The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) has taken a significant step towards expanding its global reach, formally agreeing to commence preparatory discussions on accession with the Philippines, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This decision, announced at the 10th CPTPP Commission Meeting held virtually on 26 June 2026, has been warmly welcomed by the United Kingdom, a member of the influential trade bloc since 2024.
The UK has been a consistent advocate for the Philippines' application to join CPTPP, recognising the potential for deeper economic ties. Rhiannon Harries, UK Deputy Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific (Southeast Asia), highlighted that this announcement builds on a CPTPP Joint Ministerial Statement from November 2025, which expressed interest in the three nations. She stated that if the Philippines successfully completes the accession process, businesses in both countries would benefit from reduced tariffs, streamlined trading regulations, and more robust supply chains.
CPTPP represents one of the world's most substantial free trade agreements, currently encompassing 12 economies across four continents, including major players like Japan, Canada, and Australia. Together, these members account for approximately 15% of global GDP. For aspiring members like the Philippines, joining CPTPP would grant access to an extensive trade network, potentially lowering trade barriers and simplifying commerce across diverse international markets.
While these preparatory discussions do not guarantee full accession or the immediate launch of formal negotiations, they are designed to foster greater engagement and understanding between the Philippines, Indonesia, the UAE, and the existing CPTPP parties regarding the agreement's high standards. British Ambassador to the Philippines, Sarah Hulton OBE, expressed the UK's anticipation of collaborating with CPTPP members and the Philippines throughout this process.
The UK's enthusiasm for this development underscores its strong partnership with the Philippines, particularly as the two nations commemorate 80 years of diplomatic relations this year. Both countries have been actively forging deeper economic links, including through the inaugural Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) in 2025, which focused on cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and technology. Furthermore, Philippine exporters currently benefit from the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which offers tariff-free access for 92% of their products into the UK market. This latest announcement aligns with the UK's trade strategy, published a year ago, which emphasised deepening and broadening the CPTPP's influence.