Argentina applies to join the CPTPP — sharing a trade bloc with the UK for the first time since 1982

Published Jun 7, 2026 · 23:00 GMT

Argentina has applied to join the CPTPP trade pact, which would put it in a trade framework alongside the UK for the first time since the 1982 Falklands/Malvinas war. President Milei's government frames it as opening Argentina to the world; we are awaiting the reaction of those who see a sovereignty red line over the Malvinas.

Milei government

Buenos Aires casts the CPTPP bid as part of President Milei's drive to open Argentina's economy — joining a 12-economy bloc that covers roughly 15% of world trade — and says the Falklands/Malvinas sovereignty dispute is safeguarded by carve-out clauses in the treaty.

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