Key Insights
The Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the expanding electricity infrastructure and increasing demand for reliable power distribution across the region. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.95% from 2019 to 2024 indicates a significant upward trajectory. This growth is fueled by substantial investments in renewable energy projects, smart grids, and industrial automation, particularly in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and rapidly developing Southeast Asian nations. The market is segmented by end-user (utilities, industrial & commercial), switch type (gas-insulated, air-insulated, and others), and geography. Gas-insulated switches are currently dominating due to their superior performance and reliability in high-voltage applications, while air-insulated switches maintain a significant market share due to their cost-effectiveness. The increasing adoption of smart grid technologies is further driving demand for advanced load break switches with enhanced monitoring and control capabilities. Challenges include stringent regulatory compliance requirements and the need for skilled technicians for installation and maintenance. However, ongoing technological advancements and a growing focus on grid modernization are expected to mitigate these challenges.
The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued market expansion, primarily propelled by infrastructure development in emerging economies within the Asia Pacific region. While China and Japan are currently leading the market, the growth potential in other Southeast Asian countries is substantial due to their rapidly expanding industrial sectors and urbanization. Major players like ABB Ltd, Siemens AG, Fuji Electric, and others are strategically investing in research and development, expanding their product portfolios, and forging strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge. The market's future success hinges on continuous innovation, cost optimization, and a strong focus on meeting the evolving needs of various end-users across the diverse landscape of the Asia Pacific region. The increasing adoption of renewable energy sources, along with the consistent demand from industrial and commercial segments, ensures that the market will continue its robust growth trajectory in the coming years.

Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This detailed report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. It offers actionable insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and growth opportunities, enabling stakeholders to make informed strategic decisions. The report segments the market by end-user (Utilities, Industrial, and Commercial), type (Gas-insulated, Air-insulated, Other Types), and country (China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Rest of Asia Pacific). The base year for this report is 2025, with estimations for 2025 and forecasts extending to 2033. The historical period covered is 2019-2024. The market size is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Concentration & Innovation
The Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players such as ABB Ltd, Siemens AG, and Schneider Electric SE holding significant market share. Precise market share figures are detailed within the full report, along with an analysis of their respective strategies and competitive advantages. Innovation in this sector is driven by the demand for improved safety, reliability, and efficiency in power distribution systems. Stringent regulatory frameworks concerning environmental standards and safety regulations are further shaping the market. The rising adoption of smart grids and renewable energy sources necessitates the development of advanced load break switches with enhanced capabilities. Product substitution is limited, with the primary alternative being traditional circuit breakers which lack the operational benefits and safety features of modern load break switches. The M&A activity in this sector has seen moderate levels of consolidation, with xx Million in deal values recorded in the recent past, further driving market consolidation and technological advancements. Further details on recent M&A activities and their impact are provided in the full report.
Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Industry Trends & Insights
The Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by expanding infrastructure projects across the region, increasing investments in renewable energy, and the growing adoption of smart grids. The market's CAGR during the forecast period (2025-2033) is projected to be xx%, driven by increased urbanization, industrialization, and rising energy consumption. Technological advancements, such as the development of gas-insulated load break switches with enhanced reliability and reduced maintenance needs, are further contributing to the market’s growth. Consumer preferences are shifting towards technologically advanced, energy-efficient, and safer load break switches, stimulating demand for premium products. Competitive dynamics are characterized by intense rivalry among established players, alongside increasing participation from emerging regional manufacturers. Market penetration of technologically advanced solutions is gradually increasing, particularly in developed economies within the region.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market
Leading Region: China remains the dominant market in the Asia Pacific region, owing to its extensive power grid infrastructure development and rapid industrial expansion.
Leading Country: China's large-scale infrastructure projects, significant investments in renewable energy, and robust industrial sector continue to drive market growth, making it the most dominant country.
Leading Segment (End-User): The Utilities segment holds a substantial market share due to its substantial investments in grid modernization and expansion.
Leading Segment (Type): Gas-insulated load break switches are preferred in high-voltage applications owing to their superior safety features and reliability. The market share for this type is expected to continue growing at xx% CAGR during the forecast period.
Key Drivers in Dominant Markets:
- China: Government support for renewable energy projects, investments in smart grid technologies, and large-scale infrastructure development initiatives are driving market expansion.
- Japan: High investments in modernization of power infrastructure and focus on grid reliability support market growth.
- South Korea: Government initiatives promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy are influencing market trends.
- Southeast Asia: Rapid industrialization and urbanization across the region are increasing demand for load break switches.
- Australia and New Zealand: Steady investments in grid infrastructure are driving market expansion.
Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations have focused on enhancing safety features, improving operational efficiency, and minimizing environmental impact. The introduction of smart load break switches with integrated monitoring capabilities and remote control options is gaining traction. These innovations improve grid management, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance overall system reliability. Competitive advantages are gained through technological leadership, superior product quality, and strong customer relationships. The market is witnessing the increasing adoption of digital technologies to improve operational efficiency and maintenance.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report segments the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market based on end-user (Utilities, Industrial, Commercial), type (Gas-insulated, Air-insulated, Other), and geography (China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Rest of Asia Pacific). Each segment's market size, growth projections, and competitive dynamics are analyzed in detail. The Utilities segment is expected to witness the highest growth, driven by substantial investments in grid modernization. The Gas-insulated segment enjoys a significant market share due to its superior performance and safety attributes. China is the leading market, followed by Japan and South Korea. Growth projections for each segment are provided for the forecast period of 2025-2033.
