RESTRICTED  
  
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
26 June 2023 
(23-4131) Page: 1/61 
Committee on Trade and Development  Original: English  
 
  
BIENNIAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING PLAN 2024 -2025  
Table of Contents  
ACRONYMS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  3 
1   EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  ................................ ................................ ................................  4 
2   INTR ODUCTION  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  5 
3   IMPLEMENTATION OF THE TA PLAN 2022 -23 ................................ .............................  6 
3.1   Key achievements of 2022  ................................ ................................ ...........................  6 
3.2   Lessons learnt from implementing the 2022 Activities  ................................ ...................  10 
3.2.1    Managing for Results  ................................ ................................ ..............................  10 
3.2.2    The Progressive Learning Strategy  ................................ ................................ ...........  10 
3.2.3    Course Content and Pedagogical methods  ................................ ................................ . 10 
3.2.4    Prioritizing Inclusion  ................................ ................................ ...............................  11 
4   TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NEEDS AND PRIORITIES  ................................ ...................  12 
4.1   Global Priority Needs  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 12 
4.2   Priority Needs by region  ................................ ................................ ............................  14 
4.2.1    English -speaking Africa  ................................ ................................ ..........................  15 
4.2.2    French -speaking Africa  ................................ ................................ ...........................  15 
4.2.3    Arab and Middle East ................................ ................................ ..............................  15 
4.2.4    Central & Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus  ................................ ...........  16 
4.2.5    The Caribbean  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 16 
4.2.6    Latin America  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  17 
4.2.7    Asia and the Pacific  ................................ ................................ ................................  17 
4.2.8    Least Developed Countries  ................................ ................................ ......................  18 
4.3   Capacity Constraints to fully benefit from WTO TA  ................................ ........................  20 
4.4   Preferred modes of delivery of WTO TA  ................................ ................................ ....... 20 
5   STRATEGIC APPROACH FOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN 2024 -25 ...........................  22 
5.1   Managing for Results ................................ ................................ ................................ . 23 
5.2   Progressive Learning Strategy  ................................ ................................ ....................  24 
5.3   Course Content and the use of Ap propriate Pedagogical Methods  ................................ .... 26 
5.4   Use of partnerships  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 27 
5.5   Prioritizing Inclusion  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 28 
6   EXPECTED TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE KEY RESULTS  ................................ ...................  29 
6.1   Key Result 1: Government officials are implementing WTO Agreements and fully  
realising Members' rights and obligations  ................................ ................................ ............  30 WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  6.1.1    Output 1.1: Government officials have enhanced knowledge about WTO Agreements, 
trade policy formulation and conduct of trade negotiations  ................................ ....................  31 
6.1.2    Output 1.2: Effective partnerships established  ................................ ...........................  35 
6.1.3    Output 1.3: Members' needs and priorities identified periodically  ................................ . 36 
6.1.4    Output 1.4: WTO data and databases accessed by Members  ................................ ....... 36 
6.2   Key Result 2: Acceding governments/ separate customs territories are participating in 
accession negotiations  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 37 
6.2.1    Output 2.1: Acceding governments/separate customs territories participants'  
knowledge on WTO substantive and procedural matters enhanced  ................................ .........  38 
6.2.2    Output 2.2: Accessions Internship Programme participants' knowledge enhanced  ..........  38 
6.2.3    Output 2.3: Interested Members' and Observers' expertise on GPA rules, accession 
negotiations and observer status enhanced  ................................ ................................ .........  38 
6.3   Key Result 3: Academic institutions and other stakeholders are analysing WTO issues  
and reaching out to policy makers  ................................ ................................ ......................  39 
6.3.1    Output 3.1: Research on trade policy and WTO -related matters generated by the  
WCP  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................  41 
6.3.2    Output 3.2: Courses with WTO content developed by WCP Chairs  ................................  41 
6.3.3    Output 3.3: WTO Chairs research disseminated to policy makers and other  
stakeholders  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  41 
6.3.4    Output 3.4: Students trained on WTO work and issues  ................................ ...............  42 
6.4   Key Result 4: Non -governmental stakeholders and legislators are aware of and 
knowledgeable about WTO work and issues  ................................ ................................ .........  42 
6.4.1    Output 4.1: Understanding of WTO work and issues by non -governmental  
stakeholders improved  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 43 
6.4.2    Output 4.2: Improved access to WTO issues through online training material for  
self-study ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  43 
6.4.3    Output 4.3: Information on WTO trade -related technical assistance provided  ................  43 
6.4.4   Output 4.4: Young Professionals are exposed to WTO issues and work  .........................  44 
7   FUNDING  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  44 
7.1   Regular Bu dget for TA  ................................ ................................ ...............................  46 
7.2   Extra -budgetary funds for TA  ................................ ................................ .....................  46 
ANNEX 1 : WTO TA LOGFRAME 2024 -25 ................................ ................................ .........  48 
ANNEX 2: ACTIVITY MATRIX  ................................ ................................ .........................  57 
ANNEX 3: HOW TO REQUEST FOR WTO TA ONLINE  ................................ .......................  61 
 
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  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  ACRONYMS  
 
AfCFTA  The African Continental Free Trade Area  
AIP Accession s Internship Programme  
ATPC Advanced Trade Policy Course  
BTOR  Back to Office Report  
CEECAC  Central and Eastern Europe , Central Asia and the Cauc asus 
FTAs Free Trade Areas  
GPA Government Procurement Agreement  
GTF Global Trust Fund  
GVC Global Value Chain  
ITTC Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation  
JSIs Joint Statement Initiatives  
LDCs Least developed countries  
FIMIP  French & Irish Mission Internship Programme  
MSMEs  Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises  
MTS Multilateral Trading System  
NTP Netherlands Trainee Programme  
PLS Progressive Learning Strategy  
RBM Results -Based Management  
RCI Regional Coordinator Internship  
RTA Regional Trade Agreement  
RTPC Regional Trade Policy Course  
SPS Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures  
TA Technical Assistance  
TA Plan  Biennial Technical Assistance and Training Plan  
TBT Technical Barriers to Trade  
ToT Training of Trainers  
TPR Trade Policy Review  
TRIPS  Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights  
WCP WTO Chairs Programme  
WTO World Trade Organization  
YPP Young Professionals Programme  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  1  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  
1.  World Trade Organization Technical Assistance ( WTO TA) is a core function of the W orld Trade 
Organization. Its main purpose is to enhance the human and institutional capacities of beneficiaries , 
so that they may fully benefit from the rules -based Multilate ral Trading System (MTS), meet their 
obligations and enforce their rights as Members, and deal with emerging trade -related challenges  
and opportunities . 
2.  This Biennial Technical Assistance and Training Plan (TA Plan) defines the strategy and priorities 
that will be followed by the Secretariat in this domain over 202 4-25. The TA Plan is a policy 
framework that identifies priorities, anticipates results, as well as mechanisms for implementation 
and sources of funding for the activities. The TA Plan is designed  to deliver technical assistance (TA) 
taking into account the provisions of paragraphs 38 to 41 of the Doha Ministerial Declaration1 and 
other relevant decisions adopted by Members.  
3.  The TA Plan 2024 -25 aims to give continuity to and build on the work carr ied out under previous 
TA Plans while adapting the TA offer to the evolving needs of the MTS and of TA  beneficiaries. The 
overall design of this Plan is mainly guided by the WTO's managing for results and progressive 
learning strategies and is structured a round the following four Key Results:  
• Key Result 1 – Government officials are implementing WTO Agreements and fully realising 
Members' rights and obligations;  
• Key Result 2 – Acceding governments/ separate customs territories are participating in 
accession n egotiations;  
• Key Result 3 – Academic institutions and other stakeholders are analysing WTO issues and 
reaching out to policy makers; and  
• Key Result 4 – Non-governmental stakeholders and legislators are aware of and 
knowledgeable about WTO work and issues.  
4.  The TA Plan explains how the above four Key Results will be pursued over the 2024 -25 biennium, 
taking into consideration Members' needs and the outcome of the most recent Ministerial 
Conferences. The TA Plan takes into account the outcomes from the  12th Ministerial Conference and 
provides for sufficient flexibility to accommodate any specific outcomes of the 13th Ministerial 
Conference to be held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in February 2024. In keeping with the 
Results -Based Management (RBM)  approach, and to ensure continuous improvement in the 
availability of comprehensive data, the Secretariat will continue with the implementation of its 
monitoring and evaluation framework and tools where applicable. The TA Plan identifies the 
performance i ndicators and targets that will be used to measure the attainment of the Key Results.  
5.  During the 202 4-25 biennium, the Secretariat will continue promot ing TA activities that focus on 
the implementation of WTO Agreements  and addressing the specific needs id entified by TA 
beneficiaries , implementing its internal RBM tools, and consolidat ing the Progressive Learning 
Strategy (PLS) where applicable. The Secretariat will also continue developing and incorporating 
more effective pedagogical methods, maintain its use of value -adding partnerships, and commit to 
promoting fully inclusive activities that respond to the needs of the weakest and most vulnerable 
beneficiaries . Notably, the Secretariat will continue strengthening its pedagogical methods and its 
Training o f Trainers (ToT) efforts, with the aim of improving knowledge transfer and retention, 
including using new methods of training and technologies with increased interactivity and more 
efficient use of resources.  
6.  As the world prepared to overcome the constrain ts of the COVID -19 pandemic, the transition 
from virtual to face -to-face training was slow and only started to pick up in the second half of the 
year 2022. The fact that Members were also busy with the preparations of the 12th Ministerial 
Conference (MC12)  impacted on the delivery of TA to some extent. Taking into account the 
innovation and experience gained in the implementation of virtual trainings, which led to an increase 
in the overall number of activities organised to train TA beneficiaries compared t o the previous 
 
1 Doha Ministerial Declaration, WT/MIN(01)/DEC/1 , paras. 3 8-41. WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  biennium, blended activities will be encouraged wherever feasible together with the preferred modes 
of delivery identified by TA beneficiaries.  
7.  At the time of preparation of  this biennial  TA Plan, Members were still discussing and negotiati ng 
several topics that could have an impact on the WTO work going forward. Furthermore, Members 
were preparing for the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) . For these reasons , the Plan has provided 
for some flexibility to accommodate outcomes of the MC13 and additional TA priority needs. The 
current global economic environment will be closely monitored with a view to mitigate impact on the 
implementation of the TA Plan.  
8.  The TA  Plan provide s indicators, baselines, and targets to be used to measure the attainment of 
the Key Results assuming that the current conditions remain stable and those that could  negatively 
affect TA activities are contained to the extent possible at the be ginning of the period 202 4-25. While 
there are specific assumptions associated with several of the outcomes outlined in the logframe that 
may have an impact on the indicators, a general assumption of continued support and commitment 
to WTO work is central to all the activities envisaged. If the conditions that negatively affect 
TA activities in 2022 and 2023 continue or worsen  during all or most of the period 202 4-25, this will 
have an impact on the indicators included in the logframe and the possibility of  meeting the indicated 
targets. The extent to which results may be affected will depend on the circumstances that may 
arise and the measures that may be taken, at the global, regional, or national level.  
9.  This TA Plan  has been developed in the context of a  WTO Regular Budget that has been static in 
nominal terms since 2009 and of generous  contributions being provided , though these have been 
declining  from CHF7.3 million in 2018 to CHF3.1 in 2022. Taking this into account, the TA Plan  
assumes that voluntary extra-budgetary contributions will improve during  2023 and 2024 , thereby 
allowing approximately the same level of TA activity as in the pre COVID -19 pandemic period. 
Towards this aim, the Secretariat will continue its efforts to improve the efficiency of t he TA 
programme while enhancing its quality and benefits to recipients. These efforts will be guided by the 
lessons learnt as well as by the priorities identified by beneficiaries for this biennium.  
10.  In parallel, the Secretariat will continue to engage with  Members on other issues that might 
require action. These include examining the TA needs linked to new trade issues and assessing 
trainees' learning and their use of the skills gained through TA.  
11.  Under the guidance of Members, the Secretariat will continue  to carry out actions that may arise 
or require attention , including those arising from external audits such as the Performance Audit on 
the governance and management of Extra -Budgetary Trust funds as outlined in the Secretariat's 
response .2 The Secretari at will take into account the outcome of its structural review, as appropriate, 
to contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of WTO TA. 
2  INTRODUCTION  
12.  WTO's TA activities aim to help beneficiaries build their human and institutional capacities so 
that t hey can participate more effectively in the MTS. In this regard, Ministers declared at the WTO's 
4th Ministerial Conference in Doha , Qatar,  in November 2001, that: 
The delivery of WTO technical assistance shall be designed to assist developing and 
least-developed  countries and low -income countries in transition to adjust to WTO rules 
and disciplines , implement obligations , and exercise the rights of membership, including 
drawing on the benefits of an open, rules -based multilateral trading system .3 
13.  The importance of TA was subsequently re -affirmed by Ministers at the 10th WTO Ministerial 
Conference held in Nairobi , Kenya,  in December 2015, when they stated that:  
We also reiterate the importance of targeted and sustainable financial, technical, and 
capacity building assistance programmes to support the developing country Members, 
 
2 See Secretariat's Responses to the Report of the Independent External Auditor on the Performance 
Audit on Governance and Management of Extra -Budgetary Trust Funds, 2023, WT/BFA/W/623 . 
3 Doha Ministerial Declaration, WT/MIN(01)/DEC/1 , para. 38. WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  in particular LDCs, to implement their agreements, to adjust to the reform process, and 
to benefit from opportunities presented .4 
14.  In the preparation of th is TA Plan, the Secr etariat worked with beneficiaries to identify needs 
and to ensure the relevance of the WTO TA activities offered. Starting points for the preparation of 
the TA Plan  were the information gathered through a questionnaire submitted by TA beneficiaries 
and con sultations with Members and Observers. This information is complemented by the lessons 
drawn from the implementation of previous TA Plans.  
15.  The TA Plan 202 4-25 maintains the overall strategy and approach adopted by previous TA  Plans 
and continues to give pr iority to activities supporting Members' efforts to implement WTO 
Agreements, addressing their TA priorities and promoting better TA results. Furthermore, the 
activities included in the TA Plan 202 4-25 have been designed to achieve similar overall results as 
those of the most recent biennial TA Plans. The results expected for 202 4-25 are elaborated in 
section 6 and in the detailed logframe included in Annex 1. The Annex es are an integral part of the 
TA Plan. 
16.  The TA Plan  has been developed against a backgrou nd of increased economic uncertainty, 
compounded by the effects of the COVID -19 global pandemic  and the global economic environment . 
The majority of TA beneficiaries continue to face the same challenges as those that necessitated the 
development of the WTO  TA programme over the years. Furthermore, a number of TA beneficiaries 
are seeking increased information about ongoing discussions on emerging trade issues such as e -
commerce ; investment facilitation  for development;  Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (M SMEs) ; 
Global Value Chains (GVCs) ; among others.  
17.  The TA Plan is designed to deliver TA taking into account the provisions of paragraph s 38 to 41 
of the Doha Declaration and other relevant decisions adopted by Members .5 As in previous TA Plans, 
the TA activities to be delivered will depend on Members' identified needs and priorities particularly 
at the national level, with regional activities reflecting overall needs expressed in the various regions  
as elaborated in sect ion 4. The main TA activities and programmes associated with th e TA Plan  are 
listed in Annex 2.  
18.  The rest of this document comprises the following sections: a summary of the main lessons 
learnt from the implementation of past TA activities ; the TA needs and  priorities identified by 
beneficiary Members  and Observers;  the strategies and actions to respond to Members' and 
Observers' needs and priorities ; the overall results expected from the delivery of th is TA Plan ; and 
the funding requirements necessary to im plement it.  
3  IMPLEMENTATION OF THE TA PLAN 20 22-23 
3.1  Key achievements of 202 2 
19.  The lessons learned from the implementation of previous TA Plans and in particular the 
achievements for 2022 have helped guide the preparation of this TA Plan.  
20.  The WTO TA Annual Report for 2022 (2022 TA Annual Report) provides a detailed analysis of 
the T A delivered by the WTO during the first year of implementation of the TA Plan 2022 -23. The 
12th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC12), which was held in June 2022, dominated the first half of 
the year, resulting in both reduced staff availability to provide TA  as well as a reduced demand by 
beneficiaries for TA.  
21.  The easing of travel restrictions precipitated a renewed demand for face -to-face TA activities , 
coupled with the experience gained in the implementation of virtual, blended, and hybrid training, 
resulte d in an increase in the overall number of TA activities compared with the previous biennium.  
22.  With the resumption of face -to-face delivery of TA and the experience gained during the 
pandemic, the WTO was more flexible in identifying the most efficient and e ffective delivery formats. 
 
