Economic Thought and Practice, , 2026.
Review article
https://doi.org/10.17818/EMIP/2026/32
GEOECONOMIC FRAGMENTATION AND QUADRILATERAL SECURITY DIALOGUE: DID IT COME TO CHANGES IN RELATIONS IN THE INDO-PACIFIC REGION
Marijana Maksimović
orcid.org/0000-0002-6420-8869
; Institute of Social Sciences, Center for Economic Research, Belgrade, Serbia
*
Đurđica Stanković
orcid.org/0000-0001-9708-3276
; Institute of Social Sciences, Center for Political Research and Public Opinion, Belgrade, Serbia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Geo-economic fragmentation has become increasingly apparent through recent changes in the global economy. Major powers, particularly the United States, China, Russia, and India, are seeking to strengthen their positions in international markets, contributing to the emergence of a multipolar order. This paper examines changes in international economic relations and networks, with a particular focus on the role of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD). An analytical approach was used to assess China’s role in the Indo-Pacific region, while a comparative method was applied to compare the QUAD with other regional frameworks and initiatives, including ASEAN, RCEP, IPEF, and developments in the South China Sea. The findings suggest that the QUAD functions primarily as a security framework while also supporting trade cooperation among its members. Consistent with the concept of middle powers, it seeks to influence the regional balance in the Indo-Pacific. However, trade diversification remains dependent on the development of other regional initiatives and their trade policies.
Keywords
geoeconomics; fragmentation; QUAD; China; South China Sea
Hrčak ID:
348450
URI
Publication date:
30.6.2026.
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