First Joint WTO–ITC Mission to Mogadishu Advances Somalia’s WTO Accession

MOGADISHU, 21 October 2026 — The Federal Government of Somalia welcomes the successful conclusion of a joint technical mission undertaken by the World Trade Organization (WTO) Secretariat and the International Trade Centre (ITC)

in Mogadishu from 10 to 15 October 2026. Marking the first visit by the WTO Secretariat to Somalia, the mission represents an important milestone in the country’s efforts to advance its WTO accession and strengthen its integration into the multilateral trading system.

Led by the Office of the Chief Trade Negotiator (OCTN), with technical support from the WTO Secretariat and ITC, the mission brought together senior government officials, relevant national institutions and international experts to review progress, address outstanding technical matters and identify priorities for the next phase of accession negotiations.

The mission advanced Somalia’s accession preparations by addressing questions raised by WTO Members, reviewing key documentation, supporting the preparation of Somalia’s market access offers on goods and services, and strengthening

coordination across government institutions. Discussions also established priorities and practical follow-up actions for the next phase of negotiations.

H.E. Sadiq Haji Ibrahim, Chief Trade Negotiator of Somalia, stated: “This mission reflects Somalia’s commitment to WTO accession through sustained technical work, strong national coordination and constructive international partnerships. The progress achieved has generated important momentum. Our priority now is to address outstanding requirements; build on these achievements and ensure Somalia is well prepared for the next stage of negotiations.”

H.E. Charles King, British Ambassador to Somalia, stated: “The UK is proud to support Somalia’s ambition to join the World Trade Organization through our partnership with the International Trade Centre. Bringing WTO expertise to

Mogadishu for the first time is helping turn that ambition into practical progress.”

“Ultimately, this is about creating opportunities for businesses, attracting investment and creating jobs for Somalis.”

The mission also considered how Somalia’s WTO accession complements its wider regional trade priorities, including membership in the East African Community (EAC) and participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).Together, these processes can strengthen trade cooperation, market integration and long-term economic development.

Consultations on the proposed Trade for Peace Somalia Initiative brought together government institutions, the private sector and civil society to explore how trade and economic opportunity can contribute to peacebuilding, stability and inclusive development. Participants highlighted the importance of linking economic integration to national priorities for peace and shared prosperity.

Looking ahead, the Federal Government of Somalia will work with the WTO Secretariat, ITC and relevant national institutions to address remaining accession requirements, finalise its market access offers on goods and services, and prepare for the second meeting of Somalia’s WTO Accession Working Party, currently envisaged for early 2027.

The Federal Government of Somalia extends its appreciation to the Government of the United Kingdom for its support to Somalia’s WTO accession process through the ITC-implemented Making Trade Happen project and acknowledges the valuable technical assistance and continued cooperation of the WTO Secretariat and the International Trade Centre. — ENDS —