WT/GC/259/Rev.1  
TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
28 October 2023  
(23-7288)  Page: 1/14 
Senior Officials Meeting  
23-24 October 2023    
 
SENIOR OFFICIALS MEETING  
CHAIRPERSONS ' SUMMARY  AND ORAL REPORTS BY THE FACILITATORS  
Revision* 
Chairpersons : Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala – WTO Director -General and TNC Chairperson, and  
H.E. Dr.  Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana) – General Council  Chairperso n 
 
This summary of the main points which have emerged from Senior Officials'  discussions over the 
past two days  is prepared by the Director -General and the Chairperson  of the  General Council  as co-
Chairpersons of the Senior Officials Meeting , under their own responsibility . The summary is not 
exhaustive but contains the main messages from the  oral reports from facilitators of the breakout 
sessions and those made in the plenary sessions includ ing emerging themes or common trends; the 
political guidance or support received from Senior Officials; and any other action taken by Senior 
Officials over the past two days.  This is made on the understanding that Senior Officials cannot 
expect a verbatim report attributable to any delegation  but a high -level report reflective of overall 
discussions in the breakout and plenary sessions.  
1  DISPUTE SETTLEMENT REFORM  
1.1.  On dispute settlement reform, Senior Officials recalled the MC12 commitment "to conduc t 
discussions with the view to having a fully and well -functioning dispute settlement system accessible 
to all Members by 2024".  
1.2.  Overwhelmingly, Senior Officials strongly supported the ongoing informal process on DS reform 
being carried out in Geneva by t echnical experts. They recognized the value of the process and the 
progress made so far in order to achieve a tangible and meaningful outcome at MC13 – while 
cognizant of the different views expressed on the issue of the timing of the formalization of this  
process under the auspices of the DSB Chair.  
1.3.  In expressing their political support for DS reform work, Senior Officials indicated the following 
elements on the way forward: first, the need to focus on addressing the DS challenges with a sense 
of urgency;  second, the need to take into account the dispute settlement interests of all Members; 
and third, the need to uphold the WTO's Member -driven nature as well as to ensure full participation, 
inclusiveness and transparency, including by facilitating the effe ctive participation of developing and 
LDC Members taking into account capacity constraints.   
1.4.  Going forward, all Members are encouraged to actively participate in the ongoing process on 
DS reform with the view to achieving tangible outcomes at MC13 in line  with political guidance 
provided by Senior Officials.  
 
