U.K. trade minister rejects doubt over CPTPP gains for country

With China keen to join, Huddleston says states must play by rules

Nigel Huddleston, the UK's Minister of State for International Trade, said the U.K. joined the CPTPP to boost commerce and "help shape" trade rules in areas it is "passionate about," like the digital economy. (Reuters)

LIEN HOANG, Nikkei staff writer

August 27, 2023 15:00 JST

HO CHI MINH CITY -- The U.K. sees post-Brexit economic opportunities in Asia, but that will not stop it from sanctioning countries that break global rules, its international trade minister told Nikkei Asia weeks after London joined a regional trade bloc to which China also seeks membership.

Nigel Huddleston said London can help shape future trade, especially in digital services, as a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, a 12-member group that includes Japan, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, Chile and Australia.