PERAN HUKUM NASIONAL DALAM MENYIKAPI TANTANGAN PERDAGANGAN BEBAS DI KAWASAN ASEAN

(Analisis Perspektif Ekonomi Dan Kedaulatan Negara)

Abstrak

The liberalization of trade in the ASEAN region has brought significant changes to the economic and social structure, creating serious challenges for member countries, particularly regarding the protection of local industries and vulnerable groups. This study analyzes the role of national law in addressing the challenges of free trade from the perspectives of economics and national sovereignty. The research method employed is a literature review using a qualitative approach, aimed at exploring how national law functions within the context of liberalization and its impact on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The findings indicate that national laws are often not robust enough to protect vulnerable groups from the negative impacts of liberalization, resulting in increased economic disparity. Weak coordination between national laws and domestic economic policies leads to inconsistencies that further undermine the position of SMEs in the market. Although some countries have attempted to implement legal strategies to mitigate the effects of liberalization, there is still a need for more flexible and adaptive legal adjustments to effectively respond to globalization pressures. Thus, national law can serve not only as compliance with international regulations but also as a tool to support inclusive economic growth and reduce social inequality.