The Chair of the Committee on Agriculture has called for innovative approaches to advance discussions on agriculture talks. Since assuming his role on April 1, the Chair has consulted with various groups and individual members. He acknowledged ongoing differences in views regarding how to achieve progress in agriculture talks, aiming for a meaningful outcome at the upcoming MC14 conference.
Ambassador Hussain encouraged members to engage constructively to narrow differences and explore solutions. He committed to facilitating dialogue across all groups upon request, with meetings of the Committee on Agriculture in Special Session (CoASS) held as needed. These meetings aim to promote transparency and inclusivity, allowing members to provide feedback and share progress.
In the coming weeks, Ambassador Hussain plans further consultations with proponents on various topics, seeking pragmatic and effective progress. While there will not be a facilitator-led process for now, technical discussions may be launched if necessary. A stocktaking session is planned after summer to evaluate progress and decide on the way forward before MC14.
Members expressed support for Ambassador Hussain's outlined process, focusing on achievable outcomes at MC14 and a clear roadmap post-MC14 for detailed negotiations. Innovative approaches were advocated, avoiding ineffective past methods. The importance of an upcoming retreat on sustainable agriculture and future Committee meetings was highlighted as crucial for effective discussions leading up to ministerial action in 2026.
The Cairns Group of agricultural exporting economies and the African Group reported ongoing joint work aimed at narrowing gaps through substantive discussions. They have continued working since February on a draft package that could form the basis of CoASS negotiations. This aims to identify areas of difference, build commonalities, and make progress across all topics.
The two groups intend to submit a document for CoASS consideration without prejudice to final positions until an overall satisfactory package is reached.
Dedicated sessions were held on public stockholding (PSH) for food security purposes and the Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM). The Chair noted political will from many delegations regarding PSH but highlighted significant disagreements about negotiation sequencing and domestic support concerns.
Proponents emphasized the urgency of securing a permanent solution on PSH due to its critical role in global food security amid economic uncertainties.
Ambassador Hussain stressed that "there is no alternative to frank exchanges" for meaningful progress on PSH issues. He expressed confidence that shifting from fixed positions could lead to shared solutions.
On SSM, differing views remain regarding its linkage with market access. Given its importance for developing economies, achieving a balanced outcome at MC14 is crucial. The Chair urged creative thinking to break the impasse by fostering substantive technical dialogue on potential SSM outcomes.