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Goyal Pushes for Balanced WTO, Strengthens Trade Ties at Cameroon Meet

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the need for a balanced World Trade Organization that addresses the needs of developing countries during the WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon. He held discussions with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and conducted several key bilateral meetings on the sidelines. Goyal reviewed progress on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement with EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and discussed expediting negotiations for the India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. He also met with UK Business Secretary Peter J. Kyle to review the implementation of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement.

Key Points: Piyush Goyal at WTO MC14: Reforms, FTAs, and Bilateral Talks

  • Stressed need for balanced WTO reforms
  • Held talks with WTO Director-General
  • Reviewed India-EU FTA progress
  • Discussed expediting India-Canada CEPA
  • Met UK Trade Secretary on CETA implementation
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Piyush Goyal emphasises importance of a balanced and responsive WTO

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal emphasizes WTO reforms for developing nations and reviews FTA progress with EU, Canada, and UK at Cameroon conference.

"Acknowledged her continued efforts in building consensus for a successful MC14 - Piyush Goyal"

New Delhi, March 30

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has emphasised the importance of a balanced and responsive World Trade Organization that effectively addresses the needs and aspirations of all members, particularly developing countries and Least Developed Countries.

Goyal had valuable discussions with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the WTO, as part of engagements at the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) held in Yaounde, Cameroon.

"Acknowledged her continued efforts in building consensus for a successful MC14," Goyal said in a post on X.

He also congratulated Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute and Trade Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana for the successful hosting of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon.

"I am carrying back with me beautiful memories of the warm hospitality of the Cameroonian people, their wonderful culture, and the picturesque landscapes," the minister said.

On the sidelines of the conference, Goyal held a bilateral meeting with EU Trade Commissioner, Maros Sefcovic.

Both sides exchanged views on MC-14 agenda, reviewed progress of the work underway on the signing of the recently concluded India-EU FTA as well as explored options for further enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation, according to an official statement.

Goyal and Sefcovic agreed on the necessity of WTO reforms. They also exchanged views on the issue of moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmission as well as incorporation of the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement.

Goyal also held a bilateral meeting with Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade of Canada. The discussion focused on expediting the recently launched India-Canada CEPA negotiations.

Outside the FTA framework, both sides also agreed to develop a diversified sectoral engagement strategy and expand cooperation in shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and the education sector.

Sidhu extended a warm welcome to Goyal for his upcoming visit to Canada in May 2026, leading a major Indian business delegation.

Goyal also held a bilateral meeting with the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Peter J. Kyle.

Both sides exchanged views on MC-14 agenda and reviewed progress of the implementation of the India-UK CETA signed in July 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting read. The focus on the moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions is key. As digital trade grows, developing countries need fair policies to benefit from it, not just be data providers.
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Vikram M
FTAs with EU, UK, Canada... our trade diplomacy is on a roll! Hope these agreements actually translate to more jobs and better prices for common people here, not just big businesses. The devil is in the details.
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Priyanka N
While the engagement is good, I hope our stance at the WTO remains strong on protecting our farmers and MSMEs. Sometimes in the rush for FTAs, we compromise on these vital sectors. Jai Kisan.
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Rohit P
Cooperation in shipbuilding and pharma with Canada is a smart move. We have the talent and capacity. Let's hope these talks move beyond diplomacy and get implemented fast. Time is money!
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Michael C
It's refreshing to see a trade minister also appreciating the host country's culture and hospitality. Building good personal rapport often helps in tough negotiations. The human touch matters.

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