Notes that Southeast Asian countries differ greatly in terms of geography, demography and social, political, and economic systems. Describes the similarities of most countries, except for Hong Kong and Singapore, in terms of economic structure, level of development, growth performance and problems. Considers that the outstanding structural characteristic of Southeast Asian economies is their agrarian nature. Discusses factors trade and assistance. Describes the high population growth rate, the phenomenon called the "green revolution" and the issue of foreign exchange earnings' citing the effect of a cessation of the war in Vietnam as the principal problem. TAIC