1. We, the G20 Ministers responsible for Trade and Investment, under the chairmanship of the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa, met on 10th October 2025 in Gqeberha, South Africa, and deliberated on the South Africa G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”.
2. We convened at an important moment to discuss a variety of trade related challenges. These challenges are compounded by widening economic disparities that threaten social cohesion and sustained growth. In this context of mounting uncertainty and complexity, it is imperative to forge sustainable solutions, ensure economic prosperity for all, and foster resilience in production and supply chains.
3. We recognise that trade and investment can be a driver of economic growth, development, job creation, technological progress and contribute to global food security, while noting that benefits are not always shared by all. We will strive to ensure that the benefits of trade reach all segments of society and that all our people have the opportunity to benefit from trade. We encourage value addition throughout value chains and recognise the need for a trade and investment agenda that addresses global challenges. We discussed the South African Presidency priority on trade and inclusive growth and to address global challenges. We note the need to deepen efforts to address these challenges. Members engaged in a rigorous discussion and we note the divergent views among G20 Members in this regard.
4.We note the non-binding and voluntary report developed by UNCTAD and the OECD titled “Toolbox on harnessing investment policies for clean energy, digital transformation and public health”. This report contains illustrative examples from certain G20 Members and invited guest countries.
5. As this year marks the first time that the G20 is hosted in Africa, we recall the G20’s longstanding efforts in partnership with Africa. We welcome the inclusion of the African Union (AU) as a member of the G20 since 2023.
6. We recognise the important role that trade and investment policies can play in supporting industrialisation. We discussed the South African presidency priority on how to enable sustainable industrialization and development, and note the widely divergent perspectives expressed by Members, including on how they seek to industrialize.
7.We recognise the importance of the WTO to advance trade issues. We acknowledge the agreed upon rules in the WTO are key to facilitating global trade. We further acknowledge that the WTO has challenges. We recognise that meaningful, necessary and comprehensive reform of the WTO is essential to improve its functions so that it is better suited to advance all Members’ objectives. We also recognise the need for constructive engagement at the WTO on agriculture and other issues of interest to Members. We call for constructive discussion at the WTO to identify where progress is possible in ongoing negotiations. We discussed the South African Presidency priority on WTO reform including issues related to development. Members engaged in a rigorous discussion and we note the diverse perspectives among G20 Members in this regard. We will constructively engage towards a successful Fourteenth Ministerial Conference (MC14) in March 2026 in Cameroon.
8. We welcome the entry into force of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. We call on the remaining WTO members to accept it as soon as possible.
9. We thank all the knowledge partners including the AfCFTA Secretariat, AfDB, FAO, ITC, OECD, UNCTAD, UNIDO, WTO, South Centre and TIPS for their valuable contributions in our discussions.
10. We appreciate the G20 South African Presidency for its concerted efforts and leadership in discussions this year on trade and investment. We look forward to the U.S. G20 Presidency in 2026.