4 Nairobi Ministerial Declaration, WT/MIN(15)/DEC , para. 17.  
5 Doha Ministerial Declaration, WT/MIN(01)/DEC/1 , paras. 38 -41. WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Furthermore, requests for national activities, which are the best way of addressing a beneficiaries' 
specific needs at a given point in time, rebounded after hitting an all -time low in 2021.  
23.  In line with previous years, courses w ith a general scope had the highest level of participation 
followed by Standards and TRIPS. The latter two can be attributed to a large extent to COVID -related 
subjects such as patents and vaccines.  
24.  It appears, that since 2020, beneficiaries have either h ad other priorities than institutional 
capacity building in the field of trade or have waited for the resumption of face -to-face activities to 
reinitiate TA requests. The gradual lifting of COVID -19 restrictions and the resumption of face -to-
face activitie s saw an uptick in requests for national activities in 2022 compared with 2021, however, 
these were still below the pre -pandemic levels. Beneficiaries continued to focus on addressing public 
health concerns and the related effects of the pandemic. Furtherm ore, as expected in a ministerial 
year, several national and regional seminars on the progress of the negotiations were organised 
prior to the MC12 to prepare for the Conference and post -MC12 to present its main results and 
facilitate their implementation.  
25.  The cancellation of several face -to-face activities for generalists during the pandemic in 2020 
resulted in a bigger proportion of specialized training. With the Secretariat gradually adapting to the 
restrictions imposed by the pandemic, activities for sp ecialists continued their upward trend in 2022, 
although still below pre -pandemic levels. Additionally, participants in the specialised path continued 
to be an increasing majority in Intermediate and Advanced levels (71%).  
26.  Advanced -level activities are di fficult to convert to a virtual format, resulting in a significant 
drop in the number and proportion of advanced TA activities and in the size of their audience. This 
trend continued in 2022. Conversely, intermediate activities have become dominant and con stituted 
three -quarters of the year's total number of TA activities. A portion of activities did not fit into the 
Progressive Learning Strategy (PLS) and could not be assigned a specific level.  
27.  The Secretariat's e -Learning programme continued to provide on line courses and was 
responsible for 55% of total WTO TA participants in 2022. In December 2022, the WTO moved to a 
new e -Learning platform. The new platform provides for a more user -friendly open -source Learning 
Management System (LMS) that enhances the u ser's learning experience. The LMS provides content 
management, full learning analytics, blended learning features, and competency -based training, 
making it an all -in-one solution for online training and development. The new LMS also supports 
mobile learni ng, enabling users to access training materials from anywhere, anytime, using any 
device and mobile app for offline learning. The development, migration and launch of the new WTO 
e-Learning platform was a massive undertaking and a great team effort involvi ng cooperation among 
several divisions of the Secretariat. The result is an e -Learning platform offering tremendous 
opportunities for expansion and development. This online portal strengthens the outreach of the 
WTO to the wider world and is a 21st -century  e-Learning programme capable of meeting its users' 
present and future training needs.   
28.  However, the migration to a new e -Learning platform during the year mitigated the results 
achieved through this format. Despite higher participation in 2022, the succe ss rate measured by 
course completion rates declined significantly from 61% in 2021 to 51% in 2022. The major factor 
for the decline was that many participants were unable to complete their courses before the 
transition to the new platform. On the other ha nd, the number of distinctions achieved remained 
steady, while the proportion of correct answers improved slightly. Additionally, micro -courses had a 
higher completion rate, as well as a better correct answers rate than the overall average.   
29.  Furthermore, the priority for e -Learning is to increase the interactivity of the content of the 
online courses. Eight new courses introduced in 2022 were in the SCORM format and included 
interactive training components, bringing the share of interactive online courses to 81%. All e -
Learning courses will continue to be revised to increase interactivity.  
30.  The Secretariat continued its efforts to maintain strong participation of least developed countries 
(LDCs) as a priority, despite an increase in the number of LDCs under  Administrative Measures and, 
therefore, ineligible to benefit from WTO TA. In addition, the Secretariat remained committed to 
promoting gender parity in its activities. Inclusion was also promoted through the delivery of TA 
activities in the different WTO  working languages.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  31.  LDCs remain a priority for the WTO TA. The fact that Africa was again the region with the largest 
number of participants in TA activities in 2022, followed by Asia -Pacific, reinforced this priority, as 
all the LDCs except one are in the se two regions. LDCs were invited to 65% of all WTO TA activities 
organised in 2022, including activities focused only on LDCs and their priorities. However, despite 
the overall level of participation, quantity, and diversity of TA activities increasing in  2022, LDC 
participation declined. While the number of LDCs taking part in TA activities remained stable (42 
different Members and Observers), the share of participants from LDCs decreased to 22% in 2022 
compared with 27% in 2021. At a disaggregated level,  LDCs' demand for national activities 
accounted for only 23% of total such requests in 2022. The share of LDC nationals among e -learners 
also decreased from 30% in 2021 to 26% in 2022. The number of documents LDCs submitted to 
WTO Committees , another valua ble indicator of participation in the system, also decreased in 2022. 
The ratio was more encouraging for interns and young professionals, as almost half (45%) were 
nationals of LDCs.  
32.  The WTO continues to make TA accessible to LDCs to ensure they can contr ibute to their 
respective country's participation in the WTO's work and trade negotiations. In this respect, to 
explore the evolving LDC trade priorities, the WTO Secretariat hosted, in December 2022, a three -
day seminar in English and French for LDC capit al-based officials, ambassadors, and delegates of 
the WTO LDC Group in Geneva. Participants exchanged views on the current trade priorities of the 
Group, which included market access, full implementation of LDC -specific decisions, making special 
and differ ential treatment more effective, and making greater use of regular WTO Committees and 
existing digital tools. Participants also showed an interest in exploring digital trade opportunities and 
deepening regional integration efforts.  
33.  Increasing and enhancing  the role and participation of women in global trade is an integral part 
of WTO TA's mission. Through dedicated activities for governments officials, the Secretariat has been 
supporting WTO Members in building their expertise in inclusive trade policymakin g. The Secretariat 
remains committed to ensuring gender parity in its activities and sustaining its effort to provide a 
gender perspective in TA activities. The Secretariat will make a particular effort to improve the 
participation of women in those region s, which either showed a decrease or a stagnation in their 
participation.  
34.  With this backdrop, after the COVID -19 years during which women were disproportionately 
affected by sanitary restrictions and work -from-home conditions, 2022 showed a spectacular 
improvement. For the first time, more women (51%) than men participated in WTO TA activities. 
Women accounted for 54% of all e -Learning participants in 2022, which represents an increase of 
21% over the previous year. Furthermore, women participants accounte d for 55% of all courses 
passed with a distinction.  
35.  Latin America (with 56% of female learners) and the Caribbean (75%) remained the region 
with the highest female participation. In 2022, women's participation increased in Africa, Asia Pacific, 
the Middle East, and Latin America, while CEECAC and the Caribbean saw a decrease during the 
same period.  
36.  The Secretariat continued to offer courses in the three WTO working languages. The proportion 
of languages used to conduct TA activities has not changed much sin ce 2021 and is more balanced 
than in pre -pandemic years. English remained the predominant language in TA activities in 2022. 
More than half of all TA activities – both e -Learning and face -to-face – were conducted in English 
(52%), while the use of French a nd Spanish accounted for 24% of activities each. Interpretation 
was available for 10 activities (9 global and 1 regional) in 2022.  
37.  Regarding e -Learning, which tends to be monolingual in essence, the number of supporting 
activities (live questions & answers ) in French and Spanish grew by more than a third in 2022. Over 
86% of the Live Sessions were multilingual. Of the eight courses launched in 2022, four were in 
English, two in French and two in Spanish.  
38.  English remains the language of choice of most parti cipants (66%), either in virtual, online, or 
face-to-face TA activities. French was the language of choice for over 15% of the learners, while 
12% chose to follow activities in Spanish. Multilingual training with simultaneous interpretation 
accounted for 7 % of the participants.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  39.  Key Result 1, which promotes the implementation of WTO Agreements and the full realisation 
of Members' rights and obligations, continued to represent the bulk of TA activities, with some 86% 
of TA activities reported during 2022. Ke y Result 2, which supports the accession of new Members, 
was in second place with 12% of TA activities reported during 202 2. Key Results 3 and 4, in favour 
of academia and other stakeholders, represented a smaller share than in previous years.  
40.  Overall, WTO  TA reached 65% of its agreed targets in 2022, which were comparable to the 
previous year. However, when disaggregated, the numbers depict a starkly different picture: targets 
achieved dropped to a historic low of 37% compared with 53% in the previous year , targets partially 
achieved doubled to 27%, the targets not met (29%) were higher than in the previous year. A 
confluence of factors was responsible for the diminished results, these included: a change in the e -
Learning platform; the first half of the yea r being dominated by MC12 preparations; readapting to 
face-to-face activities taking time; and virtual activities having lost their sheen.   
41.  The above is well illustrated by the in -person Advanced Trade Policy Courses (ATPC), and the 
virtual Regional Trade  Policy Course (RTPC), both of which were delivered in 2022. With regards to 
the ATPC, 98% of the participants succeeded in the course, and 28% received a distinction 
certificate. In contrast, the online nature of the RTPC presented participants with some challenges 
such as fatigue and balancing course attendance and assignments with work responsibilities; this 
manifested itself in decreased interaction and the lower distinction rate.  
42.  Developing and LDC Members continued to actively contribute to the work o f the MTS. They 
maintained their submissions of working documents to WTO bodies albeit at a slower pace.  
43.  In 2022, several acceding governments continued working to join the WTO as Members. 
However, the number of those for which accession was in progress was lower than in 2021 ( -44%) 
and the number of inactive accessions increased (+38%). Consequently, the results of TA under 
KR2 declined (as active accessions are the main assumption on which the TA targets are defined). 
Regarding plurilateral agr eements, Members could not agree on the designation of the Chair of the 
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) Committee, which also negatively affected TA results in 
this domain.  
44.  The learning -by-doing component, which includes internships and the young pr ofessionals' 
programme attracted 51 participants, who joined the Secretariat or their respective Permanent 
Missions in Geneva to enhance their knowledge while working on trade -related matters. Except for 
one, all of them met the performance expectations, w ith more than one third of them exceeding 
those targets.  
45.  In 2022, Phase III of the WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) was launched and will run for four 
years. The expansion in Phase III nearly doubles the established network from 19 to 36 Chairs, 
leading to a wi der and deeper geographical coverage. Initial results are encouraging and above 
expectations, with total research output more than doubling to 275 in 2022, compared with 135 in 
the previous year. The increased output can be attributed to the fact that, unl ike many other 
activities, academic research was not fundamentally affected by the constraints imposed during the 
COVID -19 pandemic, since most of the investigation, drafting, and consulting work involved was 
already taking place virtually. Outreach activi ties (conferences, seminars, etc.) organised by Chairs 
also increased. Furthermore, one former participant in the PhD support programme earned the Asian 
Development Bank best thesis of the year award.  
46.  Outreach activities for non -traditional audiences such as journalists, legislators, the private 
sector, and civil society, which had been severely impacted by the pandemic, also bounced back in 
the second half of 2022. Four in -person TA outreach activities were organized; two regional and two 
global. The activ ities focused on topics such as challenges facing the multilateral trading system, 
understanding the WTO and the legislative work required to implement the outcomes of the WTO's 
12th Ministerial Conference (MC12). Additionally, The WTO went on to strengthe n its use of social 
media and other platforms to spread information on trade issues across diverse audiences. Its 
number of social media followers and of views of TA webpages and news items increased in 2022. 
On the other hand, demand for training material s by academia or private actors continued to decline.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  3.2  Lessons learnt from implementing the 2022 Activities  
47.  Several relevant lessons can be drawn from the implementation of the TA activities in 2022 and 
in earlier years, which will shape the implementation  of the TA Plan 2024 -25. The lessons drawn 
relate to the implementation of the Secretariat's RBM approach, the PLS, the pedagogical methods, 
and prioritizing inclusion.  
3.2.1   Managing for Results  
48.  The progress made over the last years, as described in previous pe rformance reports in 
accordance with the Secretariat's TA monitoring and evaluation, provides the basis for the TA Plan 
to continue the overall approach established in the last biennium. Appropriate changes will be made 
to reflect new TA demands to meet ev olving circumstances surrounding the WTO work programme. 
Adjustments will also be made to provide the necessary flexibility to take into account lessons learnt 
and experiences gained during the pandemic, so as to identify the best delivery format based on 
efficiency and effectiveness criteria. This will allow the Secretariat to continue providing valuable 
support to the needs of Members and Observers. Therefore, the TA Plan 2024 -25 is structured 
according to the same overall philosophy and broad operational  modalities as the previous TA Plans.  
49.  At the same time, minor adjustments have been made to the indicators, targets and 
assumptions for some Key Results and Outputs. These changes will allow the Secretariat to collect 
relevant data, taking account of the l imited capacity of many beneficiaries to provide reliable 
information on the results of TA at the national level. Some minor adjustments have also been made 
to the logframe (Annex 1) to address identified shortcomings.  
50.  With the objective of facilitating da ta collection for the purpose of RBM (such as information on 
beneficiaries' needs, level of TA demand, and partnerships), enhancements were made to the TA 
Management System (TAMS) during the previous biennium. Changes incorporated included: 
improving and c reating new functionalities for online national TA requests, BTOR's recommendations 
module, and Dashboards. These dashboards were further enhanced in 2022 to include predefined 
graphs by mode of delivery, reach, subject, LDC participation, gender, and inte rnships as well as 
dynamic data for 2022 and the current year. Beneficiaries can also access detailed data on their own 
participants in TA activities since 2016 and on their national requests. However, in 2022, the 
development of TAMS stalled, as the consu ltant recruited in 2021 proved incapable of completing 
the work. No new functionalities could be incorporated, and the development of the single TA portal 
was put on hold.  
51.  It is imperative for transparency, accountability, and effectiveness of TA to have the 
combination of the availability of real -time TA data visualization and an annual TA reporting to assist 
the Secretariat in more strategic communication of TA results. This should also capture elements of 
sustainability of TA results that cannot be capt ured otherwise through the indicators included in the 
TA Plan (such as the WTO Chairs Programme and long -term internships).  
3.2.2   The Progressive Learning Strategy  
52.  The Secretariat's TA offer continued to be guided by the PLS. During the year 2022, most 
registered TA activities were part of the PLS. Approximately 16% of registered TA activities could 
not be ascribed to a specific level and did not fit into the PLS. This proportion was consistent with 
previous years and indicates a good absorption of PLS in the Secretariat's TA activities.  
53.  Efforts to introduce progressivity in the training courses were mostly concentrated on regional, 
global, and online courses. Applyin g the PLS approach in national activities is often challenging due 
to the limited control that the Secretariat has in determining participation.  
3.2.3   Course Content and Pedagogical methods  
54.  During 2022, the Secretariat continued adjusting its course offer and cu rricula, improving its 
pedagogical approach, and carefully identifying the needs of beneficiaries with a view to achieving 
the desired learning outcomes.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  55.  With respect to means of delivering TA activities, the pandemic has resulted in a better 
understanding , for both the Secretariat and beneficiaries, of the opportunities that remote TA 
delivery may offer. However, the pandemic has also allowed a better understanding of the limitations 
of remote TA delivery, when compared to face -to-face training. Beneficiar ies were often reluctant to 
replace face -to-face activities with equivalent virtual events. To maximize the impact of both virtual 
and face -to-face activities, the Secretariat has started moving towards blended activities in which 
the face -to-face segments  would focus on what they can best achieve (e.g., elements of interaction, 
motivation, and enriching connections) and be complemented with virtual segments for the rest. 
The on -site evaluation of one of these activities found that the contents of the virtu al and face -to-
face components were complementary. The main areas of complementarity highlighted were that 
the face -to-face segment was more in -depth, explored more complex issues, and allowed 
participants to practice the theoretical or generalist aspects learned in the virtual phase, focusing on 
real cases. According to participants, this format made efficient use of their time.  
56.  Over the past years, in response to a recommendation made by a 2016 external evaluation, the 
Secretariat has organized a number of Training of Trainers (ToT) courses which have been followed 
by many Secretariat staff involved in the delivery of TA. In 2022, the Secretariat launched a 
Campaign to provide training for staff members responsible for undertaking technical assistance and  
trade capacity -building programmes. In a shift from previous programmes, the 2022 programme 
comprised a foundation module on adult learning styles and training design and delivery as well as 
shorter thematic modules, which, in the future, will be adjusted  to the emerging needs of WTO staff. 
The thematic modules addressed (i) Public Speaking with an Actor; (ii) Designing and Using Case 
Studies; (iii) Facilitating Virtual Panels; (iv) Using Virtual Platforms, e.g., ZOOM; and (v) Evaluating 
Learning/ Technica l Assistance Activities. This modular approach made it possible to better tailor the 
programme to each trainer's needs, leading to much higher participation than in previous years.  
57.  Technological tools that allow remote delivery of TA and increase interact ivity are evolving 
rapidly and becoming more easily accessible. Recent years have witnessed an expansion in the 
uptake of techniques and technologies in WTO TA that aim to sustain participants' attention and 
enhance the learning experience. WTO TA Trainers  increasingly embraced interactive training 
techniques and incorporated digital innovations in face -to-face activities, resulting in traditional 
lecturing being reduced considerably. Furthermore, the greater mastery by and familiarity of 
Secretariat's trai ners with interactive teaching methods and tools acquired during the pandemic, 
marked a turning point in TA implementation which will continue in the future.  
3.2.4   Prioritizing Inclusion  
58.  Despite the development of new products which generated significant LDC par ticipation (in 
topics such as accessions, LDC graduation, technology transfer, and the impact of COVID -19), their 
participation declined in 2022. For many LDCs, the effects of the COVID -19 pandemic on the ability 
to participate in TA activities were compou nded by connectivity challenges when trying to attend 
virtual events. LDCs were also affected by administrative measures taken with respect to Members 
and Observers in arrears on their contributions to the WTO. By late 2022, twelve LDC beneficiaries, 
(seve n Members and five Observers), could not access TA from the WTO due to administrative 
measures. This situation poses a challenge to the Secretariat in addressing the needs of LDCs, who 
are a priority for WTO TA.  
59.  During the 2020 -2021 period, the pandemic di sproportionally affected the participation of 
women in TA activities. However, in 2022 the participation of women in WTO TA rebounded strongly, 
and for the first time, more women (51%) than men participated in WTO TA activities.  
60.  As in previous periods, th ere were variations in women participation across regions, with 
increases in some regions, decreases in others, and stability in a few regions. In Africa, Asia and the 
Pacific, Middle East, and Latin America, women representation rose, while CEECAC and the  Caribbean 
saw a decrease. Women participation also increased in e -Learning activities, where they accounted 
for 55% of all courses passed with a distinction.  
61.  In terms of language diversity, of the three WTO working languages, English remained the 
predomi nant language in TA activities followed by French and Spanish. With regards to e -Learning 
which tends to be monolingual in nature, the number of supporting activities (live questions & 
answers) in French and Spanish grew by more than a third in 2022. Furth ermore, over 86% of the WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Live Sessions were multilingual. Of the eight courses launched in 2022, four were in English, two in 
French and two in Spanish.  
62.  Additionally, interpretation, which plays a very important role for some courses in enabling 
participants to fully comprehend the material being presented, was also increased. Several live 
sessions were organised with simultaneous interpretation and ten ac tivities (nine global and one 
regional) were conducted with interpretation in 2022, thereby increasing language diversity in the 
WTO TA activities.        
4  TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NEEDS AND PRIORITIES  
63.  As part of the preparations for the TA Plan, and consistent  with past practice, the Secretariat 
interacted with beneficiary Members and Observers to identify their TA priorities and seek their 
comments on various aspects related to the provision of TA. In this regard, an online questionnaire 
was circulated to bene ficiaries' permanent missions to the WTO, inviting feedback and comments on 
a number of issues: their TA needs and priorities under existing Agreements and for areas where no 
agreement exists yet; the TA challenges they face in accessing TA, including with  respect to the 
various forms of training delivery (such as online, virtual, blended or face -to-face); and their views 
on the involvement of various stakeholders in training activities. The responses received were 
analysed and used as the basis for the pre paration of t his TA Plan.  
4.1   Global Priorit y Needs   
64.  In total, the Secretariat received responses from 87 TA beneficiaries, who represent about 60% 
of the total TA beneficiary Members and Observers. The number of respondents is the highest ever 
recorded for a ny TA Questionnaire, and nearly 15% above the average of the two previous TA Plans 
(75 responses  each). The 87 responses have been broken down into regional groups and some of 
the respondents belong to more than one regional group .   
65.  While the responses ha ve been categorised into two broad groups in terms of topics or subjects 
of interest covered by existing Agreements and those that are not, some of the responses were very 
diverse and focused on topics outside the WTO Secretariat's work. Additionally, with in these two 
broad categories, many beneficiaries mentioned more specific and very detailed aspects. These more 
specific aspects will be considered in the context of national activities, while the more -straight 
forward ones and of interest to most benefici aries of the same region will be addressed as regional 
activities in line with a demand driven approach to WTO TA.  
66.  The broad areas of highest priority for WTO TA related to existing WTO Agreements identified 
by the respondents from all regions are (ordered  according to the number of mentions): SPS, TRIPS 
and transfer of technology, TBT, trade in services, trade facilitation, agriculture, and market access 
related topics (see Chart 1 below). Compared to the TA needs identified in the questionnaire for the 
2022-2023 TA Plan, the priority topics for 2024 -2025 have shown little change.  
 
 
 WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Chart 1 - Beneficiaries priorities  areas related to WTO Agreements for 202 4-25 
 
*  Development issues includes small and vulnerable economies (SVEs), and trade and sustainable 
development.  
**  Market access for trade in goods  includes rules of origin  and customs valuation.  
***  OTHER includes C OVID  impact in international trade.  
 
