Fiji Deputy PM Highlights Positive Outcomes From WTO Ministerial Conference In Abu Dhabi

At the conclusion of the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference held in Abu Dhabi, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica of Fiji, who also serves as the Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, shared insights into the outcomes of the conference. Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Kamikamica highlighted the significant progress made during the conference, attributing the success to the United Arab Emirates' exceptional efforts.

According to Kamikamica, the conference's final statement represents a milestone achieved through diligent negotiations among WTO member states. He noted that while the conference yielded very positive decisions and marked successful meetings, not all objectives were fully met. Specifically, he pointed out that the fisheries file, crucial for the Pacific region, remains unresolved. However, there is optimism for this issue to be addressed in the lead-up to the 14th Ministerial Conference slated for 2026.

One of the key achievements of this conference was the agreement among WTO member countries to extend a moratorium on e-commerce tariffs until the next ministerial conference in 2026. This decision is seen as a significant step forward in regulating global e-commerce practices and fostering a more inclusive digital economy.

The 13th WTO Ministerial Conference has been marked by fruitful discussions and positive progress on several fronts. Despite the unresolved fisheries file, which is of particular importance to nations in the Pacific region, there is a collective commitment to address this issue comprehensively within the next two years.

The extension of the moratorium on e-commerce tariffs is another critical development from the conference. This decision underscores the global community's recognition of the importance of digital trade and its commitment to creating a supportive environment for its growth.

As nations look towards the 14th Ministerial Conference in 2026, there is a sense of anticipation for further advancements in global trade discussions. The efforts of the United Arab Emirates in hosting and steering the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference have set a positive precedent for future negotiations and collaborations among WTO member states.

With inputs from WAM