Article: Exploring theoretical and empirical insights into intra-BIMSTEC trade: a systematic literature review Journal: International Journal of Trade and Global Markets (IJTGM) 2026 Vol.22 No.1 pp.81 - 99 Abstract: The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a key sub-regional grouping that promotes economic cooperation and integration among its members by focusing on connectivity, trade, investment, and collaboration in different sectors. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to explore trade dynamics within BIMSTEC countries by analysing existing literature published between 2000 and 2024 across different databases. The SLR methodology follows the PRISMA model, employing rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the selection of relevant and high-quality studies. The study aims to identify various trade theories utilised in the selected literature, examine the determinants of trade, and explore the methodologies that demonstrate the relationship between these determinants. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical, empirical, and methodological dimensions of trade within BIMSTEC countries, offering critical insights for future research and policy making. The results highlight the need for integration and regional cooperation to boost trade and achieve shared economic benefits within BIMSTEC. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Exploring theoretical and empirical insights into intra-BIMSTEC trade: a systematic literature review

Authors: Kanchan Chauhan; Nidhi Bagaria

Addresses: Department of Economics, Kurukshetra University Kurukshetra, Kurukshetra, Haryana, 136119, India ' Department of Economics, Kurukshetra University Kurukshetra, Kurukshetra, Haryana, 136119, India

Abstract: The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a key sub-regional grouping that promotes economic cooperation and integration among its members by focusing on connectivity, trade, investment, and collaboration in different sectors. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to explore trade dynamics within BIMSTEC countries by analysing existing literature published between 2000 and 2024 across different databases. The SLR methodology follows the PRISMA model, employing rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the selection of relevant and high-quality studies. The study aims to identify various trade theories utilised in the selected literature, examine the determinants of trade, and explore the methodologies that demonstrate the relationship between these determinants. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical, empirical, and methodological dimensions of trade within BIMSTEC countries, offering critical insights for future research and policy making. The results highlight the need for integration and regional cooperation to boost trade and achieve shared economic benefits within BIMSTEC.

Keywords: BIMSTEC; determinants of trade; economic integration; FTA; free trade agreement; intra regional trade; non-tariff barriers; PRISMA model; regional cooperation; SLR; South Asia.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTGM.2026.153776

International Journal of Trade and Global Markets, 2026 Vol.22 No.1, pp.81 - 99

Received: 22 Aug 2025
Accepted: 12 Jan 2026
Published online: 26 May 2026 *

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Title: Exploring theoretical and empirical insights into intra-BIMSTEC trade: a systematic literature review

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