The World Trade Organization (WTO) is an international organization that regulates and facilitates trade between member countries. It was established on January 1, 1995, and currently has 164 member countries. The WTO's main functions include negotiating and implementing trade agreements, providing a forum for trade negotiations, monitoring national trade policies, providing technical assistance and training for developing countries, and cooperating with other international organizations. The WTO is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and operates on a consensus-based decision-making process. Its ultimate goal is to promote free and fair trade among member countries, with the aim of boosting economic growth and development.