Title of the activity
WTO Introductory Trade Policy Course for least-developed countries (LDCs)
Activity Type
Other global activity
Description
This course is a level 1 activity in accordance with the WTO Progressive Learning Strategy (PLS) for strengthening trade-related capacity. Successful completion of this course, evaluated by a final exam, serves as a qualification for courses at level 2 of the PLS.
This course introduces participants to the WTO, the basic rules and the functioning of the organization. The main objective is to provide a solid base for the participants when it comes to the functioning, structure and principles of the WTO. This is achieved mainly through presentations and exercises on the principles and exceptions contained in the main agreements of the WTO. The development dimension is an important part of the programme, including the implementation of decisions adopted in favour of LDCs.
In addition to presentations and exercises, participants complete a quiz at the end of each week. The course also includes participation in meetings of WTO bodies as well as participation in round tables which provide participants with a greater understanding of priorities for the LDCs and their future work in the WTO. The course also features a virtual classroom with preparatory work to be completed before the in-person segment (maximum five hours) and self-study exercises and revision material to support participants throughout the course. At least one online session is provided in the two weeks before the course to give participants the opportunity to ask questions.
This activity is conducted in English and is part of the WTO biennial technical assistance and training plan 2026-2027.
This course introduces participants to the WTO, the basic rules and the functioning of the organization. The main objective is to provide a solid base for the participants when it comes to the functioning, structure and principles of the WTO. This is achieved mainly through presentations and exercises on the principles and exceptions contained in the main agreements of the WTO. The development dimension is an important part of the programme, including the implementation of decisions adopted in favour of LDCs.
In addition to presentations and exercises, participants complete a quiz at the end of each week. The course also includes participation in meetings of WTO bodies as well as participation in round tables which provide participants with a greater understanding of priorities for the LDCs and their future work in the WTO. The course also features a virtual classroom with preparatory work to be completed before the in-person segment (maximum five hours) and self-study exercises and revision material to support participants throughout the course. At least one online session is provided in the two weeks before the course to give participants the opportunity to ask questions.
This activity is conducted in English and is part of the WTO biennial technical assistance and training plan 2026-2027.
Venue
Switzerland
City
WTO
Trade topic
Multi topic
Start Date
End Date
Duration (days)
15
Activity Level
selection process
LDC Members or Observers eligible to take part in this activity will receive a letter of invitation and an application form through their representation to the WTO. Applications must be submitted through the Permanent Mission/Embassy to the WTO by the deadline indicated.
Preference will be given to candidates who are currently working or are expected to work on WTO-related issues in the near future. This activity will be conducted in English. Participants must have a perfect command of this language. The organisers reserve the right to select candidates and to refuse applications from those who do not meet the requirements and/or depending on the maximum number of participants.
Selected participants will receive direct confirmation.
Preference will be given to candidates who are currently working or are expected to work on WTO-related issues in the near future. This activity will be conducted in English. Participants must have a perfect command of this language. The organisers reserve the right to select candidates and to refuse applications from those who do not meet the requirements and/or depending on the maximum number of participants.
Selected participants will receive direct confirmation.
Pre-requisite
Least-developed countries that are WTO Members or Observers are invited to nominate candidates who meet the following criteria:
1. Direct responsibility in areas related to trade or the WTO, either currently or in the near future;
2. Fluency in English
1. Direct responsibility in areas related to trade or the WTO, either currently or in the near future;
2. Fluency in English
Target Audience
Government officials
Language
English
Application Deadline
17/08/2026
Key Result
1. Government officials are implementing WTO Agreements and fully realising Members' rights and obligations
Key Output
1.1: Government officials have enhanced knowledge about WTO Agreements, trade policy formulation and conduct of trade negotiations
Programme
Invited Members and Observers:
Angola
Bangladesh
Benin
Bhutan
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Comoros
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Djibouti
Ethiopia
The Gambia
Haiti
Lao Peopleʼs Democratic Republic
Lesotho
Liberia
Madagascar
Malawi
Mali
Mauritania
Mozambique
Myanmar
Nepal
Niger
Rwanda
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Solomon Islands
Somalia
Sudan
Tanzania
Timor-Leste
Togo
Uganda
Yemen
Zambia