WTO e-commerce talks reach critical juncture. Trade ministers in Cameroon are deadlocked over extending a moratorium on digital transmission duties, with the US demanding permanence while India seeks a two-year extension. The disagreement threatens the organization's credibility after a turbulent year of tariff disputes and geopolitical tensions. Business leaders warn that without clarity on duties, supply chain predictability suffers. Negotiators are exploring compromise options including a ten-year extension or a pathway toward permanent status. The outcome will signal whether the WTO can adapt to modern digital commerce challenges and maintain relevance in an increasingly fragmented trade environment.
