Sean Doherty
December 18, 2025
The World Trade Organization just met. Here are 5 things to know
This video is part of: Centre for Regions, Trade and Geopolitics
The WTO meets every 2 years to review how global trade is functioning and to shape it in line with developing priorities. Here are 5 takeaways from its latest meeting in Abu Dhabi.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) convenes every two years to assess the state of global trade and guide its future direction, particularly with developing countries in mind. Here are some of the highlights from their recent meeting in Abu Dhabi.
Expanding WTO's membership
The WTO welcomed two new members, Comoros and Timor-Leste, bringing its total membership to 166 countries. These additions mark the first since Liberia and Afghanistan joined in 2016.
Other key developments
- Supporting Development: Graduating from least developed country status can be tricky. The WTO offers extended benefits to ease the transition.
- Digital Trade on Hold: Duties on digital products like streamed content are postponed for another 2 years, promoting smoother online trade.
- Tackling Environmental Issues: New WTO sub-groups are taking action! One group focuses on combating plastic pollution, while another targets harmful fossil fuel subsidies.
TradeTech takes center stage
The World Economic Forum hosted the 2024 TradeTech Forum, attracting over 400 industry experts. Discussions centered on utilizing new technologies to lower trade costs.
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