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CPTPP news

CPTPP minsters meet on the sidelines of APEC

18 May 2024

Assistant Minister for Trade, Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, together with Ministers representing the 11 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) members met in Arequipa, Peru, on 18 May 2024, on the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) meeting.

Ministers discussed progress made on the mandated General Review, including ensuring the CPTPP remains the ‘ gold standard’ for trade agreements, and set goals for the CPTPP Commission meeting which will be held later in the year.

In a Joint Ministerial Statement,  Ministers reaffirmed the CPTPP’s openness to accession requests by aspirant economies that can satisfy the three Auckland Principles: preparedness to meet the Agreement’s high standards; a demonstrated pattern of complying with trade commitments; and the ability to gain consensus support from CPTPP members. 

Ministers also welcomed the news that the United Kingdom had deposited its instrument of accession to the CPTPP and reaffirmed their commitment to see the UK become a Party to the Agreement by the end of 2024.

7 men and 4 women lined up in front of conference signage.

CPTPP ministers meeting on the sidelines of APEC 

15 November 2023

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), met in San Francisco, United States, on 15 November 2023, on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit.

The Ministers endorsed the Terms of Reference of the CPTPP General Review, which aims to ensure the CPTPP remains the 'gold standard' for trade agreements, and promotes trade outcomes that support gender equality, Indigenous Peoples' economic empowerment, and sustainable environmental practices.

In a Joint Ministerial Statement, Ministers reaffirmed the CPTPP's openness to accession requests by aspirant economies that are ready to meet the high standards of the Agreement, have a demonstrated track record of complying with trade commitments, and can gain consensus support from the CPTPP.
 

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Seventh CPTPP Commission Meeting & United Kingdom Accession to the CPTPP

17 July 2023

Ministers and Senior Officials representing the 11 CPTPP members participated in the Seventh CPTPP Commission meeting in New Zealand on 16 July 2023. CPTPP members welcomed the UK as the CPTPP's first new party at a signing ceremony.. Australia was represented by Assistant Minister for Trade and Assistant Minister for Manufacturing Senator the Hon Tim Ayres.

Ministers issued a joint statement highlighting:

  • all original CPTPP signatories had ratified the agreement.(Chile on 21 February 2023 and for Brunei on 12 July 2023)
  • the United Kingdom's accession to the CPTPP
  • commencement of work on the third-year general review of the Agreement; and
  • the steady implementation of the Agreement.

Canada will chair the CPTPP in 2024 and Australia in 2025

Media release: United Kingdom Accession to the CPTPP

See the CPTPP Commission webpage for more information

Sixth CPTPP Commission Meeting

8 October 2022

Ministers and Senior Officials representing the 11 CPTPP members participated in the sixth CPTPP Commission meeting in Singapore on 8 October 2022, the first in person meeting since 2019. Australia was represented by Assistant Minister for Trade, Senator the Hon Tim Ayres.

The Commission issued a joint statement highlighting in particular:

  • Malaysia's ratification of the CPTPP, which enterered into force for Malaysia on 29 November 2022.
  • the importance of the CPTPP in supporting recovery from COVID-19.
  • progress on the accession process with the United Kingdom.
  • commencement of work on the third-year general review of the Agreement; and
  • the steady implementation of the Agreement.

New Zealand will host the next CPTPP Commission in 2023.

Media release: Visit to Singapore for Trade Negotiations

See the CPTPP Commission webpage for more information

More opportunities for Australia as Peru becomes a Party to CPTPP

20 September 2021

Australian farmers and businesses will get more opportunities to reach new markets and create more jobs through global trade as Peru becomes the eighth economy to bring the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) into force.

Media release: More opportunities for Australia as Peru becomes a Party to CPTPP

Fifth CPTPP Commission Meeting

1 September 2021

Ministers and Senior Officials representing the 11 CPTPP members participated in the fifth CPTPP Commission meeting held virtually and hosted by Japan on 1 September 2021. Australia was represented by the then Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon. Dan Tehan MP.

The Commission issued a joint statement highlighting in particular:

  • Peru’s ratification of the CPTPP, which will see the Agreement enter into force for Peru on 19 September 2021;
  • the importance of the CPTPP in supporting recovery from COVID-19;
  • the Commission’s decision to establish a committee on electronic commerce;
  • progress on the accession process with the United Kingdom; and
  • the steady implementation of the Agreement.

Singapore will host the next CPTPP Commission in 2022.

See the CPTPP Commission webpage for more information

Fourth CPTPP Commission Meeting – Decision to commence accession negotiations with the United Kingdom

2 June 2021

Ministers from the 11 CPTPP members participated in the fourth CPTPP Commission meeting held virtually and hosted by Japan on 2 June 2021. Australia was represented by the then Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon. Dan Tehan MP. At this meeting, the Commission agreed to commence accession negotiations with the UK and establish an accession working group. More information is available on CPTPP Commission webpage.

