The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has forecast merchandise trade growth to slow during Q4, after its quarterly outlook indicator revealed all seven trade drivers had declined. The index stood at 98.6, down from August's 100.3, and the lowest since October 2016, with figures below 100 indicating below-trend growth in trade. "The data is a reminder that we need to keep our eye on the ball as global economic activity continues to weaken," said Chris Williamson, chief economist of Markit. “Risks to the forecast are considerable and firmly weighted to the downside. The WTO warned of risks to trade growth, including geopolitical tensions, China's economic rebalancing and greying populations in developed countries.
The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has forecast merchandise trade growth to slow during Q4, after its quarterly outlook indicator revealed all seven trade drivers had declined. The index stood at 98.6, down from August's 100.3, and the lowest since October 2016, with figures below 100 indicating below-trend growth in trade. "The data is a reminder that we need to keep our eye on the ball as global economic activity continues to weaken," said Chris Williamson, chief economist of Markit. The WTO warned of risks to trade growth, including geopolitical tensions, China's economic rebalancing and greying populations in developed countries.