TPP ministers to sign official deal at SkyCity

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key with other leaders at a Trans Pacific Partnership leaders meeting. Photo / Alan Gibson

Trade Ministers from around the Asia-Pacific will converge at Auckland's SkyCity on February 4 for the signing ceremony for the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP).

Trade Minister Todd McClay has confirmed the February 4 date this morning.

The Herald understands the majority of the 12 nations, which agreed to the final shape of the TPP at a ministerial meeting in Atlanta last year, have now confirmed their availability to sign the deal in Auckland on February 4.

"Following signature, all 12 countries will be able to begin their respective domestic ratification processes and will have up to two years to complete that before the agreement enters into force," McClay said.

Some nations - particularly Canada which changed Government at the end of last year - are reviewing the TPP terms, but the majority wish to press ahead.

The legal text of the TPP deal is expected to be released on Friday.

"During this period before TPP enters into force, the Government will be running a series of roadshows throughout the country."

He said the roadshows are an opportunity for members of the public to learn more about TPP and to "assist businesses identify and plan for new exports when TPP comes in to force."

McClay is expected to release a National Interest Assessment of TPP next week - possibly as early as Monday.

The TPP region accounts for 36 per cent of the global economy, and over 40 per cent of New Zealand's exports.