Third CPTPP Commission Meeting

6 August 2020

Ministers and Senior Officials from the 11 CPTPP members participated in the third CPTPP Commission meeting held virtually and hosted by Mexico on 5 August 2020 / 6 August AEST. Australia was represented by the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Senator the Hon Simon Birmingham.

Screengrab of video conference call of 12 officials.

The CPTPP Commission issued a joint statement on 6 August 2020, emphasising the importance of full implementation of the Agreement and cooperation on COVID-19 economic recovery. The Commission instructed Senior Officials to work towards establishment of a committee on digital trade, and to consider a consolidated plan to advance work on CPTPP-focussed initiatives to respond to COVID-19.

Ahead of the Commission meeting, the following committees met for the second time: Trade in Goods; Rules of Origin; Agricultural Trade; Technical Barriers to Trade; Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures; Small and Medium Sized Enterprises; State Owned Enterprises; Development; Cooperation and Capacity Building; Competitiveness and Business Facilitation; Environment. The committees for Textiles and Apparel Trade; Financial Services; and Regulatory Coherence, and the Professional Services Working Group met for the first time.

The CPTPP Commission will meet again in Japan in 2021.

Second CPTPP Commission Meeting

9 October 2019

Representatives from the 11 CPTPP signatories participated in the second CPTPP Commission meeting in Auckland on 9 October 2019.

Second CPTPP Commission Meeting Logo

The CPTPP Commission made the following decisions:

Members of the CPTPP Commission also issued a joint statement [PDF 416 KB] on 9 October 2019.

Alongside the Commission, the following Committees met for the first time in Auckland: Trade in Goods; Rules of Origin; Agricultural Trade; Technical Barriers to Trade; Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures; Small and Medium Sized Enterprises; State Owned Enterprises; Development; Cooperation and Capacity Building; Competitiveness and Business Facilitation; Environment; and the Labour Council.

The CPTPP Commission will meet again in Mexico in 2020.

First CPTPP Commission Meeting

19 January 2019

The first CPTPP Commission meeting was held in Tokyo on 19 January 2019. The CPTPP Commission is the decision-making body of the CPTPP, which was established when the CPTPP entered into force on 30 December 2018.

The CPTPP Commission made the following decisions:

Members of the CPTPP Commission also issued a joint ministerial statement [PDF 91 KB].

CPTPP enters into force

2 January 2019

On 30 December 2018 the CPTPP entered into force for Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and Singapore. Australia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and Singapore all cut their tariffs on entry into force and again on 1 January 2019. Japan cut its tariffs on entry into force and will cut them again on 1 April 2019.

Full details of CPTPP tariffs are available from DFAT's FTA portal. Further information is available in the Guide to using CPTPP to export and import goods.

Vietnam has also ratified the agreement and it will enter into force for Vietnam on 14 January 2019.

Australia ratifies the TPP-11

31 October 2018

On 31 October 2018, Australia notified New Zealand, as Depositary of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11), that Australia had completed its applicable legal procedures necessary for entry into force of the Agreement.

Australia is the sixth country to ratify the Agreement, meaning it will enter into force on 30 December 2018. Australia joins Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and Singapore as part of the first group of signatories to ratify the TPP-11.

The TPP-11 signatories that have not yet ratified the Agreement are Brunei Darussalam, Chile, Malaysia, Peru and Vietnam. This website will be updated when Australia receives notification that they have ratified the Agreement.

Media release: Australia ratifies the TPP-11

TPP-11 implementing legislation passed by Parliament

18 October 2018

On 17 and 18 October 2018, the Senate passed the three bills required to implement Australia's obligations under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11):

The Parliament's passage of legislation to implement the TPP-11 brings Australia one step closer to being part of the first group of countries to ratify this landmark agreement. The TPP-11 will enter into force 60 days after six signatories ratify the Agreement. Mexico, Japan and Singapore have already ratified the TPP-11.

The Government will now work to finalise a number of administrative and legal processes necessary for Australia to ratify the TPP-11. Once these steps are completed, the Government will send a formal notification to New Zealand, as Depositary of the TPP-11 treaty. The Government will make an announcement when Australia's ratification has been completed.

Media Release: TPP-11 to open new doors for Aussie farmers and businesses

Further information on the three parliamentary committee inquiries into the TPP-11 and its implementing legislation is available at the links below:

TPP-11 implementing legislation introduced in Parliament

23 August 2018

On 23 August 2018, then Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon Steven Ciobo MP, presented to the House of Representatives two bills which implement Australia's obligations under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11): the Customs Amendment (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership Implementation) Bill 2018 and the Customs Tariff Amendment (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Implementation) Bill 2018. The bills were referred to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee for inquiry and report by 10 October 2018.

