RESTRICTED  
  
WT/COMTD/LDC/M/94  
 
16 February 2023  
(23-1099) Page: 1/14 
Sub-Committee on Least Developed Countries  
Ninety -Fourth Session  
 
NOTE  ON THE MEETING OF 20 OCT OBER  2022  
Chairperson: Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi  (Finland ) 
A. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA  ................................ ................................ .....................  1 
B. THE ROLE OF THE AFRICAN CONTINENTAL FREE TRADE AREA FOR ECONOMIC 
GROWTH  DEVELOPMENT  ................................ ................................ ..........................  1 
C. REPORT BY LDC COORDINATOR ON RECENT ACTIVITIES  ................................ ...... 13 
D. OTHER BUSINESS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 14 
 
 
A. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA  
1. The Chairperson  welcomed Members to the 94th Session of the Sub -Committee on Least  
Developed Countries (hereinafter the Sub -Committee) , which took place in a hybrid format.  
2. She highlighted that the LDC -stories blog which aimed to share the experiences of the LDCs 
presented at the Sub -Committee was launched.1 She said that the agenda of the meeting was contained 
in document WTO/AIR/COMTD/LDC/ 21. 
3. The agenda was adopted . 
B. THE ROLE OF THE AFRICAN CONTINENTAL FREE TRADE AREA FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH  
DEVELOPMENT  
4. The Chairperson  noted that the meeting would be focused on the role of the African Continental 
Free Trade Area ( AfCFTA ) for economic growth and development. She highlighted  that while Africa was 
home to 1.3 billion people  — with many liv ing in LDCs  — the continental share in global trade remained 
below 3%.  She noted that to boost trade, African leaders met in Kigali in 2018 and set out an ambitious 
vision that brought the entire continental market under one roof, leading to the creation of the AfCFTA . 
5. She stated that , according to the World Bank, the AfCFTA  could bring over USD 500 billion in 
Africa's exports and over USD  400 billion in income. Over half of the income gains were expected to 
come from lower trade costs and leaner customs procedures , which could  help African businesses in 
LDCs integrate into global supply chain s.  
6. She went on to introduce the  speakers, including  the Coordinator of the African Group in Geneva , 
high-level capital -based government officials from Djibouti and Togo , and development partners  from 
Geneva, Washington DC and Nairobi. She commenced  the meeting by inviting the representative of 
Cameroon, the Coordinator of the African Group , to provide an overview of the AfCFTA . 
 
1 LDC Success stories blog is available at: https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/devel_e/ssldcs_e.htm  WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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7. The representative of Cameroon  highlighted that the implementation of  AfCFTA  offered 
opportunities for African countries to respond to the current global trade and production  challenges . 
He stated that at the 10th Extraordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of States and 
Government held in Kigali, Rwanda on 21 March 2018, 44 African Union Member States ratified the 
agreement. The AfCFTA entered into force on 30 May 2019.  
8. He underlined that  trade ope rationalization officially started in January 2021 . It was also one of 
the flagship project s of the African Union  Agenda 2063 , which aim ed to promote  sustainable and 
inclusive growth. The AfCFTA  represent ed a market of 1. 3 billion consumers and a combined GDP of 
approximately USD 3 trillion for the 54 member state s of the African Union (A U). The AfCFTA  was the 
second largest free trade area since the  creation of the  World Trade Organization  (WTO) , after 
the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in Asia and the Pacific.  
9. He pointed out that t he mission  of the AfCFTA  was set out in  Article 3 of the framework agreement , 
which include d: (i) create a single market for goods and services  facilitated by the mo vement of people 
to deepen the economic integration of the African continent , in line with the Pan African Vision of "an 
integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa " enshrined  in Agenda 2063 ; (ii) create a liberalized market 
for goods and services  through successive rounds of negotiation s; (iii) contribute to the movement of 
capital and natural persons and facilitate investment by building o n the initiative s and development s in 
the State Parties and Regional Economic Communities ( RECs); (iv) lay the foundation for the 
establishment  of a Continental Customs Union  at a later stage ; (v) promote and attain sustainable and  
inclusive socio-economic  development,  gender equality, structural transformation of the S tate Parties ; 
and (vi) strengthen the competitiveness of the economies of State Parties within the  continent  and 
the global market .  
10. He highlighted the main  organ s of the AfCFTA , including  the Conference of the H ead of State and 
Government, the Council of Ministers, the Committe e of Senior Trade Officials, and the Secretariat. 
He highlighted that  the AfCFTA  negotiations progressed  in phases.  Phase I covered trade in goods and 
services, and dispute settlement . Currently the negotiation reached phase II which covered intellectual 
property, competition  policy,  investment, digital trade and economic empowerment of women and 
youth. He further elaborated that the  adoption of the intellectual property and competition protocol 
would be discussed at the next AfCFTA summit (November 2022 ). He noted that t he AfCFTA  had a 
two-tier dispute settlement body , similar to the WTO, and the AfCFTA Secretariat was working on the 
selection process of the Appellate Body Members.  
11. With regard to  the opportunities , he elaborate d that  millions of people could be lifted from  poverty 
over the next few years , and this could be achieved by : (i) eliminating customs duties ; (ii) remov ing 
non-tariff barriers ; (iii)  prevent ing market fragmentation;  and (iv)  creating a conducive trade 
environment . He emphasized that the identif ications of  rules, procedures and policies would  facilitate  
market situations and overcome difficulties  were crucial to leverage the full potential.  
12. He noted that b usinesses face d challenges due to  the high costs of commercial exchanges, 
different regulatory frameworks, and other issues that affect the effectiveness of their operations across 
the Continent. He underscored the  importan ce of having tools and instruments that could assess the 
effectiveness of these measures , which could increase  the competitiveness of businesses . He added that 
increasing production networks and regional trade could  enhance  economic diversification , increase  
value  addition and create more productive jobs for young people and women across the continent.  
13. With respect to trade in  goods, he said that the African continent ha d been seen as a producer of 
raw materials for the world , and further  value  addition  was completed  elsewhere. He acknowledged  that 
the AfCFTA would facilitate  creating value  addition, economic diversification, higher revenues,  and better 
jobs.  
