The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an international organization that was established in 1995 to promote global trade and facilitate negotiations between member countries. One of the main functions of the WTO is to oversee the implementation of free trade agreements (FTAs) among member countries.

FTAs are agreements between two or more countries that aim to reduce or eliminate trade barriers such as tariffs and quotas. These agreements can benefit member countries by increasing trade, creating job opportunities, and boosting economic growth.

The WTO has established rules that govern the negotiation and implementation of FTAs. These rules help ensure that FTAs are consistent with the principles of the WTO, which include non-discrimination, transparency, and the promotion of fair competition.

One of the key principles of the WTO is non-discrimination. This means that member countries must treat all other member countries equally when it comes to trade. FTAs must be consistent with this principle and not discriminate against non-member countries.

Transparency is also an important principle of the WTO. This means that member countries must provide information about their trade policies and practices, and FTAs must be transparent and easy to understand.

The WTO also promotes fair competition, which is essential for a healthy global economy. FTAs must not create unfair advantages for member countries or harm the interests of non-member countries.

In addition to these principles, the WTO has established specific rules for FTAs. For example, FTAs must cover a substantial portion of trade between member countries and must not increase trade barriers with non-member countries.

FTAs must also go through a review process by the WTO to ensure that they comply with its rules and principles. This review process can help identify potential problems with an FTA and ensure that it is serving the interests of all member countries.

Overall, the WTO plays a vital role in regulating FTAs and promoting global trade. Its rules and principles help ensure that FTAs are fair, transparent, and consistent with the principles of the WTO, which can benefit all member countries.