Australian Minister Advocates For WTO Agriculture Reforms To Achieve Global Food Security

Agricultural trade reforms are pivotal for achieving global food security, climate, and biodiversity objectives, according to Don Farrell, Australia's Minister for Trade and Tourism. Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Abu Dhabi, Minister Farrell emphasized the significance of free and fair trade in agriculture for lifting people out of poverty worldwide.

Minister Farrell, who is leading the Australian delegation at MC13, highlighted the necessity of agricultural trade reform to bolster long-term food security for vulnerable populations. He pointed out that without progress in this area, including addressing environmentally harmful subsidies, it would be challenging to meet global goals related to food security, climate change, and biodiversity preservation.

Reflecting on his experiences at MC13 in Abu Dhabi, Minister Farrell praised the UAE for its hospitality and the beauty of both the city and the country. He expressed enthusiasm about being part of the conference and the opportunity it presents for advancing trade discussions.

The minister also discussed the ongoing negotiations between Australia and the UAE on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), aiming to enhance trade and investment flows between the two nations. With hopes of signing CEPA within the year, Minister Farrell underscored its potential to strengthen bilateral relations and support shared goals of economic cooperation and transitioning to net-zero emissions.

At MC13, Australia is keen on making progress in several areas, including dispute settlement procedures, fisheries subsidies, and renewing the moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions. Minister Farrell expressed a strong commitment to free trade and highlighted its importance for Australia's prosperity as an island nation.

Regarding dispute settlement procedures, he stressed Australia's push for an appellate process within WTO rules to ensure a functioning system. On fisheries subsidies, he noted some progress at MC12 and anticipated further advancements in Abu Dhabi.

The accession of Timor-Leste and Comoros to the WTO was welcomed by Minister Farrell as a positive development. He remarked on Timor-Leste's close regional partnership with Australia and its potential economic benefits from WTO membership through enhanced sustainability, diversification, and integration into regional and global economies.

The WTO's Ministerial Conference serves as its highest decision-making body, convening approximately every two years with participation from around 164 nations and trading blocs. This year's conference in Abu Dhabi marks a significant opportunity for member countries to discuss and advance key trade issues.

With inputs from WAM