The article is devoted to the history of the creation of the World Trade Organization, its status and role in international trade and economic relations. An analysis of its goals, principles, and functions is carried out and the differences between the WTO and its predecessor GATT (General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade) are determined. The processes that allowed the organization in the second half of the twentieth century to become an important factor in the growth of the global economy are characterized. At the same time, it is emphasized that at present the WTO norms and requirements have priority over the domestic legislation of the participating countries.

At the same time, the alliance was being transformed into a key international institution regulating interstate trade and economic relations.