As one of the academic departments under China Reform Forum, the Center for East Asia Studies (CEAS) was founded in February 2014. Stretching to almost all East Asia affairs, CEAS focuses its research on the peaceful development and security issue. Scope of studies covers several fields including regional security in East Asia, nation's relationship, development strategies, multilateral mechanisms and non-traditional security.

CEAS closely follows the changing situations within the area; launches research projects according to demand, actively assembling the experts and scholars to research and discuss. Also, CEAS conducts proactive exchanges and dialogues with regional well-known think tanks and research institutions, presenting and publishing research reports, with an eye on policy recommendations for policy-making organizations.