14. With regard to trade in services, he underlined that the AfCFTA  held the vast potential to boost 
African services exports. He highlighted that that agreement could increase  regional income by 7% 
by 2035, and stated  that the African continent was young, with half of its population under 35 years old.  WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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He went on to say that the AU was created following the independence of African countries, and 
the rationale behind the name "Agenda 2063 " was that the AU would turn 100 years old in 2063.  
15. He also added that members of the AfCFTA  sought to eliminate tariffs on 90% of goods over a 
five-year period  (10 years for LDCs ). An additional 7% of tariff lines were deemed sensitive , and tariffs 
on these goods would  be eliminated over a ten-year period (13 years for LDCs). The remaining 3% of 
tariff lines c ould be excluded from liberali zation, while the value would not exceed 10% of total 
intra-African imports.  The annexes on  Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and Technical Barriers 
to Trade  (TBT) mostly reflected the WTO  rules. He underlined that the  good practices adopted by 
WTO Members , including the e -Ping platform, would be useful to the AfCFTA Members and avoid 
duplication of notifications.  
16. He concluded by emphasizing that the AfCFTA  would be  a tool for the integration and development 
of the African continent. To increase production and export capacities of Members, he noted the 
importance  of trade support  at each stage of implementation , especially for the LDCs. He noted that 
while the Aid-for-Trade efforts were important, more could be  done to help African LDCs  realize the full 
potential of the AfCFTA  and the multilateral trading system.  
17. The representative of Djibouti  stated that during the recent WTO's Trade Policy Review of Djibouti, 
Members noted  Djibouti 's efforts  over the last 30 years to integrat e into the multilateral trading system. 
He noted that the AfCFTA  marked a new beginning, building  on the efforts of the last 30 years . He added 
that the AfCFTA  aimed to create an integrated market for the free movement of goods and services.  
18. He underlin ed that Djibo uti remain ed open to international trade and  took part in all the technical 
discussions during the first phase of the AfCFTA  negotiations . He noted that Djibouti moved forward at 
a national level and took all the necessary changes to participate in the AfCFTA fully. He acknowledged  
that the AfCFTA  could bring new opportunities and boost capacity  to trade of African countries . 
19. He reiterated Djibouti 's commitment to the AfCFTA  and Common Market for Eastern and Southern 
Africa (C OMESA ). He stated  that as a member of COMESA, Djibouti received support for developing  
several studies and assessment s to build local capacities , to allow full implementation of the AfCFTA . 
One of the recommendations from an impact study was to incorporate  economic diversification  objective 
into Djibouti Vision 2035 and the National Development Plan  with a view to  allow Djibouti  to become a  
regional trade, finance,  and telecommunications  hub. 
20. He highlighted  the different stages of the AfCFTA , starting with the negotiations on trade and 
goods and  the settlement of dispute. This allowed Djibouti to submit the schedule of commitments in its 
priority sectors : transport, communication, tourism  and professional services.  A roadmap was also 
agreed at different inte r-ministerial committees, which the Ministry of Trade coordinated with customs  
authorities .  
21. He noted that Djibouti had been working with a range of partners  to implement the AfCFTA . One 
example was the United Nations Economic Commission  for Africa  (ECA) , where a sensitive products 
simulation study was conducted to make a precise list of these products. He also highlighted the 
cooperation with  the World Customs Organization (WCO) , which provided technical assistance to 
facilitate the migr ation of  the customs system from 2007 to 2022. Djibouti completed the service 
legislation with support from the AU. 
22. He emphasized the importance of  communication with private sectors and the civil society at  a 
national level  to better understand trade-related challenges . He underlined that  the awareness raising 
program was critical to broaden knowledge on the steps  to be taken . He underscored that the private 
sector was the cornerstone of the AfCFTA 's delivery, and close partnership with the Chamber of 
Commerce allowed national forums to be held.  He highlighted that coordination  was critical in 
implementing any regional processes . He stated that several mechanisms , including  inter-ministerial , 
and tech nical subcommittees  helped to ensure high inter -institutional coordination . WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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23. He underlined some  challenges  that may arise from participation in the AfCFTA , including loss of 
customs revenue,  increased  competition in productive sector s, as well as  risks of losing income  and jobs. 
To overcome these challenges,  he underlined the critical importance  of helping micro, small and 
medium -sized enterprises ( MSMEs ). He also noted  that in the last ten years, Djib outi invested in 
infrastructure  to strengthen  its role as a regional hub , a distribution centre and a gateway to the Red  Sea 
for its neighbouring landlocked countries , such as Ethiopia.  A large international free -trade zone with 
processing and transformation capacities , as well as  opportunities to participate in regional value chains  
was built .  
24. He concluded with Djibouti 's three main lessons learnt. First, he mentioned building  on good 
practices  in line with the first phase of AfCFTA  negotiations.  He stated that the AfCFTA  had been built 
on various African regional achievements. He highlighted  that COMESA implemented a simplified regime 
for cross -border transactions , which allowed participation in regional trade. He also noted that these 
good practices allowed  Djibouti and Ethiopia to sign a bilateral cross -border trade agreement.  
25. Second, he un derlined the importance of a national coordination mechanism  such as 
inter-ministerial mechanisms on trade facilitation and non -tariff barriers.  One example he noted was the 
Djibouti -Ethiopia corridor program which was supported by the European Union and TradeMark  East 
Africa . The first step of implementation covered aspects relat ed to trade facilitation, customs, and 
logistics . Moving forward, he emphasized  the importance of giving  these mechanisms a more permanent 
role by strengthening the mandates and avoiding multiplication of committee mandates.  
26. Third, he underscored the need to bolster  trade capacity and  investment in productive sectors , as 
countries  with low productive capacit y had little opportunity to participate in regional arrangements. 
He noted the importance of economic diversification in Djibouti and highlighted the priority sectors such 
as tourism and telecommunications that would help transform the economy. He reiterat ed the 
importance of focusing on regional value chains and supporting productive capacity to boost trade 
participation and export capacities.  
27. The representative of Togo highlighted that the main objective of the AfCFTA  was to create a 
single market for goods and services, which laid the foundation for establishing a continental customs 
union and enhanced the competitiveness of its State Parties ' economies. He continued with four  benefits 
of the AfCFTA: (i)  increase volu me of intra -African trade; (ii)  increase independence of the African 
economy; (iii)  poverty reduction and economic growth; and (iv)  creation of jobs for women and young 
people.  
