RCEP still finding it hard to wrap up FTA

Crunch time: Mustapa briefing the media on the country’s trade and investment climate.

KUALA LUMPUR: After four years of negotiations, the 16 countries in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership are still having difficulties to bridge the gap to wrap up the Asean-led free trade deal.

International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed admitted it was challenging and hoped negotiations can be wrapped up by the end of next year.