Malaysia is calling on the World Trade Organization (WTO) to intensify its support for developing and least-developed countries while undertaking necessary reforms to remain relevant in the evolving global trading landscape.
Speaking at the 31st Apec Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Jeju, South Korea, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz stressed the need for the WTO to address the challenges that have undermined its effectiveness.
“We must examine the issues that have diminished the WTO’s role and have the courage to implement changes at the organisational level,”
Tengku Zafrul said in a statement to Bernama.
Malaysia is advocating for reform discussions to take place at the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Cameroon next year. According to Tengku Zafrul, strengthening the WTO’s framework is essential to ensuring the organisation continues to support all member countries.
The minister also underlined the importance of maintaining the principle of multilateralism in global trade rather than resorting to unilateralism, as this ensures a more balanced and inclusive trading system.
“We have appointed a WTO ambassador who is actively participating in efforts to keep the organisation relevant and focused on its core mission of supporting countries equitably,”
Tengku Zafrul added.
Malaysia’s stance highlights its commitment to upholding a rules-based international trading system and advocating for greater inclusivity, particularly for developing economies.
-Bernama