* This Revision is to add the Facilitators Reports as an Annex to this document.  The Facilitators Reports 
were also issued as an Annex to document JOB/GC/365  - JOB/TNC/118 . WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  2  AGRICULTURE INCLUDING FOOD SECURITY  
2.1.  Regarding agriculture and food security, it was reassuring that several Senior Officials  stressed 
the necessity of making progress in the agriculture negotiations on the basis of Article 20 of the 
Agreement on Agriculture and obtaining credible results on all issues of interest to Members including 
public stockholding for food security purposes, domestic support, marke t access, Special Safeguard 
Mechanism, cotton , export restrictions and export competition, and strengthening the agriculture 
sector to respond to contemporary challenges including rural livelihoods and environmental 
sustainability.  
2.2.  From the Facilitator's report, the discussions yesterday demonstrated Senior Officials ' strong 
engagement in favour of a credible food security outcome at MC13, including a commitment to agree 
on broad parameters to guide the negotiations post -MC13 to reach substantiative outcom es by MC14 
which would strengthen the agricultural trading system.  But more discussions are required on how 
to shape such an outcome based on the work undertaken thus far, including how to address various 
Members' priorities and sensitivities while ensurin g a comprehensive, balanced and holistic outcome.  
2.3.  We believe that Senior Officials have provided Geneva negotiators  with the political guidance 
essential to assist in prioritising the work between now and MC13 to achieve positive and balanced 
outcomes at M C13.  But much more work remains to be done. We invite all Seniors Officials present 
as well as those who could not attend this meeting to remain engaged with their representatives in 
Geneva to support the CoA  SS Chair in his efforts and ensure the necessa ry progress are made in 
the coming weeks towards fulfilling these objectives.  
3  TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT  
3.1.  Senior Officials , convened as the General Council , adopted the Decision on the E xtension of 
Unilateral Duty Free and Quota Free preferences in favour of countries graduated from the LDC 
Category  (WT/L/1172 ). The decision demonstrated coherenc e between the work of the WTO and the 
UN to support the most vulnerable members of the international community. Members remain 
committed to make further progress on LDC graduation  including trying to conclude on Annex 2 
negotiations before MC13.  
3.2.  Senior Off icials were committed  to strengthening the development dimension of the WTO, 
including through the WTO reform process and through making S&DT fit for purpose for the 21st 
century. Developing country Members expressed strong need for the WTO to deliver more  support 
and policy space for development and industrialization. Senior Officials expressed support for the 
ongoing process in the CTD SS and in this context noted in particular the progress made in 
discussions on the G90 ASPs relating to the SPS and TBT A greements. Senior Officials expressed 
broad support to continue the reform discussions on development with a view to achieving concrete 
outcomes.   
3.3.  On next steps, d iscussions will continue in the CTD SS on the ten G90 ASPs in the context of 
the agreed proce ss. The intention would be to make as much progress as possible by MC13, with a 
view to possibly having concrete outcomes on at least some ASPs. Discussions on the developmental 
aspects of WTO reform will continue in the CTD. Members will continue to consi der what concrete 
outcomes may be achievable on this matter by MC13. Members will continue discussions on Annex 
2 of the LDC graduation proposal, including on the clusters which build on the LDCs' work plan, with 
a view to exploring further outcomes on thi s topic b efore or by  MC13.  
3.4.  Development is a core principle of the WTO. This is recognized by all Members. There are 
certainly different perspectives among Members on how the WTO should best move forward in 
addressing a number of key development issues, in cluding on ensuring effective S&DT for developing 
countries. However, the importance of development to the work of the WTO is undeniable. We 
therefore urge Members to work together in a spirit of collaboration and show the necessary 
flexibility to make pro gress and achieve concrete outcomes by MC13 on development -related 
matters, including on S&DT and on LDC graduation, among others.  WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  4  FISHERIES SUBSIDIES  
4.1.  Prospects remain high for two outcomes at MC13: the conclusion of the second phase of 
negotiations (Fish 2) and the entry into force of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies  – which are 
firmly on track.  
4.2.  On Fish 2, the response to the two questions were a "resounding yes" to reaffirm the MC12 
commitment to complete  by MC13 and to conclude tex t-based discussions by December. Senior 
Officials called for strong and effective disciplines that will meaningfully reduce subsidies contributing 
to overcapacity and overfishing whilst at the same time emphasizing that special and differential 
treatment r emains an integral part of the negotiations. There was also broad support for the draft 
text that the Chair circulated in September ( RD/TN/RL/174 ) as a good basis for the text -based work 
going forward. We now need to work to make the necessary compromises.  
4.3.  Many Senior Officials announced that their domestic acceptance processes for the Agreement 
on Fisheries Subsi dies are at an advanced stage and that they will deposit their instruments of 
acceptance in the near future. In the margins of the Senior Officials Meeting, nine1 Members 
deposited their instruments of acceptance bringing the total number to 52  – bringing  us very close 
to half of the number needed. There was a strong call for other Members to deposit their instruments 
of acceptance as soon as possible so that Agreement enters into force by MC13 . 
5  WTO REFORM  
5.1.  The high priority that Senior Officials attach to WTO Reform was evident. It was underscored 
that the work should continue to be transparent, inclusive,  and Member -driven. A number of Senior 
Officials said that it is important that MC13 be shaped as the WTO's first genuine Reform 
Ministerial  to demonstrate progress on the MC12 mandate to show that Members can address 
significant challenges facing the multilateral system and modernise the WTO. In this regard, the 
suggestion was made to aim for an MC13 outcom e document that contains substantive reform 
outcomes. Some Senior Officials said this meeting had provided a useful template for engagement 
by senior officials and ministers.  
5.2.  On institutional reform  – Senior Officials were pleased to note that a significan t and credible 
package was emerging – reflecting constructive engagement to improve WTO processes and 
practices through reform by doing. They said these efforts should be acknowledged and blessed 
including by Ministers at MC13. Senior Officials also reiter ated the importance of transparency and  
inclusiveness in these efforts and taking account  of the capacity constraints of developing countries 
and LDCs to effectively participate in this work. In this regard, the suggestions for a dedicated portal 
for WTO R eform and the appointment of facilitators to assist Members in narrowing down the topics 
were made.  
5.3.  A number of Senior Officials also referred to the need to engage a wider cross -section of 
stakeholders  including the private sector in the WTO's work. Howe ver, others said that informal 
engagement for knowledge sharing with external stakeholders is already undertaken through the 
WTO's public forum.  
5.4.  With regard to reform of the deliberative function  – Senior Officials said that the WTO should 
be a living and relevant institution that responds to current and future challenges. In this regard, 
they welcomed the momentum to launch a package of deliberative reforms at MC13 that positions 
the WTO to address key global trade -related challenges. In this regard, many Senior Officials said 
that Ministers should endorse a package that includes trade and industrial policy, trade and 
environmental s ustainability  and inclusivity, incorporating development, gender equality, MSMEs 
and indigenous economic empowerment, among ot hers. This would maximise the value of Ministerial 
Conferences by creating space for Ministers to discuss major trade challenges and provide guidance 
to officials on how the WTO should respond.  
5.5.  With reference to reforming the WTO's negotiating function , there was a strong call by 
several Senior Officials for a viable path for the WTO to respond to flexible and open multilateralism  
 