28. There were f ive key actions taken by Togo . First, he acknowledged that the parl iament  authorized 
its Head of State  to ratify the AfCFTA  in December 2018 and  deposited the ratification instrument with 
the AU in April 201 9.  
29. Second, he highlighted that outreach sessions were launched in the capital and countrywide. 
It aimed to ensure all stakeholders  — including general audiences from the public and private sectors, 
parliamentarians, academics,  and journalists  — understood the agreement comprehensively.  He said 
that training sessions , being rolled -out in partnership with the ECA , Enhanced Integrated Framework 
(EIF) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) , be based on the conditions and procedures 
goods must comply with to be eligible for preferential treatment under the AfCFTA. The training sessions 
targeted customs offic ers, freight forwarders, women in charge of processing units, women traders and 
entrepreneurs.  
30. Third, he underscored the importance of n ational consultations , which gather ed concerns of 
women economic operators, particularly those engaged in cross -border t rade as part of 
the AfCFTA  protocol  on women in trade. He emphasized that women played a pivotal role in trade, and 
their recommendations such as building capacity for women, enhancing communication and awareness, 
and elimination of trade obstacles  would be implemented .  
31. Finally, he noted that a national  AfCFTA  strategy  would be prepared with technical support and 
financial support from the ECA, EIF and UNDP. He noted that Togo created the national AfCFTA  WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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Committee within the National Committee for International Trade Negotiations . All these measures 
helped to ensure national  implementation of the AfCFTA  and allowed Togo to prepare the schedule of 
tariff concessions  which was submitted to the Economic Community of West African States ( ECOWAS ). 
Togo also prepared a draft schedule of specific commitments in the five priority sectors for trade in 
services.  
32. Moving  forward, he highlighted that Togo aim ed to adopt four measures: ( i) establish 
the AfCFTA  Sub-Committee as a technical committee ; (ii) incorporate the governmental roadmap 2025 
in Togo's national AfCFTA  strategy ; (iii) implement the recommendations from the national consultation 
of women ; and (iv) gather  support from technical and financial partners (TFPs) . 
33. He underlined that Togo w ould work together with  TFPs to : (i) increase  understanding of AfCFTA ; 
(ii) boost trade in African countries; (iii)  enhance the organization of national, regional international 
trade fairs and subsidize women 's participation; (iv)  improve interconnection among banks of various 
countries to minimize transaction fees; and (v)  train women entrepreneurs to use the "50 Million African 
Women Speak" platform, allowing women to share experiences and raise awareness.  
34. He noted that Togo  would implement the actions of the national AfCFTA  strategy , which aimed to : 
(i) promote export of products and services, taking into account African international standards and 
regulations; (ii)  break into export markets for various products and services; (iii)  boost technical 
capacity building for producers and processors; and (iv)  enhance capacity building for laboratories 
responsible for the quality control for agriculture products for exports.  
35. He concluded by saying that  Togo was one of the first countries to prepare its national 
AfCFTA  strategy  and ha d a team made up of negotiators and experts to tackle  AfCFTA -related matters.  
36. The representative of the European Union  said that the European Union had been supporting LDCs 
in Africa with their regional integration efforts, including the AfCFTA . In this regard, he stressed the 
importance of (i) aid; (ii)  investment; and (iii)  policy support.  
37. He noted that in 2020, Aid for Trade to LDCs from the European Union, including its member 
States, reached EUR  2.9 billion ; furthermore, over one-third of the European Union Aid for Trade went 
to Africa. The European Union and its Member States ( "Team Europe ") announced an additional 
EUR 630 million to continue its longstanding support to African economic integration and trade, including 
AfCFTA 's implementation and trade rela tions with the European Union. This support comprise d trade 
facilitation, customs procedures, Rules of Origin, quality infrastructure for key value chains, intellectual 
property, competition frameworks, digital trade, trade in services, and other areas.  
38. He went on to give three examples of trade support offered by the European Union : (i) Team 
Europe  Technical Assistance Facility to the AfCFTA , which was operational since June 2022 and amount ed 
to EUR  24.2 million co -funded by France, Germany and Sweden to assist various continental and 
sub-regional players in implementing AfCFTA  effectively; (ii)  AfCFTA  e-tariff book, which was launched 
last July, in partnership with the WCO; (iii)  International Trade Centre 's (ITC)  support to build the 
African  Trade Observatory, for monitor ing the  implementation of trade agreements, and compil ing and 
sharing direct reliable data on intra -African trade.  
39. With regard to investment, he said that at the summit between the African Union and the European 
Union in Februar y 2022 , the European Union tabled the Global Gateway and the EU -Africa  Investment 
Package. This initiative underlined the shared ambition to promote investment and the private sector 
for Africa 's longer -term sustainable growth. He noted that the European Union , under the Investment 
Package aimed at leveraging investments, amounting to EUR 150 billion, through grant assistance  from 
the European Union and its Member States  ("Team Europe "), together with their Development Finance 
Institutions.  
40. With r espect to policy, he highlighted the need for improving the enabling framework through 
deeper regional integration, both within Africa and between Africa and the E uropean Union , which would 
require reforms in the regulatory environment, policies  and dialog ue and the involvement of  the private WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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sector.  He elaborated  that t he Summit between the African Union and the European Union in 
February  2022 was not only about aid and investment but also about common and global challenges, 
including a flagship initiative  on supporting African continental trade and economic integration. To fulfil 
these commitments, he underlined the importan ce of identifying ways as to  how the WTO c ould support 
regional integration among African  countries, and especially the LDCs. Efforts made at the multilateral 
level should be leveraged to ensure effective implementation of the AfCFTA . For example, he noted that 
the African countries ' commitments and progress to implement the TFA would be  instru mental in 
ensuring that companies c ould export and import smoothly under the AfCFTA .  
41. He noted that the Summit outcome encouraged for leverag ing on the EU -African regional trade 
agreements, i.e.  Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs), to augment the benefi ts of EU -African trade 
and support the AfCFTA . He also acknowledged that investment facilitation for development remained 
at the core of the European Union 's sustainable investment initiative, which was also timely in view of 
the roll -out of  the Global Gat eway Investment Package.  
