Geneva: Redha Abdullah Faraj, Deputy Chairman of the Financial and Economic Affairs Committee at the Shura Council and a member of Bahrain's parliamentary delegation, participated in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Public Forum 2025 held in Geneva from September 17 to 18. Faraj highlighted the necessity of an integrated system to aid small and micro enterprises in developing and African countries in accessing global markets.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Faraj emphasized the importance of starting with effective marketing, followed by securing appropriate finance, and concluding with guidance and technical support to help these enterprises grow amidst the rapid digital transformation impacting global trade. He stressed the critical role the WTO must play in enhancing competitiveness, fairness, and transparency in international commerce.
During a session focused on digital public infrastructure (DPI) and its role in driving inclusive growth, Faraj noted that the forum explored how DPI can revolutionize digital manufacturing and create equitable opportunities for developing and least developed nations. The session highlighted successful global examples and underscored the importance of advancing international cooperation within and beyond the WTO framework.
Faraj also engaged in a session on global maritime trade and the geopolitical tensions affecting shipping. Discussions pointed out that the international shipping sector, which moves goods worth more than US$14 trillion and accounts for about 90% of global trade in goods, faces increased supply chain disruptions due to rising trade tensions, protectionism, and geopolitical instability. The session brought together industry leaders and policy experts to examine the challenges and opportunities for international shipping in supporting global trade and economic growth.
Additionally, Faraj participated in a panel on digital trade agreements, focusing on bridging internet gaps and facilitating digital development. The session examined the impact of digital trade frameworks on international trade law and development, questioning whether such laws enable or hinder digital progress. It also considered regulatory convergence and open internet access, with case studies from Latin America and Asia providing practical insights into how digital trade agreements can address or exacerbate internet fragmentation.