President Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw from the World Trade Organisation (WTO), claiming that it treats his country unfairly. The WTO was established to provide rules for global trade and resolve disputes between countries. According to Trump, the body too often rules against the US, although it has also, in recent judgments, ruled in its favor. Although the WTO was set up to benefit everybody, the US seems to lose almost all lawsuits filed in the organisation. However, analysis shows the US wins about 90 per cent when it is the complainant and loses about the same percentage when it is complained against.

Washington recently blocked the appointment of new judges to the WTO's Geneva-based dispute settlement body, which could potentially paralyse its ability to issue judgments. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has also accused the WTO of interfering with US sovereignty. The US president has been protesting against unfair trade since even before he became president. He even termed the agreement as the “single worst trade deal ever made.” The country has been embroiled in a dispute over trade with many countries. The most recent one being its battle on trade tariffs with China.