El Ambassador Petter Ølberg (Norway), in its role as Facilitator for the reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO)[Name omitted] presented a positive assessment following Reform Week. The main objective of these sessions is to refine the elements that will be submitted to the ministers during the [reform/conference/meeting/etc.]. 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14), scheduled for March 2026.
Towards a renewed consensus for MC14
During the meeting held with the Members of the organization, the Facilitator highlighted the existence of "constructive and positive exchanges"Despite existing differences on substantive issues, following the rounds of consultations initiated in June 2025, the process has evolved from initial discussions towards the identification of specific areas of focus.
According to what he said Ambassador Ølberg: "I believe we now have a solid foundation that will help us continue our efforts when we return in January."The diplomat stressed that the focus has shifted from reaffirming the Preamble to the Marrakech Agreement to defining concrete challenges and considering possible approaches to address them.
The three pillars of trade negotiation
The discussions during Reform Week, which took place from December 2nd to 5th, were structured around three fundamental pillars for the future of foreign trade. The key points addressed in each area are detailed below:
| Thematic Area | Current Situation and Consensus | Challenges Identified by Members |
|---|---|---|
| Decision making | No member questions the practice of consensus, but there is shared frustration with the difficulty in reaching agreements. | Difficulties in effective participation, hesitation to join the consensus, unfulfilled mandates, and challenges in resolving differences. |
| Development and Special Treatment | El Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) It has not been questioned as a concept, but the aim is not to equate "development" solely with TED. | Difference of opinions on the approaches that should be presented to the ministers in the MC14. |
| Equal Playing Field | Progress is recognized in identifying potential areas and a greater willingness to commit after an initial hesitation. | Need to maintain momentum to achieve a level playing field in global trade. |
Structural perspectives and next steps
Beyond the three central themes, the Members of the WTO They pointed out that focusing exclusively on these points is insufficient to resolve the organization's current structural challenges. They emphasized the importance of addressing fundamental questions about what the member countries of the multilateral entity truly expect and need.
Looking ahead to the end of the year, the established roadmap is as follows:
- Report Preparation: The Facilitator will prepare a document that captures the perspectives expressed by all members.
- General Council Meeting: The report will be distributed before the next meeting, scheduled for the days December 16 and 17.
- Long-term goal: To achieve clear guidance from ministers on post-MC14 reform efforts, including a possible "Balanced Reform Plan".
Key points and frequently asked questions about the WTO Reform
Will consensus decision-making be eliminated at the WTO?
Noel Ambassador Ølberg He emphasized that no member questions the practice of consensus-based decision-making. However, they are seeking to address the frustration caused by deadlocks in negotiations and the difficulty in achieving effective results.
What is the main objective of Reformation Week?
The purpose was to refine the elements regarding the reform of the WTO that could be presented to the ministers for their consideration in the 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in March 2026, moving from general discussions to the definition of concrete challenges.
What will happen at the General Council meeting in December?
A report prepared by the Facilitator will be presented to guide the work when the sessions resume in January. This document aims to allow senior officials to review the proposals well in advance of the meeting on December 16 and 17.
Any questions about this news?
Talk to Coexia, the AI of the foreign trade
