Govt, development partners prepare for Laos' entry into WTO
Govt, development partners prepare for Laos' entry into WTO
The government, private sector, and development partners gathered yesterday to discuss trade preparations for Laos' integration into the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the ASEAN economic community.
The second Trade and Private Sector Working Group Meeting was chaired by Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Ms Khemmani Pholsena, and co-c haired by German Ambassador to Laos, Mr Robert von Rimscha, and Charge d'Affaires of the European Union and EIF Donor Facilitator for Laos, Mr Michel Goffin.
The meeting was held as part of preparations for the upcoming Round Table Meeting scheduled for late November.
“By the end of this year, we should be in a position to officially accede to the World Trade Organisation, and we will also be rapidly approaching the entry into force of the ASEAN Economic Community,” Ms Khemmani said.
“We need to ensure Lao businesses are able to supply quality products and services to compete in the global marketplace. This is why it's so important to strengthen our institutions, businesses and human resources now, through a concrete programme of support and development.”
Mr von Rimscha gave a speech on behalf of Germany congratulating Laos as a soon-to-be member of the WTO.
“It's a chance for Laos to integrate further, regionally and globally. However, Laos must be aware of both the opportunities and challenges it will face,” Mr von Rimscha said.
During the meeting, the Trade Integration Study update to be undertaken by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce was officially launched. Participants also discussed the WTO accession process, preparation of the Second Trade Development Facility, and the sector working group report.
The chair and co-chairs concluded the meeting by encouraging all participants to strengthen the sector's working group structure, including using its work programme as a platform for new projects and programme formulation to ensure maximum government ownership, reducing aid transaction costs, and maximising efficiency.
vientiane times
