A 40-Year Analysis of Global Trade Dynamics and U.S. Discontent Executive Summary The World Trade Organization (WTO), evolving from the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), has shaped global trade for over 40 years, quadrupling trade volumes from $2 trillion in 1985 to over $8 trillion by 2025. However, its rules-based system faces challenges: powerful nations like the U.S., EU, and China often face lighter consequences for violations, the dispute settlement mechanism (DSM) is paralyzed, and outdated rules fail to address digital trade and state-led economies. The U.S. is dissatisfied with the WTO’s inability to curb China’s subsidies, judicial overreach, and slow reforms, prompting actions like blocking the Appellate Body. Regional trade agreements (RTAs) like RCEP and CPTPP are filling the gap, fragmenting global trade. If the U.S. disregards the WTO, it risks trade wars, Chinese dominance, and economic isolation. Reform, not abandonment, is critical. Key Issues an...