WTO News

1. Global goods trade resilient in the first quarter of 2026 despite war in Middle East

   World merchandise trade growth exceeded expectations in the first quarter of 2026 as surging trade in electronic components related to artificial intelligence (AI) offset the negative impact of the conflict in the Middle East, which began in the final month of the quarter. Trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are expected to be more fully captured in trade data for the next quarter.

2. Brazil initiates dispute regarding additional duties imposed by the United States

   Brazil has requested WTO dispute consultations with the United States regarding additional US duties on products originating in Brazil as a result of two investigations by the United States under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974. Brazil said the additional duties are above the duties otherwise applicable under the US harmonized tariff schedule. The request was circulated to WTO members on 30 July.

3. WTO panel issues report regarding Turkish measures on EVs and other types of vehicles

   On 28 July, the WTO circulated the panel report in the case brought by China in "Türkiye — Measures Concerning Electric Vehicles and Other Types of Vehicles from China" (DS629).

4. Lithuania gives EUR 30,000 to help developing economies and LDCs improve trade skillset

   Lithuania is contributing EUR 30,000 (approximately CHF 28,000) in 2026 to finance training programmes for government officials from developing economies, including least-developed countries (LDCs). This contribution to the WTO Global Trust Fund will support these economies in deepening their expertise on WTO issues and help them participate more effectively in the rules-based multilateral trading system.

5. Uzbekistan reaffirms 2026 WTO accession goal, thanks members for continuing engagement

   Uzbekistan reaffirmed its determination to complete its WTO accession process within 2026 at a meeting of the Working Party on the Accession of Uzbekistan on 27 and 28 July, soon after its last meeting in March. The head of Uzbekistan's delegation, Chief Negotiator Azizbek Urunov, stressed that maintaining a strong pace of engagement and addressing members' remaining concerns will be critical to bringing the accession process to a successful conclusion.