Ethiopia is accelerating its bid to join the World Trade Organization (WTO), setting its sights on membership by the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon in 2026.
To this end, the technical committee spearheading the preliminary negotiations has received specific directives to ensure a robust and effective approach to the upcoming fifth WTO working group meeting.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Kassahun Gofe (PhD), emphasized the nation's ambition following the review of negotiations in Bishoftu.
Minister Kassahun charged the technical committee members to approach their work with high morale, patriotism, and professional competence, underscoring their pivotal role in supporting the negotiating team.
The renewed push follows discussions between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) and WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala during her recent visit to Ethiopia. The talks focused on expediting Ethiopia's accession process.
Achieving WTO membership would unlock significant opportunities for Ethiopia, boosting trade, investment, and economic integration on the global stage.
The technical committee's preparation is crucial for navigating the complexities of the negotiation process and securing favorable terms for Ethiopia's entry into the WTO.