Archive · 17 Sep 2025
WTO Chief Optimistic on Trade Amidst US Tariff Challenges
The head of the World Trade Organization (WTO) is keeping a positive outlook on global trade.
Even though the US has imposed tariffs that make trade harder, the WTO leader believes that most countries are still trading with each other under the usual rules.
A big meeting is planned for 2026 in Cameroon, where important people will work together on new trade rules.
The WTO wants to make its decision-making process fairer, as some countries feel their voices are not always heard.
The WTO is working to resolve these trade disagreements and encourages countries not to retaliate or raise tariffs on each other.
US tariffs on various countries have introduced turbulence in global trade.
WTO's director general expects MC14 to address trade challenges and reforms.
Decision-making reform in WTO may be needed due to veto powers.
Around 72% of world trade is still happening on Most Favored Nation (MFN) terms.
The WTO is working on reforms and addressing criticisms from various members.
- Who
- Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Director-General
- What
- Discussed the impact of US tariffs on global trade and the upcoming WTO ministerial conference.
- When
- The interview took place at an unspecified recent date.
- Where
- Yaounde, Cameroon (MC14 Location)
- Why
- To provide an update on the state of global trade amid US tariffs and the upcoming WTO ministerial conference.
- Event
- 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14)
- Location
- Yaounde, Cameroon
- Conference Dates
- March 26-29, 2026
- WTO DG
- Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
- Trade Under MFN
- 72% (currently), 80% (pre-tariff)
- US Share of World Trade
- 12-13%