Somalia Takes Important Step It Has Long Desired

Somalia is taking an important step it has long aspired to

The Federal Government of Somalia has stated that it aims to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) by the year 2029, while currently preparing the requirements and negotiation processes needed for countries seeking membership in that organization.

The Head of Trade Negotiations for Somalia, Saadiq Xaaji Ibraahin, who gave an interview to BBC Somali, said that the government hopes to complete the remaining obligations in the process of joining the organization within the next two to three years.

"We hope to complete our accession by 2029. It is a challenging goal, but due to the efforts of the government and the officials involved, we hope to finish our remaining obligations in the next two to three years," he said.

This statement comes after a delegation from the WTO and the International Trade Centre (ITC) visited Mogadishu for a working visit two weeks ago, between October 10 and 15, focusing on preparing the documents and requirements needed for Somalia.

Saadiq stated that this visit was an important step taken, as experts from international organizations directly met with Somali government officials to assess the country's trade processes and regulations.

Somalia has been in efforts to join the WTO for several years, with the first meeting of the working group responsible for its membership application taking place in February 2025. The second meeting is scheduled to take place in 2027.

What benefits can Somalia gain from joining the WTO?

Saadiq Xaaji has stated that WTO membership could create opportunities for Somali traders to reach international markets, while also helping to attract foreign investment.

The World Trade Organization currently consists of 166 members representing nearly 98% of global trade.

"When we become a member, it will facilitate our traders in reaching the international markets with their products," said Saadiq.

He added that Somalia, having laws and business systems that comply with international standards, could encourage foreign companies looking to invest in the country, which he said could create new jobs.