WTO warns trade fragmentation could cut global GDP 5.1% by 2050

The WTO's annual report breaks with diplomatic norms, warning that the multilateral trading system faces its most critical moment in decades due to rising unilateralism and bloc-based fragmentation. It projects a 5.1% global GDP loss and 18.6% export decline by 2050 if trade splits into competing geopolitical blocs. The report signals institutional distress and may pressure members to reform dispute settlement and negotiation functions.