Key Drivers of Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Growth
The growth of the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market is primarily driven by factors such as increasing investments in infrastructure development, particularly in power grids, the rising adoption of renewable energy sources, stringent government regulations mandating improved safety standards, and the growing demand for reliable and efficient power distribution systems.
Challenges in the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Sector
The Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market faces challenges such as the high initial cost of advanced load break switches, particularly for gas-insulated types, potentially hindering adoption in smaller utilities and commercial establishments. Furthermore, supply chain disruptions and fluctuations in raw material prices can impact production costs and market stability. Intense competition among established players and the entry of new players might impact profitability for some industry players.
Emerging Opportunities in Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market
Emerging opportunities include the growing demand for smart grid technologies, which necessitate the deployment of advanced load break switches with monitoring and remote control capabilities. The expanding renewable energy sector, such as solar and wind power, further creates significant opportunities for load break switches. Additionally, the need for improved grid reliability and resilience in the face of extreme weather events is creating new growth avenues.
Leading Players in the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Market
- ABB Ltd
- Siemens AG
- Fuji Electric FA Components & Systems Co Ltd
- Powell Electric
- ENSTO Oy
- Rockwell Automation Inc
- Eaton
- LARSEN & TOUBRO LIMITED
- General Electric
- Schneider Electric SE
Key Developments in Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Industry
- November 2021: Chubu Electric Power's planned JPY 1 trillion investment in renewable energy and overseas projects signals increased demand for load break switches in renewable energy infrastructure.
- March 2021 - May 2021: China's power crisis highlighted the need for reliable power distribution systems and robust infrastructure, thereby accelerating the demand for advanced load break switches to manage power allocation more efficiently.
Strategic Outlook for Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Market
The Asia Pacific Load Break Switches market is poised for significant growth over the forecast period. Continued investments in infrastructure development, particularly smart grids and renewable energy projects, will drive demand for advanced load break switches. Technological advancements, increasing focus on energy efficiency, and stringent environmental regulations will further shape market dynamics. Opportunities exist for companies to capitalize on the growing demand by developing innovative, energy-efficient, and cost-effective solutions.
Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Segmentation
-
1. End-User
- 1.1. Utilities
- 1.2. Industrial and Commercial
-
2. Type
- 2.1. Gas-insulated
- 2.2. Air-insulated
- 2.3. Other Types
Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Asia Pacific
- 1.1. China
- 1.2. Japan
- 1.3. South Korea
- 1.4. India
- 1.5. Australia
- 1.6. New Zealand
- 1.7. Indonesia
- 1.8. Malaysia
- 1.9. Singapore
- 1.10. Thailand
- 1.11. Vietnam
- 1.12. Philippines

Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 5.95% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Deployment of Smart Grid Networks and Integration of Renewable Energy Sources into Energy Mix
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Concerns Related to Data Security
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Industrial and Commercial Segment Holds Major Share
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User
- 5.1.1. Utilities
- 5.1.2. Industrial and Commercial
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.2.1. Gas-insulated
- 5.2.2. Air-insulated
- 5.2.3. Other Types
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User
- 6. Asia Pacific Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 6.1.1. undefined
- 7. China Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 7.1.1. undefined
- 8. Japan Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 8.1.1. undefined
- 9. India Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 9.1.1. undefined
- 10. South Korea Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1. undefined
- 11. Taiwan Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1. undefined
- 12. Australia Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1. undefined
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 ABB Ltd
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Simens AG
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Fuji Electric FA Components & Systems Co Ltd
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 Powell Electric
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 ENSTO Oy
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Rockwell Automation Inc
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Eaton
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 LARSEN & TOUBRO LIMITED
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 General Electric
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Schneider Electric SE
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 ABB Ltd
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by End-User 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by End-User 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: China Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: China Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Japan Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Japan Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: South Korea Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: South Korea Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: India Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: India Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Australia Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Australia Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: New Zealand Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: New Zealand Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Indonesia Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Indonesia Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: Malaysia Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: Malaysia Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: Singapore Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: Singapore Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 47: Thailand Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 48: Thailand Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 49: Vietnam Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 50: Vietnam Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 51: Philippines Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 52: Philippines Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5.95%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market?
Key companies in the market include ABB Ltd, Simens AG, Fuji Electric FA Components & Systems Co Ltd, Powell Electric, ENSTO Oy, Rockwell Automation Inc, Eaton, LARSEN & TOUBRO LIMITED, General Electric, Schneider Electric SE.
3. What are the main segments of the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market?
The market segments include End-User, Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Deployment of Smart Grid Networks and Integration of Renewable Energy Sources into Energy Mix.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Industrial and Commercial Segment Holds Major Share.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Concerns Related to Data Security.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
November 2021, Chubu Electric Power planned to make strategic investments of JPY 1 trillion over the next-10 years in overseas and renewable energy. The company also raised a 2030 renewable energy capacity target in Japan to 3.2 gigawatts (GW) from its previous goal of 2 GW.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in K Unit.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Asia Pacific Load Break Switches Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence