27 March 2026 

Trade plays an important role in driving economic growth. But trade alone can not solve all development problems.

First, it is essential to advance reform in the right direction, which means, upholding true multilateralism, placing development at the center of the reform agenda, and safeguarding and strengthening a rules-based, open and inclusive multilateral trading system that is non-discriminatory to all members and more differential to the small and the vulnerable.

A rules-based trading system built on principles of non-discrimination can provide stability and predictability and is conducive to universally beneficial and inclusive development. Whereas a power-based trading system amplify the asymetry between members, leaving the most vulnerable members marginalized.

Second, take concrete actions to enhance the effectiveness of special and differential treatment (SDT). SDT is an important policy tool to help developing members better integrate into the multilateral trading system. How to make it more precise, effective, and better respond to the need of members at different levels of economic development? China believes that an integrated approach that contains elements of needs assessment, capacity building and rules implementation should be explored, as in the case of Trade Facilitation Agreement, and the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement. The Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement also builds on such model. Imposing external criteria on SDT eligibility, on the other hand, is never going to make SDT more effective.

Third, development is much broader than SDT. Issues of common interests to developing members include policy space for industrialization, encouraging foreign direct investment, ensuring food security, enhancing supply chain resilience, seizing opportunities in the development of digital economy, green transformation, and artificial intelligence. We should explore more concrete and effective gateways on such issues within WTO’s niche, including through committee deliberations, aid for trade initiatives, and discussion on future-oriented rule-making.