About the WTO
Foreword
The world has been confronted by multiple challenges in recent years. From the devastating health and economic consequences caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to the growing impact of climate change these crises have risen alongside longstanding global concerns such as alleviating poverty and fostering sustainable development. International trade has a pivotal role to play in addressing these pressing issues. However the trading of certain products can entail risks necessitating the need for measures such as export licences and restrictions in certain circumstances to manage these risks.
WTO’s Contribution to Attaining UN Sustainable Development Goals
This report which was submitted to the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in 2023 highlights the role of trade in helping countries recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also underlines the WTO’s contribution to improving livelihoods and making trade work for people.
Acknowledgments / Disclaimer
This publication received guidance from Deputy Director-General Xiangchen Zhang and from Yuvan Beedjadhur of the Office of the Director-General. Preparation of the publication was a joint effort across several divisions of the WTO.