 
67.  The TA beneficiaries were asked whether they considered that WTO TA should broaden the 
range of issues covered to include topics under discussion in the WTO, including those that are not 
part of a multilaterally agreed process. Almost all respondents answered affirmatively and identified 
the following main subjects (in this order): e -commerc e, trade and environment -related issues, 
investment facilitation, trade and gender issues, MSMEs and WTO reform. Some responses simply 
indicated Joint Statements of Initiatives (JSIs) in general terms. As indicated in the Chart 2 below, 
e-commerce (70) rec eived the highest number of mentions, followed by trade and environment -
related issues (45), and investment facilitation (30).  
 
 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Chart 2 - Topics not covered by an Agreement or not part of a multilaterally agreed 
process  
 
*  Other includes, among others, mobilization on trade donor assistance, nexus between trade, 
migration and work programme on small economies, Aid for Trade, trade and poverty related issues, 
trade policy instruments, trade finance.  
 
 
4.2  Priority Needs by region  
68.  WTO TA is delivered u sing several approaches , including the  regional approach . Regional 
courses are organised based on the priority topics identified by members of a particular region. In 
the WTO, there are seven regions identified for the purpose of TA delivery : English -speaking Africa ; 
French -speaking Africa;  Arab and Middle East countries ; Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia 
and the Caucasus (C EECAC ); the Caribbean;  Latin America;  and Asia and the Pacific . In some 
regions , the priorities identified are sim ilar to  the global priorities indicated in Charts 1 and 2 above, 
while in others there are differences  between the regional and global priorities . 
 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  4.2.1   English -speaking Africa  
69.  Sixteen6 English -speaking Africa TA beneficiaries out of a possible twenty -six res ponded to the 
TA questionnaire. These respondents identified the following as priority topics  under existing WTO 
Agreements  (in that order ): SPS; non -agricultural market access issues; TBT ; TRIPS & transfer  of 
technology; trade remedies; agriculture; trade in services; fisheries subsidies; trade facilitation; 
development issues; general capacity building; notifications; trade data/GVCs; and trade negotiation 
skills.  
70.  For topics not covered by an Agreement or no t part of a multilaterally agreed process , the 
beneficiaries identified : e-commerce; investment facilitation ; trade and environment; MSMEs; trade 
and gender issues; WTO reform ; and  trade financing.  
71.  In addition, some respondents also indicated that they wo uld like the Secretariat to deliver 
tailored training so as to better meet their specific needs , as well as  a more flexible approach on 
what constitutes WTO TA . In this regard, some felt that it would be desirable for WTO TA to go 
beyond the explanation of  the agreements, and the rights and obligations arising therefrom, but 
instead get into how individual Members could get the most out of the WTO agreements.  
4.2.2   French -speaking Africa  
72.  Eighteen7 out of the twenty -seven beneficiaries responded to the TA questi onnaire in the 
French -speaking Africa region. The results indicated the priority TA areas with respect to topics 
covered by existing WTO Agreements  such as (in that order ): TRIPS/transfer of technology ; 
agriculture ; fisheries subsidies ; notifications (general) ; SPS/TBT ; trade facilitation ; and trade in 
services.  
73.  In addition, some respondents indicated the importance of capacity building on market access 
issues such as rules of origin, tariff negotiations and support to regional integrat ion in the context 
of the African Continental Free Trade Area  (AfCFTA) . With respect to agriculture, the issue of food 
security was highlighted. Horizontal topics, such as general capacity building and trade negotiation 
skills, were also mentioned by sever al respondents.  
74.  For topics or issues under discussion in the WTO or not yet agreed to multilaterally, the 
members identified the following:  e-commerce ; trade and environment ; trade and gender ; trade 
and investment ; competition policy ; WTO reform ; and joint  statement initiatives. In addition, some 
countries indicated other issues such as trade policy instruments and trade finance.  
75.  Several beneficiaries also suggested targeted WTO technical assistance and training activities , 
including increasing the duration  of some  training activities, the creation of a monitoring system , 
and provide assistance in the implementation of the AfCFTA.  
4.2.3   Arab and Middle East   
76.  Eleven8 out of the twenty -one beneficiaries included in the Arab and Middle East region 
responded to the TA questionnaire. The results indicated the priority areas for countries in the region 
as (in that order ): trade facilitation ; general capacity building ; RTAs; trade in services ; TRIPs ; 
accessions/post -accessions issues ; agriculture ; fisheries subsidies ; market access related issues ; 
notifications (general) ; SPS; TBT; trade negotiations skills ; development issues ; dispute settlement ; 
trade remedies ; and TPR fol low-up. 
 
6 Botswana, Egypt,  Eswatini, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Kenya, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, Seychelles, 
Sierra  Leone, South  Africa, Sudan , Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.  The responses from the Members in bold 
have also been in cluded in the Arab region.  
7 Algeria,  Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Camero on, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Djibouti,  
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Madagascar, Mali,  Mauritania , Niger, Senegal, 
and Togo. The responses for the Members in bold have also been included in the Arab group . 
8 Algeria , Bahrain, Djibouti , Egypt , Jordan, Kuwait, Leban on, Mauritania , Oman, Saudi Arabia , and 
Sudan . Responses from Arab/African countries, which are in bold, are also analysed in the respective sections 
relating to English and French -speaking Africa.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  77.  With respect to the T rade Facilitation Agreement , several Members indicated the need to provide 
support on the implementation of the single window, information sharing sessions to enhance border 
agency cooperation to expedite the release and cleara nce of goods , as well as targeted technical 
assistance to implement category C measures.  
78.  For the Members that identified intellectual property  rights  as a priority, emphasis was placed 
on patent protection and geographical indications. Many replies also attached importance to general 
capacity -building activities such as Regional Trade Policy Courses ( RTPCs ) and Advanced Trade Policy 
Courses ( ATPCs ) due to the high turnover of sta ff dealing with trade issues in capitals . They also  
highlighted the fact that Arabic is not  one of the official WTO languages as a barrier to them.  
79.  With regard to issues under discussion or not yet agreed to multilaterally, most respondents of 
this region indicated the following as the main subjects of interest: e -commerce ; investment 
facilitation for development ; initiatives relating to trade and environment ; the SPS declaration on 
modern challenges ; climate change, circular and green economy ; services dom estic regulations ; and 
trade and gender.  
4.2.4   Central & Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Caucas us  
80.  Twelve9 out of the twenty -one CEECAC  beneficiaries responded to the TA Questionnaire. The 
results indicated the main priority areas for the countries in the region as the following  (in that 
order) : TBT ; agriculture ; trade remedies ; SPS; trade in services ; market access issues ; trade 
facilita tion; dispute settlement ; general capacity building ; and RTAs.  
81.  For market access related issues, the specific needs for assistance included tariff re -
negotiations/compensation and schedules of concessions as well as non-tariff measures ( NTMs ), 
such as impo rt licensing procedures. For TBT and SPS issues, they elaborated : the principle of 
harmonization of international standards, quality infrastructure, risk management, technical 
regulations , and cooperation between international organizations. Regarding  trade remedies , specific 
issues were highlighted , such as anticircumvention of anti -dumping and countervailing measures , 
and administrative reviews.  
82.  Regarding issues under discussion or not yet agreed to multilaterally, most respondents 
indicated : e-commerce ; investment facilitation for development ; MSMEs ; and services domestic 
regulations. The responses also mentioned other topics relating to the environment, including the 
impact of climate change related response measures on international trade.  
83.  In addition,  some countries suggested better targeted WTO technical assistance and training 
activities, including activities more tailor -made for acceding governments and their stakeholders. 
They also indicated  that it is essential for beneficiaries that have a high t urnover of staff dealing with 
trade to have access to the same courses that were previously offered. The geopolitical situation in 
the region was also mentioned, and it was indicated that the current circumstances are hampering 
the full use of the TA on of fer. 
4.2.5   The Caribbean  
84.  Seven10 out of the fourteen countries of the Caribbean region replied to the TA questionnaire. 
The topics most frequently identified as TA priorities by the respondents included: SPS ; general 
market access issues ; TBT; trade facilitation ; agriculture ; fisheries s ubsidies ; general capacity 
building (including the WTO Chairs programme cited by one respondent) ; notifications ; trade in 
services ; TRIPS ; development issues ; and trade statistics and G lobal Value Chains (G VCs). 
85.  On issues under discussion or not yet agreed  to multilaterally in the WTO, the responses 
indicated the following : trade and environment -related issues; trade and gender; e -commerce; 
MSMEs; and WTO reform. Another category of suggestions included broader issues such as the work 
 
9 Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Israel , Kazakhsta n, Kyrgyz Republic , Moldova, Montenegro, 
Russia n Federation , Türkiye , and Uzbekistan . 
10 Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Haiti, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia; and Trinidad and Tobago.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  programme on small eco nomies, the nexus between trade and migration, and mobilizing Aid for 
Trade.  
86.  In addition, suggestions were provided to enhance WTO TA , which included  designing 
generalists' courses targeting the private sector. One respondent suggested considering short -term 
secondment for government officials other than long -term internship programmes. A nother 
suggestion was to organize regional thematic courses that are tailored to the specific needs of the 
regions, and even at the sub -regional level.  
4.2.6   Latin America  
87.  Thirteen11 out of the nineteen Members from Latin America replied to the TA questionnaire. The 
main topics of interest in order of priority were : trade facilitation ; TRIPS and transfer of technology ; 
agriculture ; fisheries subsidies ; SPS; market access issues ; TBT; and trade in services. Other areas 
of significant interest included general capacity building ; notifications ; trade statistics and GVCs. 
Furthermore, several respondents indicated their interest in development issues, trade remedi es as 
well as cross -cutting themes related to how C OVID -19 pandemic affected trade policies and 
measures.  
88.  Regarding issues still under discussion  or not yet agreed to multilaterally  in the WTO, 
respondents identified several areas including the following (in that order): e -commerce ; trade and 
gender issues ; trade and environment ; MSMEs ; and investment facilitation. General training on JSIs  
and WTO reform were also mentioned among other areas of interest.  
89.  Several respondents also made suggestions on how to improve WTO TA , which included 
providing beneficiaries with the means to evaluate each TA activity. Another suggestion was to 
provide an  annual calendar of activities to enable beneficiaries to plan. Respondents also emphasized 
the need for more regional courses. It was mentioned that cross -cutting courses (including e -
Learning modules) on existing online resources and databases would allo w officials to have a general 
overview of tools available to them. Furthermore , it was suggested that age and experience 
requirements for some programmes could be reconsidered as criteria for selection to attend some 
courses. Expanding the number of partic ipants per country in regional and global courses was 
recommended by one respondent.  
4.2.7   Asia and the Pacific  
90.  Fifteen12 out of thirty TA beneficiaries from the Asia -Pacific region responded to the TA 
questionnaire. Priority areas relating to current WTO agre ements indicated by respondents included 
(in that order): trade in services; trade remedies; fisheries subsidies; SPS; TBT; TRIPS and transfer 
of technology; trade negotiation skills; market access issues; trade facilitation; agriculture; RTAs; 
TPR follow -up; dispute settlement; and notifications. For some of these broad categories, several 
respondents mentioned particular aspects  of these categories . For instance, within the broader trade 
in services category, specific areas for TA that were identified by respondents include , inter alia: 
special and differential treatment , services schedules under regional trade agreements , dispute  
settlement in service s, analysis of services data, and support in helping draft services legislation.  
91.  On fisheries subsidies, most respondents indicated the need to have a clear understanding of 
the agreement and the way forward. With respect to trade remedies, specific areas identified by 
some respondents were implementation of the agreements and incorporating these in to domestic 
legislation. Notifications, food safety training, sanitary and phytosanitary standards , and technical 
regulation development in FTAs, as well as e -Ping training,  were highlighted under the broader 
SPS/TBT category. Specific topics highlighted u nder TRIPS and transfer of technology included 
geographical indications ( GIs), public health, and intellectual property  chapters in RTAs.  
 
11 Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, 
Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.  
12 Bangladesh; China ; India; Macao, China; Maldives; Mongolia; Myanmar; Nepal; Pakistan; Papua New 
Guinea; Philippines; Sri La nka; C hinese Tai pei; Thailand  and Vanuatu.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  92.  For the topics on which there are currently no specific WTO agreements  or not yet agreed to 
multilaterally , includ e (in that order ): e-commerce13; trade and environment ; investment 
facilitation ; MSMEs ; and trade and gender issues. With regard to e -commerce , sub-topics identified 
were digital finance, cyber security, data flows, digital infrastruc ture, and the moratorium  on 
customs duties on electronic transmissions . Sustainability and plastics pollution were mentioned by 
several respondents within the trade and environment category.  
93.  With regards to making WTO TA more targeted and useful, most resp ondents indicated that the 
Secretariat should address country specific issues and also adopt a more flexible approach to what 
can be covered under TA. Issues raised included: making use of more case studies, trade and macro -
economic issues, increasing the number of national activities14, allowing for more participation in 
particular courses15, longer duration of workshops/seminars16, and making more material available 
online. Some respondents also indicated that the number of internships/traineeships should  be 
increased.  
4.2.8   Least Developed Countries   
94.  The Secretariat received twenty -two17 responses out of forty -three WTO Members and 
Observers included in the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) category. The WTO identifies LDCs  as 
a priority group in the provision of TA activities. For this reason,  their responses to the TA 
questionnaire have been analysed as a group although they are also covered  in their respective 
region s. The responses indicate that the priority areas for TA  and training for LDCs under existing 
WTO Agreement s are the following ( in that order): SPS/TBT ; Trade in Services ; Trade Facilitation ; 
TRIPS and transfer of technology ; market access related issues ; and agriculture.  
95.  In addition, some respondents indicate d the importance of capacity building on negotiation 
skills; notifications in general, and particularly in the area of Agriculture ; support in the 
implementation of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement ; follow up to Trade Policy Reviews ; and TA in 
acceding  to the WTO .  
 
13 With this topic, some Members referred specifically to the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce, 
adopted by the General Council in September 1998 . 
14 The current practice is two national activities per year for Developing Members /Observers  and three 
per year for LDCs . 
15 Current maximum is 30 for face -to-face activities for regional and global activities.  
16 Average duration for courses is three days except for the RTPCs and ATPCs, and for the LDCs' short 
trade po licy courses which run for eight weeks and three weeks respectively.  
17 Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, 
Gambia, Haiti, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Myanmar, Niger, Nepal, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Tanzania, 
Togo, Uganda, and Zambia. Their needs are also cover ed in the regions that they are grouped in.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Chart 3 - LDCs' Priority areas related to WTO Agreements  
 
 
 
96.  On the question of whether they considered that WTO TA should broaden the range of issues 
covered under its programmes to include other issues under discussion in the WT O, the respondents 
answered in the affirmative and identified the following as the main subjects: e -commerce ; trade 
and environment ; investment facilitation for development ; trade and g ender issues ; competition 
Policy; and micro, small and medium enterprises. In addition, some of them mentioned other topics 
such as statistics in trade in services ; trade policy instruments ; trade data analysis ; trade finance ; 
regional trade agreements; and GVCs . 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Chart 4 - Topics not covered by an Agreement or not multilaterally  agreed  
 
 
4.3  Capacity Constraints  to fully benefit from WTO TA  
97.  Apart from areas or topics of priority, beneficiaries were invited to identify and describe any 
capacity constraints that hinder the m from taking full advantage of the rules -based multilateral 
trading system, including dealing with issues raised in the WTO's work programmes. As in previous 
questionnaires, the responses were very diverse, and  the most frequently mentioned issues were 
related to human resource constraints and limited knowledge about WTO matters. The specific 
constraints related to the low number of officials familiar with WTO issues coupled with the high 
turnover of staff were mentioned by several regions, as well as the l ack of expertise, and limited 
training for those working on trade -related issues. Other constraints relate to limited financial 
resources and limited or unreliable trade data. Some respondents also mentioned as constraints, 
the non -existence of resident Mi ssions of their countries in Geneva or the small size of the se 
Mission s, and language constraints  in accessing some specialized training for countries not proficient 
in English . 
98.  LDCs indicated several capacity constraints that hinder them from taking full advantage of the 
rules-based multilateral trading system. The most frequently mentioned were constraints related to 
weak institutional and human capacity, high staff turnover in the ministries and departments dealing 
with WTO issues, and lack of financial resources for the organisation of national activities, resulting 
in low levels of TA national requests submitted to the Secretariat. Other LDCs pointed out that , 
because they were in arears  on their dues to the WTO , and thus under Administrative Measures,  it 
has not been possible for them to request WTO technical assistance . They proposed that the 
ineligibility to TA for countries under Administrative Measures needs to be reviewed.  
4.4  Preferred  mode s of delivery of WTO TA  
99.  e-Learning has become a well -establis hed mode of delivery of WTO TA and a good and 
appropriate tool for delivering TA and training because of its low cost, uninterrupted availability, 
flexibility, and the fact that it can be used by a large number of participants. Some beneficiaries 
suggested  that there was need to improve the existing e -Learning offer by expanding the offer to 
cover emerging trade topics, improving the content of modules, and extending e -Learning to other 
stakeholders. The e -Learning courses are available to the general publi c except access  to the 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  course's exam s and the issuance of diplomas. e -Learning serves two purposes, as a training tool 
and as a basis for gaining eligibility for selection to advanced training activities based on the 
progressive learning strategy.   
100.  The question on preferred modes of delivery focused on the following modes of delivery: face -
to-face, virtual , or blended18. The Secretariat received a wide range of responses regarding 
preferences or constraints with respect to specific forms of delivering tr aining, such as online (as in 
e-Learning activities); face -to-face; virtual (including webinars); or "blended" activities that involve 
a combination of face -to-face and online or remote components. As shown in the table below, many 
respondents indicated th eir first preference as face -to-face (77 responses  out of the 87 ), second ed 
by blended and , lastly,  virtual/online delivery. The LDCs preferred modes of delivery of TA activities 
were not different from the rest of the TA beneficiaries and this preference is consistent across all 
regions, as detailed below.   
Chart 5 - Preferred modes of TA delivery  
 
 
101.  Beneficiaries were also requested to provide any other information that they considered 
relevant in making WTO TA and training activities better targeted and  more useful for them. Among 
the respondents who answered the question, the most frequently mentioned items referred to the 
implementation of more national and regional activities with a more tailored and focussed approach; 
more face -to-face activities; an  increase in the number of participants in particular for  the LDCs; as 
well as the enhancement and expansion of e -Learning courses including more courses in languages 
other than English. Other points mentioned by some respondents included the addition of n ew topics 
in training courses and workshops; taking into account work experience when selecting participants 
for TA activities, instead of only following the PLS approach; and more advanced courses for 
specialists.  
102.  The Secretariat presented the preliminary analysis of the needs and priorities identified by the 
TA beneficiaries at the 120th session of the Committee on Trade and Development, held on 5th April 
2023. In addition, the Secretariat invited all WTO Members a nd Observers for informal consultations 
on the TA  Plan 2024 -25, which were held on 26 May 2023. At the meeting, the Secretariat briefed 
attendees on the responses to the TA  Questionnaires, presented the proposed strategic approach 
for the Biennial TA Plan,  and updated them on the status of  the preparation of the Plan.  
103.  In order to better tailor activities for each specific beneficiary, rather than offer generic 
products, as is done at the regional or global level, the Secretariat will give priority to natio nal 
activities  in addressing the needs . The online request form provides TA beneficiaries with an  
 
