the world trade organization (WTO) tries to encourage free trade and reduce protectionism: restricting imports in order to help local products. according to the WTO agreement, countries have to offer the same conditions to all trading partners. the only way acountry is allowed to try to restrict imports is by imposing tariffs. countries should not use import quotas - limits to the nuber of porducts which can be imposted-or other restrictive measures. various international agreements also forbid dumping - selling goods abroad at below cost price in order to destroy or weaken competitors or to eaen foreign currency to pay for necessary inports.