More information: Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee

Joint Standing Committee on Treaties' TPP-11 report

22 August 2018

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) report of its inquiry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11) was tabled in Parliament on 22 August 2018. JSCOT made a number of recommendations in its report, including that Australia take binding treaty action to ratify the TPP-11.

Joint Standing Committee on Treaties' TPP-11 report

Statement to the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee Inquiry into the TPP-11 Agreement

20 August 2018

On 30 July and 20 August 2018, Mr George Mina, First Assistant Secretary, Office of Trade Negotiations, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and representatives of other Australian Government agencies appeared before the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee inquiry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11).

Opening statement to the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee (as tabled on 30 July 2018)

Statement to the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Inquiry into the TPP-11 Agreement

7 May 2018

On 7 May 2018, Mr George Mina, First Assistant Secretary, Office of Trade Negotiations, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and representatives of other Australian Government agencies appeared before the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Inquiry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11).

Opening statement to the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT)

Tabling of the TPP-11 Agreement in the Australian Parliament

26 March 2018

The Australian Government tabled the text of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11), the side-letters, and accompanying National Interest Analysis in the Australian Parliament on 26 March 2018.

The TPP-11 and the side-letters will be considered by the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT). JSCOT has invited interested persons and organisations to make submissions on the TPP-11 by 20 April 2018.

More information: Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT)

National Interest Analysis, including Analysis of Regulatory Impact on Australia [PDF 1.44 MB]

Ministerial Statement: Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

8 March 2018

We, the Ministers and Senior Officials representing Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam, are pleased to announce that today we are signing the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (hereinafter referred to as "the Agreement").

Ministers shared the view that, by achieving a high standard and well-balanced outcome, the Agreement will strengthen the mutually-beneficial linkages among our economies, boost trade, investment and economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region, and create new opportunities for businesses, consumers, families, farmers and workers. The Agreement demonstrates our collective commitment to an effective, rules-based and transparent trading system which is open to all economies willing to accept these principles.

The signing of the Agreement enables us to move to the next phase. Ministers expressed their determination to complete their domestic processes to bring the Agreement into force expeditiously.

Ministers welcome the interest shown by a number of other economies wishing to accede to the Agreement. This interest affirms our shared objective, through the Agreement, of creating a platform that promotes high standards for broader economic integration in the future.

Ministers agreed that their Senior Officials will start the necessary preparations for the smooth implementation of the Agreement.

TPP-11 signing

8 March 2018

On 8 March 2018, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11) was signed by ministers in Santiago, Chile.

This Agreement is a separate treaty that incorporates, by reference, the provisions of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement (signed on 4 February 2016 in Auckland, New Zealand, but not yet in force), with the exception of a limited set of provisions to be suspended.

Further information can be found below:

Public release of TPP-11 text

21 February 2018

On 21 February 2018, the text of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP-11) was released publicly.

The TPP-11 Agreement will be signed in Santiago, Chile, on 8 March 2018.

Further information can be found below:

The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

24 January 2018

On 23 January 2018, 11 countries - Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam - reached agreement on the final Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership at an officials-level meeting in Tokyo, Japan. It is expected the agreement will be signed in March in Chile.

This is a key moment in shaping the future economic integration and growth trajectory of our region. Australia played a leadership role and worked hard to deliver this outcome to benefit Australian businesses and farmers. This Agreement will significantly increase market access for Australian exporters of goods and services to a regional free trade area with a GDP worth AUD 13.7 trillion, representing 13.5 per cent of the global economy.

Australia is committed to continuing to work closely with the other negotiating Parties to see the new TPP agreement brought into force as soon as possible. The text of the agreement is currently undergoing a legal review and translation (French, Spanish), and will be made public on a date to be agreed by all Parties. Further information, including the outline of the new TPP agreement, can be found below.

Trans-Pacific Partnership Ministerial Statement

11 November 2017

In the margins of the APEC meetings in Da Nang, Vietnam, the TPP ministers of Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam, agreed to the following statement on the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

Read the statement

Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement

27 August 2017

Australia will host a Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) senior officials' meeting in Sydney on 28-30 August.

Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement

Government responses to Parliamentary Committees' reports on the TPP tabled

6 July 2017

The Government's responses to reports on the TPP by the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) and the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee were tabled on 6 July 2017. The Government thanked both Committees for their consideration of the TPP Agreement and responded to the Committees' recommendations.

Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement Ministerial Statement

21 May 2017

Ha Noi, Viet Nam – Ministers and Vice Ministers from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Malaysia, Peru, Singapore and Viet Nam met today to discuss the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) in the margins of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade.

The Ministers reaffirmed the balanced outcome and the strategic and economic significance of the TPP highlighting its principles and high standards as a way to promote regional economic integration, contribute positively to the economic growth prospects of its member countries, and create new opportunities for workers, families, farmers, businesses and consumers.

The Ministers agreed on the value of realising the TPP's benefits and to that end, they agreed to launch a process to assess options to bring the comprehensive, high quality Agreement into force expeditiously, including how to facilitate membership for the original signatories.

The Ministers tasked their senior trade officials to engage to take forward the preparation of this assessment. Ministers asked for this work to be completed before they meet in the margins of the APEC Economic Leaders Meeting on 10-11 November 2017 in Da Nang, Viet Nam.

The Ministers also underlined their vision for the TPP to expand to include other economies that can accept the high standards of the TPP.

These efforts would address our concern about protectionism, contribute to maintaining open markets, strengthening the rules-based international trading system, increasing world trade, and raising living standards.

Joint Statement by TPP Partners

16 March 2017

High Level Representatives from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Malaysia, Peru, and Singapore and Vietnam met in Viña del Mar, Chile recently to discuss the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) on the margins of the High Level Dialogue on Integration Initiatives for the Asia Pacific.

The participating partners reiterated their firm commitment to collaborate in keeping markets open and to the free flow of goods, services and investment advancing regional economic integration and strengthening the rules-based international trading system noting our concern with protectionism in many parts of the world.

They recalled the balanced outcome and the strategic and economic significance of the TPP highlighting its principles and high standards as a key driver for regional economic integration and promoter of economic growth, competition, innovation and productivity, with the potential of generating jobs and lowering costs for consumers.

The high level representatives exchanged views on their respective domestic processes regarding TPP and canvassed views on a way forward that would advance economic integration in the Asia-Pacific.

Senior Trade Officials will meet and consult in preparation for the Ministers to meet again in the margins of the APEC meeting of Ministers Responsible for Trade on 20-21 May 2017.

Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee TPP report

7 February 2017

The Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee report of its inquiry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) was tabled in Parliament on 7 February 2017. The Committee recommended that the Australian Government should defer undertaking binding treaty action until the future of the TPP is clarified. The Committee also recommended that the Australian Government expedite reforms to the treaty-making process.

Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee TPP report

Letter from the United States

30 January 2017

In a letter dated 30 January 2017, the United States sent a letter to New Zealand, as Depositary of the TPP, and TPP signatories stating their intention not to become a Party to the TPP and that they have no legal obligations arising from their signature on 4 February 2016.

Joint Standing Committee on Treaties' TPP report

30 November 2016

The Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) report of its inquiry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) was tabled in Parliament on 30 November 2016. The JSCOT report included a number of recommendations, including that Australia take binding treaty action to ratify the TPP.

Joint Standing Committee on Treaties' report

Statement to the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Inquiry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement

7 November 2016

On 7 November 2016 Ms Elizabeth Ward, First Assistant Secretary, Office of Trade Negotiations and TPP Chief Negotiator, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and representatives of other Australian government agencies appeared before the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Inquiry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement.

Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement – Parliamentary inquiries

September 2016

The Parliamentary Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has commenced its TPP inquiry and is holding a series of hearings. A separate inquiry into the TPP by the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee has also commenced. For more information on these two Parliamentary inquiries, including guidance for making a submission to the Senate Committee inquiry, refer to the following websites:

Joint Statement from Trans-Pacific Partnership Ministers' Meeting in Arequipa, Peru

23 May 2016

Ministers from Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement countries met on 17 May 2016 to review progress on their respective internal processes to approve the Agreement.

Ministers underlined that they shared the goals of strengthening and broadening the mutually-beneficial linkages between member economies; enhancing regional and global competitiveness; supporting the creation of jobs and new economic opportunities; promoting economic growth and development; supporting innovation and helping to alleviate poverty; and ensuring the greatest benefits for our people.

Ministers noted that economies in the region had expressed an interest in joining the TPP. Ministers agreed to continue to work bilaterally with interested economies to ensure that these economies understand the standards and rules set forth in the TPP and the requirements that they need to meet if they wish to join after the Agreement enters into force.

Statement to the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Inquiry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement

22 February 2016

On 22 February 2016 Ms Elizabeth Ward, First Assistant Secretary, Office of Trade Negotiations and TPP Chief Negotiator, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and representatives of other Australian government agencies appeared before the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties Inquiry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement.