42. He concluded with three lessons learnt with regard to supporting the LDCs. He noted that the 
European Union 's Everything but Arms arrangement which granted duty -free, quota -free access to LDCs 
played a pivotal role in driving expor t growth in LDCs. At the same time , he acknowledged that more 
actions had to be taken to boost economic diversification. He recognized that market access should be 
coupled with support to enhanced infrastructure, investment climate, access to finance, skills and other 
aspects to improve trade competitiveness.  
43. The representative from the European Union noted that its Aid -for-Trade Strategy suggested a 
differentiated approach among countries . He recognized that more mature markets naturally attract ed 
more private capital and non -concessional loans. He recalled that the recent Aid for Trade at a Glance 
publication showed that , among donors globally,  the share of grants in total Aid for Trade d ecreased 
more sharply for LDCs than for other country groups. He noted that the drop in Aid for Trade 
concessionality posed  a challenge for providing adequate support to the countries in greatest need.  
44. He also noted that the COVID -19 crisis had amplified L DC problems. He stated that Russia 's war 
against Ukraine had further contributed to rising energy and food prices, in many cases impacting LDCs 
heavily. He recognized that LDCs were also vulnerable to climate risk. He noted that many African LDCs 
depende d on a limited number of agricultural exports, and such commodities were vulnerable to climate 
shocks and natural disasters. He noted that under the European Union 's Global Gateway, investment in 
trade and climate played a crucial role in tackling these chal lenges.  
45. The representative of the United States Agency for International Development ( USAID ) introduced 
Prosper Africa Initiative, as  an overarching initiative that focused on supporting bilateral investments 
and trade between the United States and the Afr ican continent. He added that this was intended to fuel 
economic growth by empowering businesses and investors with market insights, helping financing 
opportunities and supporting job creation.   
46. He stated that as part of the Prosper Africa Initiative , USAID 's Africa Trade and Investment (ATI) 
program  was designed to boost trade and investment in the African continent  and with  the United States , 
amounting  USD 500 million over five years.  
47. He noted that the USAID had trade and investment hubs in Eastern, Western and Southern Africa.  
He underlined that supply chains could link different  regions, with the private sector assessing the 
opportunities of fered by various  markets. He acknowledged  that the ATI investment program mirror ed 
the private sec tor's approach and enable d USAID to be more responsive to private sector needs.  
48. He flagged  two lines of effort. The first was focused on supporting AfCFTA  through the ATI, in line 
with the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)  and the Generalized System of Preference s (GSP) . 
He noted  three primary components of the ATI that could support the  AfCFTA : (i) support African t rade 
priorities ; (ii) provid e information to the African and U nited States'  private sectors on the status of the 
AfCFTA  agreements , negotiations  and anticipated outcomes, and  (iii) work with the private sector and 
industry associations at continental and regional levels.  WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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49. He highlighted five activities undertaken under the ATI initiative. The first and second  initiative s 
were with McKinsey Global  and Tutwa Consulting , which aimed to work with the RECs in Africa by 
provid ing support in areas such as private -public interaction.  He highlighted t hat the latter company  
focused more on intellectual property, e-commerce,  and competition  issues .  
50. The third initiative was  the collaboration with the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) and the Trade 
Law Centre NPC (TRALAC)  to provide information to both African and U nited States'  private sectors on 
the status of the agreement negotiations . He also stressed the importance of working with the private 
sector and industry associations and  facilitat ing business to business (B2B)  opportunities  in support of 
Annual Intra -Africa Trade Fair and U nited States buyer events.  
51. The fourth initiative  he highlighted  was the partnership with DNA and African Women in business , 
where he underscored the role of African women in business . He stated that the focus was to provide  
information to African women owned and managed  businesses  on the status of the agreement 
negotiations and  how they c ould specifically engage in ongoing developments. He also highlighted the 
development of relevant metrics for AfCFTA 's implementation , which was critical in measuring  AfCFTA 's 
impact on women trading companies.  
52. He acknowledged the collaboration with the Alliance for Commodity Trade in Eastern and Southern 
Africa (ACTESA) and African Fertilizer and Agribusiness Partnership  (AFAP) , which focused on the seed 
and fertilizer sector. He noted the close partnership  with the private sector  which supported  the US and 
African firms on int ra-Africa trade activities and expanded  the African 's seed and fertilizer  market .  
53. He acknowledged that t he second line of effort was to encourage utilization of the  two trade 
preference programs , AGOA and GSP , through the ATI . Work under ATI included issuing  various requests 
for proposals  and creating relationships with various entities that could  scale up activities under these 
preference programs.  He highlighted partnerships with entities such as TRAL AC, which engaged experts 
to provide more details on ways  to leverage AGOA and GSP in various sectors. He added that there were 
trainings and workshops sponsored by local Chambers of Commerce and local business associations to 
reach out to young professionals and explore ways to utilize the preference programs.  
54. He concluded by stating that there would be more targeted efforts to promot e bilateral business 
between the United States and Africa.  He also underlined  other ways utilized by the ATI to promot e 
African -US trade:  (i) market intelligence assessments and fe asibility studies; (ii)  market linkage and 
trade services; (iii)  funds  and financial instrument s; (iv) structuring support ; and (v)  financial advisory 
and capacity building services . 
55. The representative of TradeMark East Africa (TMEA ) introduced TMEA  as a donor -funded 
Aid-for-Trade institution based in Kenya and founded in 2010. He added that the mission was to promote 
rapid advances in Africa 's integration, trade and global competitiveness  via two metrics : (i) reduc e the 
time and cost of trading acro ss borders; and (ii)  improv e export competitiveness.  He highlighted that 
the institution ha d 11 donors and operate d in 13 countries , including all East African Community (EAC) 
member states  and other African countries, including  Djibouti, Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique and 
Zambia .  
56. He underlined that there were serious results across th e two outcome areas in the last 12 years 
and constant evolution of models and review of lessons learnt allowed them to leverage emerging 
opportuniti es. He highlighted three aspects which could be relevant to the AfCFTA 's development: (i)  the 
'what'; (ii) the 'how'; and (iii)  the future.  
57. With regard to the 'what', he noted three pillars. First,  he highlighted  the political commitments 
combined with technical support . He elaborated that the  EAC's success over the last 15 years was 
attributed to the  top leadership which provided political space, and the creation of  strong incentives 
within its member states to ov ercome vested interests within institutions and solve problems between 
countries. He  acknowledged  that such commitment was necessary but insufficient for success. 
