14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization

The Holy See Delegation thanks the Government of Cameroon for organizing this 14^th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Although global trade had a record year in 2025, surpassing $35 trillion[1], the multilateral trading system, which was constructed over several decades, is under immense pressure. This puts those with the least capacity to absorb shocks at a disproportionate disadvantage.[2]  

The WTO embodies the principle that economic relations should be governed by law rather than power. Furthermore, the WTO is an essential component of the international development architecture and promotes fair competition. Despite their technical appearance, trade rules have a social impact with long-lasting consequences for humanity.[3]

The Holy See appeals to all Members of this Organization to resist the temptation of unilateralism and short-term advantages, in favor of upholding multilateralism. As Pope Leo XIV said, “the complex challenges of our time make it more necessary than ever to seek and adopt shared solutions.”[4]

For trade to be deeply fair, responsible, sustainable and transparent, the search for adequate solutions to the challenges of our time should be guided by putting the God-given dignity of the human person at the centre and by aiming at the integral development of all. Trade is not an end in and of itself. Free exchange of goods and services is also essential for development and peace; however, its positive potential is realized better when it is guided by fair rules and oriented toward the common good.

In light of these principles, the reform of the WTO is both necessary and urgent.

Firstly, with regard to decision-making, consensus is a safeguard of sovereign equality, and rules binding all should be adopted with the participation of all. Although it can be time-consuming, consensus enables nations to move forward together. Consensus is not just a procedural requirement; it is also an expression of solidarity.

However, the pursuit of consensus must not lead to paralysis. The adoption of creative and courageous measures is essential to rebuild confidence, strengthen the multilateral nature of the Organization, and overcome the deadlock, as this deterioration also undermines the foundations of multilateralism in general.

Secondly, development must remain at the core of the multilateral trading system. In this context, the full and effective integration of developing countries is paramount.

Similarly, the special and differential treatment should continue to be strengthened and supported effectively.

Thirdly, the principle of a level playing field must be understood in an equitable manner. Fair competition requires transparent rules that recognize differences in levels of development. A truly balanced system must provide developing countries with the economic resources and the policy space necessary for advancing human development.

Allow me now to address specific topics.

Agriculture remains central to the livelihoods of billions of people, particularly in developing countries. The problem of food insecurity and malnutrition continues to represent one of the greatest challenges of our time. Food security has long been recognized as a core issue in the agriculture negotiations; therefore, it is important to revitalize these negotiations and to address this issue in a balanced manner that not only aims at efficiency, but also ensures that global trade contributes to eradicating hunger.

In the area of fisheries, the adoption of measures to eliminate harmful subsidies is a significant step in the right direction. The effective implementation and further strengthening of these regulations should be supported.

Considering that immense differences exist between countries, the integration of LDCs into the multilateral trading system is fundamental. Graduation should involve smooth transition periods, continued support, and adequate exemptions and flexibility.

The future of the WTO depends not only on technical adjustments, but also on the re-centralization of the human person at the heart of the multilateral trading system, ensuring that the benefits of trade are distributed more equitably, for the benefit all peoples and nations.

Thank you.