On the eve of the 14th WTO ministerial conference, experts gathered at the University of Yaoundé question the concrete benefits for the country.
As a prelude to the 14th ministerial conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), which began on March 26, 2026 in Yaoundé, the sociology department of the University of Yaoundé I organized a high-level panel discussion on March 25, 2026. Around the table, academic and expert figures such as Christian Pout, Viviane Ondoua Biwole, Bruno Bekolo Ebe and Serge Alain Godong confronted their analyses on Africa’s place in world trade.
Between skepticism and optimism, the speakers highlighted the stakes of such a meeting for Cameroon. On the diplomatic front, the conference appears as a strategic showcase to strengthen the country’s influence in multilateral negotiations. On the economic front, it raises expectations regarding market access, export diversification and investment attractiveness.
However, some experts highlighted the structural limitations that still hinder African competitiveness, calling for internal reforms to better benefit from trade agreements. Others emphasized the opportunities offered by better regional integration.
Beyond the differences, the panel enriched student reflection, offering heuristic perspectives on the dynamics of international trade and Cameroon’s positioning in a changing global environment.
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