The World Trade Organization (WTO) is facing significant challenges in its ongoing negotiations, as highlighted by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. Speaking as Chair of the Trade Negotiations Committee, she emphasized the importance of delivering results amidst strong support from global leaders for the WTO and the multilateral trading system. "We should not waste this political capital that is so supportive of us by showing that we are unable to make use of this precious commodity," she stated.
Okonjo-Iweala called for a fresh approach in negotiations, stressing the need for a dynamic strategy where each area is evaluated on its own merits. "We must focus on delivering outcomes wherever and whenever possible," she urged.
Updates were provided by chairs of various WTO negotiations. Ambassador Einar Gunnarsson from Iceland reported a stalemate in fisheries subsidies discussions despite extensive efforts. He noted that while most members could accept the current draft text with some adjustments, it falls short for at least two members.
Ambassador Alparslan Acarsoy from Türkiye highlighted challenges in agriculture negotiations, particularly regarding process agreements among members. He advocated for pragmatism and substantive engagement early next year.
In trade and development talks, Ambassador Kadra Hassan from Djibouti pointed out ongoing work related to special treatment under several WTO agreements, noting 2025 as crucial for progress.
Negotiations on a multilateral register for wines and spirits have seen little advancement over the past decade, according to Ambassador Alfredo Suescum from Panama. Similarly, Ambassador Eunice M. Tembo Luambia from Zambia reported reluctance among delegations in trade and environment discussions.
Concluding remarks were made by General Council Chair Petter Ølberg from Norway, who highlighted differing issues in fisheries subsidies and agriculture talks. He encouraged members to prepare for necessary changes upon their return after winter break: "We have to do things differently; we cannot continue like this."
Director-General Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged progress on fisheries subsidies but suggested allowing more time for hesitant members to consider the draft text further before pushing for conclusions at an upcoming meeting. On agriculture, she proposed exploring a hybrid approach that reconciles divergent views without pre-empting future outcomes.