Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal signed, but hurdles remain

Ministerial Representatives from 12 countries pose for a photo after signing the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement in Auckland on February 3, 2016.

One of the world's biggest multinational trade deals, covering 40% of the global economy, has been signed in New Zealand. The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is meant to facilitate trade and investment between 12 countries across the Pacific Rim. It’s already taken five years of negotiations, and now needs to be ratified by the member-nations that include the US, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Chile and Peru. There’s widespread opposition to the TPP in many countries, with opponents claiming the deal will benefit big businesses and not workers. The US-led initiative is a key part of President Barack Obama's pivot to Asia, but it has proven to be a controversial issue ahead of elections in November.

More from Business

  • 16% growth in new economic licences in Abu Dhabi during 2024

    The Abu Dhabi Registration and Licensing Authority (ADRA), which develops and regulates the business sector, on Monday revealed significant growth in business licences and compliance indicators in the Emirate's mainland and non-financial economic free zones during 2024.

  • DEWA updates billing on water consumption

    Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has announced that it will adopt the cubic metre as the standard unit for measuring water consumption starting from the March 2025 billing cycle.

  • UAE, Japan to complete CEPA by end of year

    The UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, has said negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the UAE and Japan will be completed before the end of 2025.

  • US judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing payment systems

    A federal judge temporarily blocked a Trump administration panel led by billionaire Elon Musk from accessing government systems used to process trillions of dollars in payments, citing a risk that sensitive and confidential information could be improperly disclosed.

  • Du services interrupted due to 'technical issue'

    UAE telecom operator Du confirmed a technical error led to the disruption of its services on Saturday as users were left without internet or landline services.