Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) are preparing for the second review of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), which is scheduled for 2026. The TFA aims to speed up the movement, release, and clearance of goods, including those in transit. It is notable as the first WTO agreement allowing developing and least-developed country (LDC) members to set their own implementation schedules based on national priorities and capacities, while seeking technical assistance and capacity building (TACB) support.
During recent discussions, WTO members emphasized that the upcoming review should be open, transparent, and inclusive. They highlighted that it must be evidence-based, considering both achievements and ongoing challenges. Members suggested focusing on what notifications reveal about implementation progress and difficulties, assessing technical assistance effectiveness, identifying successful provisions, and examining areas still facing obstacles.
The Committee overseeing the TFA held its annual session dedicated to TACB in line with Article 21.4 of the Agreement. This session included remarks from Mr. Guénolé Mbongo Koumou, Director-General of Customs and Indirect Duties for the Republic of the Congo. Two panels discussed mobilization and coordination of TACB efforts with contributions from Belize, Burkina Faso, the European Union, Japan, Norway, Paraguay, the United Kingdom, and Zambia.
Updates were also provided by various organizations such as the WTO Secretariat; Trade Facilitation Agreement Facility (TFAF); World Bank; UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD); World Customs Organization (WCO); Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD); International Trade Centre (ITC); and Global Alliance on Trade Facilitation.
The WTO Secretariat introduced a new technical assistance tracker in its TFA database to offer more detailed information on arrangements between donors regarding trade facilitation projects. The TFAF shared results from a survey on gaps in TACB support—recommending efforts to address geographic imbalances in distribution as well as increased notification about where assistance gaps remain.
Experience sharing sessions covered digitalization initiatives such as China’s smart customs practices; Indonesia’s work through its national trade facilitation committee; presentations by Türkiye; and two presentations by the United States about implementing single-window systems for trade documentation. Regarding authorized economic operators (AEOs), China along with Hong Kong presented their approaches.
According to reports from the WTO Secretariat, nearly 81 percent of TFA provisions have been implemented according to commitments made by developing countries and LDCs. With ratification by Democratic Republic of Congo in July 2025—the total number stands at 161 ratifications out of all members—with only five yet to complete this process. In 2025 alone there was a peak period for “Category C” measures—provisions slated for later implementation dependent upon receipt of necessary support—with 159 due this year.
The Committee reviewed requests for extensions under Article 17 covering multiple measures—most relating to Category C obligations such as single window systems or border agency cooperation—which continue posing significant challenges for many members.
There has also been a noticeable increase in transparency notifications submitted by members this year.
Further work included joint communications from African regional groups outlining sustainable financing plans for TFAF amidst a challenging financial environment—emphasizing continued support needed for developing countries implementing Category C measures—and ongoing discussions around customs procedures involving several member states.
Additionally,the Landlocked Developing Countries Group together with WTO’s Development Division updated progress on a report concerning transit corridors aimed at improving connectivity through trade facilitation initiatives; comments can still be submitted before finalization next year.
Upcoming formal meetings are planned throughout 2026: February 25-26; June 10-11; October 20-22.