Thirteenth WTO Ministerial Conference Begins in Abu Dhabi 

Source: WAM

This four-day event unites ministers and officials to discuss international trade regulations and policies.

With representatives from 175 Member States, alongside leaders from the private sector, NGOs, and civil society, the conference aims to foster collaboration towards a more effective, sustainable, and inclusive trading framework.

Ministerial Conferences serve as the primary decision-making body of the WTO, providing vital platforms for member states to address trade obstacles, refine regulations, and shape the global trade agenda.

Building on the progress made during MC12 in Geneva in June 2022, particularly in areas such as fisheries subsidies, food security, and e-commerce, MC13 will concentrate on improving the participation of developing countries and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in the global trade system, as well as addressing intellectual property concerns and enhancing WTO dispute resolution mechanisms.

The conference will also facilitate discussions on increased cooperation with non-governmental organisations, the private sector, and civil society through various side events. These include the TradeTech Global Forum, advocating for the integration of technology in global supply chains, as well as sessions on trade facilitation in collaboration with Etihad Credit Insurance, trade finance with HSBC, SMEs with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), the WLP Logistics Challenges with DP World, Future of Cargo in partnership with Emirates, and Sustainable Trade Africa.

Established in 1995, the WTO governs international trade regulations. Its biannual Ministerial Conference serves as the key decision-making platform, bringing together ministers and senior officials from all member states to review and update the regulations shaping the global trading environment.