By: Haddy Touray
The Gambia this month underwent its fourth Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organization (WTO), a periodic assessment of the country’s trade regime that drew praise from member states for recent legislative and institutional reforms.
The review, held on 4 and 6 February in Geneva under the WTO’s Trade Policy Review Mechanism, is part of The Gambia’s obligations as a Least Developed Country member of the global trade body. The mechanism aims to increase transparency and provide a clearer understanding of member states’ trade policies and practices.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment said the review sought to strengthen adherence to WTO rules and disciplines, contributing to the smoother functioning of the multilateral trading system.
The country’s delegation was led by the trade minister and included senior government officials and technical experts. During the proceedings, WTO members commended The Gambia for progress made since its previous review in 2018, citing the enactment of new trade- and investment-related laws and broader institutional reforms.
The ministry said those measures were recognized as important steps toward reinforcing economic governance and modernizing the regulatory framework.
Member states also acknowledged the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, while encouraging Banjul to continue reforms aimed at sustaining growth and expanding participation in international trade.
The government said it remained committed to deepening engagement with the multilateral trading system and advancing policies to promote inclusive growth, enhance competitiveness and support national development objectives.