Anatomy of trade disputes: mapping patterns and trends of WTO dispute initiations (1995–2023)

The paper presents findings derived from an extensive dataset encompassing a total of 76,435 instances, meticulously covering 621 disputes initiated by WTO members. The coverage spans from 1995 to 2023. The presented statistical data are categorized into four distinct distributional units: The country unit, The agreement unit, the subject unit, and The time unit using descriptive data analysis technique. The study confirms that the USA and European Union are the predominant dispute initiators at the WTO. These disputes frequently cite the GATT 1994 agreement and often involve agricultural products. Notably, the research identifies a downward trend in the average annual number of dispute initiations over the examined period. Patterns and trends in WTO dispute initiations highlight shifts in the geopolitical landscape, changes in trade policies, and emerging areas of contention and provide critical insights into the evolving dynamics of global trade relations and the strategic behaviour of member countries.