Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, buzzed with diplomatic energy today as it hosted the Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting a forum aimed at revamping trade cooperation among member states.

With ministers and business leaders from across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific in attendance, the summit focused on climate resilience, digital trade, and easing barriers to intra-Commonwealth commerce.

Namibia’s President welcomed delegates with a rousing call for unity and innovation. “The world is changing fast, and so must we,” he said.

“Our economies can no longer wait for others to define the rules of engagement.” His speech was met with strong applause.
High on the agenda was how to leverage trade to combat poverty and climate threats. Smaller economies urged for fairer trade rules and more equitable digital access.

A new trade facilitation roadmap was introduced, with special support for African countries lagging behind on digital infrastructure.

Several bilateral deals were signed on the sidelines, including agreements between Nigeria and India on pharmaceutical exports, and a UK-Ghana partnership on sustainable cocoa sourcing.

The private sector track of the summit saw over 100 business-to-business meetings.