Key Insights
The Asia-Pacific airport baggage handling systems market, valued at $0.69 billion in 2025, is poised for robust growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.82% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Firstly, the region's burgeoning air travel sector, fueled by rising disposable incomes and increasing tourism, necessitates efficient and advanced baggage handling solutions. Secondly, the continuous modernization and expansion of airports across Asia-Pacific, particularly in major hubs like China, India, and Japan, are creating significant demand for new and upgraded systems. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of automated baggage handling technologies, aimed at improving efficiency, reducing operational costs, and enhancing passenger experience, contributes significantly to market growth. Finally, stringent security regulations and the need to prevent baggage loss or delays are driving the adoption of advanced tracking and monitoring systems.
The market is segmented by airport capacity, with airports handling over 40 million passengers annually representing a significant segment due to their higher investment in sophisticated baggage handling infrastructure. Key players like Ansir Systems, Unisys Corporation, Vanderlande Industries, CIMC TianDa, BEUMER Group, Leonardo S.p.A, Daifuku Co. Ltd, SITA, G&S Airport Conveyors, and Siemens Logistics are actively competing, leveraging technological advancements and strategic partnerships to capture market share. While challenges such as high initial investment costs and the need for skilled workforce can pose restraints, the long-term growth prospects remain positive, considering the sustained growth in air passenger traffic and airport infrastructure development across the Asia-Pacific region. Specific growth within countries like China and India is expected to outpace the regional average, reflecting their rapid economic development and expanding aviation sectors.

Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This insightful report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems market, offering crucial insights for stakeholders seeking to navigate this dynamic sector. The study covers the period 2019-2033, with a focus on the 2025-2033 forecast period, and leverages extensive data analysis to project market growth and identify key trends. The report is essential for investors, airport operators, technology providers, and government agencies seeking to understand the market's current state and future potential. The total market value in 2025 is estimated at xx Million, projected to reach xx Million by 2033.
Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Composition & Trends
The Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems market exhibits a moderately consolidated structure, with key players such as Ansir Systems, Unisys Corporation, Vanderlande Industries B.V., CIMC TianDa Holdings Co Ltd, BEUMER GROUP, Leonardo S.p.A, Daifuku Co. Ltd, SITA, G&S Airport Conveyo, and Siemens Logistics GmbH holding significant market share. Market share distribution varies across segments based on airport capacity and technological advancements. Innovation is driven by increasing passenger volumes, demand for automated solutions, and the need for enhanced baggage security. Regulatory frameworks concerning safety and security significantly influence market dynamics. Substitute products, though limited, include manual baggage handling, which remains prevalent in smaller airports. End-users primarily comprise airport authorities and airlines. The market has seen several M&A activities in recent years, although precise deal values are not publicly available for all transactions. For example, xx Million worth of M&A deals were recorded in 2022.
- Market Concentration: Moderately Consolidated
- Innovation Catalysts: Rising passenger traffic, automation demands, security enhancements
- Regulatory Landscape: Stringent safety and security standards
- Substitute Products: Manual baggage handling
- End-User Profile: Airport authorities, airlines
- M&A Activity: Several deals, total value for xx estimated at xx Million in 2022.

Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Industry Evolution
The Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems market has witnessed significant growth over the historical period (2019-2024), driven by factors such as rising air passenger traffic, increasing airport modernization projects, and the growing adoption of advanced technologies. The market experienced a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during this period. Technological advancements, such as the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, have significantly enhanced efficiency and security. The shift towards automated systems is reducing manual handling and improving baggage traceability. The increasing demand for seamless passenger experience is driving innovation in baggage handling systems. This includes improved tracking capabilities, reduced delays, and enhanced security features. The adoption of self-service kiosks and automated baggage drop-off systems is further accelerating market growth. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued growth, fuelled by ongoing airport infrastructure development and expanding air travel within the region. Adoption of new technologies like AI-powered baggage sorting and real-time tracking is expected to increase by xx% annually.
Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market
- Dominant Segment: Airports with capacity of more than 40 million passengers annually are currently the largest segment.
