WTO Reforms Stalled Due to Disagreements on Negotiation Scope
Discussions on reforming the World Trade Organization (WTO) have reached an impasse as member countries have not agreed on the scope and objectives of the proposed reforms. Reports from coordinators of four thematic groups—foundational issues, decision-making mechanisms, development, and a level playing field—highlight persistent disagreements on which core issues should be prioritized. Developed countries are pushing for reforms focusing on industrial subsidies, state-owned enterprises, non-market policies, and transparency. In contrast, many developing countries emphasize addressing long-standing asymmetries such as agricultural subsidies, escalating tariffs, and policy space for development. The group on fundamental issues is divided, with some countries wanting to reaffirm the basic principles of the WTO, while others argue for reassessing these principles to address new challenges like economic security and industrial policy. The development group is also split on reforming the Special and Differentia... 
