Geneva: A new study on the World Trade Organization (WTO) accession experiences of Arab countries was launched on 6 July 2026, offering valuable insights from past and ongoing accession processes within the Arab region. The study aims to assist Arab governments pursuing WTO membership by examining the challenges these economies face and identifying strategies for advancing accession negotiations.According to Emirates News Agency, the study is co-published by the WTO Secretariat, the Islamic Development Bank, the Arab Monetary Fund, and the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade. Titled "Best practices in WTO accession for Arab Countries: Lessons from past and ongoing accessions in the Arab world," the study underscores the potential benefits of deeper integration into the multilateral trading system, which could enhance economic and development opportunities for Arab economies.Launched amidst ongoing regional conflicts and instability, the study highlights the legal, economic, and political challenges Ar ab economies encounter at both national and regional levels. These challenges have slowed the domestic reforms required for WTO accession.The study also examines disparities in transport infrastructure across the region, noting challenges in customs procedures, logistics costs, and the quality of overland and maritime transport corridors. It emphasizes the need for investment in infrastructure development, including transportation networks, ports, airports, and energy projects, to facilitate trade, expand export opportunities, and attract foreign investments.Currently, 14 of the 22 members of the Arab League are WTO members. Five of these countries-Jordan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Comoros-have successfully negotiated their accession since 1995, under Article XII of the Marrakesh Agreement. Comoros was the most recent to join, in 2024. Meanwhile, seven other Arab countries, namely Algeria, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Syria, are in the process of negotiating their WTO accession.
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