TOKYO—A decade ago, it was a trade club led by the U.S. seeking to limit the influence of China’s economic model. Now Washington is out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and Beijing wants in—as the group’s biggest member.
That led to some awkward discussions among the American allies leading the TPP on Friday, a day after Beijing handed in its application to join. Members said anyone was welcome to apply, but some said the newcomer might not be a good fit for the club.
