The basic aim of the 155-member World Trade Organization (WTO) is to liberalize world trade and place it on a secure basis. The latest round of WTO negotiations, launched in Doha, Qatar in 2001, is the most ambitious attempt ever to spur global economic growth by liberalizing trade in agricultural and non-agricultural goods as well as freeing up trade in services. The Doha Round has placed the interests of developing countries, which constitute the majority of WTO members, at the heart of negotiations, adding to their complexity.

ERS analyzes data and information on WTO topics and conducts economic research on trade policies and regulations to provide U.S. negotiators and other stakeholders with an economic perspective on the complex issues confronting the WTO.

Last updated: Monday, June 04, 2012

For more information contact: John Wainio