18 A blended format of delivery combin es face-to-face with online or remote components . 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  opportunity to refine or reconfirm their priorities . This is the best way in which each Member's or 
Observer's specific interests can be addressed in the desi gn and delivery of TA activities.  
104.  In this regard, the national TA online request form will continue to be used as the main tool 
for requesting TA to be provided to Members and Observers. In 2022, m any beneficiaries did not 
make use of national activities d ue to several challenges, including those specifically affecting LDCs 
and some low -income developing countries  as identified in Section 4.3 . 
105.  With respect to regional activities, the Secretariat will ensure that these activities are organized 
around subject s on which there is a collective interest among most beneficiaries in the specific 
region. In this regard, the programme content in regional thematic activities will reflect the specific 
needs of each region.  
106.  Some beneficiaries feel that the Secretariat should broaden its scope of assistance to include 
trade policy options . However, the Secretariat 's mandate and scope in this regard is limited. As a 
result, the Secretariat will continue to work with partner org anisations that share the same principles 
as the WTO to ensure responsiveness to the diverse needs and priorities of TA beneficiaries. In the 
meantime, for those activities delivered jointly with partners the role of providing trade policy  options  
will con tinue to be assumed by those partner institutions whose mandate permits them to do so.  
107.  With regard to requests on emerging issues  or those not multilaterally agreed to , the 
Secretariat will pay necessary attention to the sensitiv ities that exist for certa in topics while also 
taking into account that WTO TA is demand -driven. The Secretariat will, therefore, provide such TA 
when specifically requested  by a beneficiary or a group of beneficiaries .  
108.  Based on previous discussions and guidance from Members and O bservers, and from the 
consultations undertaken during the preparation of previous TA Plans, the Secretariat will maintain 
the agreed communication channel s with Members and Observers, which in most cases is through 
their permanent missions to the WTO. To complement these efforts  and ensure transparency on 
planned courses , the Secretariat will continue to publish  the activities  on the dedicated WTO 
webpage on the WTO website ( Upcoming face -to-face activities | TAMS (wto.org) . 
109.  A number of responses from acceding beneficiaries emphasised the need for the Secretariat 
to provide specific activities to assist in their accession process es. The Secretariat already conducts 
accession -related TA activities developed in consul tation with the Accessions Division; almost all 
national activities in acceding beneficiaries are in furtherance of their accession to the WTO. 
Furthermore, recently acceded WTO Members also benefit from several post -accession activities, 
again implemented  jointly with the Accessions Division. The Secretariat will continue with this 
approach in the 2024 -25 biennium.  
5  STRATEGIC APPROACH FOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE IN 202 4-25 
110.  TA is a core element of the development dimension of the multilateral trading system.19 The 
delivery of WTO TA is designed to assist developing countries, and especially the least developed  
among them, to adjust to WTO rules and disciplines, to implement their obligations and exercise 
their rights of membership, including drawing on the benef its of an open, rules -based MTS. Priority 
is accorded to LDCs, as well as to Members and Observers without representation in Geneva.  
111.  The TA Plan  focuses on the needs of beneficiaries and reflects the priorities and mandates 
adopted by Members. Increased ow nership by beneficiaries ensures the efficacy and sustainability 
of TA programmes, as beneficiaries are best placed to determine their own needs. Accordingly, as 
part of the preparation of this TA Plan, the Secretariat has consulted TA beneficiaries includ ing 
through ad hoc  questionnaires. In designing TA activities tailored to the needs of each beneficiary, 
the Secretariat attaches great importance to TA needs assessments, undertaken by the beneficiaries 
themselves. At the same time, the Secretariat will p rovide as much guidance as practically possible, 
to assist beneficiaries in undertaking their own needs assessments, since a number of beneficiaries, 
especially LDCs, request assistance with the tools with which to conduct their needs assessments.  
 
19 Doha Ministerial Declaration, WT/MIN(01)/DEC/1 , para. 38. WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  112.  The TA P lan, while responding to the evolving needs of the MTS and of TA beneficiaries, seeks 
to make improvements in the quality and effectiveness of TA by prioritizing activities with the highest 
potential to produce results for beneficiaries. With respect to th e design and implementation of these 
activities, the Secretariat will endeavour to use methods and technologies that improve knowledge 
sharing, maximize impact, and make a more efficient use of resources. At the same time, the TA 
Plan envisages that the vo lume of TA offered will remain largely the same as for the pre COVID -19 
period, based on the assumption that available human resources facilitating and delivering TA will 
remain broadly unchanged and financial resources allocated will take into account the  global 
economic environment and its impact on the costs such as flights and hotel accommodation during 
the 2024 -25 biennium.  
113.   The overall strategic approach for the design of the TA Plan is guided by two main principles: 
Managing for Results and the Progr essivity of the training paths. These two approaches are 
complemented by the following considerations: use of appropriate pedagogical methods; use of 
partnerships; and prioritizing inclusion. In addition, and should Members so decide, the TA Plan could 
be reviewed at an appropriate time to accommodate implementation of recommendations arising 
from the recent external evaluation of the extra budgetary resources and the outcomes of the 
ongoing discussions on WTO reforms.  
5.1  Managing for Results  
114.  The TA Plan is de signed on the basis of the Secretariat's strategy of managing for results, 
which has been endorsed by Member s since 2013. This strategy is framed by the concepts and terms 
defined by the Results -Based Management (RBM) approach, which focuses on achieving m easurable 
results through improved planning, decision -making, transparency, and accountability. The 
Secretariat intends to continue its implementation of a n RBM approach.  
115.  Under the RBM  methodology, Key Results feed into a higher result level, termed Impact. No 
causal link can be expected to be established between WTO TA activities and any observable result 
at the global impact level. The TA Plan will focus on defining and measuring the Secretariat's 
contribution towards agreed Outputs which support the achievement of Key Results. In this context, 
clear objectives of what needs to be achieved are set together with quantifiable indicators for 
measuring progress and making sure that the var ious TA activities contribute to reaching the 
expected Outputs that feed into the established Key Results.  
116.  Since the adoption of the managing for results strategy, TA Plans have presented three result 
levels (Outputs; Key Results; and Impact) and the way T A activities contribute to Outputs, and 
Outputs to Key Results, with the expectation of having an impact for beneficiary Members and 
Observers. The respective contribution of the three result levels is presented by using a Logical 
Framework Matrix or logfr ame. This matrix provides detailed performance indicators, baselines, 
targets, evidence and assumptions that guide the design and implementation of the TA  Plan and 
also help measure achievements. The Outputs, Key Results and other components of the logfram e 
are discussed in section 6 below.  
117.  The TA Plan provides indicators, baselines, and targets to be used to measure the attainment 
of the Key Results taking into account the conditions that negatively affected TA activities during the 
pandemic and in 2022. I t has also been assumed that the conditions that impacted the 2022 
performance will to a significant extent be overcome by the end of 2023 and the beginning of the 
period 2024 -25 or soon thereafter.  
118.  The logframe in Annex 1 serves as the foundation to monit or and evaluate progress towards 
the expected results during the implementation of the TA Plan. The Secretariat will also continue to 
roll-out a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) workplan to contribute to measuring the attainment of 
the Key Results. Such mon itoring and evaluation are essential for an efficient utilisation of TA 
resources. The Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation (ITTC) is responsible for coordinating 
the monitoring and evaluation of TA activities, and for producing at the end of e ach year an annual 
report on implementation of TA activities. The M&E workplan shall mirror the TA Plan and allocate 
M&E resources according to the relative importance of each of the Key Results in the TA mix.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  119.  As in the past, the TA annual reporting to Me mbers will continue to focus on TA results as 
outlined in the TA logical framework with monitoring conducted by the programme managers, 
organizers and trainers focusing on the immediate results or Outputs of the various TA activities.  
120.  An essential element in the implementation of RBM is the TA Management System (TAMS). 
The Secretariat intends to continue refining the operation of TAMS, to increase efficiency, 
transparency, and accountability, including by improving the recently developed dashboards to allow  
Members real time access to all TA relevant data, from initial requests to evaluations. However, as 
of 2023, the development of all the functionalities of TAMS that was envisaged to be completed by 
the end of the 2022 -2023 TA Plan will be shelved until re sources are allocated to resume the analysis 
and the remaining work required to set up a single portal to receive and process applications to TA 
activities and to allow participants, in addition to beneficiaries and Secretariat staff, access to 
relevant da ta. 
5.2  Progressive Learning Strategy  
121.  The other major component of the overall framework for the TA Plan  is the  Progressive 
Learning Strategy (PLS) endorsed by Members in 2011. The PLS has made it possible to tailor WTO 
activities more closely to the evolving needs of beneficiaries, while improving the effectiveness and 
efficiency of WTO's overall TA programme. The PLS also allows for a more efficient use of TA 
resources by building on the knowledge and experience previously acquired by participants, and 
progre ssively taking participants to a higher level of training.  
122.  Under the PLS, WTO training activities are defined by two criteria: level and target audience. 
The PLS comprises three continuing training levels, namely: introductory (Level 1); intermediate 
(Leve l 2); and advanced (Level 3). In parallel, the PLS includes two categories of target audiences: 
generalists and specialists. Generalists are government officials who need broad knowledge of the 
WTO to conduct their work, such as capital -based officials dea ling with WTO issues or delegates 
posted to WTO permanent missions with general responsibility for topics across the entire WTO work 
programme. On the other hand, specialists are government officials who require in -depth knowledge 
of a specific WTO subject  matter, such as officials working on a specific issue in a particular ministry 
or agency. Chart 6 illustrates the configuration of the PLS framework.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Chart 6 - WTO's Progressive Learning Strategy  
 
 
 
 
123.  The Secretariat has developed guidelines on the content of each of the three training levels, 
subject by subject, to define the substantive elements that should be mastered by generalists and 
specialists at the end of each training activity. Successful completion of each step constitutes a 
prerequisite for progression to the next level. Such progression might also be possible where a 
participant otherwise possesses knowledge or professional experience that is dem onstrably 
commensurate with the requirements of a level stated as a prerequisite for training at the next level. 
WTO training programmes are periodically revised in order to provide beneficiaries with a more 
clearly defined progressive training path, both for generalists and specialists.  
124.  While some TA activities do not easily fit into the PLS, the Secretariat will continue to promote 
the understanding of the concepts underpinning the different training levels, clarifying the 
knowledge, concepts and principl es that must be acquired at each level. Progressivity and further 
synergy will be pursued between TA  activities, including online and face -to-face TA  activities. The 
Secretariat will continue pursuing a better articulation and progressivity between the thr ee training 
levels, especially for generalists' activities, so that higher level activities build more effectively on 
the knowledge acquired at previous levels.  
125.  The experience gained during the pandemic in the deployment of remote learning in TA 
activities  with fit -for-purpose content should pave the way to a greater coherence and a more 
widespread application of PLS. The implementation of progressivity in learning will continue to be 
supported, when appropriate, through means to test participants' knowledg e at the end of TA 
activities.  
126.  The Secretariat intends to continue consolidating the PLS into a wider scope of activities, 
including national activities for which applying the PLS approach is often challenging due to the 
limited control that the Secretaria t has in determining participation.  
127.  Within the e -Learning environment, the online course "Introduction to the WTO" will provide 
the basic training required to understand the structure and functioning of the WTO. This course will 
also serve as a prerequisite for participation in more advanced  online or face -to-face activities. 
Intermediate e -Learning courses for generalists will allow participating government officials to 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  enhance their overall understanding of the WTO, while the courses for specialists will permit 
participants to acquire exper tise on specific WTO Agreements or subjects.  
5.3  Course Content and the u se of Appropriate Pedagogical Methods  
128.  The Secretariat will continue to develop and incorporate more effective pedagogical methods 
into its TA activities, including with respect to the mea ns of delivery guided by the Members 
preferences as illustrated above in section 4.  
129.  The pandemic has enabled a better understanding, for both the Secretariat and beneficiaries, 
of the opportunities that the remote means of delivery of TA can offer to addr ess training needs, as 
well as of the limitations that remote means of delivery have, when compared to face -to-face 
training. In order to benefit to the fullest extent from remote learning opportunities, participants 
must have access to strong and reliable  internet connection, adequate computing equipment, and 
the possibility to dedicate sufficient time to the training activities, taking into account work, family, 
workspace, and other personal constraints. At the same time, most face -to-face TA activities c annot 
be completely converted to a virtual delivery mode without an important investment of resources20 
and a considerable scaling down of ambition.  
130.  As noted in section 4, many beneficiaries have identified face -to-face as their preferred means 
of receivin g TA.21 The Secretariat is also aware that face -to-face may be the best means of delivering 
some TA activities, such as those at an advanced level and those activities that require a significant 
level of interaction with trainers and peers. The progressive  resumption of face -to-face training 
activities will be rolled out  taking into account regional and local circumstances, as well as the 
preferences and constraints expressed by beneficiaries.  
131.  At the same time, the Secretariat intends to utilize the experie nce of the delivering TA during 
the pandemic to make a more efficient and flexible use of different methods of delivery in TA 
activities. Virtual activities will coexist with face -to-face activities, on a case -by-case basis either by 
themselves or by formi ng part of blended TA activities that combine face -to-face and remotely 
delivered content. This may allow expanding and improving the TA offer with an investment of 
financial and human resources, promoting a lighter environmental footprint, and fostering t he well -
being and productivity of trainers and participants.  
132.  With respect to specific training activities, the Secretariat will continue to encourage trainers 
to use an appropriate mixture of traditional lectures and interactivity with other methods such a s 
hands -on training in those cases where this helps participants to learn and retain knowledge. 
Trainers will be especially encouraged to use interactive training methods like Questions and Answers 
(Q&A) sessions, case studies, and small group discussions.  Interactivity is especially important in 
online or virtual TA activities, where sustaining participants' attention and engagement is 
challenging.  
133.  Trainers will likewise be encouraged to assess the appropriateness of complementing real time 
(synchronous) c omponents with asynchronous components in TA activities, to increase flexibility and 
allow participants to study at their own pace and combine learning with their daily work and family 
commitments. In view of the importance of using the right training meth ods to create an effective 
learning environment, the Secretariat will continue to closely monitor the use of the different training 
methods used by trainers when delivering TA.  
134.  The Secretariat will also continue its efforts to promote, improve or widen the  availability of 
existing courses. This may involve altering the programme or the methodology, or the possibility of 
proposing additional thematic courses in French or Spanish. Efforts will also continue to increase the 
number of selected candidates22, whe ther in face -to-face or in remotely delivered training activities, 
 
20 Virtual activities require a significant additional amount of preparation and are often redesigned to 
take place over a longer period than equivalent face -to-face activities. Therefore, maintaining a similar volume 
of TA would require an investment in additional resources.  
21 See above, para. 100.   
22 The increase in the number of participants in face -to-face TA activities will be subject to the p hysical 
capacity of the facilities at which these courses are held.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  to the extent that the objectives of the specific training activities are achieved, and the use of the 
most appropriate pedagogy is not affected.  
135.  The Secretariat will maintain the practice of having consultations with beneficiaries ahead of 
regional and national activities to tailor TA activities to the specificities of the local contexts of 
beneficiaries. This will help identify the most appropriate pedagogical approach to organizing a 
TA activity, including the preferred means of delivery, and tailor the substance to the particular 
needs of the activity.  
136.  e-Learning has played a critical role in the provision of TA activities over the past years, proving 
to be an efficient and cost -effective  way to train large numbers of individuals around the world on a 
number of WTO topics. The WTO e -Learning courses are part of the PLS and provide training at the 
introductory and intermediate levels. The course catalogue includes a generalist and a special ist 
path to respond to participants' profiles and to specific learning needs. In addition, some courses 
are offered outside the PLS to increase outreach and develop awareness of WTO issues. In times of 
restricted mobility, e -Learning courses are an indispe nsable component of WTO TA. As noted above, 
beneficiaries consider e -Learning to be a good and appropriate tool for delivering TA and training 
because of, among other reasons, its low cost, its uninterrupted availability, its flexibility, and the 
fact that  it can be used by many participants.23 
137.  In the period 2024 -25, the e -Learning courses will continue to be available on the  e-Learning 
platform (https://www.learning.wto.org/ ) at an uninterrupted basis. This allows participants to study 
at their own pace and combine learning with their daily work and family commitments. Interested 
government officials will be able to register, have access to the catalogue of e -Learning courses, 
select curricula that fit their needs, undertake courses, take part in interactive activities, access the 
module exams and obtain a WTO certificate at their convenience throughout the year.  
138.  The training materials will remain available for self -study on the e -Learning platform for those 
who are not eligible to register for a course but are interested in getting acquainted with the WTO 
and/or trade -related issues generally. This is an important component of the WTO e -Learning 
programme, which aims to increase outreach to academics, legislat ors, journalists, NGOs and the 
private sector.  
139.  The Secretariat will update and enhance existing courses in the e -Learning catalogue. It will 
also continue providing training, in the three WTO working languages, on the main WTO agreements 
and core trade -related topics, while expanding its offer on other topics being discussed in the WTO 
work programme.  
140.  In terms of didactic approach, during the biennium the Secretariat will continue converting 
first-generation courses into interactive courses in line with e -Learning methodologies and industry 
standards. In addition, synchronous and asynchronous interactions will be strengthened in the 
programme to support knowledge transfer and knowledge sharing and increase engagement in the 
courses, through the introduction of regular web sessions and the development of learning 
communities as complementary components of the courses.  
5.4  Use of partnerships  
141.  Over the years, the WTO has entered into numerous partnerships to deliver TA. Partnerships 
are either long term, short term or ad-hoc for a particular TA activity. By bringing additional expertise 
and knowledge, partnerships help offering context -sensitive  TA. They are also instrumental in 
promoting the benefits of WTO TA and delivering activities more efficiently.  
142.  The WTO's network of partnerships played an important role in 2022 and 62% of the activities 
were implemented with the involvement of a partner . These partnerships are a valuable asset for 
the WTO, as they contribute to the relevance and effectiveness of the activities provided to Members 
and to ensuring the financial sustainability of WTO TA. In this regard, the Secretariat will emphasise  
on par tners contributing financially to the delivery of TA activities while continuing to focus on the 
four areas below in which partners could add value to the TA provided by the WTO:  
 
