Piyush Goyal Advocates for a Fair WTO at the 14th Ministerial Conference in Cameroon

Goyal's Vision for a Balanced WTO

New Delhi: Piyush Goyal, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, has highlighted the necessity for a World Trade Organisation (WTO) that is both balanced and responsive, particularly to the needs of developing nations and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

During the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaounde, Cameroon, Goyal engaged in meaningful discussions with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the WTO's Director-General.

In a post shared on X, Goyal acknowledged her ongoing efforts to foster consensus for a successful MC14.

He also expressed his congratulations to Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute and Trade Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana for their successful hosting of the conference.

Reflecting on his visit, Goyal mentioned the warm hospitality of the Cameroonian people, their rich culture, and the stunning landscapes he experienced.

On the sidelines of the conference, Goyal met with EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic, where they discussed the MC-14 agenda and reviewed the progress of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.

They also explored ways to enhance bilateral trade and economic collaboration, as stated in an official release.

Both Goyal and Sefcovic recognized the urgent need for reforms within the WTO and discussed the moratorium on customs duties related to electronic transmissions, along with the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement.

Additionally, Goyal held talks with Maninder Sidhu, Canada's Minister of International Trade, focusing on accelerating the India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations.

Beyond the FTA discussions, they agreed to create a diversified sectoral engagement strategy, expanding cooperation in areas such as shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and education.

Sidhu warmly invited Goyal for an upcoming visit to Canada in May 2026, where he will lead a significant Indian business delegation.

Goyal also met with Peter J. Kyle, the UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade, to discuss the MC-14 agenda and assess the implementation of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) signed in July 2025.