Question

How many member states are signatories to the World Trade Organization (WTO) as of 2026?

• A. 164
• B. 166
• C. 165
• D. 167

Hint:

WTO membership keeps increasing through accession negotiations. \[ \text{Current strength} = 166 \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: The World Trade Organization (WTO) is the global body that regulates international trade rules between nations. Membership is granted after accession negotiations and approval by member states.

Step 1: Understand WTO membership base. For several years, WTO membership remained at: \[ 164 \text{ members} \]

Step 2: Identify recent accessions. Two countries joined after successful accession processes:

• Comoros

• Timor-Leste

Step 3: Calculate updated membership. \[ 164 + 2 = 166 \] Thus, total membership becomes 166 states.

Step 4: Interpret significance. This makes WTO one of the most widely represented global institutions, covering nearly all global trade.

Conclusion: As of 2026, WTO has 166 member states. Hence, Option (B) is correct.