At a high-level meeting on the Global Development Initiative at the 80th UN General Assembly, the Chinese premier Li Qiang announced that China will not seek new special and differential treatment (SDT) in current and future negotiations at the World Trade Organization (WTO). This landmark move was quickly endorsed by WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who called it "a pivotal moment for the WTO."
Okonjo-Iweala highlighted that China’s choice signals a commitment to a more balanced and equitable global trading system and will energize discussions on WTO reform. With 164 members spanning diverse economies, the WTO has grappled with calls for modernization. China’s pledge to forgo additional SDT privileges – traditionally reserved for developing members – could reshape bargaining dynamics and level the playing field for both emerging and advanced economies.
In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun praised the decision as an example of China’s sense of responsibility as the largest developing country. He noted that China will continue to uphold the multilateral trading system, defend the legitimate rights and interests of developing members, and work toward a more just global governance system.
For young entrepreneurs tracking global economic trends, this development hints at fresh opportunities. By narrowing the gap between development stages, negotiations may accelerate on issues like digital trade, sustainability standards and market access. Tech startups from G20 nations, for instance, could benefit from more consistent rules on e-commerce and data flows, while investors eyeing emerging markets might find a more predictable environment.
Thought leaders and changemakers will be watching how this decision influences WTO reform talks, which aim to modernize dispute settlement and improve transparency. Meanwhile, travelers and digital nomads may soon enjoy smoother regulations across borders as countries streamline customs procedures under updated trade rules.
As global trade enters a new era, China’s step away from extra privileges offers a test case for cooperation in a 21st-century WTO. Stakeholders from all sectors – business, academia, civil society and beyond – will be tuning in as negotiations unfold. One thing is clear: the conversation around special and differential treatment has just been rewritten, and the world is listening.
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WTO welcomes China's announcement of not seeking new SDT at WTO
cgtn.com
