DDG Nordquist: WTO remains the foundation of global trade despite growing challenges

At an event in London on 10 June, Deputy Director-General DJ Nordquist emphasized that the WTO continues to provide the foundation for the large majority of global trade, even as the trading system adapts to new technologies, shifting supply chains and geopolitical uncertainty. She also stressed the importance of advancing WTO reform while preserving the predictability and transparency on which businesses depend. DDG Nordquist spoke at the launch of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre’s Future of Trade Report 2026. Her remarks are below.