Cameroon and the World Trade Organization (WTO) have signed a memorandum of understanding confirming Cameroon’s readiness to host the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in Yaoundé in March 2026. The agreement was signed on Monday, May 26, in the capital city of Yaoundé.
The signing followed a meeting between Cameroonian Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute and WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The discussions focused on key areas such as funding, security, and logistics for the event.
Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute stated, “I am confident this gathering will help lay the foundation for the development of a fairer, more balanced trade model, one that better promotes sustainable and inclusive growth.” He also expressed appreciation for the cooperation between Cameroon and the WTO, saying, “I would like to assure you that Cameroonian authorities greatly appreciated the excellent quality of cooperation between our state and the WTO.”
Overview of Ministerial Conference
The WTO Ministerial Conference is the organisation’s highest decision-making body, convening representatives from all 164 member countries to discuss global trade policies and reforms. Cameroon will host the 14th edition, as confirmed by Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, the Minister of Trade, following the 12th edition held in Geneva in 2022.
According to Business in Cameroon, the event typically attracts thousands of delegates and key international trade stakeholders. Furthermore, Cameroon’s hosting of the conference will mark a significant diplomatic achievement.
WTO Director to Inspect Event Facilities
As part of preparations, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala arrived in Yaoundé to inspect facilities critical to the conference. State broadcaster CRTV reported that her inspection includes hotels and other logistics infrastructure in the capital, along with visits to key international business establishments.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala arrived in Cameroon on Sunday evening, where Minister of Trade Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana welcomed her.
