Webinar on the Comprehensive & Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) 28 June 2023
The Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) organized a webinar on Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) on 28 June 2023.
The 90-minute webinar discussion was moderated by Mr. Lennon Tan, President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, with Dr. Roy Chun Lee, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan) setting the introductory stage of the experts’ presentation of this difficult international trade agreement. The webinar featured three trade experts: (1) Mr. Noriyuki Mita, Director of Strategy & Planning Division at Basic Materials Business Group, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, (2) Dr. Huai-Shing Yen, Associate Research Fellow and Senior Deputy, Executive Director at the Taiwan WTO and RTA Center, Chung Hwa Institution for Economic Research (CIER), and (3) Hon. Professor Andrew Stoeckel, Centre for Applied Macroeconomic Analysis at the Australian National University.
Following their extensive presentation, the presenters engaged in a panel discussion to further elaborate on the issues affecting CPTPP, and concluded with a Q&A session. The summary of the webinar is presented as follows.
SUMMARY
- Mr. Lennon Tan, President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (Opening Remarks)
Mr. Lennon Tan commenced the webinar by welcoming all participants and setting the stage for the discussions. He emphasized the significance of collaboration among Asian economies to foster sustainable growth and innovation. Mr. Tan highlighted the pivotal role of manufacturing in driving economic development and the need for industries to adapt to evolving global trends. - Dr. Roy Chun Lee, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of China (Taiwan) (Special Remarks)
Dr. Roy Chun Lee addressed the audience with insights into Taiwan’s foreign policy and economic strategies. He underscored Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening ties with neighboring countries and participating actively in regional trade agreements. Dr. Lee also discussed Taiwan’s initiatives in technology and innovation, aiming to position the nation as a leader in the global digital economy. - Mr. Noriyuki Mita, Director of Strategy & Planning Division at Basic Materials Business Group, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (1st Presenter)
Mr. Noriyuki Mita presented on the advancements in sustainable materials and their applications in various industries. Key points from his presentation include:
– Sustainable Innovations: Introduction of eco-friendly materials developed by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation to reduce environmental impact.
– Industry Applications: Examples of how these sustainable materials are being integrated into automotive and packaging sectors to promote circular economies.
– Future Outlook: Emphasis on continuous research and development to meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions globally. - Dr. Huai-Shing Yen, Associate Research Fellow and Senior Deputy, Executive Director at the Taiwan WTO and RTA Center, Chung Hwa Institution for Economic Research (CIER) (2nd Presenter)
Dr. Huai-Shing Yen provided an analysis of regional trade agreements (RTAs) and their implications for Asian economies. Highlights from her presentation include:
– RTA Trends: Overview of the increasing number of RTAs in Asia and their role in facilitating trade and investment.
– Economic Impacts: Assessment of how RTAs contribute to economic growth, with a focus on tariff reductions and market access.
– Policy Recommendations: Suggestions for policymakers to maximize the benefits of RTAs, including aligning domestic regulations with international standards. - Hon. Professor Andrew Stoeckel, Centre for Applied Macroeconomic Analysis at the Australian National University (3rd Presenter)
Professor Andrew Stoeckel discussed the macroeconomic challenges and opportunities facing the Asia-Pacific region. Key insights from his presentation include:
– Economic Outlook: Analysis of current economic indicators and growth projections for Asia-Pacific countries.
– Policy Challenges: Identification of issues such as income inequality and environmental sustainability that require coordinated policy responses.
– Strategic Opportunities: Exploration of areas where the region can capitalize on global trends, such as digitalization and green energy. - Panel Discussion Summary
The webinar concluded with a panel discussion featuring all six participants. The key themes addressed during the discussion were:
– Regional Cooperation: The necessity for enhanced collaboration among Asian countries to tackle common challenges and leverage collective strengths.
– Innovation and Sustainability: The role of technological innovation in driving sustainable economic growth and addressing environmental concerns.
– Trade and Investment: Strategies to boost intra-regional trade and attract investment, including the harmonization of regulations and improvement of infrastructure.
- Mr. Lennon Tan, President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (Opening Remarks)
