World Trade Organization

The World Trade Organization (WTO) is the only global international organization dealing with the rules of trade between nations, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Its core function is to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably and freely as possible through negotiated agreements administered by its 164 members. The WTO runs a system of trade agreements covering goods, services and intellectual property, operates a dispute settlement mechanism that resolves conflicts between members, and conducts periodic trade policy reviews. Its website provides access to ministerial documents, negotiation topics, membership information, statistical databases and external relations materials. The organization also publishes regular analyses of global trade trends, monitors trade-restrictive measures and supports developing economies through capacity-building programs. Since its creation in 1995, the WTO has served as the central forum where trade rules are negotiated and enforced, making its portal an essential reference for governments, businesses, researchers and journalists tracking international commerce.