When the journal was established, it was conceived as providing an alternative to mainstream perspectives on contemporary Asian issues. The journal maintains this tradition and seeks to publish articles that deal with the broad problems of economic, political and social development of Asia. Articles on economic development issues, political economy, agriculture, planning, the working class, people's movements, politics and power, imperialism and empire, international financial institutions, the environment, and economic history are especially welcomed. The journal also has a strong interest in the scientific development of theory that is of global significance, especially on the role of the state, class analysis, power and globalisation.