What Changed
- Official entry into force of the China-Peru FTA Optimization Protocol on November 1, 2026.
- Addition of standalone chapters on global supply chains, standards cooperation, competition policy, e-commerce, and environment.
- Agreement to begin negative-list negotiations for trade in services and investment within two years.
On November 1, 2026, the Optimization Protocol of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Peru officially entered into force. The milestone follows the completion of domestic ratification procedures by both countries. Originally signed in April 2009 and effective since March 2010, the China-Peru FTA represents China’s first comprehensive free trade agreement with a Latin American country. Upgrade negotiations launched in November 2018, were substantially concluded in June 2024, and resulted in the formal signing of the Optimization Protocol on November 14, 2024.
The Optimization Protocol introduces standalone chapters covering standards cooperation, competition policy, e-commerce, global supply chains, and the environment. It also refines existing provisions on rules of origin, customs procedures, trade facilitation, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, intellectual property rights, trade in services, temporary entry for business persons, and investment. Notably, the chapter on global supply chains encourages multimodal transport and logistics corridors, while the standards chapter creates dedicated mechanisms to facilitate mutual recognition and lower compliance costs.
Regarding trade in goods, the protocol incorporates provisions for electronic customs systems, sets rules for express consignments and perishable goods clearance, and updates product-specific rules of origin. For services and investment, four new sectoral annexes cover professional, transport, cultural/audiovisual, and telecommunications services. The protocol also streamlines visa processing procedures for business personnel and strengthens investment dispute settlement mechanisms.
Looking ahead, China and Peru agreed to launch negotiations on trade in services and investment based on a negative list approach within two years of entry into force, alongside biennial reviews of the competition chapter. In mainland China, the General Administration of Customs has issued revised administrative measures on rules of origin to support execution, and the full protocol text is available on the China FTA Network (fta.mofcom.gov.cn).
Who May Be Affected
Importers, exporters, supply chain and logistics operators, cross-border service providers, and foreign investors in mainland China and Peru.
Cross-Border Context
Deepens trade ties and investment rules between mainland China and Peru, enhancing trade corridors and market access in Latin America.
What to check next
- Review the Revised Measures of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of Origin under the China-Peru FTA.
- Access detailed chapter provisions published on the China FTA Network (fta.mofcom.gov.cn).
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the official text and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances where needed.