Okonjo-Iweala Unopposed in WTO Re-Election Bid, But Trump’s Return Raises Concerns
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the current head of the World Trade Organization (WTO), is running unopposed for a second term, but her reappointment is not a done deal, especially as Donald Trump has won the U.S. presidential election according to Reuters.
The WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, told members that “no further nominations for the position” had been received by Friday’s deadline, leaving Okonjo-Iweala as “the only candidate for the role”, according to a statement.
As the first female Director-General of the WTO and a former Nigerian finance minister, Okonjo-Iweala has broad support among WTO members.
However, Trump’s return to the White House could pose a significant challenge to her reappointment.
During his previous term, Trump’s administration blocked her appointment, and she only secured U.S. backing after President Joe Biden took office. Trump’s trade policies, including a 10% tariff on all imports and higher rates on countries like China, could create tension and friction within the WTO.
Concerns about Trump’s Trade Policies
- Trump’s former trade representative, Robert Lighthizer, has criticized Okonjo-Iweala as “China’s ally in Geneva”
- Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminum imports have paralyzed the WTO’s top adjudications court
- Trump’s focus on relocating production to the U.S. and speeding up countermeasures against imports may lead him to sidestep the WTO
WTO Challenges Ahead
- Frustrations are running high at the WTO, with minimal results from recent ministerial meetings
- The WTO’s dispute settlement system has been hindered by the U.S. blocking new judge appointments
- Global trade is under threat from increasing protectionism and fragmentation
Despite these challenges, Okonjo-Iweala remains focused on completing her “unfinished business” as WTO head.
Her current term ends in August 2025.
Director-generals are chosen by consensus from the entire 166-member WTO.
