World Trade Organization Warns of Growth Loss If Reforms Are Not Implemented
Publishing the World Trade Report 2026, the WTO stated that the system is under pressure, called for reforms, and emphasized that major economic losses could occur otherwise.
The World Trade Report 2026, published by the World Trade Organization, revealed that 72 percent of global merchandise trade takes place under the organization's rules, but the system is under severe pressure.
Current State of Global Trade
The World Trade Organization shared the details of the World Trade Report 2026, which was published at the Public Forum.
Approximately 72 percent of global merchandise trade is carried out within the framework of WTO rules.
Share of Low- and Middle-Income Economies
It is estimated that the trade volume among members has increased by approximately 140 percent since 1995.
The share of low- and middle-income economies rose to 45 percent by the end of 2024.
Strengthened Trading System Scenario
According to the first scenario where WTO rules are strengthened, global GDP is projected to increase by 2.9 percent.
It is estimated that this growth picture could drive global exports up by 17.9 percent.
Fragmented Trade and Economic Losses
In the fragmented system shaped around geopolitical blocs, it is calculated that global GDP could fall by 5.1 percent.
It is stated that the cost of weakening multilateral rules to the world economy will be quite high.