1 Macao, China; Albania; Australia; Botswana; Cuba; Côte d'Ivoire; Republic of Korea; Saint Lucia; and 
Fiji. WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  with many Senior Officials referring to the significant progress made with the conclusion of the 
Investment Facilitation for Dev elopment and Services Domestic Regulation negotiations. In this 
regard, we heard the call to sharpen  the WTO's decision -making process by exercis ing responsible 
consensus. While some Senior Officials expressed discomfort on integrating such results  into th e 
WTO's legal architecture, they expressed willingness to discuss the matter. In recognizing this 
willingne ss, we urge Members  to work together in this spirit to find a mutually agreeable way forward  
that respects the right balance . 
5.6.  Senior Officials underscored that officials in Geneva should be empowered to make as much 
rulemaking progress as possible between Ministerial Confere nces, and harvest outcomes when ready 
in the General Council – noting the recent decision on Annex 1 on LDC Graduation.  This would help 
in not overloading Ministers' agenda at MC13.  
5.7.  We will reflect on the political guidance provided by Senior Officials on  moving forward our 
WTO Reform work – and provide concrete suggestions forward.  
6  WTO REFORM – DELIBERATIONS ON TRADE AND INDUSTRIAL POLICY  
6.1.  Senior Officials had a good level of engagement on deliberations on trade and industrial policy 
– building on the rece nt Informal Meeting on WTO Reform focused on this area. Some Senior Officials 
called for a work programme to be agreed at MC13 while others proposed that Ministers could 
provide relevant guidance for future deliberations post -MC13. It was also noted that t he discussion 
was still premature to be brought before Ministers and that the exact scope of industrial policy should 
be defined more precisely. In this regard, a suggestion was made for these discussions to take place 
in existing, relevant WTO bodies and the importance of transparency and inclusiveness in such 
discussions was stressed. Many noted that the MC13 agenda was already full, and recalled that there 
were other outstanding matters, such as agriculture, which should be addressed first – as a priorit y 
for MC13. At the same time, Senior Officials expressed readiness to engage on this topic – in a 
meaningful, deeper, inclusive and evidence -based manner.  We hope that this discussion will continue 
with a view to finding a mutually agreeable path forward.  
7  WTO REFORM – DELIBERATIONS ON TRADE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY  
7.1.  Senior Officials recognized the relevance of the trade, sustainable development and 
environmental sustainability interface at the WTO and the need to demonstrate that trade can be 
part of the solution to the climate crisis. In this regard, they recognized the urgency and relevance 
of the work being carried out in Geneva. They reiterated the importance of having Ministers discuss 
trade and environment at MC13 and to provide further guidance on the direction of future work. 
Many Senior Officials recalled para graph 14 of the MC12 outcome document and highlighted the 
importance of "the Committee on Trade and Environment (CTE) as a standing forum dedicated to 
dialogue among Members on the relationship between trade measures and environmental 
measures". It is our hope that the work begun by Senior Officials in Geneva today will provide a 
platform for Ministers to discuss trade and environment when they meet at MC13 with a view to 
providing further political guidance.  
8  E-COMMERCE WORK PROGRAMME AND MORATORIUM  
8.1.  Many  Senior Officials  identified the E -commerce Work Programme and Moratorium as an 
important issue for MC13. Overall , Senior Officials  welcomed the work done since MC12 under the 
facilitator -led process. In their view, the Work Programme has been reinvigorated a s per the MC12 
Decision. The dedicated discussions ha s allowed Members to share experiences and challenges faced 
on a wide range of topics. Senior Officials  stressed the need to continue this work and to focus on 
the development dimension. A large number o f Senior Officials  noted the need for increased support 
to developing countries and LDCs so as to bridge the digital divide. On the moratorium, while many 
Senior Officials  supported at least its extension at MC13, others considered that it should be lifted . 
Some called for more evidence -based discussions and further analysis on its scope, definition, and 
impact.  In parallel, the WTO is working with other international organizations – UNCTAD, the IMF, 
the OECD, and the World Bank – to gather evidence from all sides to inform  the discussions.  WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  9  MC12 DECISION ON THE TRIPS AGREEMENT  
9.1.  On the MC12 Decision on the TRIPS Agreement, several Senior O fficials called on Members to 
agree on Paragraph 8 concerning the decision's extension to diagnostics and therapeutics. In 
highlighting the need to decide on an outcome before MC13, they noted that such an extension 
would stimulate industrial production ne eded to timely address health crises. They further noted 
that intellectual property rights (IPRs) should not constitute as a barrier to achieve equitable and 
timely access to all these tools during pandemics. Others however highlighted that IP protection w as 
crucial for stimulating innovation, investment, industrial partnerships and technology transfer – to 
increase and diversify production and achieve Members' collective goal in this regard. As Senior 
Officials expressed willingness to continue engaging on  these discussions, we urge all Members to 
work together to find a mutually agreeable solution soon especially given the importance of this 
matter.  
10  EMERGENCY  RESPONSE  
10.1.   Some Senior Officials stressed the need to find timely solutions to help Members more 
effectively face global pandemics , public health cris is, food security crisis, and debt crisis,  among 
others  including by setting up trigger -ready mechanisms  for temporary and timely response. Some 
Senior Officials referred to Pandemic Response and Preparedne ss and the need to continue work in 
this regard – building on the MC12 Declaration on WTO Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic and 
Preparedness for Future Pandemics .  
11  LDCS, LLDCS, NFIDCS, SIDS AND SVES  
11.1.   As the Membership prepares for MC13, Senior Officials und erscored the need to bear in mind 
the particular situation of LDCs, landlocked  developing countries (LLDCs), small island developing 
states (SIDS), small vulnerable economies (SVEs)  and net -food importing developing countries 
(NFIDCs). Specifically on the Work Programme on Small Economies, Senior Officials welcomed the 
work carried out in this regard including the preparations for a Ministerial Decision for adoption at 
MC13.  
12  SPS MAT TERS 
12.1.   Senior Officials recognized the progress in preparing an outcome document of the SPS 
Declaration Work Programme in line with the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Declaration for the Twelfth 
WTO Ministerial Conference: Responding to Modern SPS Challenges. Th ey encouraged delegations 
in Geneva to continue to work together so that the recommendations therein would be ready for 
Ministerial consideration at MC13. On other SPS matters, a call was made to ensure that SPS 
measures were science -based.  
13  GLOBAL INDUSTRI AL AND SUPPLY CHAINS  
13.1.   Some Senior Officials referred to the need to address challenges experienced in global 
industrial and supply chains. In particular, it was noted that challenges posed by supply chain 
disruptions due to global trade fragmentation have a ffected food security and the lives and 
livelihoods of people across the globe – especially the most vulnerable. Reference was likewise made 
to a proposed MC13 Declaration on this matter.  
14  ACCESSIONS  
14.1.   Senior Officials underscored the importance of facilitat ing the conclusion of ongoing 
accessions especially of acceding LDCs in line with Paragraph 6 of the MC12 Outcome Document. In 
particular, several of them welcomed the significant progress made in the Working Parties on the 
Accessions of Comoros and Timor -Leste and expressed their desire for these processes to conclude 
in time for MC13.  
_______________  
 
 WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  We wish to thank all Senior Officials for their constructive engagement throughout the Senior 
Officials Meeting. We commend H.E. Mr. Mustafa Tuzcu (Türkiye ); H.E. Mr. Martin Eyjolfsson  
(Iceland) ; H.E. Dr. José  R. Sánchez -Fung (Dominican Republic); H.E. Mr. Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik 
(Norway); H.E. Ms. Ng Bee Kim (Singapore); H.E. Mr. Henry Tunupopo (Samoa ) and H.E. Mrs. Nella 
Pepe TAVITA – LEVY (Samoa)  for facilitating the breakout sessions at the Senior Officials Meeting.  
_______________  
 
  WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  ANNEX  
REPORT BY THE FACILITATOR OF THE SECOND WAVE OF FISHERIES SUBSIDIES 
NEGOTIATIONS (FISH 2)  
H.E. MR. MARTIN EYJOLFSSON (ICELAND)  
1. At the outset of my report, let me thank you very much for your diligent engagement in the 
breakout sessions on fisheries subsidies today. I am glad to report that in terms of the spirit with 
which you engaged today, I could not have a sked for more. I am reliably informed that the positivity 
and constructiveness that I witnessed across the breakout sessions was no less than that with which 
the Negotiating Group on Rules has worked over the last several months. In fact, you seem to have 
brought even more good humour to the room.  
 
2. In relation specifically to the two questions that you were asked to answer, I heard a 
"resounding yes" to both. I am truly grateful for your support both for the vision of completing 
text-based work in Geneva by  December and for the Ministers' mandate to make recommendations 
to MC13 on additional disciplines. Thanks to your affirmation that additional disciplines on fisheries 
subsidies remain a deliverable outcome for MC13, the work of the Negotiating Group on Ru les will 
continue to advance with reinforced political impetus.  
 
3. Aside from your clear overall endorsement of the two objectives, I also heard many of you 
indicate the key aspects of your negotiating positions. Your positions in this regard clearly call fo r 
strong and effective disciplines that will meaningfully reduce subsidies contributing to overcapacity 
and overfishing. At the same time, all Members acknowledge that special and differential treatment 
for developing and least developed country Members re mains an integral part of our endeavour. I 
also heard broad support for the draft text that Ambassador Gunnarsson circulated in September as 
a good basis for the text -based work going forward. I am confident that the interest -based and 
pragmatic engagement  on your part will lead you to a balanced landing zone on the inherently 
interrelated and interdependent goals of adopting a strong discipline and appropriate and effective 
special and differential treatment.  
 
4. As another heartening aspect of today's breako ut sessions, many Members provided updates 
on their ratification processes for the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. Some 20 Members from 
different regions, and representing different developmental levels, informed us today that their 
domestic acceptance p rocesses are at an advanced stage and that they will deposit their instruments 
of acceptance in the near future. We are already going to reach the milestone of acceptance by 
50 Members later today, and based on what we heard in the sessions, that list will  expand 
considerably, rather soon. We are therefore on track to fulfil the objective of securing entry into 
force of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies by MC13.  
 
