China's APEC Event Sparks Confusion, Backlash Among CPTPP Members
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China's hosting of a CPTPP-related event during APEC meetings in Suzhou has caused confusion and backlash among member nations, as China is not a member and did not seek prior approval for the activity.
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Why It Matters
China hosted an event related to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) during the APEC Trade Ministers' Meeting in Suzhou. China is not a member of the CPTPP and did not obtain prior approval for the event.
China yesterday held a related event to the "Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership" (CPTPP) during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Trade Ministers' Meeting in Suzhou, Jiangsu, but because China is not a member of the CPTPP and did not obtain prior approval through formal procedures, it has caused confusion and backlash among some member countries.
According to a report by Japan's Kyodo News, China held the event in dialogue format with the "Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership" (RCEP), with participating countries including Japan, China, South Korea, and ASEAN countries. However, some CPTPP member countries reportedly chose not to attend to express their dissatisfaction.
Against the backdrop of the United States gradually moving towards protectionism, the influence of the CPTPP continues to rise. China applied to join the CPTPP as early as 2021, but has not yet entered the formal negotiation process. It is believed that Beijing's high-profile event this time is intended to highlight the legitimacy of its bid to participate in the CPTPP.
However, the report pointed out that some member countries criticized China for "holding an event without consent," believing that this move violates the CPTPP's operating principle of consensus, and may have a negative impact on China's accession negotiations.
In addition, the current APEC Trade Ministers' Meeting is also expected to discuss the concept of the "Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific" (FTAAP), which covers 21 member economies including the United States, Russia, and Taiwan. It is understood that China hopes to promote the inclusion of FTAAP content in the joint statement by expanding large free trade agreements such as the CPTPP.
The report mentioned that as China actively seeks to lead Asia-Pacific regional trade liberalization, countries' vigilance has also increased, making it uncertain whether the current APEC can smoothly pass a joint statement. (Editor: Tang Shengyang) 1150523
Open Questions
- Will China's actions negatively impact its CPTPP accession bid?
- How will CPTPP members formally respond to China's actions?
- Will this event affect the progress of the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) initiative?
- What specific countries chose not to attend the event and why?
