China and the GCC started negotiating a free-trade agreement in 2004, and in early 2016 the parties accelerated their talks in an effort to conclude the deal (Middle East Eye, China FTA Network news release, China FTA Network news archive). For this question to resolve negotiators must reach an agreement. Ratification by the parties to the agreement is not required. Recommended Questions Will the merchandise value of Iran's imports and exports in 2016 exceed $140 billion? Will negotiations on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) be completed in 2016?