The World Trade Organization said on the 5th that despite adverse effects from the ongoing Middle East conflict, global goods trade remained resilient in 2026, with rising demand for AI-related electronic components a key upside. WTO's latest Goods Trade Barometer stood at 101.7, down from 102.3 in January, suggesting goods trade growth may be slowing. The report said surging demand for AI-related electronic components has partly offset the conflict's negative impact.