An analysis of trade linkages between China and RCEP member countries: based on trade inten-sity index model

On January 1, 2022, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) came into effect, injecting new impetus into regional economic development. Based on the trade intensity index model, this paper calculates the bilateral trade linkage index of China's RCEP member countries from 2012-2023 from both import and export aspects. The results show that China's export trade is closely connected with RCEP member countries, while its import trade is weak with RCEP member countries, and there is still room to explore bilateral trade cooperation. Finally, based on the calculation results, this paper puts forward some targeted policy suggestions for strengthening trade ties between China and RCEP member countries