23 See above, para. 99.   WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  a. Substance : whether the cooperation is mandated by a WTO Agreement or not, the  
partner adds value to the content of the TA activities by bringing on board their specialized 
knowledge on a particular subject, a local context , or the institutional role it plays in an 
area. Such partnerships would typically involve joint preparation an d delivery of the 
programme of the activity, or of part of it.  
b. Cost-sharing : the partner shares the costs associated with the organization of a 
particular TA activity. The contribution of the partner may be limited to some of these 
costs, defined in terms of percentage of the total or as a lump sum.  
c. Field support / Logistics : the partner takes care of part of the logistics related to the 
TA activity. This may involve tasks such as the identification of a venue for the activity, 
booking hotels, preparing tra vel itineraries, sending invitations, organizing interpretation 
or local transportation, providing support staff on site, setting up and maintaining a virtual 
classroom, or distributing the Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA) to participants, where 
applicabl e. 
d. Outreach : cooperation with certain institutions may give the WTO access to a different 
public or may increase its visibility in non -traditional circles.  
143.  The Secretariat will continue to analyse the functioning of different partnerships. The use of 
regional experts for Regional Trade Policy Courses will continue and for other regional TA activities 
a similar approach will be encouraged whenever possible. The Secretariat will continue to ensure 
effective use of resources including the use of consultants fr om outside regions with a view to 
strengthening training capacities within beneficiaries and regions.  
5.5  Prioritizing Inclusion  
144.  The Secretariat is committed to fully inclusive TA activities that respond to the evolving needs 
of the most vulnerable beneficiar ies. The integration of LDCs into the MTS will continue to be pursued 
through TA products designed by the Secretariat to address LDCs' systemic and evolving needs. 
Strengthening LDCs participation in TA activities will remain a priority, with the objective  of assisting 
them in obtaining a greater benefit from their active participation in the WTO.  
145.  In 2017,  at the Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires, a Joint Declaration on Trade and 
Women's Economic Empowerment was launched. Since 2020, increased interest in trade and gender 
issues was observed, with some Members requesting specific TA activities on Trade  and Gender. At 
the 12th Ministerial Conference, ministers recognized in the outcome document (WTO/MIN(22)/24)  
the links between women's economic empo werment and economic growth, noting the work of the 
WTO on this issue. WTO's training course on Trade and Gender assists government officials in 
developing gender -responsive trade policies and explores the development aspects of women's 
economic empowermen t.   
146.  According to the 2022 TA Annual report, for the first time, the participation of women (51%) 
surpassed that of men in WTO TA activities. Female participation increased in all activities, regardless 
of the mode of delivery. Among e -learners, women acco unted for 54% of all participants, an increase 
of 21% over the previous year.   
147.  The Secretariat will continue to monitor and report the participation of women and men in 
WTO TA activities for the foreseeable future with a view to addressing gender imbalance s. In 
addition, reflecting the importance it attaches to gender issues, the Secretariat will maintain its 
efforts to ensure gender balance in WTO TA participation. The Secretariat will make a particular 
effort to improve the participation of women in those  regions which either showed a decrease or a 
stagnation in their participation.  
148.  While recognising that there are other international actors with a specific mandate on gender 
issues, in the context of implementing this TA Plan, the Secretariat will maintain  and continue 
developing its trade and gender training modules in WTO TA activities . The Secretariat shall also 
contribute to trade and gender discussions as part of TA activities organized by partners. Evidence 
shows  that w omen's economic empowerment has a positive impact on sustainable economic growth 
and helps to reduce poverty. Although trade has increased job opportunities for women and business WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  prospects for female entrepreneurs, women still participate less in trade because they face higher 
challenge s and obstacles, including extra hurdles in acquiring trade -related knowledge.  
149.  Finally, language diversity and the use of all WTO working languages in TA delivery will be an 
additional tool to achieve inclusion. The Secretariat delivers TA in the three WTO  working languages: 
English, French, and Spanish. Participants in TA activities may, therefore, follow TA courses in any 
of these languages, to the extent that a particular course is available in all the languages. Offering 
the same courses in the three WT O working languages will be the preferred option in order to 
promote inclusion and keep as much interactivity as possible. Interpretation will also continue to be 
used, as feasible and appropriate, to reach a wider audience. New or updated e -Learning cours es, 
which are generally launched in English, will continue to be progressively translated to French and 
Spanish.  
6  EXPECTED TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE KEY RESULTS  
150.  One of the Secretariat's main functions under the TA programme is to enhance the  capacity of 
TA beneficiary officials to deal with the various issues under the WTO Agreements. WTO TA is aimed 
at enhancing capacity in developing countries and LDCs so that t hey can: (a)  participate effectively 
in the core areas of the WTO's work and its respective bodies; (b)  implement their WTO obligations; 
(c) be able to defend the rights accruing to them under the WTO Agreements; and (d) participate 
effectively in negotiat ions. For the Observers, the TA aims to ensure that acceding governments or 
separate customs territories are participating effectively in accession negotiations, in line with WTO 
accession processes and procedures.  
151.  The TA Plan p rimarily targets government  officials so as to assist beneficiary governments or 
separate customs territories build capacity to implement the WTO Agreements and thereby enforce 
their rights under the Agreements. The Secretariat will continue to provide TA to government officials 
and others through activities organized at the national, regional and global levels. In terms of 
delivery, the Secretariat intends to use face-to-face, virtual, online, and blended formats, the latter 
involving a combination of face -to-face and online or remo te components.  
152.  It is also recognized that trade policy has multiple actors, in addition to government officials. 
The Secretariat will, therefore, in accordance with this TA Plan, continue to target other relevant 
audiences such as academics, legislators, j ournalists and private sector operators, particularly in 
outreach activities.  
153.  The TA Plan  has been designed to achieve the four Key Results indicated in Chart 7, which 
have remained the same as in previous TA Plans. As in the past, achieving the Key Result s in the TA 
Plan will require close cooperation between the Secretariat, governments and other non -
governmental beneficiaries, financial contributors to the TA budget, and TA delivery partner 
institutions.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  Chart 7 - TA Key Results for 202 4-25 
 
 
 
154.  Chart 7 identifies an overall impact as the highest level of result to which the WTO-related 
work contributes jointly with other players in trade -related capacity building. It is not an exclusive 
attribution to TA from the WTO, but an indication of the con tribution the WTO is making to a common 
goal. In view of this, the Secretariat, like in previous TA Plans, will focus on measuring outputs and 
progress towards specific key results, which are discussed in detail in the subsequent parts of this 
section.  
155.  The logical framework in Annex 1 provides details on the indicators and targets associated 
with each of the Key Results in Chart 7. Those indicators and targets constitute the markers that 
will guide the implementation of the TA Plan at the operational level and will help measure its 
achievements.  
6.1  Key Result 1: Government officials are implementing WTO Agreements and fully 
realising  Members' rights and obligations  
156.  Key Result 1 aims to enhance Members' capacity to comply better with their obligations under 
the WTO Agreements and make full use of their rights. This Key Result corresponds to the bulk of 
the TA pr ovided by the WTO to TA beneficiaries. The goal is to ensure that government officials have 
enhanced knowledge about the WTO Agreements and trade issu es and are able to participate 
effectively in the MTS. The TA Annual Report 2022 confirmed that 55% of total TA budget funded 
activities contributed to Key Result 1.   
157.  Drawing from the implementation of TA activities in previous years, the bulk of TA activi ties 
for the TA Plan 2024 -25 is geared towards assisting Members to implement WTO Agreements and 
enhance knowledge about their rights and obligations, to better formulate their trade policies and 
effectively participate in trade negotiations. These include  training activities on specific topics of 
interest to the TA beneficiaries as pursued in recent years.  
158.  To achieve Key Result 1, the Secretariat will continue to work closely with the permanent 
missions to the WTO and with capital -based focal points respon sible for WTO issues. Attaining this 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  key result will also entail allocating time and resources to the design of new courses based on 
Members' identified needs and on PLS guidelines. In addition, this will also require support from 
beneficiaries, such as me asures taken to retain trained participants in appropriate functions, the 
ability to spread the knowledge acquired across relevant agencies, as well as effective 
communication between the permanent missions and the capitals.  
159.  To achieve Key Result 1, the Se cretariat will aim to achieve four main Outputs identified below 
in Chart 8 on Outputs for this key result. The Secretariat will be responsible for the effectiveness 
and efficiency with which Outputs are achieved, while accountability for achieving the ove rall Key 
Result 1 will be shared with TA  beneficiaries.  
160.  Details on indicators, baselines, targets, evidence and assumptions associated with this Key 
Result are included in Annex 1. Key Result 1 targets, among other things, an increase in beneficiaries' 
submissions to WTO bodies, which is used as proxy indicator since a large part of the WTO work is 
performed by Bodies and Committees in which proceedings are in writing, as well as a decrease in 
the number of outstanding notifications.  
161.  It is expected that a t otal of approximately CHF  13.254 million24 for each year will be needed 
to implement the planned activities contributing to Key Result 1. This amount represents about 
76.7% of the total TA funding planned for the four Key Results in both 2024 and 2025 (see  Table  1 
in section 7 on funding).  
Chart 8 - Key Result 1: Outputs  
 
 
6.1.1   Output 1.1: Government officials have enhanced knowledge about WTO 
Agreements, trade policy formulation and conduct of trade negotiations  
162.  Output 1.1 (Government officials having enhanced knowledge of the WTO Agreements, 
formulation of trade policies, and conduct of trade negotiations) has historically been the main item 
under the Key Result 1 of the logframe. The objective is to offer govern ment officials progressive 
learning paths that help them improve their knowledge and effectiveness in performing their work 
and participating in negotiations.  
 
24 This amount excludes the 13% overhead . Of this amount  78.4%  is unearmarked and 21.6% is 
earmarked.    
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  163.  The indicators, baseline, target, evidence and assumptions associated with this Output are 
detail ed in Annex 1. Taking into account the lessons learnt from the implementation of previous TA 
Plans, as well as the experience during the pandemic with respect to the use of online means of 
delivery, the Secretariat will aim at designing TA activities in a way that improves knowledge sharing, 
maximizes impact, and makes a more efficient use of resources. This will involve continuing to 
improve the Secretariat's pedagogical methods and its Training of Trainers (ToT) efforts.  
164.  As in the past, most TA  activities  under Output 1.1 will seek to enhance the WTO -related 
knowledge of junior to senior level government officials from eligible beneficiaries through targeted 
generalist or specialized technical assistance. A description of the wide range of TA  activities un der 
Output 1.1 can be structured around the following four training modalities, each of which is discussed 
in the sub -sections below: (a) e -Learning; (b) face -to-face training; (c) virtual or remote  training25; 
and (d)  internship programmes.  
165.  The Secretaria t will continue to collaborate with beneficiaries to promote the movement of 
participants through the three PLS levels. This requires, for example, promoting the understanding 
of the concepts underpinning the different training levels, clarifying the knowl edge, concepts and 
principles that have to be acquired at each level, and ensuring that candidates nominated for the 
available courses satisfy the pre -requisites defined for each course. Uniformity in application of this 
requirement will ensure that all pa rticipants for a particular course begin each training at a similar 
level of knowledge. The Secretariat will also pursue a better articulation and progressivity between 
the three training levels, so that higher level activities build more effectively on th e knowledge 
acquired at previous levels.  
e-Learning  
166.  The WTO e -Learning programme is an efficient and cost -effective training tool providing WTO 
Members and Observers access to a vast catalogue of online courses and training events on the 
WTO, the WTO Agree ments, and other key trade -related issues. The new e -Learning portal can be 
accessed from anywhere, anytime, on any digital device. Built on the PLS, the WTO e -Learning 
programme is for many TA beneficiaries the gateway to WTO TA with several e -Learning co urses 
serving as prerequisites for more advanced in -person TA activities. During the biennium, the 
Secretariat will seek to consolidate and expand participation in the e -Learning programme across 
regions, ensure an increase from 2022 performance of partici pants' success rate in the courses, and 
expand its catalogue of online courses and services.  
167.  The Secretariat will update and enhance the courses in the e -Learning catalogue in the three 
WTO working languages, to the maximum extent possible within the avail able resources. The 
strategy that will be implemented in 202 4-25 will include advancing the conversion of existing  
training material into SCORM26 and other interactive formats, increase interactivity and participant's 
engagement by designing courses that i nclude multimedia elements, interactive exercises  and case 
studies,  and other improved pedagogical methodologies , and develop new training material covering 
trade -related topics that had not been previously covered by the e -Learning programme. The 
portfolio will also continue its shift towards multimedia -rich material and mobile learning to respond 
to new trends and needs. Detailed targets are covered in Annex 1 as part of the key results in the 
logframe.  
168.  Interactivity and participants' engagement are key elements of effective online training and 
knowledge transfer. Webinar sessions and discussion forums to complement asynchronous training 
will be developed further to provide participants with a more person al digital learning experience. 
Learning communities will continue to be encouraged to develop peer -to-peer interactions in the 
online courses, as well as allow participants to have updates on the latest news on trade -related 
issues, exchange views with ot her trade experts, and establish a global professional network.  
169.  The e -Learning's communication through the use of social media channels (Twitter, Facebook, 
Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube) and the features of the new WTO e -Learning portal will be further 
strengthened to develop outreach, raise awareness and promote WTO training activities. Material 
 
