With a view to contributing to a fairer and more inclusive international trade system, the Second Meeting of the G20 Trade and Investment Working Group began today in Mar del Plata, in the Argentine province of Buenos Aires, to lay the groundwork for the ministerial meeting on Friday.

Over two days, participants will address the opportunities and challenges posed by the multilateral trade system, and the integration of small and medium-sized companies into the global supply chains of agricultural products. In line with a sustainable food future, one of the priorities of the Argentine G20 presidency, the agenda looks to promote the inclusion of new actors into the international trade system, so as to improve conditions for economic growth and foster the production of more and better quality foodstuffs.

The participating experts from G20 member and guest countries, together with representatives from international organizations, will also look into the new industrial revolution and ways to tackle its impact on employment. Connected to the future of work and infrastructure for development – the other two priorities defined by the G20 presidency this year – the agenda seeks to create the conditions to harness the benefits arising from new modes of production and trade.

The G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting starts on Friday at 10.30 am. At its close at 5.30 pm, Jorge Faurie, Argentine Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship, and Dante Sica, Argentine Minister of Production and Labour will give a press conference.

Collectively, G20 members represent 75% of international trade, half of foreign direct investment flows and half of foreign flows.