Nigerian economist Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been reelected as the head of the World Trade Organization, marking her second term with unanimous support from member nations. She plans to address immediate trade challenges and focus on combating protectionism globally. Okonjo-Iweala aims to foster constructive trade relations amidst concerns about potential trade wars, especially with the U.S. under Donald Trump. Her first term included significant reforms, but calls for further changes within the organization remain urgent as she prepares for the upcoming ministerial conference in Cameroon.
A Promising Beginning for the WTO’s Leadership
Nigerian economist Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has secured her position as the head of the World Trade Organization (WTO) once again, winning reelection on Friday without any surprises. As the first woman and the first African to lead this global entity, she expressed her eagerness to collaborate with Donald Trump, although she deemed it “premature” to comment on his threats regarding tariffs. Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the importance of adhering to international trade regulations. At 70 years old, she was the only candidate for reelection and was unanimously supported by the 166 member nations, receiving applause as she embarks on her second four-year term, which focuses on combating protectionism worldwide.
Immediate Action and Future Challenges
During a press conference, Okonjo-Iweala stated, “We intend to get to work immediately.” Although her current term extends until late August 2025, the renewal process was accelerated at the request of African countries, aiming to prepare for the upcoming WTO ministerial conference set for Cameroon in 2026. Former WTO spokesperson Keith Rockwell noted that the swift renewal was partly to prevent Trump’s team from blocking her appointment as they did four years prior. Support for her reelection does not stem solely from admiration, according to sources close to the discussions, but from a collective concern that Trump’s potential retaliations could hinder progress.
U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai acknowledged her reelection, stating, “The United States appreciates the work she has done over the past four years.” As Trump prepares to take office again in January, concerns about trade wars have resurfaced, particularly with threats aimed at China, Canada, and Mexico. Okonjo-Iweala, however, emphasized the need for a “constructive and creative approach” to handling trade issues, advocating for a focus on preventing disputes that could disrupt international trade.
Throughout her initial term, Okonjo-Iweala faced challenges within a weakened organization. She successfully pushed for reforms surrounding climate and health issues and facilitated a significant agreement to ban harmful fishing subsidies. Nevertheless, calls for WTO reform have intensified, particularly since the appellate body for dispute resolution has remained inactive due to earlier blockages in judge appointments. As she looks toward the future, she urged member countries to finalize ongoing negotiations so that the upcoming ministerial conference in Cameroon can concentrate on essential matters such as agriculture and reforming the dispute resolution framework.