South Korea takes step to join CPTPP, following China and Taiwan

Seoul to discuss membership in Asia-Pacific trade pact with public stakeholders

Pyeongtaek port in Pyeongtaek. "South Korea will initiate relevant procedures ... to push for the membership at the CPTPP," minister Hong Nam-ki says. © Reuters

KIM JAEWON, Nikkei staff writer

December 13, 2021 11:09 JST

Updated on December 13, 2021 20:24 JST

SEOUL -- South Korea will start the process for joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, seeking to not be left behind on a key economic treaty in the region.

Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said on Monday that the government will kick off discussions with a wide range of stakeholders in society as a step toward applying for CPTPP membership.