The World Trade Organization (WTO) was established to promote international trade and resolve trade disputes among nations.

1. Origins in GATT

• Predecessor: The WTO was formed from the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which was created in 1947 to reduce tariffs and trade barriers after World War II.

2. Uruguay Round

• Transition to WTO: In 1994, after years of negotiations, the Uruguay Round of talks led to the creation of the WTO, replacing GATT. The WTO came into being on January 1, 1995.

3. Purpose

• Trade Rules: The WTO’s goal is to regulate global trade by creating rules and resolving disputes between member countries, ensuring fair and predictable trading conditions.

In summary, the WTO evolved from GATT to strengthen global trade through rules and dispute resolution mechanisms.