Thailand discusses CPTPP participation with Japan

BANGKOK, May 2 (TNA) -- Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak discussed with Japan about Thiland's plan to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) as 11 countries already signed the partnership agreement that will take effect early next year. Mr Somkid discussed the issue with Japanese Minister of Free Trade Toshimitsu Motegi. Japan takes the lead in forming CPTPP and is welcoming more countries in addition to 11 others that already confirmed their participation. Many Southeast Asian nations did so including Vietnam. The Commerce Ministry started to consider details for Thailand’s participation in CPTPP on May 2. It looks into Thai proposals, possible impacts and matters related to digital economy and technology. Concerned authorities expected CPTPP participating countries would make good progress in conditions of the partnership early next year and CPTPP would be as important as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). CPTPP develops from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) which involved 12 countries including the United States. CPTPP consists of the same member states except the US. The CPTPP agreement was signed on March 8.