The Hon Anne Aly MP, Minister for International Development
Ahead of the 14th World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference (MC14), the Australian Government has announced $13 million to be delivered over the next five years towards the WTO’s support for developing countries.
Australia’s investment will support greater participation by developing countries in the multilateral trading system through the WTO. This will bolster economic resilience and expand their participation in the green and digital economies.
Australia will deepen its partnerships with the Standards and Trade Development Facility and WTO Fisheries Funding Mechanism, with new commitments of $4 million and $2 million respectively.
These contributions will help developing countries implement international agriculture and biosecurity standards, advance sustainable development, and protect livelihoods while supporting the conservation of marine resources.
Australia will also extend its partnership with the World Bank, providing an additional $4 million to help countries streamline customs procedures and implement the WTO E‑Commerce Agreement. This investment will help open new markets and make trade more inclusive.
A further $3 million to the Advisory Centre on WTO Law will help developing countries build legal capacity and take full advantage of the multilateral trading system.
Quotes attributable to Minister for International Development, Anne Aly:
"Australia is continuing to invest in a stronger, more stable and more prosperous region through supporting developing countries to access global trade opportunities. This not only deepens Australia's relationships across our region and beyond but also supports or shared economic growth."
"We’re building the trusted partnerships we need, supporting a more open and inclusive trading system, and reinforcing Australia as a constructive and reliable partner."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Matt Thistlethwaite:
"Australia has always championed open markets and fair and transparent trading rules."
"By supporting partners to modernise customs processes, enhance regulatory standards, and strengthen legal capability in the WTO, Australia is helping build the foundations for long-term, sustainable economic growth across our region."