This report reviews the myths, spin and leaks surrounding the negotiations of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The TPP is a trade agreement which tackles the usual trade agreement issues in a deeper and broader way - and adds several important non-traditional issues to an already complicated mix. Like the Doha Round, the TPP has become enmeshed in differences and standoffs. Progress has been limited by differences in size, economic clout and levels of development of the participants. The TPP is a made-in-USA initiative. It is competing for the hearts, minds and wallets of members of the Association of South East Asian Natives (ASEAN) with the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), ASEAN +6, which includes China, India Japan and Korea, but not the USA. The 64 Trillion Yen question for Canada is: Will Japan join the TPP? TPP is not only about trade and investment - and safeguarding and advancing the interests of Hollywood, research-based pharmaceutical companies and corporate America (as well as corporate interests in other economically advanced countries in the region). It is also about enhancing/restoring U.S. military/political influence in Asia.
- Pages
- 150
- Published in
- Canada
