Robb optimistic on TPP despite US blow

Federal Trade Minister Andrew Robb remains hopeful the US Congress will allow President Obama to fast track TPP talks, after it stalled the measure.

Trade Minister Andrew Robb  (AAP)

Trade Minister Andrew Robb (AAP) Source: AAP

Trade Minister Andrew Robb remains optimistic countries can quickly reach a historic Pacific trade agreement despite negotiations being dealt a blow by the United States Congress.

Congress overnight stalled a fast-track power that would have allowed US President Barack Obama to wrap up trans-Pacific partnership (TPP) agreement negotiations.

By blocking a bill to give aid to workers who lose their jobs because of US trade deals, the House of Representatives put the brakes on fast-tracking a TPP agreement.

Mr Robb is hopeful the legislation will ultimately pass and provide momentum to conclude the talks.

"There is another opportunity next week to get the ducks lined up," he said on Saturday.

"There is always a lot of cut and thrust in these things and politics being played."

The deal will bring enormous benefits, including more seamless trade across countries that represent almost half the world's gross domestic product, he said.

"It will translate into jobs, growth and higher living standards," Mr Robb said in a statement.

The negotiations have been going on for five years and involve Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam.


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Source: AAP


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