TPPA requires give and take – PM

(File)
(File)

 

Opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA) deal has been fierce, but a lot of the population still doesn't know what it is or what it means for Kiwis.

Every time there's a meeting, there's a protest. The TPPA is being touted as the biggest trade agreement in history.

But the negotiations are cloaked in secrecy, and critics believe that could be damaging for New Zealand.

It's a 12-nation agreement that's been years in the making. New Zealand, the US and Japan are among those in on the deal, which covers 40 percent of the world's economy.

The Government says it could boost our economy by $2 billion within 10 years.

Trade Minister Tim Groser says it is going to be a significant deal.

"It's going to be big, it's going to be significant and it's going to help New Zealanders find well-paid jobs."

Though much like a marriage, Prime Minister John Key says it will require a bit of give and take. The agreement could push up the cost of medicines and prevent a ban on foreign house buyers in New Zealand.

If it's signed this weekend it will still need to be ratified, New Zealand's Parliament would need to vote on it, and that's when the public will finally get their say.

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