New Zealand and Singapore have launched a new trade initiative to ensure supply chain connectivity and the removal of blockages to trade in a list of essential products that includes medicines, medical and surgical equipment, coming into effect from 15 April 2020.

This is an “open plurilateral” initiative, meaning other countries can join at any point, and are encouraged to do so.

The Declaration includes a list of over 120 products, identified as being essential goods in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. This list includes PPE equipment, medical equipment, nutritional products, medicines and hygiene supplies.

The full list is set out here.