Cameroon is set to host the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) from March 26–29, 2026. This milestone event will make Cameroon the second African nation to host the WTO’s highest decision-making body, following Kenya’s hosting of MC10 in Nairobi in 2015.
The announcement came after a consensus was reached among WTO members, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to inclusivity in global trade discussions. Trade ministers and senior officials from the WTO’s 166 member nations will gather in Cameroon to deliberate on policies shaping the global trading system.
Cameroon’s Ambassador to the WTO, Salomon Eheth, expressed gratitude for the confidence shown by member nations in selecting his country as the host. He highlighted that the event presents Cameroon with a dual opportunity: contributing to the growth of the multilateral trading system and showcasing the nation’s potential as a hub for investment and sustainable development in Africa.
“This is a pivotal moment for Cameroon and the continent. We are eager to demonstrate Africa’s capacity to engage meaningfully in global trade while highlighting investment opportunities that align with sustainable development goals,” Eheth stated.
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The decision to host MC14 in Cameroon comes on the heels of significant outcomes from the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13), held in Abu Dhabi. Key achievements included the admission of Comoros and Timor-Leste into the WTO, marking the first additions to the organization since 2016.
These memberships bring the total number of WTO members to 166, reflecting the organization’s continued efforts to integrate least-developed countries (LDCs) into the global trading system.
Another noteworthy achievement from MC13 was the launch of a joint WTO initiative by 72 member nations aimed at enhancing transparency and fairness in regulating traded services. This initiative is projected to reduce global trade costs by as much as $125 billion, further emphasizing the WTO’s role in fostering economic growth and inclusivity.
The General Council Chair, Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, stated that the final structure and agenda for MC14 would be determined based on the progress of trade negotiations in the coming year.
As Cameroon gears up to host this critical event, the spotlight will be on Africa’s role in shaping the future of global trade. With its rich resources and growing economy, Cameroon aims to use this platform to underline the continent’s importance in fostering sustainable development and economic resilience.
MC14 is expected to draw global attention, not just to trade discussions but to Cameroon’s growing significance as a key player in international trade dynamics.
