Philippines: TPP technical consultations wrapped up by yearend
Business World | August 24, 2014 09:45:00 PM
TPP technical consultations wrapped up by yearend
THE GOVERNMENT aims to finish technical consultations with member states of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) by the end of the year before it can decide whether the Philippines will participate in the regional free trade agreement, an official said.
Trade Undersecretary Adrian S. Cristobal, Jr. told reporters that the government is looking to send a delegation to Japan and Canada in order to gauge the capabilities of the country in joining the TPP.
“These consultations are very helpful for us, as we get more details on the different areas under TPP and possible challenges [to joining the agreement],” Mr. Cristobal said. “For instance it gives us an idea on what’s being debated when it comes to intellectual property rights, government procurement, and investors’ protection,” the official added.
“I think by the end of the year, we will have a much clearer idea, upon which a firm decision can be made,” he said.
Mr. Cristobal said that four out of the 12 member states have been consulted, namely Australia, New Zealand, the US, and Malaysia.Other members include Brunei, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.
The official said while the Philippines does not need to consult all of the countries, endorsements must be unanimous for the country to be able to participate in negotiations.
“So far the reaction is favorable to us.” — BBMB