He underscored TMEA 's technical assistance, which  created strategic national visions and owne rship, WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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legal and regulatory framework, and the buy -in for the implementation of trade instruments at a national 
and cross -border level.  
58. Second, he emphasized the practical demonstrations of policy progress . He took EAC  as an 
example and underscored the importance to show benefits to the  people,  private sector, and government 
institutions. He highlighted that TMEA  focused on t rade blockages and reduced  dwell times by about 
50% for Mombasa and Dar Es Salaam ports. He adde d that TMEA  also installed 15  one-stop border posts 
(OSBPs ) across the region while working on five new ones , shortening  transit times across borders by 
an average of 70%. All these efforts reduced trading time along the whole No rthern  Corridor, from 
Momba sa to Bujumbura, by 16.5%.  He underlined that these were real-world improvements that 
increased exporters' margins, boosted governments' revenues, and contributed to a thriving trade and 
economic environment.  
59. Third, he highlighted public -private engagement  through  regular and solution -focused dialogue . 
He acknowledged  real progress such as the removing  non-tariff barriers (NTBs) when both sides work ed 
toward greater economic success . He noted  many  of these NTBs only benefit ted specific individuals , 
such as the police at a checkpoint  or fulfilled  a narrow mandate . This  hinder ed what countries were 
trying to achieve at a national level.  To resolve this, he highlighted that TMEA  supported the  engagement 
between  the East African Business Community and Kenyan Government to increase staff and 
aflatoxin -testing capacity for grains at the border with Uganda. This reduced delays, post -harvest losses 
and private sector operational costs. He stated  that Uganda could have lo st estimated  USD 121 million 
in annual revenue if the challenge was not  resolved.  
60. With respect to the 'how', he stated  three ways. First, he emphasized  an institutional approach.  
Based  on his experience over the last 20 years in the region, he shared that projects tend to stop 
delivering benefits when donor -supported projects  ended. Therefore, he highlighted that TMEA  worked 
institutionally and continuously retained a liaison function o n trade facilitation between the main 
stakeholders. This enabled TMEA  to anchor various donor initiatives that could  each address one aspect 
of trade facilitation and  align its interest with other  development partner s. 
61. Second, he highlighted an internation al approach . He stated  that TMEA  engaged institutions on 
both sides of the borders because  initiatives based in one country tend to be unsuccessful. He noted the 
value  of linking the national to the regional level, where the regional level set the policy,  and the national 
level implement ed it. He acknowledged that the AfCFTA  offered advantages by pulling RECs together, 
making trade between individual countries easier and creat ing continent-wide platforms and trade 
instruments.  
62. Third, he underscored  an integrated approach  in all the pieces of successful trade facilitation: 
(i) the hard infrastructure (port s, access roads, and border post buildings); (ii) the soft infrastructure 
(digital systems); (iii) standards and other protocols; and (iv)  liaison between government institutions 
and the private sector, which removes  NTBs. He reiterated that this was  the only way to deliver real 
results.  
63. Moving forward, he underscored three  new opportunities amid the changing world. First, 
he mentioned green corridors . He acknowledged that the world had been focusing  on climate change 
and reacting to its effects. He added that this also chang ed consumer ch oices. For example, airfreighted 
flowers and vegetables were less popular, and aggravate d stress on populations. He underlined the 
critical importance of  trade facilitation , and Africa  must be positioned  as a pioneer in sustainable supply 
chains to ensure efficient  trade in food commodities . This  would better link local and regional producers 
to markets and reduc e vulnerabilities.  
64. Second, he stressed the importance of digitized corridors , which would guarantee interoperability 
and smooth continent -wide trade . Tools that proved success include d harmoni zed approach to the Rules 
of Origin, integrated customs management systems, electronic single windows, trade portals and 
electronic cargo tracking systems .  WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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65. Third,  he highlighted  inclusive corridors . He noted that current global shocks such as extreme 
weather events, COVID -19 pandemic, and high  commodity prices had caused the vulnerable to fall to 
bottom  of the pyramid. He said that in  East Africa, 7 0% of informal trade was carried out by women, 
and 93% of that stopped almost overnight when the pandemic  hit. He highlighted TMEA 's award -winning 
SafeTrade programme  which helped to find safe and public health -compliant ways for trade to restart 
quickl y. Acknowledging  that while efficient trade was undoubtedly a good thing, he emphasized that 
trade systems should never only function for the most successful.  
66. He underscored the importance of boosting intra -African trade to ensure  AfCFTA 's success ful 
implementation and showing member states the concrete positive impacts was essential. He noted that 
the AfCFTA  started very strongly, and the political momentum behind it was very encouraging.  
67. He underlined TMEA 's role in  supporting the AfCFTA 's implementa tion across and within RECs and  
domesticating it along key trade corridors in Africa  and at a national level . He highlighted that TMEA  had 
signed a Memorandum of Understanding ( MOU) with the AfCFTA Secretariat, marking the start of a joint 
program to implement the agreement  and facilitate efficient trading within Africa.  
68. He continued that TMEA  was looking at  applying their experience s from East to West Africa , to 
show practical gains for exporters, traders,  and member states.  He also acknowledged that the 
fundamental differences in context. He stated that together with  strategic partners, they would  support 
the AfCFTA  Member States to overcome some of these challenges by developing  cross-border trade 
facilities and utilities, digital and trade systems, and capacity building for public and private sector 
institutions involved in trade. He emphasized that t he goal aimed to  reduce trade barriers and facilitate 
seamless trade across borders.  
69. The representative of Chad noted that th e African continent was opening up to trade  and that 
the AfCFTA  unveil ed a colossal market with 3 billion consumers. With regard to e -commerce, he 
highlighted the importance to strengthen capacity in the digital economy. He acknowledged Djibouti 's 
highly connected customs system. This allowed Djibouti to be connected to their own ports and its 
neighbours ' systems, such as Ethiopia. He noted that this was a possible way for Chad to replicate and 
underscored that sharing good practices in this area wo uld accelerate the effectiveness of AfCFTA 's 
implementation.  
