Pacific rim leaders scramble for trade options in trump era

The article discusses the efforts of Pacific Rim leaders to find alternative trade options in the wake of the Trump administration's protectionist policies. Here are some key points:

  1. TPP-11: The remaining 11 members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) have agreed to move forward with a revised trade agreement, known as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The agreement aims to promote free trade and economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region.
  2. RCEP: The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is another major trade agreement being negotiated by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its six free trade agreement partners, including Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand. The agreement aims to create a single market and production base in the region.
  3. ASEAN Economic Community: ASEAN is also working towards creating an Economic Community by 2025, which would create a single market and production base in the region. The community would aim to promote economic integration, increase trade and investment, and improve the competitiveness of ASEAN member states.
  4. China's Belt and Road Initiative: China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a massive infrastructure development project that aims to connect China with other parts of Asia, Europe, and Africa. The BRI has been seen as a way for China to promote its economic interests and increase its influence in the region.
  5. US-Japan trade talks: The United States and Japan have begun trade talks, with the aim of reducing tariffs and increasing trade between the two countries. The talks are seen as a way for Japan to reduce its reliance on the US market and to promote its own economic interests.
  6. US-Canada trade talks: The United States and Canada have also begun trade talks, with the aim of renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The talks are seen as a way for the US to promote its own economic interests and to reduce its trade deficit with Canada.
  7. Pacific Rim countries diversify trade: In the face of uncertainty and protectionism, Pacific Rim countries are diversifying their trade relationships and seeking new markets. This includes increasing trade with countries such as China, India, and the European Union.

Overall, the article suggests that Pacific Rim leaders are scrambling to find alternative trade options in the wake of the Trump administration's protectionist policies. The region is seeking to promote free trade and economic integration, and to reduce its reliance on the US market.