Cai's systematic study of East Asia's political economy explores both regional and national dynamics, whilst lighting on the similar paths to development which integrate this regional economy. A historical study of development of the political economy of Northeast Asia, this book argues that Japan has been crucial in shaping the region but increasingly China is equally as influential. The rise of Northeast Asia is one of the most important events in global political economy since 1945. This book focuses on China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. In a systematic study of the political economy of East Asia, Cai adopts an historical perspective alongside a contemporary focus, exploring East Asia's development since the late 19th century. Following similar paths to economic development, East Asian states have achieved economic success, integrating themselves into a regional economy.

While major theories of economic regionalism in the existing literature are primarily constructed to explore institutionalized regional integration, European integration in particular, the analytical framework developed in this work explains the unique process and pattern of regional integration in East Asia.

In a systematic study of the political economy of East Asia, Cai adopts an historical perspective alongside a contemporary focus, exploring East Asia's development since the late 19th century. Following similar paths to economic development, East Asian states have achieved economic success, integrating themselves into a regional economy.

While major theories of economic regionalism in the existing literature are primarily constructed to explore institutionalized regional integration, European integration in particular, the analytical framework developed in this work explains the unique process and pattern of regional integration in East Asia.