The current state and future of the world trading system

The multilateral trading system has been under stress for quite a while as witnessed by the proliferation of regional and bilateral trade agreements and the lack of progress in the WTO’s Doha Round of trade negotiations launched back in 2001. Yet, the system seemed remarkably resilient during the global financial crisis, which saw only relatively little increase in protectionism despite severe economic conditions. More recently, however, the system has suffered dangerous setbacks as important WTO members have adopted measures which risk undermining the system. Panellists will present their views on the current state of the system and how they see its evolution in the months and years ahead.