Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has called on the World Trade Organization to restart time-bound reforms and strengthen the enforceability of global trade rules during the 14th Ministerial Conference in Cameroon. 

Goyal emphasized that consensus-based decision-making remains central to the WTO’s legitimacy and urged members to rebuild trust within the multilateral trading system. He highlighted the need for inclusive reforms that allow all nations, especially developing countries, to build productive capacity, generate employment, and participate meaningfully in global trade. 

India also stressed the importance of addressing long-standing imbalances in the global trade framework, including issues related to agriculture, public stockholding for food security, and special safeguards for farmers. The minister pointed out that the current dispute settlement system remains dysfunctional and needs urgent restoration to ensure fair redressal mechanisms. 

Amid deep divisions among member countries on key issues such as digital trade and plurilateral agreements, India reiterated that reforms must be transparent, inclusive, and consensus-driven. The push comes at a time when global trade faces uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions and shifting economic dynamics.