The trade ministers video conference will review WTO issues, as well as implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for trade policy.

World Trade Organisation (WTO)

Trade ministers will discuss relevant matters linked to the WTO, taking into account disruptions caused to the multilateral trading system by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ministers should also take stock of the selection process of a new WTO Director General, following the decision by the current Director General, Roberto Azevedo, to step down as of 31 August 2020.

Implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for trade policy

Trade ministers will address the negative impact the pandemic has had on global trade and the role of global supply chains in the recovery. The EU is expected to undertake, in the course of this year, a review of its trade policy to ensure the continuous flow of goods and services worldwide and to reform the WTO.