World Trade Organization (WTO)

The World Trade Organization (WTO), established on January 1, 1995, is a worldwide organization that deals with the rules of trade between countries.  This organization specializes in the liberalization of trade and acts as a vessel where nations can negotiate trading practices.  The WTO also provides technical assistance and training to developing nations.

In recent years the United States has negotiated through the World Trade Organization the reduction of tariffs on American agricultural goods.  Typically, foreign tariffs are much higher than American tariffs, putting the American farmer at a disadvantage.  The lowering of foreign tariffs allows American agriculture to sell a greater amount of goods abroad.

However, the WTO has fallen under criticism for its liberal trade policies.  Some in the United States view free trade as a threat to domestic jobs and production.  They fear businesses will transport production sites to foreign nations where they can find inexpensive labor and relaxed environmental and operational restrictions. 

http://www.wto.org/