The article discusses how trade has played a crucial role in the growth and development of East Asia, leading to poverty reduction and economic progress. The region has seen rapid growth in international trade, with intraregional trade growing faster than trade with other markets. This growth has been driven by improved competitiveness in regional markets, with countries like China showing dynamic progress. Despite the 1997-98 financial crisis, recovery has brought poverty rates to record lows, especially in economies like Vietnam. Overall, trade integration in East Asia has been successful, with most countries increasing their market shares in both regional and global markets.