TPP critics fear trade deal favours big business over states

Sydney

WITH the end game in sight to what could be the world's most ambitious trade deal, critics fear a controversial mechanism to protect investors will strengthen the hand of big business while eroding national sovereignty.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) - a wide-ranging accord that would encompass 40 per cent of the world's trade - could be sealed in Hawaii this week after more than five years of talks.