25 Remote and virtual activities may also involve a combination of face -to-face where appropriate . 
26 SCORM, which stands for Sharable Content Object Refere nce Model, is a set of technical standards for 
e-Learning software products.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  developed in e -Learning activities will also continue to be used to develop strategic synergies with 
face-to-face activities.  
Face -to-face training  
170.  The Secretari at aims to deliver face -to-face training at the national, regional or sub -regional 
and global levels at any of the three PLS levels depending on the specific needs of beneficiaries. The 
face-to-face training for generalists includes trade policy courses at  the introductory, intermediate 
and advanced PLS levels. These courses, held in Geneva and in the regions, aim to provide a strong 
general knowledge of the MTS and of the main provisions of the WTO Agreements, which should 
enable participants to work in a large variety of WTO -related areas or develop a more specialized 
expertise. The TA Plan  will maintain a suitable concentration of candidates complying with the 
prerequisites of an activity to ensure the effectiveness of the PLS. 
171.  At the introductory level, the face -to-face training courses for generalists will comprise the 
Geneva -based Introductory Trade Policy Course for LDCs, which will continue to be offered at least 
once a year as it has proven to be in high demand by beneficiaries. This course will be o ffered in 
English and in French.  
172.  At an intermediate level, the Regional Trade Policy Courses (RTPCs) will also continue. These 
eight-week courses target government officials working on trade -related issues who have completed 
an introductory WTO training. The Secretariat will aim at offering these courses in each of the WTO's 
seven regions. RTPCs will deliver a comprehensive syllabus covering the WTO Agreements and, 
generally, the MTS as a whole through pedagogical methods that can help strengthen participa nts' 
knowledge of the WTO Agreements, and their autonomy to use WTO resources and conduct WTO 
related work. Participants' progress will be regularly monitored and assessed, through different 
means such as weekly quizzes, level of participation and engageme nt in the course and a final 
graded exam. RTPCs will be organized in partnership with local academic institutions with the 
involvement of regional experts in the delivery of the course.  
173.  At an advanced level, the Secretariat intends to maintain the eight -week Advanced Trade 
Policy Courses (ATPCs) for generalists as a face -to-face event. The aim will be to organize three 
ATPCs per year, two in English and the third alternating between French and Spanish each year. 
This reflects the historical language demand of Members for this course.  
174.  In line with the recommendations contained in the 2016 WTO TA External Evaluation, the WTO 
Secretariat had planned to introduce a final assessment for ATPCs beginning in 2020. Due to COVID -
19 related limitations, ATPCs were susp ended in 2020 and 2021. Since the resumption of in -person 
training activities in Geneva in June 2022, the final assessment of participants in ATPCs has been 
implemented. The assessment is based on two components: participation in the various modules of 
the course and a short essay on a WTO -related topic. The design of the assessment takes into 
account the practical nature of ATPCs, as well as the fact that these are advanced training activities. 
With the introduction of a final assessment in ATPCs, all gene ralist courses offered by the WTO 
Secretariat in the three levels of the PLS include a final assessment.  
175.  The Secretariat will also offer a comprehensive range of advanced thematic training activities 
for specialists in Geneva. This is in response to deman d from many beneficiaries, who have 
expressed an interest in specialized thematic courses. As in previous years, some of these activities 
will seek to focus on implementation challenges, including through the development of action plans, 
coaching of partic ipants and a follow -up over a period of time.  
176.  The Geneva -based activities will also comprise symposia or seminars held at the request of 
WTO Committees and the Geneva Weeks. The Secretariat will accommodate Focus Activities 
including the introduction days and other activities for Geneva -based delegates, NGOs, WTO staff 
members, interns working in the Secretariat and officials from international organizations. The aim 
of Focus Activities is to cover in depth a narrowly defined WTO subject over one or two day s. 
177.  In addition, specific training for Geneva -based delegates will be provided focusing on topics of 
interest and priority to the delegates. A TA questionnaire to identify specific needs for the Geneva -
based delegates will be circulated in the third Quarter  of 2023 as a pilot with a view to design specific 
training programmes for Geneva -based delegates going forward.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  178.  At the national level, face -to-face activities will aim to contribute to building trade -related local 
capacities. Each national TA activity wi ll be guided by its own specific objectives, tailor -made and 
targeted to address the priority needs of the beneficiary. To achieve this, beneficiaries will indicate 
their needs in a national TA request form ( https://tamis.wto.org/node/9022 ).  
179.  At the regional and sub -regional levels, this TA Plan includes face -to-face activities for capital -
based officials, mostly at intermediate level, focusing on areas identified as priorities by the 
beneficiaries concerned. Geography, language or common interests will guide the inclusion of a 
beneficiary in a region or sub -region. Where relevant, such activities will be conducted in 
collaboration with partner institutions to ensure that local considerations are incorporated i nto the 
training.  
Virtual  and Blended  activities  
180.  The Secretariat has developed since 2020 a large number of virtual activities outside of the e -
Learning programme. In most cases these virtual activities replicate the learning objectives intended 
for face -to-face activities. The experience of delivering these virtual activities has allowed a better 
understanding for both the Secretariat and the beneficiaries of the usefulness and limitations of this 
mode of TA delivery. Taking into account the priorities id entified by the TA beneficiaries and the 
experience during the COVID -19 pandemic, the Secretariat will continue to improve the quality of 
virtual activities and courses as a means to provide TA in a cost -efficient manner for specific contexts 
and needs.  
181.  Virtual/blended activities can provide a relevant means of TA delivery in a cost -efficient 
manner for specific contexts and needs. This can be either as the sole means of delivery of a 
particular TA activity (such as in extremely short activities or in activ ities requiring the intervention 
of multiple subject experts) or as components integrated into blended TA activities that combine 
face-to-face and remotely delivered content.  
182.  The Secretariat will aim at maintaining and, if necessary, increasing and diversi fying its offer 
for virtual TA activities. The use of blended learning combining face -to-face and online means of 
delivery will also be pursued as a way to increase the efficiency of traditional TA activities, as it 
maximises the return on the time spent f ace-to-face, which is the most expensive part of the 
training.  
Internship programmes  
183.  The WTO operates four long -term internship programmes focused on "learning -by-doing". 
Three of these programmes focus on government officials while one focuses on non -government 
officials. These internships aim to give the beneficiaries an opportunity to acquire in -depth 
knowledge on WTO matters under the guidance of staff in the Secretariat or in the permanent 
missions to the WTO in Geneva. Given the strong evidence of the  effectiveness of internship 
programmes, although with variations between them, the TA Plan includes three internship 
programmes under Key Result 1 and an Accession Internship Programme (AIP) under Key Result 2.  
184.  The three internship programmes under Key Re sult 1 are: (a) the Netherlands Trainee 
Programme (NTP), financed by the Netherlands; (b) the French and Irish Mission Internship 
Programme (FIMIP), financed by France and Ireland; and (c) the Regional Coordinator Internship 
Programme (RCI), financed by th e Global Trust Fund.  
185.  Participants in the NTP are mid -level public officials from LDCs, low -income countries and 
comparable small and vulnerable economies. NTP interns work in areas of interest to them or their 
countries and are usually assigned to various Secretariat divisions at different periods of their 
programme in the Secretariat, which cumulatively lasts a maximum of ten months. NTP interns will 
be evaluated by their supervisor based on the objectives set individually at the beginning of the 
internshi p. Approximately  30 NTP trainees will be recruited during this biennium.  
186.  Measuring how much is learnt by these interns is a real challenge. Therefore, a proxy indicator 
to measure how much the interns achieved during their stay in Geneva will be used as has been the 
case in previous years. Interns will be required to prepare mo nthly reports explaining how their time 
has been allocated between five broad categories of Outputs: (a) WTO meetings; (b)  meetings of WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  regional groups; (c) training sessions organized by the Secretariat; (d) research briefing notes and 
needs assessments; a nd (e) other activities. This data is used to analyse the performance of the 
NTP interns.  
187.  FIMIP interns are mid -level public officials from LDCs, other developing countries, and 
economies in transition placed in the Geneva -based mission of their country fo r purposes of this 
internship. The internship has a maximum duration of ten months. FIMIP interns operate under the 
direction of their respective permanent missions which evaluate the intern's work at the end of the 
internship based on the objectives agree d at the beginning of the internship. The programme targets 
primarily Members with small missions in Geneva whose capacity to follow WTO matters is very 
limited. Up to 20 FIMIP interns will be recruited annually.  
188.  As in previous years, FIMIP interns will de vote most of their time to participating in the work 
of the different WTO bodies. This is particularly important for small, understaffed missions as it 
supports their ability to participate in such meetings. In addition, interns also work on coordination 
between the Secretariat and relevant government agencies in their respective capitals regarding 
various WTO -related issues affecting their countries, including their country's notifications 
commitments under various WTO Agreements. Each intern submits a mon thly report which is used 
to monitor their performance. The supervisors of the interns in the permanent missions evaluate 
their work and inform the Secretariat. The Secretariat will continue with the same approach for this 
biennium.  
189.  Similarly, because of t he challenges in measuring how much the interns would have learnt, a 
proxy indicator to measure how much the interns achieved during their stay in Geneva will be used 
as has been the case in previous years.  
190.  RCI interns are mid -level public officials from any TA beneficiary selected to coordinate a WTO 
regional grouping. These interns are posted in the Geneva -based mission of a TA beneficiary Member 
acting as coordinator of a regional grouping in the context of WTO work, provided that beneficiary 
is eligibl e for TA from the WTO. The RCI interns work under the supervision of the head of the 
mission or a designate, who also evaluate the intern's work at the end of the internship based on 
the objectives agreed at the beginning. An RCI internship is for the dura tion of the tenure of the 
beneficiary as group coordinator but cannot exceed twelve months. The allocation of an RCI intern 
is demand -driven and depends on a request being received from a beneficiary acting as coordinator 
for a region or group of beneficia ries. Therefore, the number of RCI interns to be recruited annually 
is dependent upon the availability of financial resources. A maximum of six RCI interns will be 
recruited annually. In order to allocate the internships, priority will be given to the larg est groupings 
which include beneficiaries from a specific geographic region and to those groups in which 
coordination is the responsibility of LDCs.  
191.  To facilitate the assessment of the RCI programme, each intern is required to produce a 
monthly report. The  main tasks of the interns include attending meetings of WTO regional groups to 
which their country belongs, of WTO committees and other institutional bodies, and the related work 
to facilitate the country's coordination required for their WTO regional gro up. In addition, the interns 
also work on research to facilitate the work of the coordinator of the respective regional group and 
prepare briefing notes, as part of their general training. Available data confirms that the RCI interns 
reinforce the capacity  of the permanent missions acting as coordinators of WTO regional groups to 
perform their work. Therefore, this programme will continue to be operated on the same basis.  
6.1.2   Output 1.2: Effective partnerships established  
192.  Under this Output, the Secretariat will continue to seek partnerships that add the most value 
to its TA activities according to the four parameters defined in its effective partnership strategy, 
namely: substance, cost -sharing, logistics and outreach (see section 5.4 for additio nal information).  
193.  The WTO's network of partnerships played an important role in 2022 and 62% of the activities 
were implemented with the involvement of a partner. These partnerships are a valuable asset for 
the WTO, as they contribute to the relevance and efficiency of the activities provided to Members 
and to ensuring the financial sustainability of the WTO TA. Given the current global economic 
environment, leveraging financial resources from partners will be emphasised during this bienni um.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  194.  In 2022, the Secretariat maintained strategic partnerships to deliver better -tailored TA 
activities in a cost -efficient way.  After the reduction imposed by the pandemic, 2022 saw an increase 
in partners ' contributions to WTO TA initiatives. During 2022, WTO partnered w ith 85 institutions to 
deliver 82 TA activities that reached over 6,650 beneficiaries. Despite the difficulties faced in the 
first semester of 2022, 62% of activities were delivered in collaboration with different partners.  
195.  As detailed in the logframe in A nnex 1, the TA Plan intends to stabilize the share of activities 
with involvement of a partner while increasing the proportion contributed by partners to particular 
TA activities. As also indicated in the logframe, attaining Output 1.2 assumes that interes ted partners 
will be available with appropriate resources and knowledge to complement WTO expertise and 
financial resources.  
6.1.3   Output 1.3: Members' needs and priorities identified periodically  
196.  This Output relates to the necessity to assess on a regular basis  the TA needs of beneficiaries 
to ensure that the WTO TA offer meets their priorities. With this aim, needs assessments will be 
conducted periodically, based on demand, to identify beneficiaries' needs and matching these to the 
most effective and efficient  TA product.  
197.  As described in section 4 and illustrated in Chart 1, the  consultations held in preparation of 
the TA Plan indicated several areas of priority for TA. This information has been confirmed through 
additional formal and informal consultations bet ween the Secretariat and beneficiaries. The online 
form for national requests will complement the responses to the TA questionnaire. The online 
National TA Request Form should be used to identify on a case -by-case basis the changing needs 
and priorities of  the beneficiaries of WTO TA in the area to be covered by the activity . Annex 3 
provides detailed information on requesting WTO TA by beneficiaries.  
198.  Needs assessments prior to the delivery of advanced activities can rely on pre -course 
questionnaires. The r esponses will then be used to tailor the content of the activity to the specific 
needs of the participants. Responses to the TA questionnaires received prior to the preparation of 
TA Plans will be the main source of information on the needs and priorities of the TA beneficiaries.  
199.  The TPR process, as well as the TPR follow -up activities, which are conducted on request, will 
contribute to the identification of specific needs and necessary actions. To attain this target, 
beneficiaries would need to request a T PR follow -up activity after a TPR is concluded.  
200.  Needs identified by partner institutions are also taken into account when designing specific 
activities to address priorities identified by the TA beneficiaries. In addition, WTO bodies and 
specialised Commi ttees may identify needs to be considered by the Secretariat in line with a 
demand -driven approach of WTO TA.  
6.1.4   Output 1.4: WTO data and databases accessed by Members  
201.  The Secretariat aims to use TA to make WTO statistical tools and databases accessible to 
government officials dealing with trade -related issues, as well as to other interested parties, so as 
to improve the analysis of trade developments and trade negotiating positions.  
202.  With technological advancements which allow for online access through mobile  devices, 
Members are increasingly utilising online platforms to follow courses, access databases and submit 
notifications. Specialised platforms , for example , ensure that notifications reach all Members on time 
while allowing for reactions, clarifications , and further circulation of the information amongst 
stakeholders. The Secretariat will continue to consult with Members with a view to finding more 
effective ways to enable LDCs gain better access to WTO online information based on lessons we 
have learnt during the COVID -19 pandemic regarding virtual delivery of TA activities.  
203.  During the biennium, the Secretariat will offer an array of online and face -to-face activities to 
enhance participants' ability to access WTO data and related information. Training on information 
sources and databases will be provided as part of the activities for generalists, including the 
Introductory Trade Policy Courses for LDCs, the Regional Trade Policy Courses (RTPCs), the 
Advanced Trade Policy Courses (ATPCs), as well as spec ific training for Interns covered in thematic 
activities e.g., notifications, agriculture, Market Access for Goods , etc. WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  6.2  Key Result 2: Acceding governments/  separate customs territories are participating 
in accession negotiations  
204.  This Key Result aims to ensure that acceding governments are participating effectively in 
accession negotiations, in line with WTO accession processes and procedures. This reflects the 
strategic priority the WTO gives to accessions -related activities with governments at various s tages 
of the accession process. Key Result 2 seeks to support these ongoing efforts by helping acceding 
governments/ separate customs territories to define their long -term trade reform agendas and 
strategies. In this context, the TA provided to acceding gov ernments/ separate customs territories is 
designed to: (a) enhance their understanding of WTO rights and obligations; (b) support a WTO -
compatible domestic policy and legal framework; and (c)  facilitate the accession process. This key 
result area will also include the support the Secretariat provides to those beneficiaries seeking to 
accede to Plurilateral Agreements such as the Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA).  
205.  The Secretariat will keep supporting acceding governments/ separate customs territories in 
their accession negotiations and seek to enhance their knowledge on WTO matters27. In addition, 
the "China Programme" will continue to assist acceding LDCs through the AIP, the follow -up to the 
TPRs of recently acceded Members, annual WTO Accession Round  Table Meetings, and support for 
their participation in WTO meetings. This is in line with the priority given by Members to the accession 
of LDCs at the Doha Ministerial Conference in 2001.  
206.  Key Result 2 includes the three Outputs shown in Chart  9. The TA P lan provides for CHF  680 
thousa nd28 per year in 2024 and 2025 to implement the planned activities contributing to Key Result 
2 and its three Outputs, which is equivalent to about  3.9%  of the total TA funding planned for the 
four Key Results for those years  (see Table  1 in section 7 on funding).  
Chart 9 - Key Result 2: Outputs  
 
 
 
27 The Secretariat also makes available an Accession Transparency Toolbox, available at:  
https://www.wto.org/e nglish/thewto_e/acc_e/attb_e.htm . 
28 Amount excludes the 13% overhead and  47.6% is unearmarked while 52.4% is earmarked . 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 38 - 
 
  6.2.1   Output 2.1: Acceding governments/ separate customs territories participants' 
knowledge on WTO substantive and procedural matters enhanced  
207.  In 2022, acceding governments were invited to participate in TA and capacity building activities 
at the global, regional and national levels, as well as in e -Learning courses. The TA activities 
delivered by the Secretariat included, among others: (a) techn ical sessions; (b)  targeted national 
training sessions and seminars; (c) missions; and (d) roundtables/dialogues.  
208.  During the biennium, the Secretariat will address the specific needs of the acceding 
governments/ separate customs territories on a demand -driven basis. As indicated in the logframe 
in Annex 1, the main target during this biennium is to stabilize the number of participants from 
acceding governments/ separate customs territories  attending TA activities focused on accession s. 
This assumes, among other factors, that accession negotiations will remain active.  
6.2.2   Output 2.2: Accessions Internship Programme participants' knowledge enhanced  
209.  The AIP  is one of the four internships under th is TA Plan. The beneficiaries of the AIP are recent 
graduates o r postgraduate students from LDCs and developing Members29. The AIP is funded by 
China under the auspices of the "China Programme".  
210.  AIP interns work on accessions issues in the Accessions Division of the Secretariat under the 
supervision of a staff member . The interns spend 10 months in the Secretariat, which may be spread 
over a two -year calendar. The intake of interns is adjusted annually according to the workload of 
the Accessions Division. The supervisors evaluate the interns' performance based on the objectives 
set at the beginning of the internship.  
211.  The TA Plan 2024 -25 envisions a maximum of five (5) AIP interns be recruited annually for a 
maximum period of 10 months as indicated in the logframe in Annex 1.  
6.2.3   Output 2.3: Interested Members' and Observe rs' expertise on GPA rules, accession 
negotiations and observer status enhanced  
212.  This output covers the TA that the Secretariat provides to observer s to the Agreement on 
Government Procurement 2012 (GPA 2012). With respect to the GPA 2012, the TA  Plan will  focus 
on: (a) providing technical assistance to beneficiaries acceding to the GPA 2012 or having committed 
to accede, as well as to beneficiaries with an interest in observer  status  on GPA -related matters in 
general, including linkages with trade, good go vernance and development; and (b) enhancing 
beneficiaries' capacity to comply with GPA 2012 norms and principles, empowering government 
officials to work with stakeholders to realize benefits from GPA principles and market access 
possibilities, and underst anding the developmental dimension of procurement policy. Currently , 
seven  TA-eligible Members are undertaking GPA accession negotiations and a range of beneficiaries 
show active interest in GPA -related issues.30 Effective partnerships with other internati onal 
organizations and academic institutions form a vital element of this program me. 
213.  The TA Plan 2022 -23 identified the volume of documentation related to GPA accession 
circulated by TA -eligible GPA acceding Members as a proxy to measure the extent to whic h TA 
provided by the Secretariat enhanced the capacities of these countries to effectively move forward 
their accession negotiations. As the Committee could not resolve the impasse related to the selection 
of the CGP Chair, no meeting has taken place since  June 2021, making it difficult to fully achieve 
the targets envisaged  in 2022 . 
214.  For th e TA Plan  2024-25, in addition to accession -related documents circulated by GPA -
observers , the Secretariat will also consider interventions made by TA -eligible GPA -observ ers during 
meetings of the Committee on Government Procurement (CGP) as well as bilateral meetings with 
the Chair of the CGP. The aim will be to achieve the set targets contaminated in Annex 1.  
 
29 Taking into account the balance between acceding governments/territories and WTO Members.  
30 Members that have been negotiating to join the GPA 2012 are: Albania, Brazil, China, Kazakhstan, 
Kyrgyz Republic, Russian Federation and Tajikistan.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
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  6.3  Key Result 3: Academic institutions and other stakeholders are analysing WTO issues 
and reaching out to policy makers  
215.  Key Result 3 aims to enhance academic institutions expertise on WTO work and issues, with a 
view to improve research, teaching, as well as outreach to policy makers. The Secretariat wi ll 
implement the WTO Chairs Programme (WCP), General Academic Support, the PhD fellowship 
programme, and support the John H. Jackson Moot Court and Model WTO Competitions.  
216.  The WCP is the largest programme encompassed under Key Result 3. It aims to enhance 
knowledge and understanding of the MTS among academics and students by supporting trade -
related research, curriculum development and outreach activities at universities in beneficiary 
countries participating in the programme. It is organized in cycles of f our years, during which 
institutions selected to participate in the programme receive funding in order to develop their 
expertise. Upon completion of their respective four -year cycle, Chairs maintain the status of WTO 
Chair as well as reporting obligations  associated therewith, albeit without further funding from the 
WTO. They remain part of the WCP network and serve as mentors for participants of subsequent 
cycles of the programme. In contrast to other TA activities which are carried out by the Secretariat , 
WCP activities are carried out by external academic institutions participating in the programme.  
217.  The programme was initiated in 2010 and went through two four -year cycles (phase I: 2010 -
14; phase II: 2014 -18) before a comprehensive and independent extern al evaluation of the 
programme was undertaken in 2019. The evaluation found that WTO Chairs had been successful in 
generating quality research and impactful advice that translated into policy action in beneficiary 
countries. The WCP brand increased the eff ectiveness of Chairs in reaching out to external 
stakeholders, offering higher credibility and visibility to external stakeholders and user groups. 
Research Outputs have generally been disseminated in outreach activities and publications. WTO 
financial sup port, in most cases, was complemented by significant efforts by the Chairs and their 
host institutions to ensure that planned activities and Outputs were achieved. Chairs showing higher 
activity Outputs during the WCP funding period were able to maintain t heir levels of performance 
without depending on continued financial support from the WTO. The WCP has thus been successful 
in connecting academic research, outreach, and teaching work, with trade policy making and 
sustainable capacity building in beneficia ry countries.  
218.  The evaluation also made several recommendations for improvement of the WCP, inter alia, 
closer alignment and use of synergies with the WTO's TA and economic research activities, better 
representation of institutions from LDCs and regions pre viously under -represented in the 
programme , and stronger and more balanced visibility at the global level. In November 2022, the 
CTD Chair reported that these recommendations to further strengthen the programme had been 
implemented, including better geogra phical representation of all regions, better representation of 
LDCs in the programme, as well as better integration of the programme with other WTO technical 
cooperation and research activities and those of other organizations.31 Chairs continuously engage  
ad hoc  and through advisory groups with policymakers from capital s, missions in Geneva, 
stakeholders from business associations and civil society , to assess beneficiaries' needs and respond 
to them by co -designing and co -implementing applied research proj ects, customized training courses 
and targeted outreach activities on key issues of interest to policymakers. In this way, outputs 
generated by Chairs can provide feed-back and support fact -based decision -making processes by 
governments and other stakehold ers. 
219.  Following a call for applications for Phase III of the Programme, over 120 applications were 
received by the WTO. A selection process resulted in 17 institutions being selected to join the 
network of WCP Chairs in 2022. This further diversifies the Pr ogramme's representation across the 
globe, with the network now comprising 36 universities.  
220.  The TA Plan 2022-2023 provides the framework for implementing the Director -General's 
Decision announced to the CTD in November 2021 on the occasion of the selectio n of phase III 
Chairs, to admit institutions more frequently to the WTO Chairs Programme on a rolling basis.32 As 
explained on that occasion, there is greater benefit in admitting a smaller number of candidates 
 
31 WT/COMTD/M/119  and related room document, RD/COMTD/3/Rev.1  . 
32 WT/COMTD/M/116 . WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 40 - 
 
  more frequently, rather than a larger number in intervals of four years. Accordingly, an intake of up 
to three additional universities into the programme has been foreseen in the budget.  
221.  Key Result 3 remains unchanged in the TA Plan 2024 -25, while certain elements of the log -
frame relating to this k ey result have been revised in order to recalibrate it to the updated structure 
of the WCP. The structure of the logframe remains unchanged for 2024 and 2025 . However, 
baselines and targets have been updated in order to reflect the trajectory of phase III Chairs in the 
four-year cycle of the programme, as well as the implementation of a rolling programme with 
additional Chairs joining and starting their first year of the programme cycle in 2024.  
222.  As before, Outputs 3.1 to 3.3 relate to the WTO Chairs Program me, while Output 3.4 captures 
all other academic outreach activities. Reporting of Outputs 3.1 to 3.3 focuses on Chairs receiving 
grants under the programme, while institutions from phases I and II who no longer receive funding 
from the WTO are taken into account in respect of the diversity of WTO -related topics covered by 
WCP Chair activities under Key Result 3.  
223.  WCP phase I and II Chairs have remained active and engaged in the WCP network. As part of 
the formal agreements signed with these Chairs, and in o rder to foster and strengthen the 
collaborative network of academics created through the programme, they are engaged as mentors 
guiding the next generation of Chairs and continue actively in research, teaching, and outreach 
activities relating to WTO topic s. This contributes to the sustainability of the WCP network and helps 
develop and enhance a pool of trade expertise for beneficiary Members/Observers and regions.  
224.  The Secretariat continues to support a limited number of PhD students from developing 
countries in their research on WTO -related topics. In addition, the Secretariat supports the annual 
John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition, by providing advice in the preparation of the case and the 
bench memorandum; supporting the organization of regional rounds in developing countries; and 
by hosting and providing prizes for the final round of these competitions. Other activities involving 
academia may also be organized with proposals being assessed based on merit and the availability 
of resour ces. 
225.  The TA Plan  provides for up to approxima tely CHF  1.735 million33 each year  to implement the 
planned activities contributing to Key Result 3 and its four (4) Outputs, which are equivalent to about 
10% of the total TA funding planned for the four Key Results for 2024 and 2025, respectively (see 
Table 1 in section 7 ). This estimate may be adjusted depending on the number of institutions 
selected to participate in the next phase with admission to the pro gramme on a rolling basis and on 
total contributions available.   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
33 Amount excludes the 13% overhead. About 91.5% of the total funding (CHF 1. 735 million ) for this 
Key res ult is earmarked and 8.5% is unearmarked.   
 WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 41 - 
 
