Free trade warning – IMF, WTO and World Bank say it must be defended
by Larry Elliott from on (#2JM28)
Fears about Donald Trump's protectionist rhetoric prompt joint defence of open markets with admission that more help for those 'left behind' is needed
Fears that Donald Trump's arrival in the White House is threatening a new era of protectionism have prompted a joint defence of trade from the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the World Trade Organisation.
Warning that the role of trade in the global economy was at a critical juncture, the three multilateral bodies said the opening up of markets had been good for growth but admitted that action was needed to help "left behind" individuals and communities.
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