This book takes on those and other important new issues such as integration through spatially fragmented production, and the operation of supply chains. The author argues that international economic integration deals are here to stay, and evolve with variable successes in spite of advantages offered by the multilateral trading system. Jovanovic's second edition includes up-to-date surveys of economic integration and their agreements, criticism of the eurozone and speculation on the future of integration.
'I taught one course on economic policy at Queen's University and met Miroslav Jovanovic, who was the outstanding student in my class. I have followed his career ever since. . . The most distinctive aspect of his treatment continues to be his union of theory and applied material. For him, the major interest always resides in the problems created by the working out of various forms of integration in real situations. He uses theory but no more than is needed to act as a tool for enlightening our understanding of what we see in the world around us. . . For those who want a comprehensive survey relevant for understanding the issues surrounding economic integration, this is an excellent book.'
- From the Foreword by Richard G. Lipsey
'A very effective and up-to-date book for a deep understanding of the complex labyrinth of second-best solutions provided by the existing trading system.'
- Michele Fratianni, Indiana University
'In the second edition of his successful book, Jovanovic offers a highly accessible, wide ranging, balanced and humane account of the economics of international integration. This book will be of great value to students, scholars, policy makers, managers and everyone interested in the nature, determinants, impact and future of inter-national integration in today's semi-globalised economy'
- Christos Pitelis, University of Bath and Queens' College, University of Cambridge, UK
'Paradoxically, the age of globalisation since the 1990s sees the dramatic expansion and evolution of the regional trade agreements (RTAs) around the world. The RTAs are quite different in their purpose and extent from one region to another. In addition, new trend is to establish the mega-RTA like the TPP and the TTIP. Those with interests in the RTAs should look at the present and future situation from theoretical and empirical perspectives. The book by Jovanovic serves the best for this purpose with new and various examples.'
- Ken-ichi Ando, Shizuoka University, Japan