포괄적 점진적 환태평양동반자협정(CPTPP)의 전략적 의미와 쟁점 - 경제적, 지정학적, 규범적 분석

This article has two purposes. First, it looks into the geopolitical background and national strategies of CPTPP through reviewing the evolving history over a decade. Second, it tries to examine comprehensively the discussion on the Korea’s accession, putting all relevant arguments and analysis into three categories: economic impact, geopolitical strategy and regulatory value. It suggests that the CPTPP should be regarded as a key policy tool to accomplish the national economic and geopolitical strategic goals for participating countries. For example, America put forward the TPP idea as a strategy for the pivot to Asia, and Abe led the completion of CPTPP as an important agenda of Abenomics to restore its economy. Hence, when we deal with the ac ceding issue, the strategic analysis must be carried out, together with economic assessment. There are sufficient strategic values under pursuing the CPTPP accession. Although the negotiation position of new applicant may not be well-disposed, it is worthwhile exploring the opportunities rather than turning away even without negotiations. It is evident that free trade through CPTPP can bring economic benefit, and its strategic value strongly supports the logic of accession. Thus, Korea is recommended to get over domestic political backlash and step forward the accession process at the earliest possible, so as to concentrate on advancing national interests at the negotiation table.