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.
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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
- Surge in new tariffs accompanied by measures to increase trade, WTO report on G20 findsby WTO on November 13, 2025 at 12:00 am
Trade covered by tariffs in G20 economies increased about four times as much from mid-October 2024 to mid-October 2025 compared to the prior reporting period, marking the largest increase in the history of WTO trade monitoring. At the same time, economies made trade easier by twice as much in value terms over this period, according to the WTO’s latest report on trade measures in the G20 issued on 13 November.
- Trade Policy Review: Guatemalaby WTO on November 12, 2025 at 12:00 am
The fourth review of the trade policies and practices of Guatemala takes place on 12 and 14 November 2025. The basis for the review is a report by the WTO Secretariat and a report by the Government of Guatemala.
- Committee reviews customs value notifications, outlines efforts to enhance transparencyby WTO on November 10, 2025 at 12:00 am
At its formal meeting on 10 November the WTO's Committee on Customs Valuation reviewed 63 notifications pertaining to the customs valuation legislation of members and adopted a report aimed at enhancing transparency through improved notifications. It also heard from the World Customs Organization on its recent work.
- DDG Zhang: Digital innovation key to expanding trade prospects for small businessesby WTO on November 10, 2025 at 12:00 am
Trade digitalization and support for digital entrepreneurship represent low-hanging fruits for increasing access to international markets for small businesses, Deputy Director-General Xiangchen Zhang said on 10 November. He made the remarks at an event hosted by the WTO's Informal Working Group on Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs).
- Uzbekistan makes "steady progress" towards finalizing accession negotiationsby WTO on November 5, 2025 at 12:00 am
At a meeting of the Working Party on the Accession of Uzbekistan held on 5 and 6 November, the head of Uzbekistan's delegation, Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev, noted that Uzbekistan remained committed to its goal of acceding to the WTO at the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14). He emphasized the country's readiness to work on outstanding issues and thanked WTO members for their support in the membership negotiations.
- Members exchange views on transparency and non-preferential rules of originby WTO on November 5, 2025 at 12:00 am
At a meeting of the Committee on Rules of Origin (CRO) on 5-6 November 2025, members discussed transparency initiatives, notification procedures and preferential and non-preferential rules of origin. The Committee also heard updates from preference-granting members on recent developments in their programmes for least-developed countries (LDCs). The formal meeting was chaired by Ms Carol Tsang of Hong Kong, China for the first time.