Progress on CPTPP Welcomed

Progress on CPTPP Welcomed as Important for Maintaining Competitive Edge

The Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ) has welcomed the news that negotiators concluded the deal on the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) overnight in Tokyo.

“It’s pleasing to see deal on CPTPP come together” says DCANZ Chairman Malcolm Bailey.

“While the agreement does not go as far as we would like in terms of dairy access, there are some useful gains in markets such as Japan and Mexico” says Mr Bailey “CPTPP market access outcomes are also critical to avoid New Zealand dairy exporters ending up at a tariff disadvantage in key markets, including Japan”.

Over the past year there have been some big trade developments in the trans-pacific region, including the conclusion of FTA negotiations between Japan and the EU. The EU and Mexico are also looking to upgrade their existing FTA. Both are key markets for New Zealand dairy exports, with the Japanese market worth more than $795 million for New Zealand dairy exporters in the year to November 2017.

“Given these developments, the timely implementation of CPTPP is critical. It is great to see indications that the agreement will be signed very soon”.

Mr Bailey said it was clear that New Zealand was continuing to play a strong leadership role on trade issues and, longer-term, it was important for CPTPP to be a launch pad for the elimination of all remaining barriers to regional dairy trade.

“We congratulate Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Trade Minister David Parker and trade officials on the progress they have made. We also acknowledge the efforts of successive Trade Ministers, including Todd McClay and Tim Groser”.

ENDS

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