Tabling of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement in the Australian Parliament

9 February 2016

Minister Robb tabled the text of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) and accompanying National Interest Analysis in the Australian Parliament on 9 February 2016. The TPP will be considered by the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT). JSCOT has invited interested persons and organisations to make submissions on the TPP by Friday, 11 March 2016.

TPP signed - 4 February

February 2016

The historic TPP – which will see the elimination of 98 per cent of tariffs among 12 countries – was formally signed by Trade and Investment Minister Robb on 4 February 2016 in Auckland, New Zealand.

The TPP is the world's most significant trade and investment agreement finalised in more than two decades, with member countries accounting for around 40 per cent of global GDP. Australia's exports of goods and services to these countries were worth $109 billion last year – a third of Australia's total exports. In 2014, Australian investment in TPP countries was 45 per cent of all outward investment. Tariffs will be eliminated on US$9 billion of Australia's dutiable exports to TPP countries, including $4.3 billion worth of agricultural goods with new levels of access for beef, dairy, sugar, rice, grains and wine. A further $2.1 billion of Australia's dutiable exports will receive significant preferential access through new quotas and tariff reductions

Also on 4 February, Trade Ministers from Australia and 11 other countries issued a joint statement welcoming the TPP as an agreement that sets a new standard for trade and investment in one of the world's fastest growing and most dynamic regions.

Leaders' meeting in Manila

November 2015

Prime Minister Turnbull, along with Leaders from the 11 other countries that negotiated the TPP, issued a statement on 18 November 2015 describing the TPP as a comprehensive, balanced, and transformational regional agreement – one that spans the Pacific, strengthens links between three continents, and unites 800 million people. Leaders also said the TPP would support 21st-century commerce and provide ambitious liberalisation of trade and investment.

TPP pact to drive jobs, growth and innovation for Australia

6 October 2015

Negotiations on the biggest global trade deal in twenty years, which first commenced more than five years ago, have been successfully concluded in Atlanta.

The historic Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) will deliver enormous benefits to Australia, including unprecedented new opportunities in the rapidly growing Asia Pacific region, with its rising middle class, for our businesses, farmers, manufacturers and service providers.

The TPP will establish a more seamless trade and investment environment across 12 countries which represent around 40 per cent of global GDP.

Further detailed outcomes on the TPP negotiations will be available progressively on this website throughout the day on Tuesday 6 October.

Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) ministerial meeting, September 2015

The next TPP ministerial negotiating session will be held from 30 September to 1 October in Atlanta, Georgia. It will be preceded by a meeting of TPP Chief Negotiators from 26 to 29 September. The forthcoming ministerial meeting provides an important opportunity to build on significant progress achieved to date and conclude the negotiations.

Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) ministerial meeting, July 2015

The next TPP ministerial negotiating session will be held from 28 to 31 July 2015 in Maui, Hawaii. It will be preceded by a meeting of TPP Chief Negotiators from 24 to 27 July. Significant progress has been achieved over the last 12 months in resolving outstanding issues and the forthcoming ministerial meeting provides an important opportunity to build on this progress as we work to conclude the negotiation.

Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiating meetings, late May 2015

At a meeting of Chief Negotiators, held in Guam from 15 to 28 May 2015, there was progress in resolving differences on market access and trade rules to be incorporated in the TPP. Areas discussed included market access for goods and services, textiles, rules of origin, investment and intellectual property.

Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement meetings, May 2015

At a meeting of TPP Chief Negotiators, held in Maryland, United States, from 23 to 26 April 2015, there was progress in resolving differences on market access and trade rules to be included in the TPP, including on investment, intellectual property and goods trade. The United States will host a TPP Chief Negotiators meeting in Guam from May 15-25 to build on the momentum in the negotiations and continue to resolve outstanding issues.

TPP Update, April 2015

The TPP will provide new levels of market access for Australian goods, services and investment, as well as put in place a common set of rules to allow for more seamless trade and investment between countries accounting for almost 40% of the world's economy. The 12 countries negotiating the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) comprise 25% of world trade and 11% of the world's population. One third of Australia's two way trade in goods and services is with the 11 other countries negotiating the TPP and over 43% of the total stock of Australian foreign investment is in other TPP countries.

TPP meetings, March 2015

TPP Chief Negotiators met in Hawaii from 9 to 15 March 2015 and made positive progress on market access negotiations as well as narrowing down differences in disciplines on state-owned enterprises, intellectual property and rules of origin. Over the coming weeks negotiators will continue working to resolve outstanding issues in the negotiations.

TPP update, February 2015

Since the last meeting, which concluded in early February, negotiators from TPP countries have been working successfully on an inter-sessional basis to resolve outstanding issues. The next Chief Negotiators' meeting will be held in Hawaii from 9 to 15 March.

