DG Okonjo-Iweala calls for strengthening member-expert engagement at WTO Chairs conference

Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala issued a call on 1 July for deeper engagement between WTO members and academics, research institutes and other stakeholders in order to help advance ongoing discussions on WTO reform. Speaking at the opening of the WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) Annual Conference in Geneva, she highlighted the value of external perspectives in supporting members' efforts to modernise and strengthen the multilateral trading system.

The Shridath Ramphal Centre Launches three online short courses

The courses are designed to equip professionals, students, and lifelong learners with practical knowledge in international trade law, customs, and procurement.

The SRC will host a free Introductory Session on June 26th, 2026, from 10:30 – 11:00 AM (AST), where prospective participants can learn more about the courses and what to expect.

WTO Chairs Programme holds Asia Network webinar on economic integration in Asia

The WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) held the second Asia Network webinar on 3 June 2026, bringing together Chairholders, researchers, and experts to discuss “Economic Integration in Asia: Sustainability, Security, and Digitalization.” The webinar was organized under the auspices of the WCP Chair in Qatar at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), acting as the Coordinator of the WCP Asia Network in 2026.

WCP holds a webinar on AfCFTA implementation

The webinar highlighted progress in ratification of AfCFTA and institutional setup, while noting challenges in turning commitments into practice. Participants stressed the need for stronger coordination, partnerships, capacity‑building, improved trade finance, and digital tools to boost intra‑African trade and support SMEs, including those led by youth and women.

WCP holds Asia Network webinar on inclusive digital economy

The first WCP Asia Network webinar was held on 8 April 2026, bringing together Chairholders in the Asian region to debate on the topic of: "Inclusive Digital Economy in Asia: Legal, Economic and Political Perspectives". The webinar was hosted by the WCP Chair in Qatar at Hamad Bin Khalifa University.