UAE Launches EcoMark Global Framework Initiative at 13th WTO MC13

Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: United Arab Emirates (UAE), as hosts of the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13), have officially activated the EcoMark Global Framework Initiative in collaboration with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the Presidency of the 28th UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP28). This significant announcement, made at MC13 by Abdelsalam Mohamed Al Ali, Plenipotentiary Minister and UAE Representative to the World Trade Organisation, marks a pivotal step towards establishing universally recognized standards for sustainable products on a global scale.

The EcoMark Global Framework Initiative aims to create globally structured, cost-effective, and universally acknowledged standards for sustainable products. The initiative operates by facilitating the establishment of trusted accreditation bodies in each country. These bodies will be empowered to assess and certify companies based on their green credentials, simultaneously providing a toolkit for companies to meet the necessary criteria. This approach ensures that global green accreditation becomes accessible and affordable, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The COP Presidency and ICC will actively support the promotion of the EcoMark framework to global SMEs, encouraging greater adoption to enhance MSMEs’ involvement in green trade. Their roles extend to providing advice on standards development and potential strategies for engaging SMEs. Additionally, these partners will explore the integration of EcoMark with existing and future initiatives aimed at making trade greener and more inclusive for MSMEs.

The EcoMark Global Framework Initiative addresses a critical gap in the global trade architecture, responding to the evolving landscape of green trade and the increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. MSMEs often face challenges showcasing their green credentials due to high costs and complex processes, limiting their participation in global green trade.

This new Framework Initiative will support governments in creating accreditation bodies, providing direct capacity building, and training for MSMEs to attain and demonstrate green credentials. This empowerment will enable MSMEs to access new markets, find customers, and receive proper credit for their sustainable production practices.

Abdelsalam Mohamed Al Ali stated, “The UAE saw a need for an inclusive and accessible green trade framework tailored for MSMEs to help them capitalize on the increasing demand for sustainable products and adapt to the evolving trade paradigm. The EcoMark framework represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and inclusive global economy.”

The initiative’s activation took place on the margins of the World Trade Organization’s 13th Ministerial Conference in Abu Dhabi. The WTO, comprised of 166 Members, is the only multilateral organization overseeing the rules of trade between nations, dedicated to enabling member states to use trade as a means to raise living standards, create jobs, and improve people’s lives across the world. The Ministerial Conference, its topmost decision-making body, meets biannually.