Accession process underway for Costa Rica’s DEPA application

DEPA is composed of Singapore, Chile, and New Zealand.

The Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA) has formed an Accession Working Group to start the accession process in line with Costa Rica’s application to join the DEPA.

In a statement, the Ministry of Trade and Industry said the working group which will be chaired by New Zealand, will assess Costa Rica’s accession request, and discuss its capability to fulfil the standards and commitments of DEPA.

A report will be submitted to the DEPA Joint Committee regarding the proposed terms and conditions of Costa Rica’s accession.

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“Singapore welcomes Costa Rica’s application to join DEPA. Through DEPA, we hope to create a common framework for rules and standards while offering a platform for collaboration as well. We will be pleased to work closely with Costa Rica to facilitate discussions on its accession,” Minister Gan Kim Yong said.

DEPA is composed of Chile, New Zealand and Singapore. The parties and South Korea are undergoing legal processes for Korea’s joining, whilst working group discussions are ongoing for China and Canada’s joining.