Australian support for our region’s trade and development

Ahead of the 13th World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference (MC13), the Australian Government has announced more than $20 million to support our region's trade and development needs.

Working with Indo-Pacific partners to build resilience and grow their economies through trade enhances regional stability and prosperity.

The additional funding is consistent with the priorities of Indo-Pacific countries, and will support:

• capacity building in e-commerce and the digital economy
• trade financing
• enhancing intellectual property systems
• and identifying ways trade can bolster national climate adaptation plans.

Australia will provide $10.3 million to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat Office in Geneva to support its WTO engagement.

We also continue to support Timor-Leste to achieve its aspirations and obligations as a new Member of the WTO, including through our existing $8.6 million (2022-26) package to assist Timor-Leste to meet WTO and ASEAN accession requirements.

Leading sustainable development research organisations in Geneva will also receive $2 million to help developing countries in our region advance their climate and development priorities through trade.

Quote attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

"There is no sustainable long-term economic growth without trade. Being serious about helping our neighbours become more economically resilient means supporting their development as trading nations."

Quote attributable to Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell:

"Australia's support helps our Indo-Pacific partners to step up their involvement in international economic institutions like the WTO and benefit from the trade opportunities they generate."