The World Trade Organization (WTO) has issued a warning regarding the increasing use of trade barriers, citing concerns about the potential negative impact on global economic growth. The organization’s recent report underscores the importance of maintaining open and predictable trade flows to support economic recovery and sustainable development.

According to the WTO, a rise in trade restrictions could disrupt global supply chains, leading to increased costs for businesses and consumers. This, in turn, could hinder efforts to address pressing global challenges such as climate change and food security.

The WTO urges member countries to refrain from implementing new trade barriers and to work towards reducing existing ones. The organization emphasizes the need for international cooperation to ensure a stable and predictable trading environment.

Key recommendations from the WTO include:

• Avoiding protectionist measures that could harm global trade.
• Promoting transparency in trade policies.
• Strengthening the multilateral trading system.

The WTO’s warning comes at a time of heightened economic uncertainty, with many countries grappling with inflation, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions. The organization believes that maintaining open trade is crucial for fostering economic resilience and promoting sustainable growth.