In this paper, we examine changes in patterns of specialization and geographical concentration in East Asia. We found that relative specialization, on average, has decreased in East Asia, implying that the economic structures of East Asian countries have been converging. Investigating changes in the industrial characteristics, it is shown that the differences in economies of scale between East Asian countries have been greatly reduced over time. In addition, we also identified that geographical concentration has increased. (The rest is omitted.)

Executive Summary

I. Introduction

II. Literature Survey

III. Approaches to Measuring Specialization and Concentration
1. Indices for specialization
2. Indices for geographical concentration
3. Data

IV. The Evolution of Specialization and Concentration Patterns in East Asia
1. Specialization
2. Concentration

V. Comparison with the United States and the EU

VI. Concluding Remarks

References
Appendix 1: The ISIC Classification
Appendix 2: Industry Characteristics