In a recent report, Ambassador Acarsoy reflected on the past two years of agricultural negotiations and expressed disappointment over the lack of results at MC13 in 2024. Despite nearing an agreement, no outcome was achieved. Acarsoy urged World Trade Organization (WTO) members to consider steps to break free from what he described as a "recurring 'Groundhog Day' scenario" and make meaningful progress.
He emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust and setting credible targets to restore effective negotiations, aiming for an agricultural outcome in March 2026 in Yaoundé. Acarsoy called for "evidence-based discussions" and "text-based negotiations."
Director-General Okonjo-Iweala thanked Acarsoy for his leadership and expressed hope that his efforts would inspire a genuine desire among members to resolve the deadlock. She stated that agriculture should be "the centre of attention" at MC14 and urged members to mobilize political will and flexibility to achieve a breakthrough.
Okonjo-Iweala assured members that efforts are underway to find a successor to Ambassador Acarsoy for a smooth transition. She also welcomed initiatives like the joint work of the African Group and the Cairns Group of agricultural exporting countries, calling for further research into the evolving agricultural landscape.
The African Group and Cairns Group updated their joint work, reaffirming their commitment to leveling the playing field in agriculture. They plan to submit a "modalities" package before MC14, outlining commitments to reduce trade-distorting domestic support.
Both groups acknowledged the process's challenges but highlighted its consultative nature as an example of productive collaboration. They pledged continued engagement with members and groups to build momentum for MC14.
Members praised Acarsoy's leadership and stressed the urgency of appointing his successor quickly. There was broad consensus on delivering results at MC14 due to agriculture's importance for Africa. Some suggested focusing on least-developed countries' needs and delivering benefits for Africa.
Members discussed negotiation priorities and ways forward, supporting Acarsoy's call for resuming substantive talks swiftly. Many advocated moving beyond entrenched positions with creative approaches, while others valued formal forums alongside informal dialogues like those between the African Group and Cairns Group.
Suggestions were made to incorporate new knowledge into negotiations through technical workshops and expanding discussions on emerging challenges like sector sustainability.