5. So, thank you again for your excellent engagement today. Following this plenary, we will 
celebrate the Members who will and have deposited their instruments of acceptance as of today, 
and I look forward to seeing you in the Fish Ratification Ceremony.  
 
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  REPORT BY THE FACILITATOR OF TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT  
H.E. DR. JOSE SANCHEZ -FUNG (DOMINICAN REPUBLIC)  
1. The constructive discussions on trade and development took place in three breakout sessions.  
 
2. Close to 80 delegations took the floor. I would like to thank all Senior Officials for their 
substantive engagement on the four questions  that guided our discussions. Most of the delegations 
responded to questions in an integrated manner. Below are my takeaways from the discussions 
based on the proposed questions.  
 
3. First, on the G90 proposals and the CTD SS, many recognized that S&D is a treaty embedded 
right and forms an integral part of WTO Agreements. At the same time, many noted that a blanket 
S&D would be challenging given the diversity of developing countries. In that regard, specific needs 
and circumstances of each member would pave a way for an appropriate flexibility that could support 
the development process. Several members noted that trade liberalization could further support 
integration of developing coun tries and LDCs, and there is a worry about the possibility that some 
of the requested flexibilities could result in a roll -back of multilateral rules.  
 
4. The ongoing process taking place in the CTD SS was welcomed. The recent discussions that 
took place on pertinent issues relating to the agreement -specific proposals on the SPS and TBT 
Agreements were particularly appreciated – with several developing countries pointing out that the 
implementation of these agreements is critical as they impacted the ir exports. Calls were made for 
this process to continue in order to have similar in -depth discussions on issues pertaining to the 
other eight ASPs. While several Members pointed out that MC13 could not be deemed a success 
without development outcomes incl uding on the ASPs, given the limited amount of time a suggestion 
was made that Ministers at MC13 could provide a roadmap that would allow the negotiations on 
S&DT to be continue post MC13.  
 
5. Second, on the effective S&DT, delegations highlighted the need to  mainstream development 
into all areas of WTO's work. Several delegations noted that the concept of S&DT should go beyond 
transitional periods and technical assistance so as to allow developing countries and LDCs the 
opportunity to more fully integrate int o the multilateral trading system. The approach of S&D in the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement was pointed out as a model for rulemaking on S&DT taking into account 
capacity and needs.  
 
6. Developing country members cited challenges related to climate change, di gitalization, 
technology transfer and food insecurity and indicated that WTO framework could support developing 
countries and LDCs in overcoming these evolving challenges. The special challenges faced by small 
and vulnerable economies were also highlighted . 
 
7. Third on the developmental aspects of WTO reform, a suggestion was made that the reform 
discussions should safeguard S&D provisions and deliver on long -standing mandated issues. A 
number of delegations stressed the importance of policy space to support industrialization and 
structural transformation and in this regard the need to examine certain WTO Agreements including 
the SCM, TRIPS, and TRIMs. For some caution was needed to avoid unintended consequences. In 
this regard, a number of delegations stresse d that discussions on policy space for industrialization 
needed to be holistic to address all aspects of the matter. In this regard, the strengthening of the 
WTO deliberative function could positively contribute to a shared understanding on emerging needs 
of WTO members.  
 
8. Many delegations pointed to the importance of revitalizing the Committee on Trade and 
Development, including its Monitoring Mechanism on S&D. Several recognized the importance of 
having cross -committee collaboration including for example l inking the committee on Trade and 
Development with the Committee on Trade and Environment and the Working Group on Trade and 
Transfer of Technology. Several pointed that the CTD could support developing countries with 
capacity building efforts. Capacity co nstraints of small delegations were highlighted in scheduling 
meetings on development issues.  
 
9. When it comes to LDCs, Members reiterated their commitment to further supporting their 
integration into global trade. Delegations welcomed the LDC graduation dec ision adopted this 
morning by the General Council. There was a clear willingness from Members to continue discussions 
on Annex 2, including on the clusters which build on the LDCs' work plan. It was noted that the WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  discussions should be based on facts and e vidence. While some indicated that it would require time 
to complete the examinations, others recognized that the topic could be a possible deliverable for 
MC13. Members appreciated the fact that the decision on LDC graduation demonstrated coherence 
betwee n the work of the WTO and the United Nations to support the most vulnerable members of 
the international community. This commitment demonstrated by the Senior Officials gives a strong 
boost for advancing the work on LDC graduation ahead of MC13.  
 
10. Overall,  my impression is that we had a fruitful discussion. A suggestion was made to consider 
exploring a declaration on development -related matters for MC13. It was also noted that progress 
on longstanding topics, including agriculture and fisheries would signif icantly contribute to the 
development efforts of WTO members. I hope we can build on these deliberations as we approach 
our work for MC13.  
 
