China’s Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao, is set to lead a delegation to the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Yaounde, Cameroon, from March 26 to 29. The conference convenes amidst significant global economic and trade headwinds, including rising unilateralism and protectionism.
The upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference is particularly significant as it takes place against a backdrop of increasing global economic uncertainties. The rise of unilateralism and protectionism poses considerable challenges to the established international trade order. This gathering in Yaounde will bring together over 160 WTO members to deliberate on critical issues shaping the future of global commerce.
As a major developing country and a strong proponent of the multilateral trading system, China has taken proactive steps to contribute to WTO reform. In September 2025, China announced it would forgo any new special and differential treatment in current and future WTO negotiations. Furthermore, the nation has submitted a position paper to the WTO, detailing its perspective on necessary reforms in the current global economic climate.
China aims to play an active role in facilitating consultations and building consensus among member states to achieve productive outcomes at the conference. Beyond the main agenda, China will also host a high-level meeting specifically focused on promoting Africa’s industrialization and exploring avenues for Chinese investment on the continent. This initiative underscores China’s commitment to supporting developing members in their integration into the global trading system and fostering mutually beneficial cooperation.