Negotiators will wrap up the latest round of talks to create an Asian version of the Trans-Pacific Partnership in Auckland later today.
Talks on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) were held in Auckland this week. Photo: RNZ / Patrick O'Meara
Talks on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) have been going for three years, and negotiators are aiming to reach agreement by the end of the year.
The 13th round of talks took place in Auckland this week.
Trade Minister Todd McClay has urged negotiators to press ahead and put their country's offers to open up markets on the table.
Commentators doubt, however, that agreement can be reached this year, given the differences among the participants.
The next and final round for the year takes place in Laos in September.
RCEP involves 16 Asia-Pacific nations, with a combined population of more than three billion.