“Trade and investment must be at the centre of the Commonwealth’s renewal,” declared Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey during the 2025 Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit. Her remarks came at a pivotal time of global economic disruption, marked by sweeping tariffs that have unsettled markets worldwide and affected several Commonwealth countries directly.
“This is no time for business as usual — especially since business as usual wasn’t serving the Commonwealth well enough,” she said. “In an era of fragmentation, the Commonwealth offers connection. Amid uncertainty, we bring trust. Where others raise barriers, we build bridges.”
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Unlocking the Commonwealth Trade Advantage
Currently, trade within the Commonwealth is 21 percent cheaper compared to other global trading blocs — a clear benefit attributed to shared legal frameworks, a common language, and enduring relationships. This “Commonwealth Trade Advantage,” however, must now evolve into a broader opportunity accessible to all.
“We invest more in one another than ever before — but this advantage must translate into tangible gains for every member, every enterprise, and every citizen,” Botchwey urged.
A Renewed Focus on Inclusion, Innovation, and Investment
Outlining her strategic direction, the Secretary-General laid out three pillars for trade reform: inclusion, innovation, and investment.
- Inclusion means ensuring that small states, landlocked countries, and underrepresented businesses have equitable access to the Commonwealth’s 2.7 billion-strong market.
- Innovation involves embracing digital trade, aligning regulations, and supporting entrepreneurship — with a focus on women and youth who will drive future economies.
- Investment requires mobilising capital through blended finance models and strengthening partnerships that deliver real impact where it’s needed most.
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From Vision to Action
Botchwey emphasised that her plan goes beyond aspiration — it is a structured programme that will shape the Commonwealth’s priorities moving forward.
“We’re moving from dialogue to delivery,” she said. “Our aim is simple: to make sure every Commonwealth citizen, regardless of geography or GDP, feels the benefit of our shared efforts.”
This renewed focus will build momentum toward the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda in 2026, with key milestones including the upcoming Commonwealth Business Summit in Namibia this June. For the first time, ministers, CEOs, SMEs, and development institutions will collaborate directly on practical solutions.
“We will tackle trade barriers, enhance digital inclusion, support small businesses, and unlock investment in infrastructure, agriculture, e-commerce, and the green economy,” said Botchwey.
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A Defining Moment for the Commonwealth
In a time of global uncertainty, the Secretary-General framed the Commonwealth as a beacon of stability, trust, and ambition — uniquely positioned to lead in reshaping global trade norms.
“We are a network of purpose and promise — a platform for progress,” she said. “The only limit is the fear of thinking big. It’s time to turn our shared values into shared prosperity.”
With this bold agenda, the Commonwealth is setting the stage for a new era of inclusive economic growth and deeper cooperation among its member nations.
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