What exactly is the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)—what does it cover, how does it work and how will it affect businesses operating in China? How will the TPP relate to China’s other free trade agreements, such as the one currently being negotiated with Japan and Korea? 

At this event Eric Emerson, a Beijing-based partner at Steptoe & Johnson LLP, will provide some insights on what these agreements contain, how they operate, how they relate to each other and how they affect companies operating in the region.

Background

In early 2008, a small group of countries began negotiations to create the TPP. Over the last six years, the group has grown to include a total of 12 countries—the US, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Malaysia, Vietnam, Peru, Chile, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore—who collectively account for 40 per cent of world trade. While some critical differences between the parties remain unresolved those differences are being narrowed, and it now appears that a final agreement could be reached early in 2014. To date, most media accounts discussing the TPP have focused on its political dimensions and, in particular, China’s evolving view of the agreement—from hostility to guarded interest.

Speaker
Eric Emerson has practiced international trade law and policy for more than 20 years both in Washington, D.C. and Beijing. As part of his practice he has advised a range of companies and governments in the negotiation and implementation of free-trade agreements.

Agenda
09:00 - 09:30 Registration and Coffee
09:30 - 10:30 Presentation
10:30 - 11:00 Q&A Session 

For information about sponsorship please contact Esther Vargas evargas@europeanchamber.com.cn / +86 (10) 6462 2066 ext. 37

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