Global goods trade continued to show resilience in mid-2026 despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and policy uncertainties, according to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Goods Trade Barometer.
The latest WTO Goods Trade Barometer recorded a reading of 102.0, up from 101.7 in June, and above the baseline level of 100. The reading indicates that global merchandise trade volumes remain above trend and are continuing to gain momentum.
The WTO said the economic impact of the Middle East conflict has been partly offset by strong demand for electronic components and other products associated with investment in artificial intelligence (AI).
The Goods Trade Barometer is a leading indicator designed to provide an early assessment of the direction of global merchandise trade compared with recent trends. A reading above 100 signals above-trend trade volumes, while a reading below 100 indicates weaker-than-trend trade activity.
According to the WTO, almost all components of the latest barometer remained above the 100 baseline. The electronic components index recorded the strongest reading at 104.9, highlighting robust demand for AI-related products. The only component below trend was the container shipping index, which stood at 99.6.
The WTO, which has 166 members representing around 98% of global trade, said the latest figures point to continued strength in international goods trade despite significant global economic and geopolitical headwinds.
The strong performance of technology-related goods, particularly electronic components supporting AI investment, is helping sustain global merchandise trade as businesses and economies navigate heightened uncertainty.
