Little progress at RCEP negotiations in the Philippines

May 31 2017: From May 2-12 negotiators met in the Philippines for another round of RCEP negotiations.

After the latest round, it’s clear major differences remain between RCEP countries, despite a general statement issued after talks were completed. It appears that India is resisting tariff cuts on goods as well as TPP-like proposals on ISDS and medicine monopolies.

It’s now unlikely that the talks will be finished by the end of the year, though there’s still a push for rapid completion.

The next round of negotiations is scheduled from July 24, 2017 in India.