WTO chief Roberto Azevedo to step down in August, one year early

World Trade Organization (WTO) director-general Roberto Azevedo (AFP Photo)

The World Trade Organization chief said Thursday he will step down on August 31, a year before his term ends, insisting an early change of leadership would help the body face "new post-COVID-19 realities".

"This is a decision that I do not take lightly," Roberto Azevedo told member state representatives, according to a written version of his speech.

"It is a personal decision, a family decision," he stressed, adding: "It is not health-related... nor am I pursuing any political opportunities."