The discussion on export restrictions is a long-standing issue in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) agriculture negotiations. This discussion is generally prompted by economic crises, which puts pressure on food security, leading to rising food prices and a surge in the use of export restrictions on food supplies. In 2008/2009, the export restrictions debate was brought to the fore in the WTO, due to increased export restrictions on food supplies. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the export restrictions debate gained momentum as many WTO members imposed export restriction on medical supplies as well as food supplies. This debate has gained prominence once more in the WTO agriculture negotiations due to the conflict in Ukraine.

This paper unpacks the contending arguments on export restrictions within the WTO. It also demonstrates how members shift policy positions and deviate from WTO rules in periods of crises.

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