THE WTO TRADE POLICY REVIEW MECHANISM: ACHIEVEMENTS, STRUCTURAL LIMITATIONS, AND REFORM PROSPECTS

Abstract

Abstract. The Trade Policy Review Mechanism (TPRM) represents one of the central transparency pillars of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Established under Annex 3 of the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the WTO, the TPRM was designed to enhance transparency, strengthen adherence to multilateral rules, and contribute to smoother functioning of the multilateral trading system. Unlike the Dispute Settlement Mechanism (DSM), however, the TPRM lacks enforcement authority and operates through peer review and reputational pressure. This article critically evaluates the institutional design, legal foundation, empirical performance, and systemic limitations of the TPRM. Drawing on WTO primary documents, Secretariat reports, and academic scholarship, the paper assesses whether the mechanism effectively promotes compliance and transparency in global trade governance. It argues that while the TPRM has significantly improved information symmetry and policy monitoring, its soft-law nature and political constraints limit its capacity to discipline protectionist behavior. The article concludes by proposing structural reforms aimed at strengthening transparency obligations, digital monitoring integration, and institutional linkage with dispute settlement processes.