Foreign trade effects of the economic integration between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan: 2010–2013

Abstract

The article provides a concise overview of the integration processes efficiency between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan during the period of 2010–2013. The main aim is to analyze the major trade effects of the formation of the Customs Union and Single Economic Space based on the macroeconomic trade indexes of the member states, particularly, their foreign and reciprocal turnover. The article consists of four parts which throw light on the major trade effects observed in the formation of the CU/SES. In the first part of the article, the common dynamics of the CU reciprocal trade turnover have been examined and compared to the dynamics of the CU foreign trade turnover. The second part gives insight into the most significant trade effects relevant for Belarus. The third section is an attempt to present some key trade effects applicable for Kazakhstan. The final part of the article looks into the major trends of Russia’s foreign and reciprocal turnover in the period of 2010–2013 as well as its import capacity from the member states.