RCEP launches Accession Working Group, Hong Kong joins new applicants

On Monday, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership approved the formation of an Accession Working Group to manage the accession process for new economies. Hong Kong, together with Bangladesh, Chile and Sri Lanka, was added to the group. Algernon Yau, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, called the move a pivotal step toward expanding RCEP’s membership and pledged swift cooperation in negotiations.

He emphasized Hong Kong’s preparedness to join early and contribute its strengths to regional integration. The existing RCEP membership comprises 15 economies, including mainland China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and all ten ASEAN members. The AWG will coordinate the required procedures for each applicant.