New regionalism: theory and trends in the world economy

The aim of the article is to outline the theoretical grounds of regionalism and, in particular, to explain the basis of this new phenomenon, its forms (stages) and historical development. The core of the explanation is a "new" regionalism as the third wave of regionalism in the world economy: its interpretation, causes, diversity and cases of regional integration. Furthermore, trends in regional development of trade initiatives have been outlined (from the "old" to "new" regionalism, from a "looser" to "deeper" integration, from individual cases to "global" regionalism.) In the conclusion, areas requiring further examination in connection with the impact of regionalism on the Czech economy have been defined.

Keywords: integration, world economy, international economics, preferential trade agreements, regional trade agreements, free trade area, regionalism, custom union, regional integration