  Chart 10 - Key Result 3: Outputs  
 
 
 
6.3.1   Output 3.1: Research on trade policy and WTO -related matters generated by the 
WCP  
226.  Output 3.1 aims to promote research on trade policy and WTO -related matters by WTO Chairs. 
Changes in the structure of the WCP outlined above, in particular the inclusion of universities from 
LDCs and regions previously under -represented in the programme have resulted in the adaptation 
of certain elements. Publications, including books, articles published in academic journals, 
conference papers, working papers and trade policy  briefs, are considered. In order to assess the 
quality of research outputs, one key research output per Chair per year is reviewed by Academic 
Advisory Board Members in relation to past research outputs produced by the same Chair.  
6.3.2   Output 3.2: Courses with  WTO content developed by WCP Chairs  
227.  Output 3.2 captures WCP Chairs ' activities relating to the development of trade -related courses 
for students and other stakeholders, including government officials, researchers, and private sector 
professionals. The obj ective is to encourage Chair holders to train and inform both future and present 
generations of students, trade policy experts, and officials who are at different stages in their 
professional and educational development. Chairs benefit from access to teach ing materials of the 
Secretariat, including e -Learning and expert advice from Secretariat staff as well as Advisory Board 
members. The two indicators for this Output are the number of students in WTO -related courses and 
the number of new or updated WTO -related courses.  
6.3.3   Output 3.3: WTO Chairs research disseminated to policy makers and other  
stakeholders   
228.  Output 3.3 calls for WTO Chairs to reach out to other stakeholders and key decision -makers. 
The objective is to ensure and promote the dissemination, relevance and visibility of academic 
research, for example through seminars, conferences, roundtables or ( informal/ongoing) 
consultative processes, thus providing advice and a sounding board for policymakers and other 
stakeholders.  
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 42 - 
 
  6.3.4   Output 3.4: Students trained on WTO work and issues  
229.  The WTO PhD fellowships, the John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition and other  WTO-related 
competitions are the activities under this output. These activities share a common goal: raising 
students' interest in topics relating to international trade relations and the work of the WTO, 
stimulating academic exchange on those topics and,  ultimately, preparing the next generation of 
trade experts including government officials working in capital and in delegations in Geneva with the 
WTO. The number of students participating in competitions supported by the WTO in 2022 will be 
used as basel ine. 
6.4  Key Result 4: Non -governmental stakeholders and legislators are aware of and 
knowledgeable about WTO work and issues  
230.  Under the TA Plan, Key Result 4 seeks to ensure that non -governmental stakeholders are 
knowledgeable about WTO work and issues. The ai m is to increase the involvement in trade policy 
and WTO -related issues by stakeholders other than government officials, such as young 
professionals, legislators, civil society, media, and the private sector (including producers, exporters, 
traders, and ch ambers of commerce and industry). The TA Plan aims to achieve this by strengthening 
the understanding and institutional capacities of non -governmental stakeholders so that they can 
reinforce the results of the TA directly provided to Members and their offi cials. Key Result 4 includes 
four Outputs as shown in Chart 7.  
231.  Following an evaluation of the WTO Young Professionals Programme in 2022 , and based on 
the high demand from eligible Members, a decision was taken to further strengthen the scope, 
coverage and conditions of the programme. Under the new programme the Secretariat aims to 
recruit up to 20 Young Professionals each year in 2024 and 2025. With the increased intake and 
improved conditions, the Secretariat has slightly increased the funds for Key Result  4 in 2024 and 
2025.  
232.  The Secretariat is planning to deliver a number of activities involving parliamentarians , NGOs , 
and media. These activities , that represent opportunities for outreach and dialogue with these 
non-governmental stakeholders , will be furth er strengthened both in terms of the number of 
activities, the geographical spread in developing countries as well as enhancing the multi -
stakeholder nature of each one of these activities. One key feature going forward is to consolidate 
the partnerships w e have with parliamentary assemblies, foundations, and other organizations to 
conduct these activities. Most of the partnerships are based on joint funding schemes.  
233.  A total of approximately CHF  1.621million34 per year in 2024 and 2025 will be available to  
implement the planned activities contributing to Key Result 4 and its four Outputs, which is 
equivalent to about 9.4%  of the total TA funding planned for the four Key Results for those years 
(see Table  1 in section  7 on funding).  
 
34 This amount excludes 13% overheads and is 100% unearmarked.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 43 - 
 
   
Chart 11 - Key Result 4:  Outputs  
 
6.4.1   Output 4.1: Understanding of WTO work and issues by non-governmental 
stakeholders improved  
234.  Output 4.1 seeks to organize outreach activities to attain an improved understanding of WTO -
related issues by legislators, civil society, journalists, and private sector operators. The expectation 
is that broadening the pool of stakeholders with an appropr iate knowledge and awareness of WTO 
matters will encourage support for more engagement in global trade. As indicated in the logframe 
in Annex  1, the TA Plan  2024-25 foresees returning to an equivalent number of stakeholders reached 
and activities delivered . The number of seminars or workshops organised will be one of the indicators 
to be used under this output. In past years activities were organized at global and regional levels. 
The same approach will be followed for this plan. As in the past, these activ ities will be delivered in 
collaboration with WTO's regular TA partners.  
6.4.2   Output 4.2: Improved access to WTO issues through online training material for 
self-study  
235.  Output 4.2 relates to access to online training material for self -study for those not eligible to 
enrol for WTO e -Learning courses, which are reserved for government officials from eligible Members 
and Observers. Under this Output, online training material  is made freely available to the public for 
self-study on the website. The new e -Learning platform provides features that will facilitate public 
access to e -Learning course catalogue and consultation of training material on a self -study basis.   
6.4.3   Output 4.3:  Information on WTO trade -related technical assistance provided  
236.  Output 4.3 is related to access to trade -related TA information provided by the Secretariat, 
including through the Secretariat's newsletters made available to the public through the WTO 
websit e. Social media channels are used by the Secretariat to give visibility to its TA activities. The 
Secretariat also disseminates information on its TA activities through its TA Annual reports available 
in all three languages. The Annual TA reports cover vie ws of the TA beneficiaries, participants, 
WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 44 - 
 
  objectives of WTO TA, the results achieved or not fully achieved, and the importance of voluntary 
contributions.  
6.4.4   Output 4.4: Young Professio nals are exposed to WTO issues and work  
237.  Output 4.4 relates to the WTO Youn g Professional Programme (YPP) introduced in 2016, which 
aims to expose young professionals to WTO issues and work.  
238.  The YPP targets young professionals with graduate degrees in international trade and trade 
policy. Recruitment for young professionals takes  place through a competitive process based on 
merit. Priority is given to professionals from LDC and developing Members with no or low 
representation at the professional level in the Secretariat.  
239.  The Secretariat aims to host 20 young professionals  from Mem bers with low representation  
per year, subject to the absorption capacity of the Secretariat in each year. As the YPs will work 
under the supervision of  Secretariat staff, their work performance will be evaluated by their 
supervisors following a procedure similar to that applied to WTO staff members. The performance 
evaluation and the number of young professionals hosted annually will be used as indicators for this 
Output , as indicated in the logframe in Annex  1. 
7  FUNDING  
240.  The implementation of this TA Plan w ill be funded through the Regular Budget, extra -budgetary 
funds from voluntary contributions by Members, and cost -sharing arrangements with identified 
partners. The management of the Regular Budget under the TA Plan will follow the same underlying 
principl es and build on the improvements implemented during previous TA Plans.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 45 - 
 
  Table 1 Costs by Key Result – 2024  and 2025  
(in thousand Swiss francs)  
 
Key results  Budget line 2024  
Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Total  
Key result 1: Government officials are implementing 
WTO Agreements and fully reali sing Members' rights 
and obligations  4,333  6,990  1,930  13,254 
Key result 2: Acceding governments /separate 
customs territories are participating in accession 
negotiations  50 300 330 680 
Key result 3: Academic institutions and other 
stakeholders are analysing WTO issues and reaching 
out to policy makers  25 145 1,56535 1,735  
Key result 4: Non-governmental stakeholders and 
legislators are aware of and knowledgeable about 
WTO work and issues  15 1,606  - 1,621  
Sub-total  4,423  9,041  3,825   17,289  
Other programmes  125 1,700  - 1,825  
Total  4,548  10,741  3,825   19,114  
Overheads (13%)  - 1,396  497 1,894  
Grand total - 2024  4,548  12,137  4,323   21,008  
 
 
Key results  Budget line 2025  
Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Total  
Key result 1: Government officials are implementing 
WTO Agreements and fully realising Members' rights 
and obligations  4,333  6,990  1,930  13,254 
Key result 2: Acceding governments/ separate 
customs territories are participating in accession 
negotiations  50 300 330 680 
Key result 3: Academic institutions and other 
stakeholders are analysing WTO issues and reaching 
out to policy makers  25 145 1,56536 1,735 
Key result 4: Non -governmental stakeholders and 
legislators are aware of and knowledgeable about 
WTO work and issues  15 1,606  - 1,621  
Sub-total  4,423  9,041  3,825   17,289  
Other programmes  125 1,700  - 1,825  
Total  4,548  10,741  3,825   19,114  
Overheads (13%)  - 1,396  497 1,894  
Grand total - 2025  4,548  12,137  4,323   21,008  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
35 To be adjusted depending on the number of institutions selected to participate in the programme.  
36 To be adjusted depending on the number of insti tutions selected to participate in the programme.  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 46 - 
 
   
7.1  Regular Budget for TA  
241.  The TA Plan 2024 -25 has been prepared under the assumption that the Regular Budget would 
remain unchanged  at CHF 4.5 million per year, similar to the last five biennia . However , if the current 
inflationary pressures continue during the next biennium, it will be a challenge to attain the same 
quantity of TA delivery  as the pre -pandemic period.  
242.  Since the introduction of an RBM approach to TA, the Secretariat has continued to improve its 
cost efficiency in TA delivery while avoiding compromising the quality of the TA delivered. 
Accordingly, the Secretariat will monitor closely the impact of inflation o n expenditures  which has 
been estimated at 20% using the current (2023) costs for travel and hospitality budget lines for 
TA.  For these reasons, and taking into account lessons learnt to date, the Secretariat will continue 
with the practice of redirecting savings registered on any of the activities during the year to finance 
other TA programmes included in the TA Plan 2024 -25 and identified as priorities by Members and 
Observers to maintain the quality and effectiveness of the TA delivered.  
243.  To preserve the  minimum level of flexibility required to make the best possible use of the 
budget, the Regular Budget for TA will continue to be grouped in four (4) main envelopes:  
i) Geneva -based activities for generalists: These will include the ATPC, the Introductory Trade 
Policy Course for LDCs, the Geneva Week for non -residents, specific activities for Geneva -
based delegates and any other training activity with a general scope held  in Geneva. The TA 
Plan intends to allocate CHF 1.84 million to these activities in 2024 and in 2025.  
ii) Geneva -based thematic activities: These will include, among others, the current activities in 
the field of dispute settlement, the thematic advanced cours es held in Geneva and thematic 
activities for LDCs. Some Geneva -based symposia or workshops organized by WTO 
Committees in relation to aspects of their work may also be financed as part of this envelope. 
It is proposed to allocate CHF 1.74 million to these  activities in 2024 and in 2025.  
iii) National activities: The TA Plan  proposes to set the budget for this envelope at 
CHF 0.76 million each year.  
iv) Miscellaneous: This will include the funding of consultants performing the advisory role under 
Article 27.2 of the  Dispute Settlement Understanding and of external consultants on the 
implementation of RBM and e -Learning courses. Some outreach activities for 
non- governmental audiences will also be funded under this envelope. Limited funds will be 
set aside to purchase  WTO publications to be donated to universities and distributed at 
outreach events. Altogether, it is proposed to set aside CHF 0.21 million for these various 
purposes.  
244.  It should be noted that the budget line for hiring external experts will continue to be  managed 
as a pool and distributed as appropriate where required without exceeding the overall budgetary cap 
for such expenses.  
7.2  Extra -budgetary funds for TA  
245.  As has been the case for many years, the main proportion of the implementation of the TA  Plan 
will again be funded through extra -budgetary funds during the 2024 -25 biennium. Unearmarked and 
earmarked funds will continue to play a central role in this regard, as they represent the main 
channel through which donors' voluntary contributions support the TA  provided by the WTO.  
246.  While the TA resources available to the Secretariat to finance WTO TA for developing Members 
and Observers have been relatively stable since 2016, there was a 40% diminution in the number 
of donors over the last five years and a doubl ing of the share of earmarked contributions. As a result, 
the level of unearmarked contributions halved between 2018 and 2022. The sharp reduction of TA 
expenses during the pandemic is currently being reversed following the resumption of face -to-face 
TA ac tivities and , as a consequence of inflation, it is anticipated that most of the accumulated TA 
cash reserves will be exhausted by the end of 2023 unless new contributions are received before WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 47 - 
 
  the end of the year 2023. In order to allow the implementation of  activities at the beginning of 2024, 
25% of the total budget for 2024 will require to be available at the disposal of the Secretariat.  
247.  To ensure better predictability for implementing TA activities for the rest of 2024 -25, the 
Secretariat will require re newed support from Members, in particular through unearmarked and 
multi-year voluntary contributions.  
248.  The TA Plan has been prepared on the premise that this voluntary support will fully resume 
during this biennium. This would allow the Secretariat to accom modate any increases in the volume 
of TA activities as a result of a resumption of face -to-face delivery of TA, for the implementation of 
MC12 outcomes, and in preparation for MC13. Taking these elements into consideration, it is 
proposed to set the target  amount for the unearmarked funds in 2024 and 2025 at 
CHF 12.137  million.    
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 48 - ANNEX 1 : WTO TA LOGFRAME 20 24-25 
 Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
Impact1 Developing and LDC 
Members are benefiting 
from their active 
participation in the WTO  • Share of developing 
Members' total trade 
(imports and exports)  • 2019-21 
average: 
41.96% • > 40%  • WTO statistics  • Global economic and political stability or improvement  
• Share of LDC Members' 
total trade (imports 
and exports)  • 2019-21 
average: 
1.1%  • > 1.00%  • WTO statistics  • The number of LDCs remains constant over the 
biennium  
Key 
Result  1: Government 
officials are 
implementing WTO 
Agreements and fully 
realising Members' 
rights and obligations  • Number of documents 
submitted by 
beneficiary developing 
and LDC Members to 
WTO Bodies  • Annual 
average 201 9-
2022: 
• Developing: 
587 
• LDCs: 103 • Increase  • WTO Documents Online 
database  • 1. Political support for WTO-related issues  
• 2. Trained staff retained in relevant positions  
3. Human and financial resources available  
• Number of outstanding 
notifications by TA 
beneficiary Member  • 26 per 
beneficiary 
Member on 
average in 
2017-19 • Decrease  • Notifications database 
(CRN)  
Output  1.1: Government officials 
have enhanced 
knowledge about the 
WTO Agreements, 
formulation of trade 
policies and conduct of 
trade negotiations  • Number of participants 
completing each PLS 
level • Annual 
average 2017-
19: 
• Level 1 – 
3,608  
• Level 2 - 
11,746  
• Level 3 - 1,833  • Stability for 
levels 1 and 2  
• Increase in 
level 3 • TAMS database  • 1. WTO negotiations remain active  
• 2. Trained staff retained in relevant positions  
• 3. Members present suitable candidates  
4. Availabilit y of training facilities in Geneva  
  • Number of national 
activities requested  • 2017-19 
average: 145  • Increase  • TAMS database  • The number of TA beneficiaries under WTO 
administrative measures does not increase  
 
1 By the RBM approach, the impact is the highest -level result to which WTO contributes jointly with other stakeholders. It is not an exclusive attribution to WTO TA, but an 
indication of the contribution the WTO TA is making to a common impact – see section 6 for further information. The baseline from the 2022 -2023 TA Plan has not adjusted to 
indicators that were significantly impacted by C OVID -19.   
  