TPP Meetings, New York January 2015

TPP Chief Negotiators held meetings in New York from late January to early February 2015. Further significant progress was achieved in resolving market access issues and draft treaty text. The TPP negotiations are close to conclusion. A further negotiating session anticipated in March 2015.

TPP Meetings, Washington December 2014

TPP Chief Negotiators and officials held meetings in Washington D.C. in the second week of December 2014 to progress work on unresolved issues in the negotiations, including in relation to rules on state-owned enterprises, environment, rules of origin and textiles. Market access and legal issues were also discussed during the meetings.

TPP Trade Ministers' and Leaders' meetings in Beijing - November 2014

Minister Robb, with Trade Ministers from countries negotiating the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), provided a report to Leaders on 10 November that outlined the significant progress achieved in setting the stage to finalise an historic, ambitious, comprehensive, balanced, and high-standard agreement. Ministers reported that over the past several months they had concentrated on working together to resolve remaining issues. As a result of this work, the number of outstanding issues was now limited and the pace of progress had accelerated. With the end coming into focus, Ministers were strongly committed to moving the negotiations forward to conclusion.

Prime Minister Abbott, with Leaders from countries negotiating the TPP, issued a statement on 10 November 2014 welcoming the significant progress reported by Trade Ministers. Leaders instructed Ministers and negotiators to make concluding this agreement a top priority so that our businesses, workers, farmers, and consumers can start to reap the real and substantial benefits of the TPP.

TPP Ministerial Meeting, Sydney, 25-27 October 2014

Trade and Investment Minister Robb hosted the Trans-Pacific Partnership Ministerial Meeting in Sydney from 25-27 October to lay the groundwork for the conclusion of the Agreement negotiations. The 12 TPP countries represent around 40 per cent of global GDP and one third of world trade.

TPP Meetings, Hanoi 1-10 September 2014

On 10 September Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) chief negotiators completed 10 days of intensive meetings, moving further towards the goal of finalising an ambitious comprehensive agreement.

Negotiators made solid progress on rules on State-owned enterprises, intellectual property, investment, rules of origin, transparency and anti-corruption, as well as labour rights and environmental protections. They also continued to move forward with their work to construct ambitious packages for preferential access to each other's markets for goods, services/investment, financial services, and government procurement as well as commitments to facilitate the movement of business persons.

Concluding a high quality TPP agreement will provide an important platform for trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region, benefitting business and farm communities across Australia.

TPP Meetings, Ottawa 3 – 12 July 2014

TPP Chief Negotiators and officials met in Ottawa, Canada, to progress work on resolving outstanding issues in the negotiations. Negotiators worked through issues on a range of topics including on labour, state-owned enterprises, intellectual property, investment and in all areas of market access. Australia also held several bilateral meetings to advance our interests across the negotiations.

TPP Ministerial Meeting, Singapore, 19-20 May 2014

TPP Ministers met in Singapore from 19-20 May, making further progress on market access discussions and advancing outstanding rules issues, and cementing their shared views on what is needed to bring the TPP negotiations to a close.

Statement of the Ministers and Heads of Delegation for the Trans-Pacific Partnership countries

TPP Chief Negotiators' Meeting, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 12-15 May 2014

Chief negotiators of the 12 Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) countries met from 12-15 May 2014, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to progress negotiations to conclude the Agreement.

TPP Ministerial Meeting, Singapore 22-25 February 2014

TPP Ministers and chief negotiators met in Singapore from 22 to 25 December, making further progress towards finalising a comprehensive TPP agreement.

Statement of the Ministers and Heads of Delegation for the Trans-Pacific Partnership countries

Republic of Korea's interest in the Trans-Pacific Partnership

The Republic of Korea has formally expressed interest in joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Australia and other TPP countries have welcomed its interest and are now undertaking a bilateral process with Korea to discuss its readiness to join.

To assist in this process we would welcome further submissions and comments from stakeholders considering Korea's possible involvement in the TPP. Submissions can be made by email to tpp@dfat.gov.au. Please note all submissions will be made publicly available on the DFAT website unless the author specifies otherwise.

Australia Welcomes Korea's Interest in the TPP

Trade and Investment Minister Andrew Robb MP has welcomed the Republic of Korea's expression of interest in participating in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement.

Media release: Australia welcomes Korea's Interest in the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement negotiations

TPP Ministerial Meeting, Singapore 7-10 December 2013

Ministers and heads of delegation of the 12 TPP countries met in Singapore and made substantial progress towards completing the TPP agreement.

