Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, Minister of Trade and Industry
Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism and inclusive trade during its Third Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), held from April 15 to 17, 2025. The delegation, led by Honourable Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, Minister of Trade and Industry, engaged with representatives from numerous WTO member states, emphasising Sierra Leone’s dedication to enhancing its trade policies and practices.
This review is particularly significant as it coincides with Sierra Leone’s 30th anniversary of membership in the WTO. The Trade Policy Review Mechanism, under which these evaluations are conducted, systematically examines the trade policies and practices of member countries to promote transparency and foster a better understanding of national trade regimes among WTO members. For developing economies like Sierra Leone, these comprehensive reviews typically occur on a seven-year cycle, allowing for the assessment of trade policy evolution and the implementation of previous recommendations.
Sierra Leone’s inaugural Trade Policy Review took place in April 2005, followed by a second review in February 2017. The current review highlights key developments in trade policy, economic indicators, sectoral progress, and reform initiatives designed to facilitate more effective engagement within the Sierra Leone Trade Policy Framework.
In his address, Minister Sesay outlined the progress Sierra Leone has made in various sectors, despite facing significant challenges. He projected a GDP growth rate of 5.2% for 2025, attributing this optimistic outlook to reforms in critical areas such as mining, fisheries, manufacturing, tourism, and digital innovation. The Minister emphasised the importance of the ratification of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement and urged other African and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to actively participate in the second phase of negotiations at the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Cameroon.
Mining and fisheries are crucial to Sierra Leone’s economy, contributing over 20% of export earnings. The recent nationwide geophysical survey has bolstered investor confidence, while the manufacturing sector now accounts for 22% of the nation’s GDP, highlighted by the recent launch of the country’s first steel production company.
On the front of trade facilitation, Minister Sesay reported substantial improvements, including the adoption of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), the establishment of a National Trade Facilitation Committee, and the implementation of digital initiatives such as the Salon Payment Switch and the National Single Window for Ports. These advancements are driving greater financial inclusion and enhancing the efficiency of trade operations in Sierra Leone.
Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) outlines five key priorities: food security, human capital development, youth employment, public sector reform, and innovation. Complementing these priorities are updated policies aimed at improving the business climate, including strategies for trade, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMES), and agribusiness.
Minister Sesay also praised the country’s ongoing regional integration efforts through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (Afcfta). He highlighted Sierra Leone’s access to global markets through preferential trade schemes, such as the European Union’s Everything But Arms initiative and the United States’ African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
However, the Minister acknowledged ongoing challenges, including infrastructure gaps, a narrow export base, and a widening current account deficit. He called for enhanced global support and advocated for a reformed WTO that addresses the unique needs of LDCs, particularly in areas such as food security, industrialisation, and special and differential treatment.
Minister Sesay concluded by emphasising Sierra Leone’s determination to leverage trade for sustainable development and prosperity. “We believe a transparent, rules-based, and inclusive system benefits all nations. Sierra Leone stands ready to collaborate with partners to ensure that global trade remains a vehicle for shared progress,” he stated.
During the interactive session, representatives from various WTO member states—including Singapore, Zambia, Canada, Nigeria, Ghana, Japan, the Dominican Republic, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Djibouti, Barbados, Saudi Arabia, Malawi, Brazil, Australia, Madagascar, and Angola—commended Sierra Leone for showcasing its progress while addressing existing challenges. They emphasised the importance of developing more effective trade policies, attracting external investment, and promoting sustainable economic growth in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS).
As per standard practice, other WTO member states recommended that the Sierra Leonean government continue its efforts in WTO notifications and compliance. After the trade policy review, Sierra Leone committed to carefully considering all recommendations and utilising insights gained from the review process to inform its strategies for the next comprehensive review, which will typically occur in seven years.
The Chairman of the Trade Policy Review Body, His Excellency Dr. Adamu Mohammed Abdulhamid, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the WTO, expressed gratitude to the Sierra Leonean delegation for their engagement with the WTO and for providing a comprehensive account of the state of trade in Sierra Leone.
The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation attended the review as a show of support for the progress Sierra Leone has made over the years. Additionally, statements of support were delivered by representatives from various regional organisations and trading blocs, including the African Union, European Union, LDC Group, and the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group of countries, all commending Sierra Leone for its achievements while acknowledging the challenges that remain.
The Head of the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Sierra Leone to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Dr. Lansana Gberie, played a key role in coordinating Sierra Leone’s participation in the review mechanism, ensuring that the country’s voice was effectively represented on the global stage.
As Sierra Leone continues to navigate the complexities of international trade, its commitment to multilateralism and inclusive trade remains steadfast. The outcomes of this review will not only shape the future of Sierra Leone’s trade policies but also reinforce its position within the global trading system, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable development and economic growth.