- Key Drivers:
- Significant investments in airport infrastructure upgrades
- Government initiatives to boost air connectivity and tourism
- High passenger volume in major hubs requiring efficient baggage handling
Analysis of Dominance: The dominance of the "More than 40 Million" passenger capacity segment stems from the concentration of major international airports within the Asia-Pacific region, which experience the highest passenger throughput and necessitate advanced, high-capacity baggage handling systems. This segment also benefits from increased investment in upgrading existing infrastructure and building new terminals. Growth in other segments (15-25 Million, 25-40 Million, Up to 15 Million) are also projected, driven by rising passenger numbers and infrastructure development in secondary and tertiary cities.
Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Product Innovations
Recent innovations focus on improving efficiency, security, and passenger experience. This includes the implementation of advanced baggage tracking systems leveraging RFID and AI, improved automated sorting systems to reduce transit times, and the integration of security screening technologies within the baggage handling process. Unique selling propositions emphasize improved throughput, reduced operational costs, and enhanced security features. Technological advancements are continuously driving the adoption of more sophisticated and reliable systems, including self-service baggage drop-off solutions and robotic automation.
Propelling Factors for Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Growth
Several key factors are driving market expansion. Firstly, the sustained growth in air passenger traffic across the Asia-Pacific region fuels the demand for efficient baggage handling solutions. Secondly, government initiatives promoting airport infrastructure development and tourism contribute significantly. Thirdly, technological advancements, including AI and IoT integration, offer enhanced system performance and efficiency. Finally, the increasing focus on improving passenger experience through faster baggage retrieval pushes adoption of advanced systems.
Obstacles in the Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market
The market faces certain challenges. High initial investment costs for advanced systems can be a barrier for smaller airports. Supply chain disruptions, particularly post-pandemic, affected the availability of components and impacted project timelines. Intense competition among established players and new entrants creates pricing pressures. Regulatory complexities and varying safety standards across countries also create hurdles. These factors contribute to a slower growth rate.
Future Opportunities in Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market
Emerging opportunities exist in the expansion of low-cost carrier operations, necessitating cost-effective baggage solutions. The integration of AI for predictive maintenance and real-time baggage tracking offers substantial efficiency gains. Exploring new materials and technologies to enhance system durability and reduce environmental impact presents considerable scope for innovation.
Major Players in the Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Ecosystem
- Ansir Systems
- Unisys Corporation
- Vanderlande Industries B.V.
- CIMC TianDa Holdings Co Ltd
- BEUMER GROUP
- Leonardo S.p.A
- Daifuku Co. Ltd
- SITA
- G&S Airport Conveyo
- Siemens Logistics GmbH
Key Developments in Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Industry
- February 2023: Aena selected Siemens Logistics for a five-year contract to operate and maintain baggage handling systems at Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), impacting the market through increased service contracts.
- January 2023: Kyzylorda Airport in Kazakhstan contracted Alstef Group for a new baggage handling system (BHS), showcasing the expanding market in Central Asia.
Strategic Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Forecast
The Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems market is poised for robust growth in the forecast period (2025-2033), driven by continuous infrastructure development, rising passenger numbers, and technological innovation. The focus on improving passenger experience and operational efficiency will continue to fuel the adoption of advanced solutions. The market will experience notable growth through the integration of AI, IoT and advanced automation. This presents significant opportunities for established players and new entrants.
Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Segmentation
-
1. Airport Capacity
- 1.1. Up to 15 million
- 1.2. 15 to 25 million
- 1.3. 25 to 40 million
- 1.4. More than 40 million
-
2. Geography
- 2.1. China
- 2.2. India
- 2.3. Japan
- 2.4. South Korea
- 2.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. China
- 2. India
- 3. Japan
- 4. South Korea
- 5. Rest of Asia Pacific

Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems 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 12.82% 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
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. More than 40 Million Segment is Projected to Lead the Market During the Forecast Period
- 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 Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 5.1.1. Up to 15 million
- 5.1.2. 15 to 25 million
- 5.1.3. 25 to 40 million
- 5.1.4. More than 40 million
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.2.1. China
- 5.2.2. India
- 5.2.3. Japan
- 5.2.4. South Korea
- 5.2.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. China
- 5.3.2. India
- 5.3.3. Japan
- 5.3.4. South Korea
- 5.3.5. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 6. China Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 6.1.1. Up to 15 million
- 6.1.2. 15 to 25 million
- 6.1.3. 25 to 40 million
- 6.1.4. More than 40 million
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.2.1. China
- 6.2.2. India
- 6.2.3. Japan
- 6.2.4. South Korea
- 6.2.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 7. India Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 7.1.1. Up to 15 million
- 7.1.2. 15 to 25 million
- 7.1.3. 25 to 40 million
- 7.1.4. More than 40 million
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.2.1. China
- 7.2.2. India
- 7.2.3. Japan
- 7.2.4. South Korea
- 7.2.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 8. Japan Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 8.1.1. Up to 15 million
- 8.1.2. 15 to 25 million
- 8.1.3. 25 to 40 million
- 8.1.4. More than 40 million
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.2.1. China
- 8.2.2. India
- 8.2.3. Japan
- 8.2.4. South Korea
- 8.2.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 9. South Korea Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 9.1.1. Up to 15 million
- 9.1.2. 15 to 25 million
- 9.1.3. 25 to 40 million
- 9.1.4. More than 40 million
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.2.1. China
- 9.2.2. India
- 9.2.3. Japan
- 9.2.4. South Korea
- 9.2.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 10. Rest of Asia Pacific Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 10.1.1. Up to 15 million
- 10.1.2. 15 to 25 million
- 10.1.3. 25 to 40 million
- 10.1.4. More than 40 million
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 10.2.1. China
- 10.2.2. India
- 10.2.3. Japan
- 10.2.4. South Korea
- 10.2.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Airport Capacity
- 11. China Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Japan Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. India Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. South Korea Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Taiwan Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Australia Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Competitive Analysis
- 18.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 18.2. Company Profiles
- 18.2.1 Ansir Systems
- 18.2.1.1. Overview
- 18.2.1.2. Products
- 18.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.2 Unisys Corporation
- 18.2.2.1. Overview
- 18.2.2.2. Products
- 18.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.3 Vanderlande Industries B V
- 18.2.3.1. Overview
- 18.2.3.2. Products
- 18.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.4 CIMC TianDa Holdings Co Ltd
- 18.2.4.1. Overview
- 18.2.4.2. Products
- 18.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.5 BEUMER GROUP
- 18.2.5.1. Overview
- 18.2.5.2. Products
- 18.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.6 Leonardo S p A
- 18.2.6.1. Overview
- 18.2.6.2. Products
- 18.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.7 Daifuku Co Ltd
- 18.2.7.1. Overview
- 18.2.7.2. Products
- 18.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.8 SITA
- 18.2.8.1. Overview
- 18.2.8.2. Products
- 18.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.9 G&S Airport Conveyo
- 18.2.9.1. Overview
- 18.2.9.2. Products
- 18.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.10 Siemens Logistics GmbH
- 18.2.10.1. Overview
- 18.2.10.2. Products
- 18.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.1 Ansir Systems
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Airport Capacity 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: China Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Japan Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: India Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: South Korea Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Taiwan Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Australia Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Airport Capacity 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Airport Capacity 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Airport Capacity 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Airport Capacity 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Airport Capacity 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 12.82%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market?
Key companies in the market include Ansir Systems, Unisys Corporation, Vanderlande Industries B V, CIMC TianDa Holdings Co Ltd, BEUMER GROUP, Leonardo S p A, Daifuku Co Ltd, SITA, G&S Airport Conveyo, Siemens Logistics GmbH.
3. What are the main segments of the Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market?
The market segments include Airport Capacity, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 0.69 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
N/A
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
More than 40 Million Segment is Projected to Lead the Market During the Forecast Period.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
N/A
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
February 2023: Aena selected Siemens Logistics to operate and maintain the baggage handling systems at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport in Spain (MAD). The service contract was signed for five years and includes technical support for 140 kilometers of conveyor systems, tray, and belt technology.
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 5250, and USD 8750 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.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems 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 Airport Baggage Handling Systems 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 Airport Baggage Handling Systems Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Asia-Pacific Airport Baggage Handling Systems 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