The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Committee on Trade and Development convened to address pivotal topics shaping international trade. Discussions encompassed special and differential treatment provisions for developing economies, e-commerce, WTO-led technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives, and duty-free and quota-free market access for the least-developed countries (LDCs).
A dedicated session focusing on small economies was held the same day, during which members reviewed a WTO Secretariat report outlining the challenges and opportunities small economies face in e-commerce.
Key highlights from the meeting include:
Special and Differential Treatment Members analyzed provisions across WTO agreements based on an in-depth WTO Secretariat report. While recognizing these provisions as fundamental components of WTO rules that empower developing economies, members urged further examination of additional provisions to enhance global trade inclusivity.
GCC Customs Union Members continued deliberations on WTO rules relevant to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Customs Union. Welcoming insights from the WTO Secretariat, members agreed to explore pathways for integrating this trading arrangement into WTO frameworks.
Technical Assistance and Capacity-Building The WTO’s Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation shared updates on the financial status of the Global Trust Fund, which supports training programs for government officials from developing economies. Preparations are underway for the 2026–2027 technical assistance plan. Members emphasized the importance of innovative delivery methods tailored to beneficiaries’ needs and suggested exploring additional support mechanisms.
Duty-Free and Quota-Free Market Access for LDCs The LDC Group informed members about their efforts to resume preparations for the duty-free and quota-free market access report. This initiative aims to facilitate the annual review of steps taken by members to ensure market access for LDCs. Consultations with relevant delegations are ongoing to determine the best course of action.
Electronic Commerce and Economic Agreements Two requests submitted by India—on improving the Committee’s functionality and advancing the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce—were reviewed. Informal consultations will continue on these proposals. Additionally, members examined the Economic Complementarity Agreement between Argentina and Mexico, based on the WTO Secretariat’s analysis.
Leadership Updates Ambassador Mzukisi Qobo of South Africa was elected as the new chair of the Committee on Trade and Development, while Ambassador Ib Petersen of Denmark was re-elected as chair of the Sub-Committee on Least-Developed Countries.
