The Latin American and Caribbean Network of the WTO Chairs Programme recently hosted a workshop in Mexico focusing on trade inclusivity. The event, organized in collaboration with the WTO Trade and Gender Office and supported by the Ministry of Economy, aims to consolidate discussions on seven pillars of inclusivity. These discussions will contribute to a book featuring perspectives from trade negotiators and policymakers across various regions, including Africa, New Zealand, Asia, and Europe.
The workshop highlighted the importance of inclusive trade practices that address the needs of women, indigenous peoples, youth, individuals with disabilities, and other marginalized groups. "Trade contributes to SDG 5 by creating economic opportunities for women and increasing their income," stated one speaker at the event. However, it was noted that women face higher barriers than men in accessing these opportunities due to negative social norms.
Efforts to promote gender equality within global trade have been ongoing at the World Trade Organization (WTO). In 2020, an Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender was established to mainstream gender considerations in WTO activities. This initiative began in 2017 during the 11th Ministerial Conference and has since involved 118 WTO members and observers.
At the recent 13th WTO Ministerial Conference, ministers recognized "the intrinsic links between women's economic empowerment, trade and sustainable development." A gender-responsive trade policy tool was launched to support women entrepreneurs' access to finance. The World Trade Gender Research Hub continues its work with researchers focused on trade and gender issues.
Discussions also covered inclusivity beyond gender. An Inter-Agency Working Group on Trade and Disability Inclusion was formed alongside organizations like UNCTAD and ILO to ensure persons with disabilities are included in global economic policies. Indigenous communities were acknowledged for their role in promoting sustainable consumption patterns through international trade.
Youth engagement is another focus area for the WTO. Initiatives such as the Youth Trade Summit on Gender aim to develop future experts in this field. Additionally, over 330 WTO-related courses were conducted last year through the Chairs Programme.
Looking ahead to the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference scheduled for 2026, members will address topics like fisheries subsidies negotiations, investment facilitation for development, environmental sustainability, agricultural reform progressions, and electronic commerce under multilateral programs.
The commitment remains strong: "Together we can ensure that the multilateral trading system contributes towards a more just equitable global economy."