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. 

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. 

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. 

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%. 

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. 

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. 

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. 

As demand grows, CPTPP investors may fund UK processing facilities, farms, and innovation projects, boosting domestic production capacity. 

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. 

CPTPP members acknowledge UK food safety and quality standards, reducing the need for costly reformulations or additional certifications. 

Reducing reliance on the EU, UK exporters can spread risk and tap into new revenue streams across Asia-Pacific and the Americas. 

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

Food & Drink Exporters Association (FDEA) 

UK Export Finance (UKEF) 

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

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    Trade in urea and phosphate fertilizers has been severely disrupted by the conflict in the Persian Gulf, according to data analysed by the WTO Secretariat. Certain economies in Africa and Asia are particularly vulnerable to resulting fertilizer shortages and price hikes. Opening of the Strait of Hormuz – a key channel for fertilizer trade - will in due course contribute to easing trade frictions and restore stability to global markets.

  • Rules Negotiating Group Chair reports on fisheries subsidies negotiations, next steps
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  • Joint Statement by the Heads of the IEA, IMF, World Bank, and WTO
    by WTO on July 8, 2026 at 12:00 am

    The Heads of the International Energy Agency (IEA), International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank Group (WBG), and World Trade Organization (WTO) met on July 7 as part of the high-level coordination group established in April to maximize their institutions’ response to the energy, trade, and economic impact of the war in the Middle East. Following the meeting, they issued the statement below:

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    WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala welcomed the President of Georgia, Mikheil Kavelashvili, to the WTO on 8 July to discuss Georgia's economic and trade performance, its engagement in the multilateral trading system, and current developments in the global trading environment.

  • WTO issues new edition of “One-Page Case Summaries”
    by WTO on July 7, 2026 at 12:00 am

    The WTO has issued a new edition of WTO Dispute Settlement: One-Page Case Summaries, a regularly updated publication that provides succinct summaries of every panel and Appellate Body report adopted by the WTO’s Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) and every arbitration decision or award notified to the DSB up to the end of 2025. The publication also includes summaries of panel reports circulated to WTO members and published on the WTO website that have not yet been adopted by the DSB, as they remain subject to pending appeals.

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