The World Trade Organization (WTO) reported that global merchandise trade growth slowed significantly between July and December.
The WTO released its September report on the global merchandise trade barometer. According to the report, the merchandise trade barometer, which stood at 102.2 in June, fell to 101.8 in September.
The decline drew attention as it came after merchandise trade posted a stronger-than-expected 4.9% rise in the first half, driven by higher imports ahead of an expected tariff hike, led by the US.
Rising tariffs and uncertainty weigh on the outlook trade, but the WTO expects global merchandise trade to grow 2.4% in 2025 and 0.5% in 2026.
Barometer readings above 100 indicate above-trend growth, and readings below 100 indicate below-trend growth.