The 15 RCEP parties, when looked at collectively, represent almost a third of the world's population, and for New Zealand, RCEP includes seven of our top trading partners. RCEP parties already take over half of New Zealand's total exports and provide more than half of our direct foreign investment. Pre - COVID-19 trade had been flourishing, with New Zealand exporting more than $36 billion worth of goods to RCEP economies and nearly $12 billion worth of services. The RCEP region will continue to grow in importance for the prosperity and security of New Zealanders. While India's withdrawal from RCEP negotiations in late 2019 was disappointing, a fast-track accession process remains. Should it wish to re-join in the future, it can, and India continues to be of great importance to New Zealand and we greatly value the relationship with it. New Zealand will continue to broaden and deepen the political, cultural, and economic links that we enjoy with India.