Abstract. On January 1st, 2010, the free trade zone China–ASEAN (CAFTA) was launched officially. The creation of such zone is of special importance under the conditions when the international financial crisis has not yet come to its end, but trade protectionism is increasing worldwide. Developing countries with lagged economy or other economic problems are suffering from the crisis shock the most. Conversely, the regional trade liberalization allows to overcome contraction of demand for commodities produced in Asia, opens up new export possibilities. The capability of the regional countries to counter crisis developments rises particularly due to extension of trade and economic cooperation with China.