WTO Snapshot
The World Trade Organization (WTO) works to facilitate international trade. It provides a forum where its more than 150 member nations negotiate sign trade agreements. The WTO administers the agreements, handles trade disputes, monitors national trade policies, provides technical assistance and training for developing countries, and cooperates with other international organizations. The organization derives most of its operating income from member contributions. Each member's contribution is calculated with a formula that takes into account that member's share of international trade. The WTO replaced the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) in 1995.