Sustainability and the WTO trading system

Abstract Trade has been closely intertwined with sustainable development since the early 1990s. From its inception, the World Trade Organization has served as an active agent for advancing trade while also promoting sustainable development. Several contemporary developments within the WTO system reflect the centrality of sustainable development in trade discussions. The conclusion of the multilateral fisheries subsidies agreement in 2021 is one example of a major accomplishment with sustainability at its core. The structured discussions on trade and environmental sustainability are focused on four key issues: trade in environmental goods and services, trade-related climate measures, circular economy, and subsidies. These discussions shine a welcome light on these linkages. In parallel, the WTO is host to the dialogues on ‘Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade’ and ‘Fossil Fuel Subsidies Reform’. This article catalogues these developments, their priorities and their outcomes.