Statement by Minister Hagiuda on the postponement of the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC12)

I regret that the 12^th WTO Ministerial Conference, which was due to start on November 30, has been postponed due to the effect of another outbreak of the COVID-19 virus.

It is essential to maintain and strengthen the multilateral system with the WTO at its center to promote the growth of the world economy, prevent members from taking protectionist measures and properly address challenges and changes in society and economy such as the COVID-19 crisis, digitalization and climate change.

Japan, in collaboration with Director General Okonjo-Iweala and other like-minded members, will lead WTO reform, which includes the enhancement of the negotiation and dispute settlement functions of the WTO. Japan will also make efforts to strengthen the WTO’s capabilities to address various challenges.

Inquiries should be directed to:

Multilateral Trade System Department, Trade Policy Bureau