Senior trade officials representing New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, Singapore and Viet Nam met in Auckland from 18-19 April for the second CPTPP Senior Officials Meeting of 2023, hosted by New Zealand. Brunei Darussalam and Mexico participated virtually.
Officials discussed matters relating to the implementation of the Agreement, and next steps in the process for the UK to formally join the CPTPP, following the recent announcement of substantial conclusion for its accession.
On the second day CPTPP members discussed a range of issues, including matters relating to accessions beyond the UK, and the Green Economy. There was discussion on developments in the inclusive and sustainable trade space since CPTPP entered into force and the shared commitment to sustain CPTPP’s “gold standard” approach to trade rules
The importance of ensuring the e-commerce/digital trade provisions in the Agreement remained modern, relevant and useful was also discussed.
This session was followed by updates from CPTPP and Inclusive Trade Action Group members New Zealand, Canada, Chile and Mexico on work to advance inclusive and sustainable trade.
The Senior Officials Meeting was followed by a stakeholder engagement session and Q&A with representatives from industry, unions and trade advocacy groups, Māori groups, academic and media based in New Zealand and across the CPTPP membership
The next CPTPP Senior Officials Meeting will take place in-person in Auckland on 13 July 2023, and will be followed by the CPTPP Ministerial-Level Commission Meeting on 16 July.