The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an intergovernmental organization that regulates international trade, established on January 1, 1995, replacing the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and consisting of 162 member nations. Its main goals include administering trade agreements, managing dispute settlements, and providing a framework for fair trade practices, while emphasizing the importance of cooperation among nations, especially concerning developing countries. The WTO facilitates trade by promoting predictability, economic growth, and transparency in trade policies, ultimately benefiting consumers and lowering costs.