Taiwan's Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday that it is actively pushing for the establishment of a working group dedicated to Taiwan's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a trade agreement between 11 countries across the Indo-Pacific region, and called on the agreement Commission’s 2024 chair country Canada to formally consider Taiwan’s membership.
The ministry is assisting Taiwan's negotiating authorities to engage in informal consultations with member countries. They are also organizing delegations to seek support from member countries, particularly from influential leaders. The ministry says the administration seeks to foster a favorable atmosphere for Taiwan to join the CPTPP by collaborating with more commerce chambers, think tanks, and schools. According to the ministry, these collaborations aim to create a more business friendly environment.
Taiwan also calls on this year’s CPTPP Chair Canada to formally consider Taiwan’s membership to the agreement. The ministry notes that member countries are aware that Taiwan is an economy that meets high standards and has a good trade record. Japan has publicly welcomed Taiwan's interest, while other member countries have expressed openness to welcoming new members that meet the principles.