Mexico and Canada become TPP members
The addition of Canada and Mexico means that the trade alliance – which already includes Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the USA and Vietnam – will represent more than 658 million people, with a combined GDP of $20.5 trillion – 26% of the global total.
The Mexican ministry said its membership in the TPP was “the result of an intense effort, which began in November 2011, when Mexico expressed interest in being part of this negotiation”.
Canada’s International Trade minister Ed Fast said the country was “pleased” to join the negotiations, which would provide increased opportunities for trade.
“Opening new markets and increasing Canadian exports to fast-growing markets throughout the Asia-Pacific region is a key part of our government’s plan to create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity. We look forward to helping develop a 21st-century agreement that advances Canadian interests,” he said.
The Honourable James Moore, minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, added: “Joining the TPP is an important step forward in our government’s active and growing presence in the Asia-Pacific region. The region is a priority market for Canadian businesses, offering enormous opportunities to our exporters.”
Canada’s pork industry has welcomed the decision. Canadian Pork Council (CPC) chair Jean-Guy Vincent said: “We believe Canada is now in an excellent position to help achieve a comprehensive deal that will increase trade opportunities for the Canadian pork sector.”
Vincent pointed out that TPP membership would help improve market access to existing TPP participants, such as Vietnam, as well as possible future members. “We are very hopeful that Japan will also decide in favour of seeking membership in the TPP,” he said.
