Uzbekistan’s Working Party met on 27-28 July 2026, where Chief Negotiator Azizbek Urunov reaffirmed the country’s goal to complete WTO accession within 2026. Urunov emphasized the need to maintain engagement pace and address remaining member concerns to conclude the process successfully.
Country/Institution Archives:Int
Brazil Initiates WTO Dispute Over US Section 301 Additional Duties
Brazil has requested WTO dispute settlement consultations with the United States over additional duties imposed on Brazilian products following two US Section 301 investigations. Brazil argues the additional duties exceed applicable MFN rates under the US harmonized tariff schedule. The request was circulated to WTO members on 30 July 2026.
WTO Panel Issues Report on Turkish Measures on EVs and Other Vehicles from China
A WTO panel circulated its report on 28 July 2026 in dispute DS629, initiated by China against Türkiye concerning measures affecting electric vehicles and other types of vehicles. The case addresses Turkish trade measures imposed on Chinese vehicles.
WTO TRIPS Council reviews IP notifications, pandemic preparedness, biodiversity and office cooperation
The WTO TRIPS Council met on 22-23 July 2026 to discuss member notifications of IP legislation, pandemic preparedness and technology transfer, the TRIPS-CBD relationship, and cooperation among IP offices. The session also covered technical cooperation updates and a side event on genetic resources. The meeting was chaired by Ambassador Alaa Hegazy of Egypt.
WCO Publishes Study on Origin Determination of Remanufactured and Recycled Goods
The World Customs Organization has published a new study on rules of origin for remanufactured and recycled goods, approved by the 147th/148th Sessions of the WCO Council. The study addresses how to determine origin for these product categories, which have growing relevance for circular economy trade flows.
Russia requests WTO dispute panel on EU CBAM and emissions trading scheme
Russia requested a WTO Dispute Settlement Body panel to review the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and an alleged export subsidy under the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. The DSB met on 24 July 2026 to consider the request. The chair also updated members on dispute settlement reform consultations.
Updated WTO-IMF TPA Index shows continued rise in global trade policy activity
A joint WTO-IMF Trade Policy Activity index shows a marked rise in global trade policy activity during 2025-26, with heightened tensions among major economies against an overall upward trend. The index tracks the volume and nature of trade policy measures worldwide.
WCO Data Model Version 4.3.0 Released at 30th Anniversary Milestone
The WCO has published Data Model Version 4.3.0, approved by the WCO Council in June 2026, marking the model’s 30th anniversary. The release was celebrated via a public webinar attended by over 420 participants worldwide. The WCO Data Model standardizes customs data for cross-border trade interoperability.
Bhutan resumes WTO accession negotiations after 18-year hiatus
Bhutan’s Working Party on Accession held its 5th meeting on 9 July 2026, marking the country’s return to WTO accession negotiations after an 18-year pause. WTO members welcomed Bhutan back to the negotiating table, and Bhutan reaffirmed its commitment to joining the organization while noting economic progress since 2008.
Fertilizer Trade Disrupted by Strait of Hormuz Conflict
WTO Secretariat analysis shows urea and phosphate fertilizer trade severely disrupted by conflict in the Persian Gulf, with African and Asian economies most vulnerable to shortages and price hikes. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key fertilizer trade route, is cited as a major factor. Reopening the strait is identified as necessary to […]