China, Japan and economic interdependence in the Asia Pacific region

The analysis of Sino-Japanese relations has hitherto been framed largely in bilateral terms. At the present time, however, the rationale for this approach appears to be fading. During the past decade both countries have become enmeshed in extensive international networks involving not only trade, but also investment, aid and regional co-operation and both have been defined as constituents of the Asia Pacific Region (APR). The author examines how far the regional approach to understanding the relationship is a fruitful one and identifies how the evolution of the APR may affect the future of Sino-Japanese economic exchange. (DÜI-Sen)