Statement of the Ministers and Heads of Delegation for the Trans-Pacific Partnership countries

TPP Meetings 19-24 November 2013, Salt Lake City

Chief negotiators for the 12 Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement countries have reported significant progress after six days of intensive meetings in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Working with key subject-matter experts, the lead TPP negotiators resolved a substantial number of outstanding issues, including with regard to intellectual property, cross-border trade in services, temporary entry, environment, market access, state-owned enterprises, investment, financial services, sanitary and phytosanitary issues, government procurement, labour, e-commerce, legal issues, technical barriers to trade and rules of origin.

The work of the chief negotiators this week has significantly narrowed the number of issues to be addressed directly by the TPP Ministers at their upcoming meeting in Singapore.

Discussions among TPP negotiators will continue in the coming days to further set the stage for a productive meeting among the TPP Ministers on 7-10 December 2013.

TPP Leaders' meeting in Bali – October 2013

On 8 October 2013, Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Leaders, including the Australian Prime Minister, met in Bali in the margins of the APEC Leaders' meeting to outline the substantial headway made in negotiations to date, confirm their commitment to concluding a high-quality TPP agreement and consider next steps.

Trans-Pacific Partnership Leaders Statement

Ministerial guidance energizes negotiators work during 19th round of TPP Negotiations

The 19th round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement negotiations were held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, on 24 – 30 August 2013.

Ministerial guidance energizes negotiators work during 19th round of TPP Negotiations

Joint Press Statement TPP Ministerial Meeting – Bandar Seri Begawan Brunei Darussalam, August 23 2013

On 22 and 23 August the ministers of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) countries met jointly and bilaterally to review the progress of TPP negotiations, offer guidance to negotiators, and help drive the negotiations to conclusion in line with the 2013 timeframe.

Joint Press Statement TPP Ministerial Meeting – Bandar Seri Begawan Brunei Darussalam, August 23 2013

Eighteenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

The 18th round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement negotiations were held in Kota Kinabalu from 15 – 25 July 2013.

Update on the eighteenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Japan welcomed as new member

Australia has warmly welcomed Japan as a new member of the Trans-Pacific Partnership. TPP ministers meeting in the margins of the APEC Trade Ministers' Meeting in Surabaya, Indonesia, extended the invitation to Japan to join in the negotiations, and Japan accepted the invitation on 21 April. Japan's inclusion in the negotiations brings the number of TPP countries to 12. TPP countries would now account for nearly 40 per cent of global GDP and almost 35 per cent of Australia's total two-way trade.

Media release: Australia welcomes Japan to Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations

Round seventeen – May 2013, Lima

The 17th round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement negotiations was held in Lima on 15 – 24 May 2013.

Update on the seventeenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round sixteen – March 2013, Singapore

The 16th round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement negotiations were held in Singapore from 4 – 13 March 2013. Negotiators made good progress with a view to concluding negotiations before the end of 2013.

Update on the sixteenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round fifteen – December 2012, Auckland

The 15th round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations was held in Auckland, New Zealand from 3–12 December 2012. Negotiators made good progress in Auckland with the hope of concluding negotiations by the end of 2013.

Update on the fifteenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round fourteen – September 2012, Leesburg

TPP negotiations continued to make progress at the 14th negotiating round held in Leesburg, Virginia from 6 - 15 September 2012. Good progress was made in text negotiations in a number of chapters and in the negotiations on market access commitments.

Update on the fourteenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

TPP Ministers Meeting in Vladivostok – September 2012

On 6 September in the margins of the APEC Leaders meeting in Vladivostok, Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Trade Ministers met to review the progress of TPP negotiations. Ministers provided a Report to TPP Leaders outlining the substantial headway that has been to date. TPP Leaders confirmed their commitment to concluding a comprehensive, truly regional TPP agreement as rapidly as possible, and welcomed new Members Canada and Mexico to the negotiating group.

TPP Ministers' Report to Leaders [PDF 99 KB]

TPP Leaders' statement [PDF 90 KB]

Round thirteen – July 2012, San Diego

The thirteenth round of negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement was held on 2-10 July 2012 in San Diego, California. Australia, along with TPP negotiating partners Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam, made important progress at the round and further moved negotiations on chapter texts closer to conclusion.

Update on the thirteenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Japan's interest in the TPP

Japan has formally expressed interest in joining the TPP negotiations. Australia and other TPP countries have welcomed its interest and are now undertaking a bilateral process with Japan to discuss its readiness to join, and its capacity to maintain both the ambition and pace of the negotiations. This is the same process that each TPP country undertook when they sought to join the TPP, with final decisions taken by a consensus of all current TPP parties.

To assist in this process we would welcome further submissions and comments from stakeholders considering Japan's possible involvement in the TPP. Submissions can be made by email to tpp@dfat.gov.au. Please note all submissions will be made publicly available on the DFAT website unless the author specifies otherwise.