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  REPORT BY THE FACILITATOR OF DISPUTE SETTLEMENT REFORM  
H.E. MR. ANDREAS MOTZFELDT KRAVIK (NORWAY)  
 
1. It is an honour to deliver this report following very productive discussions in the 3 breakout 
sessions on DS Reform today. I commend fellow Senior Officials for their constructive participation. 
The discussions were congenial, substantive and effective.  
 
2. Senior Officials stressed the urgency of resolving the current challenges faced by the DS 
mechanism, including those related to the Appellate Body, and recognized that the dispute 
settlement system is a central element in providing security and predictabi lity to the multilateral 
trading system.  
 
3. It was clear that all Members attach high priority to addressing DS reform. Many Senior Officials 
reiterated the importance of restoring a fully functioning two -tier dispute settlement system.  
 
4. Senior Officials r ecalled the MC12 commitment "to conduct discussions with the view to having 
a fully and well -functioning dispute settlement system accessible to all Members by 2024". In this 
regard, they expressed their strong resolve to achieving a successful dispute set tlement reform and 
to deliver a positive outcome at MC13.  
 
5. Senior Officials considered that the informal process on DS reform constitutes an important step 
towards preparing the ground for an outcome at MC13 – and that good progress has been achieved 
towar ds this end. Some Senior Officials stressed importance of ensuring a meaningful outcome.  
 
6. When it comes to the issue of formalization of the informal technical process on DS reform, 
there was a common understanding amongst Senior Officials who spoke on thi s issue that, at some 
juncture, before MC13, the process needs to be integrated into a formalized structure under the 
auspices of the DSB Chair. There were however some divergent views as to the appropriate timing 
of the formalization of the process.  
 
7. Senior Officials stressed that it is imperative for DS reform work to adhere to the principles of 
openness, transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness. Many indicated their appreciation for the 
Convenor of the Informal Process being guided by these princi ples.  
 
8. In expressing their political support for DS reform work, the following elements on the way 
forward were indicated: first, the need to focus on addressing the DS challenges with a sense of 
urgency; second, the need to take into account the dispute settlement interests of all Members; and 
third, the need to uphold the WTO's Member -driven nature, and to ensure full participation, 
inclusiveness, accountability and transparency, including by facilitating the participation of 
developing and LDC Members t aking into account capacity constraints.  
 
9. In conclusion, let me reiterate that, overwhelmingly, Senior Officials strongly supported the 
ongoing informal process being carried out in Geneva by technical experts. They recognized the 
value of the process and the progress achieved so far in order to achieve a positive and tangible 
outcome at MC13 – while cognizant of the different views expressed on the issue of the timing of 
the formalization of this process. I hope that the political support and guidance prov ided by Senior 
Officials today will lead DS reform work towards fulfilling Paragraph 4 of the MC12 Outcome 
Document and will enable Members to address the challenges currently faced by the dispute 
settlement system.  
 
10. Going forward, I encourage all Members  to actively participate in the ongoing process with the 
view to achieving tangible outcomes at MC13. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank 
Mr. Marco Molina, the Convenor of the Informal Process – and I thank the Secretariat for assisting  
me in these very important and challenging informal discussions today.  
 
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  REPORT BY THE FACILITATOR OF AGRICULTURE INCLUDING FOOD SECURITY  
H.E. MR. MUSTAFA TUZCU ( TÜRKIYE ) 
1. At the outset let me also thank the Senior Officials for their active engagement in the sessions 
that I facilitated. In all three sessions on agriculture and food security, almost all Members stressed 
the importance of an outcome in agriculture and food security at MC13 bearing in mind that the 
current global co ntext of rising hunger and malnutrition making it unlikely for SDG 2 to be met by 
2030. I must commend Members for answering directly the two questions posed to them and for 
their positive and constructive approach during the discussions.  
  
2. With respect to  the first question about what would constitute the most optimal results on 
agriculture at MC13, and what could be the contribution of MC13 to food security, there were 
divergences in Members' positions.  
 
3. For many developing Members, it was important for previous Ministerial mandates to be fulfilled. 
In that regard, they called for the adoption of a Permanent Solution to the PSH issue at MC13 
considering the pivotal role it could play in alleviating the food security crisis and improving the 
livelihoods of  farmers. They called for text -based negotiations as soon as possible. Some Members 
thought that reaching an agreement on a permanent solution would enhance WTO's credibility and 
unlock progress in the broader agricultural reform process. It was suggested by some LDCs that 
government to government sales from PSH stocks at discounted prices to LDCs and other vulnerable 
Members should be allowed to alleviate the food security crisis they are facing.  
 
4. While recognising the role of PSH programmes, some Members expressed the view that it was 
only one of the tools that could be deployed to improve food security and considered that food 
security challenges would be better addressed within an open and less distorted trading system. For 
these Members, a permanent sol ution can only be achieved within the broader negotiations on 
domestic support to address the structural causes of food insecurity.  
 
5. While proponents called for the updating of the external reference prices (ERPs) to better reflect 
current realities, some  other Members observed that this issue should not be assumed to be a mere 
technical exercise as it would entail wider ramifications on Members' domestic support commitments.  
 
