Indonesia Moves Closer to CPTPP Membership with Preliminary Talks

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans‑Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is moving to establish a new framework for preliminary accession talks, as member states seek to expand the pact’s reach amid rising global protectionism.

In a joint statement issued Friday, June 26, 2026, ministers from the 12 CPTPP members agreed to begin “preliminary discussions” with Indonesia, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE)--a step designed to pave the way for formal negotiations.

Indonesia has formally applied to join the trade bloc, joining the Philippines and UAE in the initial dialogue phase, Antara reported.

To secure membership, applicants must meet CPTPP’s high standards, including tariff elimination across a wide range of goods and compliance with intellectual property protections. Formal negotiations can only begin with unanimous approval from existing members.

This marks the first time CPTPP has set a structured process for preliminary talks before full negotiations. The framework also includes mechanisms to review applicants’ domestic systems and trade rules against CPTPP standards.

Other countries have expressed interest: Cambodia submitted its application in November 2025, while Argentina filed earlier this month.

The pact’s role is seen as increasingly vital in countering global protectionist trends, including U.S. tariff policies and economic pressures from China. Members also highlighted the importance of cooperation in the energy sector, citing instability in the Middle East.

CPTPP entered into force in 2018 after the United States withdrew under President Donald Trump. Current members are Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, Vietnam, and the United Kingdom. ***