The movement regarding East Asian Community (EAC) building can be explained by two significant factors, both of which highly involve the roles of Japan. First, the conflict and competition between Japan and China for regional leadership represents the factor that determines “timing” of the EAC debate. The debate was particularly intense during the reign of Prime Minister Koizumi (2001-2006), when Japan - China relations deteriorated. Second, Japanese business interests function as the factor determining the “main contents” regarding regional integration in the EAC, particularly in regard to FTA/EPA and monetary cooperation. Thus, It could be argued that the political interests of Japan and China kicked start the EAC issue, while Japanese business interests function to develop EAC.

For the possibility of a community, EAC can be conceptualized as “process”, rather than “end result” of an advanced community in a genuine sense. Yet, most likely developments would be a regional - wide FTA, monetary cooperation, and functional cooperation. Regarding implications for Thailand, the Japan - China rivalry is more beneficial than having only one single power dominance in the region. Thailand, accordingly, should pursue balanced relationships towards both countries, not leaning too close to any of them. ASEAN+3, as a more advanced cooperation, should be prioritized, while not ignoring ASEAN+6. It is suggestible that the nation should cooperate with both Japan and China in reducing development gaps in neighboring Mekong countries. Thailand also should pursue more roles upon functional cooperation beneficial to the country, especially on tourism, transportation and science and technology. In addition, Thailand should push for more integration in ASEAN so as to enhance the Association’s negotiation power.