The just-concluded 3rd Commonwealth Trade Ministers meeting has called for support and strengthening of SMEs and MSMEs for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and least developed countries within the Commonwealth. 

The meeting recognised the pivotal role played by these sectors in building the Commonwealth's resilient economies.

It also noted the need to deepen intra-Commonwealth trade and investment and share comparative advantages, such as sustainable agriculture, digital services, renewable energy, and critical minerals. 

"As we move forward, let us ensure that we continue the spirit of cooperation established here in Windhoek and support the work of the Secretariat under our able Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey to deliver to our people stronger economies based on the shared market and inclusive of small and medium enterprises, women and the youth. Let us, in the spirit of the Commonwealth, focus on setting out practical trade solutions focused on innovation and economic inclusion. As I said before, our people deserve nothing less," said Namibia's Trade Minister, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi.

The meeting further stressed commitment to promoting an inclusive approach to digitalisation in trade in all Commonwealth member countries.

It also adopted the Commonwealth Trade Ministers' Statement, outlining clear, credible, and ambitious economic priorities and multilateral commitments.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor-Botchwey emphasised the importance of enforcing these commitments, saying, "As we conclude proceedings here today, I urge you all to translate the spirit of this meeting into action. Let us continue to champion fair, equitable and exclusive trade; let us remain focused on solutions that are sustainable and which advance shared prosperity; let us do so in a true commonwealth spirit through partnership, collective interest and shared determination to leave no one behind."

Moreover, the meeting supported the Commonwealth member countries for a rule-based multilateral trade system. 

Concluding a statement ahead of the World Trade Organisation 14th Ministerial Conference that will be held in Cameroon next year, which will be read at the next World Trade Organisation General Council.