WTO Report on G-20 Trade Measures

The WTO’s report on G-20 trade measures, issued yesterday, said that G-20 members put in place 112 new trade restrictive measures during the period mid November 2013 to mid-May 2014 — slightly down from the 116 new restrictive measures introduced in the previous period from mid-May to mid-November 2013. DG Roberto Azevêdo said that “ it is clear that the coat of trade restrictions has grown a bit thicker over this period…this will not help our efforts to support growth and development around the world — and therefore we must remain watchful”.

He continued saying that, “over the six months to May, G-20 members have continued to introduce trade restrictions — albeit at a slightly slower rate than before”. “While some liberalising measures have also been introduced, it is clear that the coat of trade restrictions has grown a bit thicker over this period. This will not help our efforts to support growth and development around the world — and therefore we must remain watchful,” said DG Azevêdo. “One way to reverse this trend is to make progress on the WTO’s post-Bali agenda, aiming at two things: full implementation of the Bali decisions and rapid conclusion of the Doha round negotiations. On these issues, as on so many others, the leadership of the G-20 will be essential.”

You can find the report here