This initiative is part of a broader EU strategy aimed at navigating a changing international trade landscape and reinforcing its economic resilience.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed a desire to leverage current trade disruptions to enhance collaboration within the World Trade Organization (WTO) and explore structured cooperation with the CPTPP.

China is also looking to join the CPTPP, viewing the current U.S. trade policies as an opportunity to expand its influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

The European Union (EU) is actively seeking to strengthen its trade relationships with Asia, particularly in light of recent U.S. tariffs announced in April 2025.

A key focus for the EU is the potential formation of a new trade alliance with countries involved in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which could offer a third option for nations hesitant to align solely with the U.S. or China.

Such an alliance could represent 30% of the world's GDP and nearly 900 million people, potentially establishing a new hub of global trade independent of U.S. and Chinese influence.

If successful, this partnership could expand the CPTPP's coverage to around 30% of global GDP, serving as a counterbalance to U.S. isolationist policies.

The Asia-Pacific region is crucial in global trade, being central to major trade routes and possessing substantial purchasing power, which has attracted competitive interests from the U.S., EU, and China.

Key EU leaders are advocating for deeper economic collaboration with Asia-Pacific countries to diversify trade partnerships and reduce reliance on traditional allies.

Despite the EU's increasing engagement, experts note that the U.S. still wields considerable influence in the region, particularly due to its dominance in energy and food exports.

The CPTPP, established in 2018, includes twelve member countries and represents approximately 15% of global GDP, recently expanding to include the UK, with South Korea considering membership.

This enhanced cooperation aims to create a space for countries advocating for multilateral trade agreements amid the ongoing U.S.-China trade war.