Saudi Arabia has put forward a bid to host a major World Trade Organization (WTO) meeting in 2028, according to Reuters.
A WTO meeting in Geneva on December 16–17 discussed the proposal with 22 member states expressing support. However, the organization has not taken a final decision yet.
Several countries, including Bangladesh, Kuwait, Russia, Cameroon and Thailand, have supported the Kingdom’s bid to host the meeting in Riyadh, which would coincide with the 20th anniversary of Saudi Arabia’s accession to the WTO.
The idea was first raised in October by Saudi Commerce Minister Majid bin Abdullah al-Qasabi.
“Hosting MC15 represents a strategic opportunity to demonstrate our deep commitment to the principles and objectives of the WTO and the Multilateral Trading System,” the minister said at the time.
This initiative comes as the Kingdom continues to place itself as a prestigious hub for high-profile international gatherings.
Saudi Arabia regularly hosts major financial and economic forums and has expanded its global footprint through large investments in sports and entertainment.
To further boost its international standing, the Kingdom will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Cameroon will host the upcoming MC14 in March 2026 in Yaounde, where discussions will focus on potential reforms to the world trade watchdog.
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