Overview
- The WTO has proposed trimming its 2026 budget to 183.4 million Swiss francs from 204.9 million to bridge delayed contributions.
- Internal documents list the United States in Category 1 arrears, meaning it has not paid for over a year but less than two, and 29 members are under administrative measures for nonpayment.
- Planned savings target staff and running costs, including cutting 39 short‑term positions, freezing recruitment for fixed‑term roles, using more low‑cost interns, and lowering electricity bills.
- It is not clear when or if the United States will pay its outstanding dues, and both the WTO and the U.S. Trade Representative declined to comment.
- The funding strain adds to longer‑running pressures from U.S. tariffs and a paralyzed appeals system since 2019, with the WTO reliant on assessed member fees to fund its basic work.