WTO report warns of protectionist policy in non-digital sectors

Last Monday, the World Trade Organization (WTO) released its annual World Trade Report (WTR) that aims to deepen understanding about trends in trade, trade policy issues and the multilateral trading system. It says in the digital age, a growing number of governments are adopting policies aimed at boosting growth through innovation and technological upgrading.

The WTR notes that many government policies still retain ‘defensive’ aspects, particularly in mature non-digital sectors that are subjected to intense competition and technological transition. The greatest concentration of ‘protective policy’ instruments are seen in these sectors, aiming to manage the transition and address employment concerns.

However, going