An NGO leader in the Pacific cannot understand why the region is hurrying to complete a trade deal.
Residents Maroro Village in Solomon Islands are concerned about the impact of increased logging or pressure on fishing resources. Photo: Supplied/Hugh Govan
Pacific leaders at last week's Forum summit committed to finalising negotiations on the PACER Plus agreement by the end of next month.
This comes despite 67 civil society groups issuing an open letter asking them to slow down the process and undertake proper impact assessments.
Hugh Govan, who is part of the locally managed marine area network and works around the region, said an assessment already undertaken by the Office of the Chief Trade Advisor cannot be considered independent.
Marine resources NGO leader Hugh Govan Photo: supplied
He said he is mystified as to who benefits from forcing through the deal early.
"Surely we can look at the implications of this in normal language and assess across our sectors. The reason for signing this year is very obscure, we cannot see why the rush. Why not get a better deal by getting better information or at least getting the best deal you could, based on this independent information. I am not sure who benefits from rushing this through."
