CPTPP Review – public feedback sought
As Chair of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in 2023, New Zealand is developing a Terms of Reference for the General Review of the Agreement, in partnership with the other 11 CPTPP Members.
Article 27.2.1(b) of the CPTPP creates an obligation for Parties to carry out a review of the Agreement “within three years of the date of entry into force of this Agreement and at least every five years thereafter.”
In conducting a review, the Commission shall take into account:
- the work of all committees, working groups and any other subsidiary bodies established under this Agreement;
- relevant developments in international fora; and
- as appropriate, input from non-governmental persons or groups of the Parties.
The review process is integral to ensuring the CPTPP remains the “gold standard” for trade agreements.
In the CPTPP - Joint Ministerial Statement on the Occasion of the Seventh Commission Meeting [PDF, 527 KB], Ministers and representatives acknowledged the need for the rules and disciplines in the Agreement to keep pace with the changing global landscape to ensure the CPTPP remains at the forefront of global trading arrangements for ambition and scope.
A likely priority for the Review will be maximising utilisation of the CPTPP for importers and improving the uptake of the Agreement, particularly by small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Ensuring the Agreement delivers trade outcomes that support women, Indigenous economic empowerment and sustainable environmental practices is also vital and will inform New Zeeland’s approach to the Review.
We are seeking public feedback on the issues that New Zealand should raise in relation to the General Review of CPTPP and the areas that should be covered by the Terms of Reference.
Specific comment on what should be included in Terms of Reference will need to be provided by 1 October 2023. Feedback on the review process more generally and New Zealand’s position should be sent before 1 January 2024.
If you wish to provide comments and have your say please email:
Objectives
We are developing a work programme based on four high-level objectives that will guide our host year:
- Advancing ratifications and accessions: Supporting the expansion of CPTPP by economies that are willing to demonstrate they can meet and adhere to its high standards is a key objective for Aotearoa New Zealand. Efficient, fair accession rules and processes will help make CPTPP more attractive for potential aspirants.
- Effective and improved implementation of CPTPP: The successful implementation of CPTPP is critical to realising its trade facilitation benefits –helping make trade (imports and exports) faster, cheaper, and more predictable, while ensuring its safety and security. Our hosting year presents the opportunity to focus on two priority areas: supporting the CPTPP Three Year Review and enhancing digital trade facilitation including in Customs processes. This will help to ensure that the Agreement remains relevant and brings tangible benefits to CPTPP members.
- Promoting inclusive and sustainable trade: Aotearoa New Zealand as host has the opportunity to showcase our Trade for All agenda, which will include a focus on indigenous trade and promote inclusive and sustainable trade.
- Delivering a high-quality and authentic host year: Aotearoa New Zealand’s hosting will create opportunities to showcase our country and show manaakitanga to our guests.
Engagement
Throughout our hosting year we will look to reflect the interests of all New Zealanders, and we will be working closely with Treaty partners and domestic stakeholders to achieve this.
How can New Zealanders have their say?
- Comments can be made via email at FTA_outreach@mfat.govt.nz.
- Check out the MFAT website or let us know that you would like to be kept up to date by emailing FTA_outreach@mfat.govt.nz.
- Follow us on social media (Facebook(external link), Twitter: @MFATgovtNZ(external link)) to find out about upcoming consultations.
- Come to one of our consultation meetings.
Read more about how we consult on free trade agreements.
Resources
Key documents, including press releases and public information papers, are provided below.