A former head of the World Trade Organization (WTO) expressed concerns about the future of global trade, particularly in light of the protectionist measures taken by U.S. President Donald Trump. He warned that the WTO could be sidelined in shaping trade policies if it doesn't reform quickly. This sentiment was echoed by current WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who emphasized the need for reforms to be initiated in Geneva before a key ministerial meeting next year. The lack of consensus among the WTO's 166 members has hindered efforts to update its rules and revive its appeals court, which was stymied during Trump's tenure. Urgent reforms were proposed by a former director-general to prevent a severe economic downturn driven by trade disputes. A group of countries, including China, Canada, and Britain, showed support for the WTO but highlighted the necessity for decisive actions to preserve its role as a cornerstone of a fair and rules-based global trading system.