WTO News

Uzbekistan Commits to WTO Accession in 2026

Uzbekistan has reaffirmed its commitment to accede to the World Trade Organization (WTO) by the end of 2026. The Working Party on the Accession of Uzbekistan met on March 9, 2026, to discuss progress, with members commending the country's reforms and nearing conclusion of bilateral market access negotiations.

WTO DG Updates Members on 14th Ministerial Conference Preparations

The WTO Director-General provided an update on final preparations for the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaound?, Cameroon, scheduled for March 26-29, 2026. Members are nearing agreement on texts for ministerial consideration, including discussions on WTO reform.

WTO Members Review SPS Trade Concerns and Transparency Challenges

WTO members reviewed a record 76 sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) trade concerns, including issues related to food additives, animal diseases, and pesticide residues. The Committee on SPS Measures also discussed challenges and potential solutions for improving the transparency of SPS requirements and notifications.

WTO Technical Assistance Programmes Launch

The WTO launched its 2026 technical assistance programmes, the French Irish Mission Programme (FIMiP) and the Netherlands Talent Programme (NTP). These programmes will provide training to 34 government officials from developing and least-developed WTO members over ten months.

WTO Young Trade Leaders Programme Applications Open for 2026

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has opened applications for its 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme. This initiative aims to engage young individuals interested in international trade, offering them training and networking opportunities.