Christine Lagarde has warned that the world is already sowing the seeds of a global trade war, as she called for more cooperation to foster inclusive growth and raise living standards.

The IMF managing director urged policymakers to address the sharp rise in trade disputes among G20 nations alone over the past year to stop the increase from spiralling out of control.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the IMF spring meeting in Washington, the former French trade minister said co-operation within World Trade Organisation rules was vital.

"When you see there have been over 3,000 violations overall since 2008, there is clearly an issue that needs to be addressed," she said.