alex Tham Keng Sum. The workshop would not have been possible without support from them.

My special thanks to Mrs Triena Ong, Managing Editor of the ISEAS Publications Unit, who was always generous with her time in guiding me through the intricacies of preparing a book for publication. I also appreciate greatly the unstinting assistance of Ms Rahilah Yusof and Ms Sheryl Sin.