Japan has announced a contribution of CHF 105,000 to support developing economies in enhancing their trade capabilities. This donation is directed towards the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Global Trust Fund, which finances around 280 activities annually. These activities include training courses on trade facilitation, agriculture, development, and services at regional and national levels.
Japan's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the WTO, Atsuyuki Oike, emphasized Japan's commitment to global trade inclusivity and sustainability. "This contribution of Japan renews its standing commitment to inclusive and sustainable global trade," he stated. He highlighted that Japan's support aims to enhance the capacities of developing countries and least developed countries (LDCs) in participating more effectively in the multilateral trading system. "Through this contribution, we aim to foster inclusive growth and resilience by empowering these members to effectively implement WTO Agreements and fully engage in global trade," Oike added.
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala expressed gratitude for Japan's ongoing support. "Trade is a key enabler for sustainable development," she noted. Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged that Japan's contribution will aid government officials from developing nations and LDCs in acquiring essential trade knowledge necessary for leveraging world trade potential.
Over two decades, Japan has contributed over EUR 13.6 million (approximately CHF 12.8 million) to various WTO Trust Funds.