Sweden has committed SEK 2 million, approximately N295 million to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Global Trust Fund for 2026 to support technical assistance and training programmes for officials from developing economies and least-developed countries, including Nigeria.

The WTO said this fund would support capacity-building initiatives aimed at strengthening the ability of government officials to understand global trade rules, participate effectively in negotiations and advance national economic interests within the multilateral trading system.

According to the organisation, the Global Trust Fund has delivered about 2,800 workshops since 2001, focused on helping developing countries better integrate into global trade and maximise economic opportunities.

Speaking, WTO’s Andrew Rizk noted that the funding will enhance technical assistance programmes designed to improve participation of developing economies in global trade governance.

He said the WTO remained committed to helping countries strengthen their expertise in trade policy and negotiation through targeted training and institutional support.

Ambassador Nina Tornberg, described trade as a key driver of development, stressing that Sweden’s contribution reflects its long-standing commitment to supporting least-developed and developing countries in building stronger trade systems.

“Trade is a powerful engine for development. Through Sweden’s contribution to the Global Trust Fund, we are investing in the ability of developing countries to engage effectively in the multilateral trading system,” she said.

She added that the support aligned with Sweden’s broader development cooperation strategy aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth through a rules-based global trade system.