WTO Reports Resilient Global Trade Growth Amid Middle East Conflict
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reported a 1.9% growth in global merchandise trade volume in the first quarter of 2026, despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This growth is attributed to strong trade in electronic components related to artificial intelligence, which has offset the negative impacts of disrupted shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The WTO's Global Trade Outlook and Statistics report had initially predicted this growth under a baseline scenario, but the actual increase exceeded expectations. The conflict has significantly affected trade flows in the Middle East, with export and import volumes dropping by 9.7% and 11.9% respectively. However, trade in Asia and North America has seen a boost due to AI-related investments. 
