Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Member States of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have lauded Sierra Leone for its significant advancements in trade and economic policy reform during the country’s Third Trade Policy Review (TPR). The successful conclusion of the review coincided with Sierra Leone’s 30th anniversary of WTO membership.
The Sierra Leonean delegation at the WTO in Geneva was led by the Honourable Minister of Trade and Industry, Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, and included officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Finance, the Customs Department of the National Revenue Authority, and the National Investment Board.
Minister Sesay and Ambassador Dr Lansana Gberie were specifically praised for their strategic leadership in driving the country’s progress in trade and investment policy. WTO members noted that these advancements have strengthened Sierra Leone’s international standing and made it a more attractive destination for foreign direct investment, which are seen as crucial for sustainable economic growth.
During the review session, WTO Member States actively participated by posing questions and offering constructive feedback on Sierra Leone’s implementation of its trade policies. The discussions highlighted Sierra Leone’s resilience in overcoming challenges such as the Ebola outbreak in 2014, the COVID-19 pandemic, and various global geopolitical uncertainties.
The TPR also underscored Sierra Leone’s opportunity to further its national development objectives through the implementation of the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2023–2030), which aligns with the government’s “Big Five Game Changers” aimed at achieving Middle-Income Country status by 2039. The operationalization of Sierra Leone’s evolving trade and investment framework, with a focus on economic diversification, import reduction, and sustainability, is central to this goal.
Sierra Leone’s previous Trade Policy Reviews took place in April 2005 and February 2017. This latest review garnered exceptional positive feedback from over 30 WTO Members, including the United Kingdom, United States, European Union, Canada, and numerous others from various regions.
Over 170 questions and 39 comments were submitted by member states during the review. Sierra Leone acknowledged all contributions and affirmed its commitment to incorporating this feedback into its trade policies and international partnerships.
Key achievements recognized by WTO members included the implementation of the National Trade Facilitation Agreement, the establishment of the National Investment Board, effective efforts towards economic diversification, and the ratification of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, as well as the ongoing digitization of customs processes through ASYCUDA World and the Single Electronic Window.
Member states also provided recommendations for Sierra Leone, including strengthening engagement with the WTO, addressing outstanding notifications, advancing trade facilitation and capacity building, and embracing e-commerce while enhancing multilateral trade engagement.
WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala acknowledged the support provided by Sierra Leone’s trading partners in ensuring the success of the review.
Concluding the review, Sierra Leone reaffirmed its commitment to advancing reforms in digital trade, sustainable fisheries, agriculture, and women’s economic empowerment. Minister Alpha Ibrahim Sesay reiterated the nation’s dedication to an inclusive, rules-based global trading system that supports sustainable development.
For More News And Analysis About Sierra-Leone Follow Africa-Press
