In capitalising on the progress made at the WTO ministerial conferences in Bali and Nairobi and in reflecting on the organization's future path, it is important to hear the voices of stakeholders. To facilitate this process, the WTO Director-General has initiated a series of 'Trade Dialogues', offering stakeholders the possibility to share their views and concerns on outstanding and emerging trade priorities and the way these may be reflected in the WTO's future work. At the request of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the B20, the first dialogue was held with the private sector on 30 May 2016 at the WTO. The event was an important step forward in the working relations between the WTO and the private sector.
Building on the outcomes of the 30 May Business Dialogue, this joint ICC-WTO session will give the private sector an opportunity to present concrete and specific suggestions on inclusive trade rules to a wider audience. It will explore a wide range of issues including the current negotiating agenda, electronic commerce, facilitation of services and investment flows, support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, and sectoral negotiations.