Summary:
US President Donald Trump’s statements on trade policy have targeted the WTO and caused concern with their protectionist stance. However, Roberto Azevêdo, Director-General of the WTO, is not concerned because there are no signs of any massive increase in protectionism. In Finland, Trump’s policies cause concern. Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Kai Mykkänen believes it is possible that the United States will assume more protectionist policies in the short term, which would harm the Finnish economy dependent on exports. However, Mr Mykkänen expects the United States to return to free trade sooner or later because the country has been a clear winner in the liberation of world trade and US companies are among the most global in the world.

Media:  Helsingin Sanomat
Date: 23.3.2017
Journalist: Jarno Hartikainen
Main source: Roberto Azevêdo, Director-General of the WTO, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Kai Mykkänen