Secrecy in IPEF Negotiations Sparks Concerns: GTRI Report

The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) discussions have been conducted with limited public input, raising concerns about member countries like India's ability to protect their interests. GTRI highlighted issues within the supply chain, clean economy, and fair economy pillars, urging for flexibility and transparency to support local industries.

The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) negotiations have largely been held behind closed doors with minimal public consultation, raising concerns about whether member countries, including India, have been able to safeguard their key interests, reported think tank GTRI on Sunday.

The 14-member IPEF bloc, initiated by the US and partner countries of the Indo-Pacific region on May 23, 2022, in Tokyo, represents 40% of the global economic output and 28% of trade. Structured around four pillars—trade, supply chains, clean economy, and fair economy—India has joined all but the trade pillar.

GTRI's report highlighted that negotiations have resulted in agreements on supply chains, clean economy, and fair economy. Yet, the secrecy surrounding the discussions raised concerns about potential restrictions on trading critical materials, especially with China, posing challenges for ASEAN countries. The report also emphasized the need for India to retain flexibility to handle domestic crises and support local industries during the clean energy transition, without being overly burdened by international commitments.

(With inputs from agencies.)