WTO members show restraint in trade-restrictive measures despite economic uncertainty | The Director-General's mid-year report on trade-related developments covering mid-October 2021 to mid-May 2022 shows WTO members continued to exercise restraint in imposing trade restrictions. The report, presented to members on 27 July at a Trade Policy Review Body meeting, looks at the use of trade measures at a time when the world faces severe challenges and economic uncertainty. Speaking at the launch of the report, DG Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said it is important not to underestimate the risks generated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of the war in Ukraine. | Lees verder | DG Okonjo-Iweala calls for more support for sustainable fisheries, launches new report | Financial assistance must be expanded to help developing and least-developed country (LDC) members establish sustainable fisheries in light of an historic WTO agreement to curb harmful fishing subsidies, Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said at an Aid for Trade Global Review event on 27 July, where a new report by the Secretariat was launched. The event also featured high-level officials from coastal economies and donor partners who expressed support for channelling more resources towards sustainable fisheries. | Lees verder | WTO high-level event examines how international cooperation can tackle illicit trade | Top officials of six global organizations have called for greater coordination among relevant national and international bodies in the fight against illicit trade in medical products, which puts the health and livelihood of people all over the world at risk. Speaking at a high-level roundtable on 27 July held at the Aid for Trade Global Review, they shared perspectives on activities they are undertaking and how they could engage in closer cooperation. | Lees verder | Heads of multilateral agencies outline central role in addressing multiple crises | The WTO, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) outlined on 27 July the role they play in supporting sustainable development and helping developing economies respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and climate and energy-related crises. The session held at the Aid for Trade Global Review looked at where Aid for Trade financing is being directed, what it is achieving and how future priorities should balance short-term pressures with longer-term needs. | Lees verder | Aid for Trade must adapt to channel resources for an effective, green transition | Trade initiatives must keep up with the evolving needs of developing and least developed countries (LDCs) in order to adapt to climate change as part of a global economic strategy, participants heard at the Aid for Trade Global Review on 28 July. Open trade and lowering barriers to environmental goods and services must play a critical role in providing affordable access to advanced technologies needed to transition to a low-carbon economy, speakers said. | Lees verder | |