Introduction to the Special Issue: The Indo‐Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity—Implications for Participating Countries and the World

ABSTRACT The 2022 QUAD leaders' conference in Tokyo significantly influenced the world history of economic integration. The meeting coincided with the US initiation of a new economic forum, the Indo‐Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), which became effective in February 2024. This unconventional trade pact unites 14 member nations across four economic domains: commerce, supply chains, clean economy, and equitable economy. The Indo‐Pacific region is among the most populous and economically dynamic areas globally, encompassing four continents: Asia, Africa, Australia, and America. The primary concerns of the IPEF aims to address include bolstering resilience, augmenting sustainability, fostering inclusive economic growth, expanding commercial possibilities, and advancing equity and competitiveness among nations in the Indo‐Pacific area. This short guest editorial introduces the World Affairs special issue on the novel design and strategic importance of the IPEF and provides an overview of the ten article contributions it contains.