Trade analysts and stakeholders in Auckland for the TPP talks have told newzealandinc.com not to expect any progress on “sensitive” issues – including agricultural access – during this the 15th round of negotiations.
It’s all “too hard”; “too early” – which doesn’t really cut it if this deal is to be in sufficient shape for final-decision making by political players (ministers or leaders) during the next Apec meeting in October 2013 in Bali.
Inside US Trade’s reporters said today that three more full negotiating rounds are expected before October; this lines up with newzealandinc.com intelligence which suggests the next meeting will be in Singapore in March; then Peru in May.
- Watch for newzealandinc.com’s report tomorrow (Friday).