70. He also acknowledged  the support offered by the  European Union . He underlined  the importance 
of investment from European companies  in helping African companies . He also recognized the 
importance  to ensure that Africa was creating its value , which would boost  economies  and make 
platform s available  for MSMEs . He emphasized the importance of the energy sector for a successful 
AfCFTA implementation. He encouraged the European Union to provi de more support to key sectors, 
such as agriculture and telecommunications.  
71. He underlined that the development of the US -Africa relation s was crucial to boost economic 
growth . With regard to trade, he noted that under Article 4 of the AfCFTA , parties w ould: (i) progressively 
eliminate tariff and non -tariff barriers to goods ; (ii) progressively liberalize the trade in services ; 
(iii) look to open up investment ; (iv)  protect intellectual property  and all areas relating to trade ; 
(v) cooperation i n customs trade  facilitation ; (vi) set up a dispute settlement mechanism for rights and 
obligations ; and (vii) establish a constitutional framework for the implementation of the area.  He invited 
the speakers from Djibouti and Togo  to share their thoughts on how the WTO agreements  could  create 
opportunities that would  strengthen the operationalization of the AfCFTA . 
72. He also noted that while the implementation could be difficult and laboursome, he underlined that 
this would still be a  milestone for making Africa one of the most dynamic economies . He requested the 
representatives from the European Union and  the USAID to share  their perspectives on 
new opportunities which could  boost economic growth inside and outside  of Africa.  He also asked the 
representative from TMEA about the possible impact of the TFA on the AfCFTA . 
73. The representative of Kenya  underscored  that the promise of the African economic integration 
was in the AfCFTA. On 7 October 2022, eight State Parties including three from East Africa, kic k-started WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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Guided Trade Initiative  under AfCFTA  with 96 products. He highlighted that K enya was part of this  plan, 
which marked the beginning of the free movement of goods across the continent. He noted that this  
historical moment  tested the readiness of the participating State Parties to process imports and exports , 
serving as a gateway to encourage continued trade under the AfCFTA . This could have  a multiplier effect 
and increase opportunities for MSMEs, the youth and women in tr ade and ultimately establish  a 
sustainable and inclusive economic development.  
74. He highlighted that m ost members of the AfCFTA  were LDCs and  emphasized the importance of 
working together to ensure each member benefit ted equitably  from the AfCFTA . He also emphasized th e 
following aspects: (i)  attainment of structural transformation ; (ii) enhancement of competitiveness to 
integrat e into regional and global value chain ; (iii)  industrial development ; and (iv) food security. 
He underlined that this w ould realize the full potential of the AfCFTA  by lifting 30  million people out of 
extreme poverty  and boosting Africa's  income by USD 450 billion by 2035 .  
75. The representative of the United States  highlighted the  interest in deepening engagement with 
the African private sector . Her delegation  remain ed open to brainstorm how to bring experience -sharing 
with a view to support ing African exports and implement ing the AfCFTA . She also requested the 
representatives of Togo and Djibouti if they could share any in sights and advice , which could help other 
AfCFTA  members advance on  this important journey.  
76. The representative of Senegal  noted that like any trade agreement, the AfCFTA  would  have 
opportunities and challenges in implementation. As a former negotiator of the AfCFTA and having worked 
in external affairs, he participated in these negotiations until 2021. He also worked on Rules of Origin of 
the AfCFTA and underst ood that while th ere was progress, there were matters still pendin g, such as the  
treatment of  products made in Special Economic Zones.  
77. He also encourage d all development partners to continue working  with AfCFTA  members to help 
develop strategies , allowing the complete implementation of the  AfCFTA. With the support of the ECA, 
Senegal adopted various strategies  in 2019, which covered three areas: (i)  development of suppl y for 
exports ; (ii) diversify export markets and (iii) improve competitiveness of business es. These measures 
had helped leverage the opportunities and overcome challenges of the  AfCFTA . 
78. The representative of the United Kingdom  noted that the increased trade and investment h ad 
lifted tens of millions of people out of poverty since the turn of the c entury. At the same time , as in 
other parts of the world, tariffs, red tapes and limited infrastructure c ould impact trade and development 
in Africa. Therefore, he underscored that a free and fair trade form ed a cornerstone of the 
United  Kingdom 's ambition  for global development. He noted that the continent was forecast ed to be 
the home of one in four global consumers by 2050 , present ing boundless opportunities for Africa.  
79. He underscored that the AfCFTA  would be the  world's largest free trade area connecting 1.3  billion 
people , simplifying  the existing web of the continent 's free trade agreements by providing one set of 
rules to govern trade in goods and services. This  also create d opportunities to lift people out of poverty , 
drive industrialization , create jobs and increase  significant benefits for women . He reiterated  the United 
Kingdom 's strong support for the AfCFTA  and was firmly convinced by the  benefits of  economic 
development as well as new commercial opportunities. He reiterated the United Kingdom 's commitment  
to partner with African countries and institutions to support the implementation of AfCFTA . 
80. The representative of Uganda  noted that due to financial shocks caused by tightened  monetary 
policy in advanced economies, along with high international food and fuel prices, the 2022 UNCTAD 's 
Trade and Development Report stated that Africa's economic growth was expected to slow down to 2.7% 
in 2022 from 5.1% of last year and  would continue to decelerate to 2.4% in 2023.  As a result, 58  million 
non-poor Africans fell into extreme poverty in 202 2, joining the 55  million who were pushed into extreme 
poverty by the pandemic.  He highlighted that this low and unstable growth pattern was largely attributed 
to commodity dependence which conditioned development and limited scope for innovation. He 
under lined that dependence on a narrow range of exports was particularly acute in Africa, where 89% 
were commodity dependent in 2019, as compared to 43% in the Americas, 51% in Asia and 12% in 
Europe.  WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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81. He acknowledged  that between 2009 and 2019, the number of co mmodity dependent 
African  countries increased  while other regions of the developing world made progress in econom ic 
diversification. He underscored that without strong policy actions to diversify the sources of growth and 
trade, commodity dependence and intergenerational poverty would persist. He stated  that small 
exporting firms gained easier access to regional trade as compared to global value chains  because  the 
latter w ere dominated by multinational enterprises .  
82. He noted a recent report by the International Trade Centre ( ITC) which showed that the 
African  market had an unrealized export potential of about USD 22 billion in the current tariff conditions.  
