At the WTO Committee on Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) meeting held on 2 December, members reviewed five RTAs involving countries including China, Ecuador, Israel, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Türkiye, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The meeting also addressed broader topics under the Transparency Mechanism for RTAs.
Ambassador José Valencia of Ecuador, Chair of the Committee, highlighted that there were four new RTA notifications and two updates to existing RTAs. However, at least 62 RTAs currently in force remain unnotified, signaling a need for improved reporting and transparency. The Chair also summarized informal consultations held earlier in the year on non-notified RTAs and factual presentations, noting broad agreement on some issues but indicating that further discussions will be required on others. While some members had suggested inputs for the 14th Ministerial Conference, these were not explored in depth during the meeting.
Under other business, China encouraged members involved in recently concluded RTAs of a non-conventional nature to notify the agreements or share relevant information. The WTO Secretariat also presented a review of RTA-related technical assistance delivered in 2025 and plans for 2026. The Committee’s next meeting is scheduled for 3 March 2026.
Potential benefits to African Trade: The WTO Committee on Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) meeting highlighted the importance of enhancing transparency and compliance among members. With at least 62 RTAs still unnotified, the discussions underscored the need for improved reporting and encouraged members to adhere to WTO notification requirements. The meeting also promoted information sharing on non-conventional RTAs, helping members gain better awareness and understanding of diverse trade arrangements. Additionally, the WTO Secretariat’s technical assistance programs in 2025 and planned initiatives for 2026 provide valuable support for RTA implementation and capacity building.
The meeting further established a foundation for future discussions, with informal consultations addressing unresolved issues and creating a platform for informed decision-making in subsequent sessions. Insights gained from RTA notifications and discussions are expected to inform deliberations at the 14th Ministerial Conference, contributing to the shaping of global trade governance and strengthening cooperation among WTO members.