Africa-Press – Eswatini. Small economies like Eswatini are looking to global trade reforms for stability and growth as the World Trade Organization opened its 14th Ministerial Conference on March 26, 2026 in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with urgent discussions focused on fixing challenges affecting international trade.
The high-level meeting has brought together trade ministers and delegates from across the world to address growing disruptions in the multilateral trading system caused by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. For countries like Eswatini, which rely on fair and predictable trade rules, the outcome of these discussions is critical for protecting exports and supporting economic development.
Eswatini is represented at the conference by Phesheya Dube from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade, alongside Sandile Hlatshwayo and Khetsiwe Dlamini, who are participating in engagements expected to shape future global trade policies.
The conference was officially opened by Joseph Dion Ngute, with speakers raising concerns about increasing uncertainty in the multilateral trading system. Some developed countries were noted to be stepping back from commitments, a move that risks weakening trust and stability in global trade.
Ministers are expected to provide direction on reforms aimed at strengthening trade rules and improving the effectiveness of the WTO. A key outcome will be the adoption of a work plan with clear timelines to guide reforms and restore confidence in the system.
Experts note that for developing countries, a strong and fair trading system is essential in ensuring access to global markets and protecting smaller economies from unfair competition. Strengthening the system is therefore seen as a step towards inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
The conference comes at a critical time when global trade continues to face pressure, reinforcing the need for cooperation and collective action to secure a more stable and predictable trading environment for all countries.
