Question

With the help of the internet, get the following information about the World Trade Organisation - logo, member countries, aims, programmes, etc.

Answer 1

WTO Logo:

The WTO is an intergovernmental organisation that deals with the rules of trade between nations. It was established on 1 January 1995 under the Marrakesh Agreement, replacing the earlier General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). Its headquarters is in Geneva, Switzerland.

Members countries

• As of now, the WTO has 164 member countries/customs territories. 
• In addition, there are observer governments (countries or territories seeking accession). 
• Together, the WTO members account for about 98% of global trade.

Aims/Objectives

• To promote free, fair, and predictable trade among nations. 
• To reduce tariffs, quotas, and other trade barriers so that members can trade goods and services more easily. 
• To provide a forum for negotiating trade-agreements. 
• To resolve trade disputes among member countries when conflicts arise regarding WTO rules.
• To ensure that developing and least-developed countries are supported (through special and differential treatment etc.). 
• To increase transparency in trade policies and promote trade facilitation.

Programmes/Functions/Mechanisms

• Dispute Settlement Mechanism: WTO provides a legal framework for resolving trade disputes among its members. 
• Trade Agreements: Goods, services, intellectual property (TRIPS), agriculture, etc. These agreements set rules and obligations for members. 
• Trade Facilitation: Measures to simplify and speed up customs processes, reduce red tape, etc. 
• Aid for Trade: A programme/initiative to help developing countries (especially least developed) build capacity, infrastructure etc. to participate effectively in international trade. 
• Doha Development Round: A major negotiating round to address issues relevant to developing countries, such as services, agriculture, etc.