Background

The first negotiating round for the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework was held Dec. 10-15 in Australia.

IPEF was launched this past spring with the aim of strengthening U.S. ties to the region and creating a stronger, fairer, more resilient economy for families, workers, and businesses. Australia, Brunei, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam are the current participants, and each of them except India has pledged to take part in all the initiative’s four pillars: trade (which India opted out of), supply chains, clean economy, and fair economy. An initial ministerial meeting held in September outlined the objectives in each of these areas.

Ahead of the recent meetings, U.S. officials shared trade negotiating text with IPEF partners for the following topics: trade facilitation, agriculture, services domestic regulation, and transparency and good regulatory practices. In addition, U.S. officials held detailed conceptual discussions for the following trade topics: environment, labor, digital economy, competition policy, and inclusivity. Also before the negotiating round the Department of Commerce shared text on supply chains and tax and anti-corruption as well as a concept paper on clean economy.

Additional in-person negotiating rounds are expected in 2023 and more details regarding the next round are forthcoming.

For more information on IPEF, please contact Nicole Bivens Collinson at (202) 730-4956 or via email.

Copyright © 2024 Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.; WorldTrade Interactive, Inc. All rights reserved.

Professional

avatar
J. Nicole Bivens Collinson
Managing Principal, Operating Committee; International Trade & Government Relations Practice Leader

ST&R: International Trade Law & Policy

Since 1977, we have set the standard for international trade lawyers and consultants, providing comprehensive and effective customs, import and export services to clients worldwide.

View Our Services 

Close

Cookie Consent

We have updated our Privacy Policy relating to our use of cookies on our website and the sharing of information. By continuing to use our website or subscribe to our publications, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.