According to the latest WTO Goods Trade Barometer, the global merchandise trade index surged to 103.5 at the outset of 2025, surpassing the benchmark of 100, which signals ongoing expansion in trade activities. This surge is largely fueled by importers' anticipation of tariff increases, prompting them to engage in early procurement. Nonetheless, the new export orders index dipped to 97.9, falling below the benchmark, hinting at a possible deceleration in future trade growth.