The DG of the WTO Roberto Azevêdo presented the mid-year report to the WTO’s Trade Policy Review Body. The report covers new trade and trade-related measures implemented by WTO members between 16 October 2019 and 15 May 2020. During this period, the global economy was adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and world trade experienced an unprecedented shock.

WTO members and observers implemented 363 new trade and trade-related measures during the review period. Seventy percent of these measures were linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. The report notes that a large number of emergency support measures was also implemented in response to the pandemic, including monetary, fiscal and financial measures as well as preferential loans, credit guarantees, and stimulus packages.

WTO negotiations have been constrained due to restrictions on travel and the refocusing of priorities to address the pandemic.

The report source: https://reurl.cc/Wdnv0Z