The Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is seeking submissions from businesses and other interested stakeholders on the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) as part its mandated three-year General Review. This will be the first General Review of the CPTPP. All CPTPP members, including Australia, will contribute to the review. DFAT will be leading the consultation for Australia.
Objective of the General Review
The review process is integral to ensuring the CPTPP remains the "gold standard" for trade agreements. A priority of the review is to support maximum utilisation of the CPTPP and improving the uptake of the Agreement, particularly by small and medium enterprises. Ensuring the Agreement considers trade outcomes that support gender equality, Indigenous People's economic empowerment and sustainable environmental practices is vital to ongoing public support for the CPTPP.
Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, together with Ministers from the eleven other members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), endorsed the Terms of Reference of the CPTPP General Review on 15 November 2023.
Scope of the General Review
The General Review will consider how to update the Agreement, including by:
- Facilitating maximum utilisation of the CPTPP by traders and investors and to improve the uptake of the Agreement, particularly by micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
- Continuing to uphold labour rights, improve working conditions and living standards, strengthen cooperation and capacity on labour issues.
- Exploring opportunities to promote inclusive and sustainable outcomes, including with respect to trade and Indigenous Peoples, where applicable to members.
- Supporting global value chains and strengthen supply chain resilience to help members to withstand external shocks and disruption.
Who can provide Feedback?
DFAT welcomes submissions from all interested stakeholders, including businesses, civil society, unions, and First Nations groups. We also welcome submissions from State and Federal government agencies, academics, and other individuals and organisations who wish to comment on the CPTPP.
Submissions can be lodged via email at CPTPP@dfat.gov.au. The deadline for submissions has been extended to 30 April 2024.
Additional resources
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)
CPTPP General Review Terms of Reference