Ambassador Nadia Theodore of Canada, a co-convener of the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD), highlighted progress made by the four working groups as they prepare for the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14). She emphasized the role of TESSD in identifying where trade policy can support environmental and climate goals.
Facilitators updated members on recent discussions, with advancements noted in drafting outcome documents. Jean-Marie Meraldi from Switzerland discussed carbon border adjustment mechanisms. Ben Rake from the United Kingdom reported on sustainable agriculture and regulatory practices. Taka Sashida of Japan and Nur Karabağ of Türkiye shared experiences on circularity in textiles and batteries. Tiffany Smith focused on subsidies to decarbonize energy-intensive industries.
Members supported ongoing work, emphasizing transparency and stakeholder engagement. Some suggested shifting discussions to the Committee on Trade and Environment post-MC14.
Ambassador Ronald Saborío introduced a draft outline for a TESSD publication for MC14, consolidating insights into trade's role in climate goals. Delegates appreciated this as a basis for further discussion, stressing balance across objectives.
Ambassador Saborío reaffirmed TESSD’s commitment to leveraging trade for environmental objectives, encouraging collaboration ahead of MC14.
Guided by its 2021 Ministerial Statement, TESSD complements WTO's work at the intersection of trade and sustainability. It is open to all WTO members and co-sponsored by 78 members globally.