For the AfCFTA  to further strengthen export diversification , he highlighted two areas . First, he said 
countries should  effectively address existing structural weaknesses  through measures such as : 
(i) strengthen ing the productive capacities ; (ii) building forward and backward linkages across sectors ; 
and (iii) address ing supply -side constraints  and technological capacities.  
83. Second, he underlined  that greater support  was needed  to synergize efforts of AfCFTA members , 
the AfCFTA  Secretariat and the RECs . This would  ensure that the key drivers of geographical 
diversification, such as shorter distances between markets, common borders and languages , were 
properly harnessed.  
84. The representative of China  stated that t he AfCFTA  could create a liberalized market for goods 
and services, promoting sustainable and inclusive regional economic development. She underscored the 
importance of  industrialization for African countries to better integrate into the multi lateral trading 
system and achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.  
85. She highlighted  China 's concrete contribution and support for the progress of AfCFTA. 
In April 2021, China provided USD 1.5 million to assist the establishment of the Secretariat of  AfCFTA. 
In October 2021, China and the AfCFTA  signed  an MOU on establishing expert group s on economic 
cooperation , similar to the  European Technical Assistance Facility . She stated that t he expert groups  
would share experiences  on intellectual property rights, customs procedures, digital trade a s well as 
take stock of progress on  the institutional capacity and implementation of the AfCFTA . The first expert 
group meeting on China -Africa Economic Cooperation was successfully held in May 2022 and the 
second  meeting  was scheduled to be held in November.  She reiterated China 's support in the 
development and investment for Africa,  and looked forward to enhancing cooperation to the achievement 
of the AfCFTA .  
86. The representative of Japan  noted that the  AfCFTA  would facilitate and increase trade among 
African countries.  He reiterated Japan 's support for promoting economic development in 
African  countries, including through initiatives such as the AfCFTA  and the  Tokyo International 
Conference on African Development  (TICAD)  Tunis Declaration held in August  2022. 
87. The representative of Angola  noted that  the agreement  brought 55  countries and eight  RECs 
together , and would be  a powerful tool in poverty alleviation and sustainable economic development  due 
to the elimination of  geographical, legal and bureaucratical barriers . She also elaborated that the AfCFTA 
could  help to develop digital trade, investment protection, circular  economy, and fight against all forms 
of socio -economic corruption.  
88. She expressed concern that since the first quarter of 2020 , African nations were forced to battle 
global economic crisis  such as the COVID -19 pandemic . She stressed that  the AfCFTA  would be  key for 
Africa 's post -pandemic economic recovery and contribute to advance  the African Union Agenda 2063 : 
"The Africa We Want". She reaffirmed Angola 's commitment  to the AfCFTA  and invite d the WTO to 
consider projects under the organization 's framework, aimed at integrating developing countries into  
global trade .  
89. The representative of Egypt  highlighted its commitment toward the objectives of the AfCFTA , 
which included  enhancing intra -African trade, providing job opportunities at tracting investments to 
the African countries and realizi ng of Agenda 2063: "The Africa We Want". He stated Egypt 's interest in  
the integration with the African continent to open new markets, promote exports and enhance  its WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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presence by creating a continental market for goods and services with more than one billion people and 
USD 3 trillion worth of  gross domestic product.  
90. He noted that Egypt  was among the first to present an offer for tariff reductions. He stated that 
the priority was to finalize all negotiating issues, which could be outstanding from the first phase,  the 
second phase  (including competition, investment, and intellectual property rights ), and the last phase 
(concerning e-commerce , youth and women protocols ). 
91. He underlined that besides  low tariff rates, the profitability of any endeavour depended on many 
factors . He stated that the AfCFTA 's value proposition lied in enhancing  long-term value creation for 
goods and services to be traded in new markets.  He noted that AfCFTA introduced a wide array of 
initiatives which aimed at smoothing the flow of intra -African trade, and overcoming obstacles related 
to transport and shipping, financial transactions and non -tariff barriers .  
92. He highlighted that while there were o perational challenges such as bureaucratic hurdles, weak 
transportation networks and geopolitical risks, the momentum should still be created by Africa 's booming 
economic powers. He underscored that Africa would play a major and growing role in the global economy 
in the decades to come. He added that with remarkable opportunities in sectors such as energy, 
infrastructure, agriculture, and oil and gas, the African continent had been increasingly attracting foreign 
investment . 
93. He noted that in October  2022, the AfCFTA  Secretariat officially launched the Guided Trade 
Initiative, which signalled  the first commercial trade under the AfCFTA  regime. The initiative s ought  to 
allow commercially meaningful trading, and test the operational, institutional, legal and  trade policy 
environment under the AfCFTA . Countries that were participating in the pilot phase included Egypt, 
Rwanda, Kenya, Mauritius, Cameroun, Ghana, Tunisia and Tanzania.  
94. He underscored that the AfCFTA  had the potential to increase employment opport unities and 
incomes, helping to expand opportunities for all Africans. It was also expected to lift around 
68 million  people out of moderate poverty and make African countries more competitive. He encouraged 
the continuation of support to the African conti nent to allow effective implementation of the AfCFTA. 
95. The Chairperson  invited the speakers to respond to the questions and comments raised by 
Members.  
96. The representative of the European Union  noted that while the European Union was an important 
developmen t partner, all aid provided was not sufficient to address multifaceted issues. He stressed the 
importance of working with both public and private partners, and partnership could be developed at 
different levels: sub -regional, regional, continental, and eve ntually multilateral.  
97. The representative of Togo stated that the AfCFTA negotiations were completed, respecting the 
principles of WTO. With regard to the TFA, he said that consultations with women were held as they 
could also help to reduce obstacles at t he border and transform cross -border trade.  
98. The representative of Djibouti  highlighted that various regional agreements, including AfCFTA, 
were consistent with WTO rules. He noted that Djibouti hosted the Third Regional Dialogue on 
WTO Accessions for Afric a in 2018. He noted that of the 55 countries that made up the AU, and nine were 
in the WTO 's accession process.  He stated that Djibouti shared borders with countries that were 
non-WTO members, and 50% of Djibouti 's exports went to them. He noted that the WTO  could support 
these countries in integrating into the multilateral trading system. He concluded by underlining the 
importance for the AfCFTA members to implement investment strategies tailored to the AfCFTA 's 
implementation, and to ensure market op portunities and value chains were opened up for the private 
sector.  
