31 January 2011: Trade officials, experts and ministers from Pacific countries that are members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) group are gathering in Apia, Samoa, to deliberate on key issues surrounding ongoing negotiations with the EU on a fair and comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

With support from the EU, the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat has been assisting Pacific States to construct their market access offers as a basis for the next round of negotiations. Trade officials are also discussing regional trade issues related to engagement with the World Trade Organization (WTO), aid for trade and developments under the Pacific Island Countries Trade Agreement (PICTA). [PIFS Press Release]