Sweden Pushes for EU to Join CPTPP to Counter U.S. Tariffs

Reuters

Sweden announced Tuesday it will propose that the European Union to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), aiming to create the world’s largest free trade area.

The proposal is expected to be presented at the EU foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels on Thursday.

Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa, speaking from Japan, said linking the EU with the 12-member CPTPP would strengthen global trade ties, especially as the U.S. under President Donald Trump turns inward with tariffs. He emphasized that expanding market access is vital for Sweden’s economy and public services.

While acknowledging potential resistance from countries like France, which has a more protectionist stance, Dousa suggested sector-by-sector negotiations could speed up progress. He noted the EU already has, or is working on, trade deals with most CPTPP nations, potentially easing the path forward.

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