News

Minister expresses concerns with WTO

May 22, 2018 4:45 am

Trade Minister, Faiyaz Koya, today expressed his disappointment at the World Trade Organization members’ inability to arrive at concrete development outcomes for the DOHA Development Agenda since 2011.

Koya says Fiji remains fully committed to the DDA.

The Minister says the continued failure to conclude the DOHA round risks undermining the WTO’s credibility and its ability to perform effectively.

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He says Fiji is working hard to ensure that the small voices of the Pacific is heard, both in WTO negotiations and in its regular work

“This is of particular concern to Fiji and the Pacific parties as we rely on the protection offered by the rules of the multilateral trading system. Even though some of the rules are burdensome and should be improved to make the multilateral trading system fair and inclusive for all members.”

Koya says it is also of grave concern that major economies spurred by the sentiments emanating from the US leadership are threatening the entire basis for the multilateral system and free and fair global trade.

“The global economy and especially Small Island Developing States of the Pacific cannot afford the emergence of protectionism and tit-for-tat trade word. This is where the WTO needs to be strong to ensure the observance and the integrity of global trade rules.”

Koya says Fiji believes the WTO can provide a level playing field in decision making for trade rules but this can only be achieved if the WTO is willing to understand and address the concerns of small and vulnerable members.