On October 2, 2024, the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) Secretariat, in collaboration with Rud Pedersen Public Affairs, hosted a high-level hybrid roundtable to advance sustainable green value chains under the SAMOA Agreement. The event, held amid political transitions in the European Union, reinforced the shared commitment to fostering resilient economies and sustainable development.

Key messages from the roundtable will play a crucial role in influencing EU policy, and they will serve as a guide for future OACPS engagement with the EU, particularly in interactions with the European Commission, Council, and Parliament.

Key Messages:

1. Developing green value chains that promote sustainable trade requires effective collaboration between OACPS member states, the EU, and other stakeholders. Such partnerships will enable compliance with international environmental standards while unlocking new market opportunities.
2. The SAMOA Agreement should prioritize capacity building for OACPS producers, particularly small-scale farmers, to help them add value to commodities, adopt green trade practices, and contribute to resilient economies. This will allow them to meet global sustainability standards and promote long-term growth.
3. Access to long-term financing is crucial for the development of green value chains. OACPS countries need robust financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and partnerships with development banks, to support their green transitions.
4. The green transition must be inclusive and economically viable, ensuring that all stakeholders, including vulnerable communities and workers, benefit from green growth initiatives. Fair wages and decent working conditions are fundamental to this process.