What is the primary purpose of the World Trade Organization (WTO)?

The primary purpose of the World Trade Organization (WTO) is to regulate international trade. Established in 1995, the WTO provides a framework for negotiating trade agreements and a dispute resolution process that aims to ensure that trade flows as smoothly, predictably, and freely as possible. By setting up rules for trade between nations, the WTO contributes to promoting fair competition and reducing trade barriers, which, in turn, can foster economic growth and development.

The organization's focus is specifically on trade policies and practices, rather than broader issues like military alliances or humanitarian efforts. While promoting peace among nations may be an indirect consequence of having cooperative trade relationships, it is not the WTO's primary mission. Therefore, the correct identification of its purpose as regulating international trade is crucial to understanding the organization's role in the global economy.