The contributions will support the active participation of developing and least-developed countries (LDCs) in the Doha Round negotiations. The DDAGTF finances around 280 activities per year, mostly tailor-made training delivered at regional and national level, covering all trade-related areas including trade facilitation, agriculture and services.

“With these welcome donations, the European Union has again demonstrated its longstanding commitment to helping developing and least-developed countries reap the benefits of trade and better integrate into the global economy,” declared WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo.

Angelos Pangratis, EU Ambassador to the WTO, stated: “The EU and its member states remain the leading donors of trade-related technical assistance, evidenced once again by our latest contribution to the DDAGTF. In total, the European Union has donated EUR 10.6 million to the DDAGTF since 2003. Trade rules can play an important role in supporting development when appropriately adapted to the needs and priorities of a country. The initiatives financed under the DDAGTF are key for the further integration of developing countries into the global trading system.”