A gradual build-up of protectionist measures threatens to strangle international trade and hamper global recovery, the World Trade Organisation said in its latest report on how countries are responding to the economic and financial crisis.

Pascal Lamy, WTO director-general, who will be at next week’s Group of 20 summit in London, appealed for a strong commitment by governments to avoid trade restricting or distorting measures and to work for a rapid conclusion to stalled global trade talks.