WASHINGTON, DC – Last Friday, World Trade Organization (WTO) members agreed to reappoint Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala of Nigeria. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala was the first woman and first African to lead the WTO. The first Trump Administration opposed Okonjo-Iweala's candidacy and blocked consensus for her to be appointed. Once in office, the Biden Administration subsequently removed the block, allowing her to become director-general (see
USA Rice Daily, February 16, 2021). Her first term expires at the end of August 2025.
The director-general of the WTO is responsible for supervising and directing the organization's administrative operations. “This is a critical role at a time when the WTO continues to be in turmoil,” said Karah Janevicius, USA Rice director of international trade policy. “We look forward to the continuity that Dr. Okonjo-Iweala brings in her second term, and hope her drive for creative solutions will enable members to find consensus, especially in agricultural discussions.”
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala's reappointment was largely expected, as she was the only candidate. However, there was some question whether WTO members would reach consensus. Notably, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) expressed its disapproval over the selection process as it began earlier than normal. However, on Friday, the United States joined the consensus and USTR Katherine Tai congratulated and acknowledged support for Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment.
During her first term, Okonjo-Iweala focused on WTO reform and advocated for the organization to be more involved in cross-cutting trade issues that address larger global challenges such as climate change. Priorities for her second term include concluding the dispute settlement reform, a breakthrough on agriculture, reforming discussions on industrial policies, and how to ensure a level playing field for all members.
President-elect Trump recently announced that he will appoint former USTR Chief of Staff, Jamieson Greer, to lead the agency during his second term. Greer has been an advocate for reforming the WTO, including the dysfunctional dispute settlement system, and will require confirmation by the U.S. Senate. Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has welcomed the incoming U.S. administration.