Welcome to CPTPP.co.uk
The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) presents a transformative opportunity for UK food and drink manufacturers to expand into high-growth markets with reduced trade barriers. As the first European member of this bloc, the UK gains preferential access to 11 dynamic economies across Asia-Pacific and the Americas, offering tariff elimination, simplified customs procedures, and a competitive edge over non-member exporters.
The key advantages for UK businesses, providing actionable insights on cost savings, market access, and long-term growth potential in CPTPP markets.
What is the CPTPP?
The CPTPP is a free trade agreement between 11 countries:
– Canada, Mexico, Peru, Chile (Americas)
– Japan, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Vietnam (Asia)
– Australia, New Zealand (Oceania)
The UK’s accession in 2023 unlocks a combined market of £12 trillion GDP and over 500 million consumers, with significant benefits for food and drink exporters.
Key Advantages for UK Food & Drink Exporters
Tariff Elimination on Many Food and Drink Exports
One of the most immediate benefits of CPTPP membership is the phased elimination of tariffs on key UK exports. This makes British products more competitive in markets where import costs were previously prohibitive.
– Cheese & Dairy: Japan will eliminate tariffs on cheddar cheese (currently up to 29.8%) over 15 years, while Canada removes duties on UK chocolate (previously 5-8%).
– Meat & Seafood: Vietnam will reduce tariffs on UK pork from 15% to 0%, and Malaysia will scrap duties on salmon (previously 10-15%).
– Beverages: UK whisky exports already enjoy zero tariffs in Canada, Mexico, and Peru, with further reductions in Japan and Malaysia.
Reduced Trade Barriers for Agricultural and Processed Goods
CPTPP countries have agreed to minimize non-tariff barriers, such as restrictive quotas and complex licensing requirements. This means:
– Fewer export restrictions on UK meat, dairy, and processed foods.
– More predictable market access, reducing uncertainty for exporters.
Access to High-Growth Markets in the Asia-Pacific Region
Asia-Pacific is home to some of the fastest-growing consumer markets globally, with rising demand for premium, high-quality food and drink.
– Japan & Singapore: Strong appetite for UK whisky, cheese, and specialty snacks.
– Vietnam & Malaysia: Expanding middle class driving demand for British-branded tea, biscuits, and dairy.
– Mexico & Chile: Growing interest in UK confectionery and beverages.
Competitive Advantage Over Non-CPTPP Member Exporters
EU and US exporters face higher tariffs in CPTPP markets, giving UK businesses a pricing edge.
– Example: UK chocolate exporters to Canada now pay 0% tariff, while EU competitors still face 5-8%.
Simplified Customs Procedures for Faster Export Clearance
The CPTPP standardizes trade documentation and digital processes, reducing delays at borders. Benefits include:
– Faster clearance times for perishable goods like meat and dairy.
– Lower administrative costs due to streamlined paperwork.
Increased Export Opportunities for UK Dairy, Meat, and Beverages
With lower tariffs and fewer restrictions, UK producers can expand sales of:
– Dairy: Cheese, butter, and cream to Japan and Mexico.
– Meat: Pork, beef, and lamb to Vietnam and Canada.
– Beverages: Whisky, gin, and premium soft drinks across CPTPP markets.
Protection Against Arbitrary Trade Restrictions
The CPTPP includes legally binding dispute mechanisms, preventing sudden import bans or unfair technical barriers. This provides:
– More stable trade conditions for UK exporters.
– Greater confidence when entering new markets.
Potential for Increased Investment in UK Food Production
As demand grows, CPTPP investors may fund UK processing facilities, farms, and innovation projects, boosting domestic production capacity.
Stronger Supply Chain Integration with CPTPP Member Countries
UK manufacturers can source ingredients (e.g., Canadian wheat, New Zealand dairy) at lower costs while still qualifying for CPTPP tariff benefits under cumulation rules.
Recognition of UK Food Standards, Aiding Market Acceptance
CPTPP members acknowledge UK food safety and quality standards, reducing the need for costly reformulations or additional certifications.
Opportunity to Diversify Export Markets Beyond the EU
Reducing reliance on the EU, UK exporters can spread risk and tap into new revenue streams across Asia-Pacific and the Americas.
Easier Compliance with Unified Regional Trade Regulations
A single set of rules for CPTPP markets simplifies compliance, cutting costs for businesses selling to multiple countries.
How UK Businesses Can Prepare for CPTPP Exports
- Check Tariff Reductions: Use the UK Trade Tariff Tool to identify savings.
- Verify Rules of Origin: Ensure products meet CPTPP criteria for preferential rates.
- Engage Local Distributors: Partner with in-market experts to navigate regulations.
-
Leverage Government Support: Access grants via Department for Business & Trade (DBT) (https://www.great.gov.uk/).
Additional Resources
Ready to explore CPTPP markets? Start planning your export strategy today!
Would you like further details on specific products or countries?
The entire export, shipping, warehousing & distribution process will be handled by Supply Chain Solution Ltd (Food & Drink Grade Logistics Specialists).
For any enquiries please email: trading@cptpp.co.uk
Global Trade news updates
- Japan gives CHF 105,000 to support trade capacity-building in developing economiesby WTO on June 16, 2025 at 5:00 pm
The government of Japan is contributing CHF 105,469 to the WTO Global Trust Fund for 2025 to support WTO-led technical assistance and training activities aimed at enhancing the trade capacity of government officials from developing and least-developed country members.
- Kenya’s Strathmore University wins John H. Jackson Moot Court Competitionby WTO on June 14, 2025 at 5:00 pm
The WTO co-hosted the Final Oral Round of the 23rd edition of the John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition on WTO law between 10 and 14 June. Strathmore University, Kenya, emerged as the overall winner of the competition, with West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences, India, finishing as the runner-up.
- The WTO welcomes students to 23rd John H. Jackson Moot Court Finalsby WTO on June 13, 2025 at 5:00 pm
The WTO Secretariat is hosting on 10-14 June the final stage of the 23rd edition of the John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition on WTO Law taking place at the WTO’s headquarters in Geneva. Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard welcomed participants to the WTO and to the international trade community.
- Finland commits EUR 2.5 million to new phase of EIF support for sustainable trade in LDCsby WTO on June 13, 2025 at 5:00 pm
Finland has pledged EUR 2.5 million to the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF), providing an important early boost to the initiative’s third phase of activities in support of least developed countries (LDCs), set to begin in October 2025. The contribution builds on over a decade of Finnish commitments, totalling nearly EUR 30 million (over USD 32 million), in support of the EIF Trust Fund.
- Services Council spotlights good regulatory practices, advances discussions on other issuesby WTO on June 13, 2025 at 5:00 pm
At a Council for Trade in Services meeting on 13 June, WTO members continued discussions on revitalizing work on trade in services, following up on the decision of the 13th Ministerial Conference. Members shared key takeaways from a thematic discussion held before the meeting, at which members and international and regional organizations exchanged experiences on how good regulatory practices can help facilitate services trade. At meetings of the Council’s subsidiary bodies on 11 and 12 June, members discussed classification of environmental services and proposals on electronic payments and remittances.
- Registration opens for 6th WHO-WIPO-WTO Trilateral Cooperation Technical Webinarby WTO on June 12, 2025 at 5:00 pm
The World Health Organization (WHO), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the WTO will hold a joint technical webinar on 3 July on “Public Procurement as a Powerful Mechanism to Address Health Challenges”.