Nigerian economist Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was unanimously reappointed for a second four-year term as Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) on Friday.
Trade sources suggested the early reappointment could be seen as an effort to sidestep potential opposition from incoming U.S. President Donald Trump. The WTO has rejected this interpretation. In 2020, the Trump administration attempted to block Okonjo-Iweala’s appointment, but she secured U.S. support only after President Joe Biden took office in 2021.
Trump, who has long been critical of the WTO, previously threatened to impose heavy tariffs on goods from China, Canada, and Mexico during his presidency. He has indicated he may continue this approach if he returns to office in January, a move that could strain U.S. trade relations with both allies and adversaries.
Okonjo-Iweala expressed optimism about working with the incoming U.S. administration, pledging a “constructive and creative” approach. The former Nigerian finance minister reiterated her commitment to delivering results that improve global economic outcomes and enhance the lives of people worldwide.
