Rob Davies to attend G20 trade ministers meeting in Argentina

Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies is set to attend the G20 Trade Ministers Meeting in Argentina on Friday.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Trade and Industry said the Trade Ministers meeting will be preceded by a trade and investment working group meeting.

“The G20 Trade Ministers is taking place at a time when the multilateral trading system is facing unprecedented challenges," said Davies.  

"Of concern is the rise of trade measures that are not compatible with the World Trade Organization. The G20 Trade Ministers meeting will provide an opportunity for a dialogue on current developments in international trade and its implications for the global economy”, said Davies.

South Africa has been vocal in its support for WTO rules. The Johannesburg Declaration - adopted by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa after a recent Brics summit in Johannesburg - warned that global trade was "facing unprecedented challenges" and urged WTO members to honour their commitments to the multilateral trading system.