The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade emphasized the necessity of remaining vigilant regarding the potential marginalization of MSMEs and small economies in international trade. He asserted: “ACP is prepared for investment; however, it is imperative to resolve several prevailing constraints, including the inequity in digital access.” The principal conversations among ministers were about advancing the WTO agenda, particularly in fisheries, agriculture, and dispute settlement reform. The necessity for the WTO to tackle current issues, including digital trade and trade-related climate concerns, was emphasized. Concerns were raised about the possible effects of reinstating tariffs as protectionism. WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the necessity for composure amid current trade tensions and urged the WTO to prioritize the completion of the Agreement on fisheries subsidies and finalise the investment facilitation for a development agreement. Minister Symmonds, representing the ACP, stated: “The WTO must be modernized for the 21st century by reforming the dispute settlement system, finalizing fisheries subsidies negotiations, prioritizing development, and addressing emerging issues such as climate and trade, as well as digitalization.” The Barbados delegation at the meeting comprised Ambassador Matthew Wilson and Deputy Permanent Representative Kay Sealy. 10 BUSINESS VIEW CARIBBEAN VOLUME 12, ISSUE 01
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