By Seedy Jobe
The Gambia this month underwent its fourth Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organization, a periodic assessment of its trade regime that drew praise from member states for recent legislative and institutional reforms.
The review, conducted on February 4 and 6 in Geneva under the WTO’s Trade Policy Review Mechanism, forms part of the country’s obligations as a Least Developed Country member of the global trade body. The mechanism is designed to increase transparency and foster a clearer understanding of member states’ trade policies and practices.
In a statement issued Friday, the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment said the review sought to strengthen adherence to WTO rules and disciplines, contributing to the smoother functioning of the multilateral trading system.
The trade minister led The Gambia’s delegation, which included senior government officials and technical experts. During the proceedings, WTO members commended the country for progress made since its previous review in 2018, citing the enactment of new trade- and investment-related laws and broader institutional reforms.
According to the ministry, those measures were recognized as important steps toward reinforcing economic governance and modernizing the regulatory framework.
Member states also acknowledged the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, while encouraging Banjul to press ahead with reforms aimed at sustaining growth and expanding participation in international trade.
The government said it remained committed to deepening engagement with the multilateral trading system and advancing policies intended to promote inclusive growth, enhance competitiveness and support national development objectives.
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