The purpose of the meeting was to bring together African trade negotiators and officials, as well as trade experts from selected institution to:

1. Undertake a comprehensive evaluation of the outcome and implications of the July package for African countries;
2. Assist countries in the region to develop and refine their strategies for further negotiations and the Doha Round;
3. Identify key areas of importance to African countries in the various "modalities" to be negotiated, particularly for agriculture, NAMA (Non Agricultural Market Access) and other areas; and
4. Develop suggestions on modalities for agriculture and NAMA as well as on trade facilitation.