99. The representative of USAID  echoed that USAID 's footprints on the continent, he encouraged 
interested stakeholders to learn more about the ATI program. He also encouraged delegations reac h out 
to US missions in Africa or directly contact USAID in Washington.  WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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100.  The representative of TMEA  emphasized the importance of translating the common enthusiasm 
into practical gains for member states and for businesses. He also added that engagement betw een the 
private sector and government was crucial to drive through concrete solutions to problems and make 
AfCFTA a reality.   
101.  The Chairperson  thanked the speakers and Members for the ir contributions.  The discussion shed 
light on experiences and challenges that LDCs faced in implementing the AfCFTA . She reiterated that 
support of international community was central for  greater integration of LDCs in regional and global 
trade flows.  She suggested that the Sub -Committee take note of the presentations as well as the 
statements made.  
102.  It was so agreed . 
C. REPORT BY LDC COORDINATOR ON RECENT ACTIVITIES  
103.  The Chairperson  thank ed Ambassador of Chad  for his contribution in coordinating the work of the 
LDC Group and welcome d Ambassador of Djibouti  as the LDC Coordinator. She invited Djibouti  to provide 
an update on recent activities of the LDC Group.  
104.  The representative of Djibouti , on behalf of the LDC Group, underscored that the Group's active 
participation  was steered by common interest in the multilateral trading system. She noted that the 
LDC delegations had been engaging based on the LDC Trade Ministers' Declaration on LDC priorities 
adopted in October 2021 (WT/MIN(21)/2).  
105.  She informed Members that a preliminary stocktaking of MC12 results was held in October 2022.  
She acknowledged  that the paragraphs 5 and 8 of the MC12 Outcome Document  incorporated 
LDC priorities. In addition, LDC issues (WT/GC/211) were also reflected in the Ministerial Declaration on 
the WTO Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic and Preparedness for Future Pandemics , the Ministerial 
Declaration and Decision related to food security the two food security decisions, a s well as the Ministerial 
Decision on the Agreement on Trade -related Asp ects of Intellectual Property Rights . She urged Members 
to redouble efforts to complete the  remaining  mandate provided at MC12 to cover the production and 
supply of COVID -19 diagnostics and therapeutics.   
106.  She noted that m any LDC text ual proposals on fisher ies subsidies disciplines  (RD/TN/RL/125 ) had 
also been reflected in the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies . She highlighted the importance of 
addressing the subsidies contributing to  overcapacity and overfishing , as well as  identifying specific  
provisions for LDCs during the second phase of the negotiations on fisheries subsidies.  
107.  She expressed her disappoint ment that time was not taken at the MC12 to consider their only 
stand -alone proposal  tabled on LDC graduation.  She noted that a revision of the original proposal 
(WT/GC/807/Rev.1) was presented at the General Council held in July  2022. She reiterate d that this is 
one of the priority issues  of the LDC Group , with several  LDCs in the queue for graduation. She 
emphasized the importance of a smoot h transition. She encouraged Members to engage constructively 
and highlighted the need for the WTO to be an effective institution which would respond  to the needs of 
all of its Members, especially the most vulnerable.  
108.  She underlined that the LDC  Group ha d also actively engaged in various other issues, including 
submissions that reached mutual consensus  within the group, such as on WTO reform, agriculture, 
services, and TRIPS Article 66.2 relating to technology transfer . She noted that t he LDC Gro up also 
participated actively at the Global Review of Aid for Trade in July. She highlighted that a takeaway from 
the "Examining Gaps in Connectivity and Tools to Empower LDCs in the Digital Economy " session held 
on 27 July was the potential opportunities to close connectivity gaps in LDCs to achieve sustainable 
development. She stated that the LDC Ambassadors and experts  had also actively participat ed in 
the WTO Public Forum in September  2022 and provided their perspectives on a variety of topics.   
109.  She underlined that work required to shape the future of trade support for LDCs had been 
undertaken in collaboration with partners. She noted that the EIF Board meeting held in Lusaka , Zambia WT/COMTD/LDC/M/9 4 
 
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in Jun e 2022,  provided an opportunity to continue discussing phase three of the EIF and the necessary 
steps to be taken. She urged Members to take a decision regarding the third phase of the EIF so that 
LDCs c ould continue to benefit from the programme , and  advance discussions at the next EIF Board 
meeting to be held on 24 November  2022. 
110.  She thanked the WTO for its renewed partnership with the  United Nations Office of the High 
Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and S mall Island 
Developing States (UN-OHRLLS ) in support of the implementation of trade elements of the 
Doha Programme of Action . She also express ed her appreciation  to the development partners for their 
support in strengthen ing LDCs' capacity to participate at the WTO. She thanked the  Chairperson  for 
offering a platform for LDCs, and to the speakers for sharing their experiences and informative 
presentations.  
111.  The representative of the United States  acknowledged the challenges faced by the LDCs and 
welcome d pragmatic ideas to assist them to fully participate  in the  multilateral trading system.  
She underlined that the Unites States was ready to help LDCs and others  through programs such as the 
one referred to  by USAID . The United States had also been providing support with regard to  preferential 
trade programs under AGOA and GSP . 
112.  The Chairperson  reiterated  that the constructive engagement and continued dialogue would help 
sustain the momentum to respond  to LDCs' needs.  She suggeste d that the Sub -Committee take note of 
the presentations as well as the statements made.  
113.  It was so agreed.  
D. OTHER BUSINESS  
114.  There were no suggestions for any item under other business.  
115.  The Chairperson  informed Members the 2022 note by the Secretariat on Market Access for 
products and services of export interest to LDCs contained in the document WT/COMTD/LDC/W/70. 
She stated that the note contained the latest trade statistics of relevance to LDCs, and highlighted 
three  takeaways:  (i) LDC share in world exports has been static at 0.93% over the past two years; 
(ii) the growth of LDC merchandise exports was on par with that of world exports in 2021 , while 
LDC services exports experienced a slower recovery  and grew  only half  as fast as the global services 
exports ; and (iii)  LDCs goods exports predominantly relied on primary commodities, while transport 
became the top services sector in 2021.  
116.  She noted that she was exploring the possibility to have a short meeting before the end of the 
year, and if this was not possible, the next meeting would take place in the first quarter of 2023. 
The exact date would be communicated in due course.  
117.  The meeting was adjourned . 
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