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 49 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
  • Number of beneficiary 
Members and 
Observers participating 
in TA courses  • 2017-19 
average: 163  • Stability  • TAMS database  • 1. WTO negotiations remain active  
• 2. The number of TA beneficiaries under WTO 
administrative measures does not increase  
  • Number of LDCs  
participating in TA 
courses  • 2017-19 
average: 43  • Stability  • TAMS database  • 1. Number of LDCs remains constant  
• 2. The number of TA beneficiaries under WTO 
administrative measures does not increase  
• Interactive training 
methods' share of time 
in each activity 
(exercises, case 
studies, simulations, 
Q&A, participation in 
Committee meetings, 
etc.) • 2017-19 
average:  
• - 42% 
lectures  
• - 58% 
interactive 
methods  • Increase share 
of interactive 
training methods 
to an average of 
at least 60%  • TAMS database  • 1. Enough W TO staff undergo training on pedagogical 
skills 
• 2. Courses delivered as face -to-face training  
  • Success rate in RTPCs 
and ATPCs  • 2017-19 
average 
(RTPC): 96%  • Stability  • BTORs  •  
  • Distinction rate in 
RTPCs and ATPCs  • 2017-19 
average 
(RTPC): 37%  • Stability  • BTORs  •  
  • Percentage of 
participants rating the 
overall content and 
results in RTPCs, ATPCs 
and advanced thematic 
courses with the two 
top marks2 • 2017-19 
average:   • BTORs  • A representative number of complete assessment 
forms by participants are received at the end of such 
training activities  
  • - RTPCs: 98%  • Stability  
  - ATPCs: 93%  • Stability  
  • - advanced 
thematic 
courses: 96%  • Stability  
  • Number of participants 
trained in advanced 
trade negotiating skills  • 2017-19 
average: 238  • Stability  • TAMS database  • 1. Enough demand for training activities  
• 2. Availability of resources  
• 3. Courses delivered as face -to-face training  
• 4. Availability of training facilities in Geneva  
 
2 The top two marks are normally f ive out of five and four o ut of five.    
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 50 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
  • Number of advanced 
thematic courses using 
pre-diagnostics, 
coaching, leadership, 
action plans or follow -
ups3 • 2019: 5  • Stability  • BTORs  
• TAMS database  • 1. Enough demand for training activities  
• 2. Availability of resources  
• 3. Courses delivered as face -to-face training  
• 4. Availability of training facilities in Geneva  
  • Number of interns 
trained by various 
Internship programmes  • 2019-22 
average:  
FIMIP: 20; 
NTP: 1 5  
Stability  FIMIP  
Stability for NTP  
•  • BTORs  
• TAMS database  • 1. Availability of adequate funding  
• 2. Members present suitable candidates  
• 3. Selected interns are able to participate in the 
programmes  
  • Number of interns 
trained by the Regional 
Coordinators Internship 
Programme  • 2017-19 
average: 
RCI: 6 • Stability  • BTORs  
• TAMS database  • 1. Availability of funding  
• 2. Members present suitable candidates  
  • Final evaluation of each 
intern by their 
supervisor  • 100% of at 
least fully 
satisfactory in 
2020-22 • Stability  • Evaluation by the 
supervisors  •  
  • New, revised or 
translated e -Learning 
courses released during 
the year  • 2017-19 
average: 10  • Stability  • BTOR  • 1. Appropriate e -Learning resources  
• 2. Absence of disturbance in e -Learning platform  
• 3. Continued availability of current platform for e -
Learning programme  
• Percentage of e -
Learning courses in 
interactive format s • 2022: 77 %  • Increase   • BTOR  
  • Percentage of 
participants rating the 
quality of the e -
Learning courses 
content with the two 
top marks  • 2020-22 
average: 
96% • Stability  • BTOR  Absence of disturbance in e -Learning platform  
  • Percentage of 
participants rating the 
e-Learning platform 
with the two top marks  • 2020-22 
average: 
94% • Stability  • BTOR  • Absence of disturbance in e -Learning platform  
 
3 On topics  such as Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures; Technical Barriers to Trade; Agriculture Notifications; Import Licensing; and Tr ade in Services Statistics. WTO 
Technical Assistance Annual Report 20 19, WT/COMTD/W/256 , para. 5.75.   
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 51 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
  • e-Learning success rate 
of participants 
attending the courses  • 2019-2022 
average: 
61.5%  • Stability  • BTOR  • Absence of disturbance in e -Learning platform  
  • e-Learning drop -out 
rate • 2017-19 
average: 
24% • Stability  
  • e-Learning distinction 
rate • 2020-22 
average: 
54% • Stability  
Output  1.2: Effective 
partnerships established  • Proportion of activities 
with the involvement of 
a partner  • 2020-22 
average: 
57% • Stability  • TAMS database  • Potential partners are interested and have the 
required resources and knowledge in areas where 
WTO may not have the necessary knowledge or skills  
• Proportion of partners' 
contribution to the TA 
activities  • 2017-22 
average: 
47% low 
contributions  • Decrease the 
proportion of low 
contributions  
Output  1.3: Members' TA needs 
and priorities identified 
periodically  
 • Number of responses 
to TA questionnaire  • 2019-2022 
average: 82 • Stability  • Secretariat questionnaires  • Members can identify and prioritize their needs  
• Number  of TPR Follow -
ups • 2017-19 
average: 8  • Stability  • BTORs  • Stability in the number of TPRs and constant demand 
for TPR follow -ups 
Output  1.4: WTO data and 
databases accessed by 
Members  • Visits by Members' 
logging into the WTO 
website  • 2020-2022 
average:  
87866  • Increase  • WTO Webmaster  • Members' willingness to use available WTO data 
sources  
• Number of TA activities 
that include training on 
WTO databases as one 
of their objectives  • 2017-19 
average: 60  • Increase  • TAMS database  
• BTORs  • Enough demand for training on WTO databases    
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 52 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
Key 
Result  2: Acceding 
governments/ separate 
customs territories are 
participating in 
accession negotiations  • Number of formal or 
informal Working Party 
meetings held for 
acceding beneficiary 
governments/territories  • 2017-19 
average: 6  • Stability  • DG Annual Report on 
Accessions  • Accessions are active  
• Governments/ separate customs territories subm it 
required input to their Working Parties  
Output  2.1: Acceding 
governments/ separate 
customs territories 
participants' knowledge 
on WTO substantive and 
procedural matters 
enhanced  • Number of participants 
from observer 
governments/ separate 
customs territories 
attending TA activities 
focused on accessions  • 2017-19 
average: 
1,179  • Stability  • BTORs  
• TAMS Database  
• DG Annual Report on 
Accessions  • 1. Accessions are active  
• 2. The number of TA beneficiaries under WTO 
administrative measures does  not increase  
• 3. Trained staff are retained in relevant positions  
Output  2.2: Accession s 
Internship programme 
participants' knowledge 
enhanced  • Final evaluation rate of 
each intern by 
supervisor  • 2017-19 
average: 
100% at least 
fully 
satisfactory  • Stability  • Evaluation by the 
supervisors  • Availability of funding  
• Members present suitable candidates  
Output  2.3: Interested Members' 
expertise on GPA rules 
and accession 
negotiations enhanced  • Average no. of relevant 
accession -related 
documents circulated 
per TA -eligible GPA 
acceding Member4 • 2017-19 
average: 5.2  • Stability  • Documents online  • GPA accession negotiations remain active  
•  
• Average no. of 
interventions made by 
TA-eligible GPA -
acceding Parties during 
meetings of the CGP  • 2018-20 
average: 2.9  • Stability  • Documents online  
• Average no. of bilateral 
meetings of TA -eligible 
GPA-acceding Parties 
with the Chair of the 
CGP • 2018-20 
average: 1.29  • Stability  • Internal database  
 
4 Eligible documents for purposes of the indicator include(a) GPA/ACC/ * series documents; (b) relevant documents in the GPA/*; WT/Let/ *; GPA/W/ *; GPA/C D/* (from 
2018); RD/GPA/ * series: and (c) any other relevant documents.   
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 53 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
Key 
Result  3: Academic 
institutions and other 
stakeholders are 
analysing WTO issues 
and reaching out to 
policy makers  • Diversity of 
WTO-related topics 
covered by activities  • 2018-19 
average  • Stability  Intermediate and annual 
reporting by the Chairs  
• BTORs  • Academic institutions and other stakeholders remain 
interested in WTO issues  
Output  3.1: Research on trade 
policy and WTO - related 
matters  generated by the 
WCP • Number of publications  • Phase III 
Chair average 
2020-22: 171 
 
• Rolling 
Programme 
New Chair : 
• To be 
collected  
•  • Phase III Chairs: 
Increase  
 
 
New Chairs:  
• To be 
determined  
•  • Publications,  
• Annual Reports from the 
Chairs  
• Evaluations/Assessments 
Report by the Advisory 
Board  Compliance with programme guidelines  
•  
• Assessment of the 
quality of the key 
research output per 
Chair per year by the 
Advisory Board  • Phase III 
Chairs:  
• Individual 
baselines 
established 
based on past 
outputs  
 
 
• Rolling 
Programme 
New Chair:  
• To be 
collected  
•  • Positive 
evaluation  • Advisory Board  Reports    
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 54 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
Output  3.2: Courses with WTO 
content developed by 
WCP Chairs  • Number of students 
completing WTO -
related course s Phase III 
Chairs: 
average  
2020-22: 
2490 
•  
• Rolling 
Programme 
New Chair:  
• To be 
collected  
 • Phase III Chairs: 
Increase  
•  
•  
•  
• New Chairs:  
• To be 
determined  • Intermediate and annual 
reporting  
• Advisory Board and other 
Evaluations /Assessments  • Interest in multilateral trade.  
• Compliance with programme guidelines  
• Number of new or 
updated WTO -related 
courses  • Phase III 
Chairs:  
average 
2020-22:  28 
•  
• Rolling 
Programme 
New Chair:  
• To be 
collected  
•  • Phase III Chairs: 
Increase  
•  
•  
• New Chairs:  
• To be 
determined  • Intermediate and annual 
reporting  
• Advisory Board and other 
Evaluations/Assessments  
• WCP Platform and other 
online research network 
activities (inc. social 
media)  
Output  3.3: WTO Chairs' 
research disseminated to 
policy makers and other 
stakeholders  • Number of outreach 
events per year  • Phase III 
Chairs:  
• average 
2020-22: 
• 86  
•  
• Rolling 
Programme 
New Chair:  
• To be 
collected  • Phase III Chairs: 
Increase  
•  
•  
• New Chairs:  
• To be 
determined  • Intermediate and annual 
reporting  
• Advisory Board and other 
Evaluations/Assessments  
• WCP Platform and other 
online research network 
activities (inc. social 
media)  • Compliance with programme guidelines   
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 55 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
• Advice provided to 
governmental policy 
makers and other 
stakeholders  • Phase III 
Chairs:  
• Average 
2020-22: 
• 109 
•  
• Rolling 
Programme 
New Chair:  
• To be 
collected  
•  • Phase III Chairs: 
Increase  
•  
•  
•  
New Chairs:  
• To be 
determined  • Intermediate and annual 
reporting  
• Advisory Board and other 
Evaluations/Assessments  
• WCP Platform and other 
online research network 
activities (inc. social 
media)  
Output  3.4: Students trained on 
WTO work and issues  • Number of students 
participating in 
competitions supported 
by the WTO  • 2022: 344  • Stability  • BTORs  • External partner remains engaged  
• Number of PhD 
students supervised 
graduating with a PhD  • Students 
supervised 
graduate with 
a PhD each 
year: 5  • Stability  • BTORs  • PhD students remain interested in WTO issues  
Key 
Result  4: Non -governmental 
stakeholders and 
legislators are aware 
of and knowledgeable 
about WTO work and 
issues  • Diversity of WTO 
related topics covered 
by statements, reports, 
and papers produced 
by this group of 
stakeholders  • In 2017: 26 
WTO-related 
topics 
covered  • Stability  • Media reports when 
available  
• Statements made by 
legislators, business 
associations, NGOs when 
available  • 1. Stakeholders remain interested in WTO issues  
• 2. Collaborating partners remain interested in trade 
issues  
Output  4.1: Understanding of 
WTO work and issues by 
non-governmental 
stakeholders and 
legislators improved  • Number of seminars, 
workshops conducted  • 2017-19 
average:  
7 activities  • Stability  • TAMS database  • Legislators, journalists and civil society remain 
interested in WTO issues  
• Number of key non-
governmental 
stakeholders and 
legislators reached 
during the year  • 2017-19 
average:  
• 355 
legislators  
• 73 journalists  
• 28 civil 
societ ies • Stability  • BTORs  •    
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 56 -  Results  Indicators  Baseline  Target  Evidence  Assumption  
Output  4.2: Improved access to 
WTO issues through e -
Learning training 
material for self-study  • Number of training 
material consulted  • 2020-22 
average: 
3,718 • Increase  • Online form  • 1. Public interest in WTO issues  
• 2. Appropriate e -Learning resources  
• 3. Absence of external disturbance in the e-Learning 
platform  
• 4. Continued availability of current platform for e -
Learning programme  
Output  4.3: Information on WTO 
trade -related TA 
accessed  • Number of views of the 
web pages on technical 
assistance including 
news items on this 
subject  • 2020-2022 
average: 
327,668  • Stability  • WTO webmaster  • Public interest in WTO issues  
Output  4.4: Young professionals 
are exposed to WTO 
work and issues  • Number of Young 
Professionals selected 
annually by the WTO  • 2020-22 
average: 1 3 • Increase  • TAMS database  • Selected YPs are able to participate in the programme  
• Final evaluation rate of 
each Young 
Professional's 
performance by their 
supervisor  • 100% at least 
fully 
satisfactory in 
2020-22 • Stability  • Evaluation by the 
supervisors   
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 57 - ANNEX 2: ACTIVITY MATRIX  
(in thousand Swiss francs)  
Key Result 1: Government officials are implementing WTO Agreements and fully reali sing Members' rights and obligations  
Level  Path  Language
(s) Title Region  Estimated cost 2024  Estimated cost 2025  
Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  
Introduction  Generalist  E/F/S  Geneva -based Courses for LDCs - Introduction 
and Focus Activities - Geneva weeks  Global  462                   -                   -    462                   -                    -    
Advanced  Generalist  E/F/S  Applied Advanced Trade Policy Courses 
(Geneva)  Global  1'382                   -                   -    1'382                   -                    -    
Intermediate  Generalist  E/F/S  Regional Trade Policy Courses for:  Africa; 
Middle East; Asia and Pacific Economies; 
Caribbean; Central and Eastern Europe, 
Central Asia and Caucasus; Latin America  All -    3'080                 -    -    3'080                  -    
Advanced  Specialist  E/F/S  Geneva -based Advanced Thematic Courses 
and topic specific symposia for Capital -based 
officials  Global  1'740  700                 -    1'740  700                  -    
Advanced  Specialist  E/F/S  Advisory Role on Legal Issues (Art. 27.2 of 
DSU)  Global  60                   -                   -    60                   -                    -    
Intermediate
/ Advanced  Generalist/ 
Specialist  E/F/S  National activities, including  assistance to 
needs assessment  and, monitoring and 
evaluation missions  All 690                   -                   -    690                   -                    -    
Intermediate  Specialist  E/F/S  Regional workshops  All -    3'000                 -    -    3'000                  -    
  E/F/S  China's LDCs and Accessions Programme:  
Participation of LDCs in selected WTO 
meetings; LDCs TPR follow -up workshops; 
and, South -South Dialogue  All -                     -    95  -                     -    95  
Advanced  Generalist  E/F/S  Internships in the framework of the 
Netherlands Trainee Programme (NTP)  Global  -                     -    774  -                     -    774  
Advanced  Generalist  E/F/S  Regional Coordinator Internships programme 
(RCI)  Global  -                    210                 -                     
-                    210                  -    
Advanced  Generalist  E/F/S  French -Irish Missions Internship programme 
(FIMIP)  Global  -                     -    1'061  -                     -    1'061  
Introduction  Generalist  E/F/S  Online courses:  introduction level  
Capital -
based 
officials   x   x   x   x   x   x  
Intermediate  Generalist/ 
Specialist  E/F/S  Online courses: intermediate Level 
(Generalists and Specialists)   x   x   x   x   x   x  
 Generalist/ 
Specialist  English  Online course:  Tailored Course - Create your 
own e -Learning Courses   x   x   x   x   x   x  
 Sub-total   4'333  6'990   1'930  4'333  6'990   1'930  
Overheads @13%   -    909  251  -    909  251  
Total   4'333  7'899  2'181  4'333  7'899  2'181    
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 58 - Key Result 2: Acceding governments /separate customs territories are participating in accession negotiations  
Level  Path  Language(s)  Title  
Region  Estimated cost 2024  Estimated cost 2025  
Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  
Intermediate 
/ Advanced  Generalist/ 
Specialist  E/F/S  National seminars on Accessions  All 50                   -    -    50                   -    -    
Intermediate 
/ Advanced  Generalist/ 
Specialist  E/F/S  Other activities on Accessions  All -    300  -    -    300  -    
  E China's LDCs  and Accessions 
Programme: WTO Accession Round Table 
meetings  Global  -                     -    230  -                     -    230  
Introduction  Generalist  E/F/S  China's LDCs  and Accessions 
Programme: WTO Accessions Internship 
Programme (AIP)  Global  -                     -    100  -                     -    100  
Intermediate  Generalist  E/F/S  Online course: Accession to the WTO  Global   x   x  x     x                   x   x    
 Sub-total   50  300  330  50 300  330 
Overheads @13%   -    39  43   -  39  43  
Total   50  339  373  50  339  373  
Key Result 3: Academic institutions and other stakeholders are analysing WTO issues and reaching out to policy makers  
Level  Path  Language
(s) Title  
Region  Estimated cost 2024  Estimated cost 2025  
Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  
 Generalist  E/F/S  WTO Chairs programme - Phase III  All -    -    1'300  -    -    1'300  
 Generalist  E/F/S  WTO Chairs programme – Rolling Programme5 All -    -                  
265  -    -    265  
  E/F/S  WTO Support programme for doctoral students  Global  -    65  -    -    65  -    
  E/F/S  Support to Moot Court Competition; WIPO -WTO 
Colloquium for Teachers of Intellectual Property 
Law; donation of WTO publications to Academic 
Institutions  All 25  80   -    25  80   -    
 Sub-total   25  145 1'565  25  145  1'565  
Overheads @13%   -    19  203  -    19  203  
Total   25  164  1'768  25  164  1'768  
 
5 To be adjusted depending on the number of institutions selected to participate in the programme.   
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 59 - Key Result 4: Non -governmental stakeholders and legislators are aware of and knowledgeable about WTO work and issues  
Level  Path  Language(s)  Title Region  Estimated cost 2024  Estimated cost 2025  
Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  
  E/F/S  National outreach activities   15                   -                   -    15                   -                    -    
  E/F/S  Other outreach activities for legislators, journalists, 
civil society and businesses  All -                    610                 -    -                    610                  -    
 Specialist  E/F/S  WTO Young Professionals' programme (YPP)  Global  -                    996                 -    -                    996                  -    
  E/F/S  Online training material for self -study  All -                     -                   -    -                     -                    -    
 Sub-total   15  1'606  -    15  1'606                      
-    
Overheads @13%   -    209  -    -    209                      
-    
Total   15  1'815  -    15  1'815  -    
 
Other programmes' costs: programme staff and Monitoring and evaluation  
Level  Path  Language(s)  Title Region  Estimated cost 2024  Estimated cost 2025  
Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  
   L-Posts   - 1,700  - - 1,700  - 
   Implementation of RBM and development of e -
Learning courses   
125  - - 125 - - 
 Sub-total   125 1,700  -    125 1,700  -    
Overheads @13%   -    221  -    -    221  -   
Total   125 1,921  -    125 1,921  -    
 
 
 
 
 
   
  WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 60 - Summary Grand Total  
 Title Region  Estimated cost 2024  Estimated cost 2025  
Regular 
Budge t Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  Regular 
Budget  Unearmarked 
funds  Earmarked 
funds  
   Sub-total   4'548  10'741  3'825  4'548  10'741  3'825  
   Overheads @13%   -    1'396  497  -    1'396  497  
   Total   4'548  12'137  4'323  4'548  12'137  4'323  
 WT/COMTD/W/273  
 
- 61 - 
 
  ANNEX 3 : HOW TO REQUEST FOR WTO TA ONLINE  
 
Over three -quarters of the WTO Members are developing or Least  developed economies. Capacity 
Building in the WTO comprises several capacity -building  initiatives, including  the WTO TA.  In the 
WTO Secretariat, the Institute for Training and Technical Co -operation (ITTC)  is the gateway for 
WTO TA . Members and Observers can request WTO TA using the online TA request form which can 
be found using the link  provided below.   
 
The management of the WTO TA activities is the responsibility of the ITTC which designs the 
Technical Assistance Plans in consultation with Members and Observers. Within the WTO Secretariat, 
ITTC coordinates the delivery of the WTO TA ac tivities and manages the allocated financial resources 
to implement the WTO TA. The delivery of the WTO TA activities is a shared responsibility  involving 
all the technical Divisions of the WTO Secretariat and relevant partners.  
 
The ITTC is headed by a Di rector and comprises three Sections with units responsible for specific 
aspects of the WTO TA and regional desks covering the different regions.  
 
 
More information:  
WTO | Development - Technical cooperation and training - WTO assistance : 
(www.wto.org/english /tratop_e/devel_e/teccop_e/tct_e.htm ) 
If you represent a Member or an Observer and want to make a request for  technical 
assistance : 
(https://tamis.wto.org/node/9022 ) 
 
__________