New Members Canada and Mexico

Australia has warmly welcomed Canada and Mexico as new members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Their inclusion in the negotiations, announced during the G20 Leaders' Summit in Los Cabos in June 2012, brings the number of parties seeking to conclude a wide-ranging accord on trade and economic integration across the Asia-Pacific region to 11.

Media release: Australia welcomes Mexico to Trans-Pacific Partnership talks

Media release: Australia welcomes Canada to Trans-Pacific Partnership talks

Round twelve – May 2012, Dallas

The US hosted the twelfth round of TPP negotiations in Dallas, Texas from 8 – 18 May 2012. Better-than-expected progress was made during the ten-day round as negotiators further narrowed differences on many areas of the legal text, and negotiating groups are on a clear path towards concluding most of the more than 20 chapters of the agreement. Issues that could not be resolved at the round will be addressed by specific intersessional work plans.

Update on the twelfth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round eleven – March 2012, Melbourne

Australia hosted the eleventh round of TPP negotiations in Melbourne from 1-9 March 2012. The round was the first full round involving all negotiating groups since the TPP Leaders met in Honolulu in mid-November last year.

Update on the eleventh round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Release of confidentiality letter

During the Chicago round in September 2011 TPP negotiators were asked to release the letters setting out an understanding among TPP countries on the handling of negotiating texts and other documents exchanged in the course of the negotiations.

Release of confidentiality letter

Round ten – December 2011, Kuala Lumpur

TPP negotiating parties conducted a mini-round in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 5 - 9 December. Only a small number of negotiating groups met during the week. The nine negotiating parties convened in Malaysia following a meeting of TPP Leaders in Honolulu in mid-November.

Update on the tenth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

TPP Leaders' meeting in Honolulu – November 2011

Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Leaders, including Prime Minister Gillard, met in Honolulu on 12 November in the margins of the APEC Leaders' meeting to review progress in the negotiations and consider next steps.

TPP Leaders' meeting – progress review

Round nine – October 2011, Lima

The ninth round of TPP negotiations concluded on 28 October in Lima, Peru. The 10 day round had around 870 delegates in attendance, including negotiators, stakeholders and media.

Update on the ninth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round eight – September 2011, Chicago

The eighth round of TPP negotiations was held in Chicago, United States, from 6–15 September 2011. TPP Parties continued to work towards settling the broad outlines of an agreement by the APEC Leaders Meeting in Honolulu in November.

Update on the eighth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round seven – June 2011, Ho Chi Minh City

The seventh round of TPP negotiations was held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from 15–24 June 2011. TPP Parties (Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam) continued to make steady progress across all negotiating groups.

Update on the seventh round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round six – March/April 2011, Singapore

Australia and its TPP partners continued to make progress toward a high-quality, 21st century agreement at the sixth round of TPP negotiations held in Singapore from 24 March to 1 April 2011. Negotiators at this round focussed on narrowing the gaps in positions on the draft text and discussing initial market access offers.

Update on the sixth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round five – February 2011, Santiago

Chile hosted the fifth round of TPP negotiations in Santiago from 14–18 February 2011, with the nine TPP countries advancing further toward their goal of developing a high quality, comprehensive, 21st century regional trade agreement.

Update on the fifth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round four – December 2010, Auckland

The fourth round of TPP negotiations was held in Auckland from 6–10 December 2010, with the nine TPP Parties continuing to make steady progress across the full range of issues under discussion.

Update on the fourth round of Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) negotiations

Round three – October 2010, Brunei

The third round of TPP negotiations was held in Brunei from 4–9 October 2010 with the participation of new member, Malaysia. TPP Parties reached consensus early in the week on Malaysia joining the negotiations, and Malaysia then participated in the Brunei negotiations for the remainder of the week. Malaysia is the first country to join the negotiations since the group launched negotiations in March 2010. TPP Parties remain committed to further expanding membership over time to countries across the Asia-Pacific that can meet the high-quality, ambitious objectives of the TPP.

Update on the third round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations – Malaysia joins

Round two – June 2010, San Francisco

The second round of TPP negotiations, held in San Francisco from 14–18 June 2010, resulted in significant progress on both the broad architecture of the agreement, and on a range of specific issues to be covered in the TPP.

Update on the second round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations – solid progress

Round one – March 2010, Melbourne

The first formal round of TPP negotiations was held in Melbourne on 15–19 March 2010, with the participation of over 200 officials from Australia, the US, New Zealand, Chile, Singapore, Brunei, Peru and Vietnam. It was a productive first round that got the negotiations off to a strong start.

Update on the first round of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations – a strong start

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