6. Most Members also identified the disciplining of trade distorting domestic suppo rt as a priority 
for MC13. However divergent views were expressed as to how this overarching objective could be 
achieved. For some Members, it was necessary to level the playing field. Several Members thought 
that it would not be possible for an agreement to be reached on modalities at MC13 and that the 
optimal result would be to agree on broad parameters to guide the negotiations post -MC13 for a 
substantive outcome at MC14. Whereas some Members were of the view that a holistic approach 
should be adopted by  considering all trade distorting support, others mainly developing countries 
considered it essential to preserve the flexibility under Article 6.2. Several Members were of the 
considered view that the various submissions on the table constituted a good ba sis to pursue the 
negotiations.  
 
7. The need for an outcome on cotton was also mentioned by several developing Members, 
particularly the C -4, who recalled that Ministers had agreed that cotton would be dealt with 
ambitiously, expeditiously and specifically.  
 
8. Some few Members identified Market Access as a priority for them in the lead up to MC13. They 
urged addressing both tariff and non -tariff barriers and alluded to the link between market access 
and food security.  
 
9. Many developing countries also expressed t he view that an optimal outcome on agriculture 
should include a special safeguard mechanism for developing countries to counter import surges and 
steep price declines. The challenge posed by the entry of subsidized agricultural imports was also 
raised by s ome. 
  
10. While acknowledging the relevance of all topics in providing a comprehensive response to the 
food security crisis, several Members stressed the importance of well -functioning supply chains and 
considered that a substantive outcome on Export Restrict ions at MC13 could constitute a concrete 
contribution by the WTO in addressing the current crisis. It was mentioned that enhanced 
transparency, including through clarification of some relevant terms would be apposite.  Some WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  Members, however, said that they were opposed to any limitation on their current policy space to 
take recourse to such measures to assuage their domestic food security concerns.  
 
11. Some other Members opined that an MC13 outcome should especially focus on possible 
immediate deliverables focussing on the needs of LDCs and NFIDCs. It was stressed in that 
connection positive outcomes needed to be achieved on the follow -up to work programme 
established under paragraph 8 of the MC12 Mi nisterial Declaration on Food Insecurity. The possible 
exemption of these  Members  from the imposition of export restrictions by net food exporting 
countries was also mentioned.  
 
12. Several Members urged a holistic approach, within the outcome on agriculture through the 
reform process mandated by Article 20 of the Agreement on Agriculture and stressed the 
complementarity between the reform process and the food security goal.  
 
13. Regarding the second question about how can MC13 best prepare the agriculture negotia tions 
to achieve substantive outcomes, there were also divergences in Members' positions.  
 
14. For some Members, it may still be possible to have some key deliverables at MC13. However, 
several Members cautioned against heightened expectations given the wide divergences in Members' 
positions on almost all the negotiating issues. They would therefore like MC13 to prepare the ground 
for intensive evidence -based negotiations thereafter with the expectation of reaching major 
outcomes at a later stage. In that rega rd, they believe that clear political guidance should be 
provided by Ministers at MC13. While some Members were of the view that it was important to 
distinguish among the negotiating issues, many others also stressed the need for a comprehensive, 
balanced and holistic outcome on agriculture and food security at MC13.  
 
15. In conclusion, I remain optimistic that with the necessary political will and flexibility and thanks 
to the extensive work undertaken thus far, it should be possible for Members to reach an ag reement 
on a credible food security package at MC13, with a clear commitment to continue negotiations on 
the other negotiating issues on the basis of principles or parameters to be agreed at MC13.  
 
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  REPORT BY THE FACILITATOR OF TRADE AND I NDUSTRIAL POLICY  
H.E. MS NG BEE KIM (SINGAPORE)  
 
1. We had two Breakout Sessions on Trade and Industrial Policy this morning and this afternoon. 
I thank Members for the good level of engagement during these sessions.  
 
2. Building on the recent Informal Meeting on WTO Reform focused on Trade and Industrial Policy, 
I asked Members "what concrete steps and actions were needed to ensure meaningful engagement 
on this topic at MC13 and beyond?"  
 
3. At the outset, let me observe that the discussions in both breako ut sessions mirrored largely 
the recent discussions which took place at the Informal Meeting on WTO Reform focused on Trade 
and Industrial Policy.  
 
4. In today's exchanges, I could detect some readiness to engage on this topic – in a meaningful, 
deeper, incl usive and evidence -based manner.  
 
5. Many Members emphasized that development – in particular, the need for relevant flexibilities, 
S&DT and policy space to ensure and sustain development - needs to be at the centre of this 
discussion. In this context, sever al delegations referred to the proposal by the African Group on 
policy space.  
 
6. Several developing Members also stressed the historical imbalance amongst Members as well 
as the importance of re -visiting the existing rules and policy tools offered by the WT O Agreements 
to deal with contemporary challenges. Four Agreements in particular were referred to by Members 
in this regard: GATT/Balance of Payments provisions, TRIMS, TRIPS, and the ASCM.  
 
