Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the need for a fair and responsive World Trade Organization (WTO) that caters to the requirements of all members, especially developing and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Goyal engaged in discussions with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the WTO, during the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Yaounde, Cameroon.
Expressing appreciation for Okonjo-Iweala’s efforts in fostering consensus for a successful MC14, Goyal commended the hosting of the conference by Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute and Trade Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana in Cameroon. He also shared his positive experiences of Cameroonian hospitality and culture.
On the sidelines of the conference, Goyal met with EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic. They discussed the MC-14 agenda, progress on the India-EU FTA, and ways to enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation. Both officials agreed on the importance of WTO reforms and deliberated on issues like customs duties on electronic transmission and the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement.
Additionally, Goyal held talks with Canada’s Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu, focusing on expediting the India-Canada CEPA negotiations. They also explored avenues for collaboration beyond the FTA framework, aiming to strengthen ties in sectors such as shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and education. Sidhu extended an invitation to Goyal for a visit to Canada in May 2026 with a significant Indian business delegation.
Furthermore, Goyal engaged with UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Peter J. Kyle, discussing the MC-14 agenda and the progress of the India-UK CETA implementation signed in July 2025. The officials emphasized the importance of ongoing trade agreements and explored opportunities for future collaboration.
