Key facts
- Thailand is reassessing its potential membership in the CPTPP.
- The country is also pursuing a trade agreement with the European Union.
- These considerations are driven by rising global protectionism and U.S. tariffs.
- The EU and CPTPP together account for a significant portion of global GDP and trade.
- A trade and investment dialogue between the EU and CPTPP focuses on areas like digital trade and supply chain resilience.
Amidst a global rise in protectionism and aggressive tariffs, Thailand is reconsidering its participation in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow stated that the country is also simultaneously working towards concluding a trade agreement with the European Union.
The EU and CPTPP member states collectively represent a substantial portion of the global economy, accounting for 32% of global GDP and 37% of global trade. Officials from both blocs reaffirmed their commitment to open, rules-based trade during a meeting on November 20, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. This cooperation is formalized through the EU-CPTPP Trade and Investment Dialogue, which will concentrate on five key areas: trade diversification, digital trade, trade and investment facilitation, supply chain resilience, and the broader global trade environment, including World Trade Organization reform.
EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič emphasized the significance of this reinforced cooperation, noting the EU's commitment to a stable trade environment. On the sidelines of the meeting, Šefčovič engaged in bilateral discussions with Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell regarding bilateral trade and investment, and with Australian Minister for Resources Madeleine King concerning cooperation on critical minerals.