7. While some Members described industrial subsidies as legitimate policy instruments, particularly 
for facilitating the green transition and to support production of global public goods, several 
delegations expressed concerns regarding the potential misuse of subsidies. The divide between 
Members with respect to the capa city to provide subsidies was also stressed.  
 
8. Addressing more precisely the guiding question for this break out session ("steps and actions 
for MC13"), I heard very different positions. I will attempt to group the main suggestions into three 
brackets:  
 
• Some delegations called for a work programme to be agreed at MC13; other Members 
proposed that Ministers could provide relevant guidance for future deliberations post -MC13.  
 
• Other delegations said that the discussion was still too premature to be brought be fore 
Ministers and that the exact scope of "industrial policy" should be defined more precisely. I 
heard suggestions that these discussions could take place in existing, relevant WTO bodies. 
In this context, the importance of transparency and inclusiveness  was also stressed by many 
Members.  
 
• Many of these delegations also noted that the MC13 agenda was already rather full, and 
recalled that there were other outstanding matters, such as agriculture, which should be 
addressed first – as a priority for MC13.  
 
9. It has been a privilege to facilitate the discussions on this very important topic. It is a very 
multifaceted and complex topic, and, on that note, I would like to thank the Senior Officials for your 
willingness to engage on this discussion.  
 
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  WT/GC/259/Rev.1 • TN/C/22/Rev.1  
 
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  REPORT BY THE FACILITATOR OF TRADE AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY  
H.E. MRS NELLA PEPE TAVITA -LEVY (SAMOA)  
 
1. I make this report on behalf of Samoa's Senior Official, H.E. Henry Tunupopo who unfortunately 
was not able to join our session s today. We heard very constructive responses to the guiding 
question posed in the 2 breakout sessions on Trade and Environment Sustainability today. All the 
Senior Officials who spoke recognized the need for collective action and substantive engagement on  
the global environmental challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. There was 
overwhelming support that the WTO and trade can, and must be part of, the solution.  
 
2. At the outset, Senior Officials recognized the relevance of the trade,  sustainable development 
and environmental sustainability interface at the WTO. Senior Officials reiterated the importance of 
having Ministers discuss trade and environment at MC13 and to provide further guidance on the 
direction of future work. Several Se nior Officials were however of the view that issues were not yet 
mature enough for negotiations.  
 
3. Many Senior Officials recalled paragraph 14 of the MC12 outcome document and highlighted 
the importance of "the Committee on Trade and Environment (CTE) as a  standing forum dedicated 
to dialogue among Members on the relationship between trade measures and environmental 
measures". The CTE can advance the discussions on the mutual supportiveness of trade and 
environmental sustainability. Some Members suggested j oint meetings of the CTE with other WTO 
bodies such as the Committee on Trade and Development (CTD) to bring in the development 
dimension and advance work on the SDGs.  
 
4. Many recognized the substantive work being undertaken in the Dialogue on Plastic Pollu tion and 
Environmentally Sound Plastic Trade (DPP); Structured Discussion on Trade and Environmental 
Sustainability (TESSD); and Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reforms and the potential MC13 ministerial 
statements under preparation in these areas. Other Members expre ssed a preference for multilateral 
forums for deliberations on global environment issues at the WTO or in other multilateral 
environmental forums (MEAs) such as the UNFCCC. Many Senior Officials welcomed and supported 
Trade Day at COP28 as announced by the  Chair.  
 
5. Many Senior Officials also underscored that the scope and parameters of the WTO discussions 
on trade and environmental sustainability could benefit from further consideration at the CTE. Strong 
support was expressed to the process launched by the  Chair of the CTE to improve the deliberative 
function of the Committee, including Members' proposals -based discussion and the organization of 
thematic sessions. They considered these elements were conducive to the further revitalization of 
the CTE and for  future work.  
 
6. In this regard, Senior Officials stressed that it is important to have more focused discussions 
on a wide range of issues including the use of unilateral measures and the concept of Common But 
Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), as well as how developing and least developed countries 
could be supported with climate finance, technology transfer, investment and the greening of trade 
and value chains.  
 
7. Some Senior Officials saw an important role for the WTO to provide a platform for the exch ange 
of trade -related climate initiatives taken at the national level. Such discussions could improve 
transparency, comparability and consistency of these measures to trade rules. Some Senior Officials 
also pointed to the role of the WTO in facilitating tr ade of environmental goods and services, 
addressing subsidies including in agriculture with harmful environmental effects and in tackling non -
tariff measures that could arise from environmental measures.  
 
8. In conclusion, let me reiterate that Senior Offici als recognized the urgency and relevance of the 
ongoing work on trade and environmental sustainability being carried out in Geneva. I believe the 
work begun by Senior Officials in Geneva today will provide a platform for Ministers to discuss trade 
and envi ronment when they meet at MC13 with a view to providing further political guidance. Finally, 
I thank all Senior Officials once again for their well -prepared engagements. I thank the Chairpersons 
for the opportunity for Samoa to be a Facilitator and once ag ain convey the apologies of our Senior 
Official.  
__________