WTO Open Day 2026

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

On 5 July 2026, the WTO will welcome the public to its headquarters in Geneva to mark the 100th anniversary of the WTO’s home (Centre William Rappard). The Open Day offers an opportunity for visitors to explore this historic building and its artworks and to enjoy a range of activities taking place on the lakeside terrace.

More: https://www.wto.org/english/news_e/news26_e/open_18jun26_418_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQS7TkDtsRc

Then and now: 100 years of the Centre William Rappard

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

The Centre William Rappard in Geneva is the first building designed to house an international organization. Today, it is home to the World Trade Organization, and it has just turned 100 years old.

It opened on 6 June 1926. Then, as now, the Centre William Rappard serves as a place for dialogue and cooperation between nations.

Join Roy Santana, from the WTO Secretariat, as he steps between 2026 and 1926 to explore a century of history at the first home of multilateralism.

Our thanks to the International Labour Organization for sharing historic footage.

Learn more about the CWR: https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/cwr_e/cwr_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahQvsD6xQPc

Trade in Services for Development at MC14

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

In Yaoundé on the eve of the 14th Ministerial Conference on 25 March, a group of ministers underscored the central role of services trade in supporting development and emphasized the importance of WTO-World Bank efforts to help developing members overcome challenges. Director-General Okonjo-Iweala called for stronger international partnerships through the Trade in Services for Development initiative to boost support for developing members.

Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iM_AGDeWHHU

Cotton High-Level Event at MC14

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

From field to factory, and fashion to football, African Cotton was in the spotlight at MC14. Events in Cameroon brought together stakeholders to highlight cotton’s importance to global trade and investment opportunities, particularly for Central and West African countries looking to move up the value chain.

Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7G7SScUJdE

WTO Public Forum 2026: Powering the future

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

Trade in services is not just a driver of global economic growth. It is the most dynamic component of world trade. In 2026, services trade volume is projected to expand by 4.8%, significantly outpacing trade in goods.

This year’s Public Forum will place services at the centre of the conversation, examining their role as an engine of development, source of income, and driver of job creation and empowerment worldwide, particularly for women and young people.

Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsuuO1Y1XVM

High-level visit: Macao, China

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala met with the Chief Executive of Macao, China, Sam Hou Fai on 23 April at the WTO. They discussed the active role Macao, China plays at the WTO and its strong support for the multilateral trading system. As trade openness and transparency are key to Macao, China’s strong economic performance, both leaders highlighted the importance of the WTO for supporting the ongoing contribution of Macao, China to the global economy.

Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNIfTp9guTA

Yaoundé in images: MC14 flash recap

Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)

The WTO’s 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) concluded early 30 March with ministers adopting a number of decisions as well as making a commitment to continue work in Geneva on key outstanding issues.
On the sidelines, Yaoundé also delivered advances and rich discussions on development, women empowerment, cotton and agreements to ease investment and foster digital trade.

Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfdH37-r4rw