Want China Times
Editorial
Date: 2015-10-19

China has expressed its intention to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)

Trade representatives of the 12 negotiating countries attend a press conference for the TPP in Atlanta, Oct. 5. (Photo/Xinhua)

after the trade bloc’s 12 countries concluded negotiations on the common market’s parameters on Oct. 5.

This will pose a tough challenge to Taiwan, which has consistently stated its strong interest to join the TPP. Because the TPP features requirements beyond standard WTO rules, Taiwan should prepare for negotiations on those issues to join the pact to avoid being marginalized from regional economic integration.

In recent years, there has been a competition between two major trade agreements — the TPP and the China-led Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) — that are both aimed at promoting economic integration in the Asia Pacific region.     [FULL  STORY]