GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – The World Trade Organization will host its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day on September 14 at its Geneva headquarters. This event aims to gather trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders. Its theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” will steer discussions centered on artificial intelligence and its impact on global commerce. The agenda emphasizes policies that broaden access to AI tools while fostering more inclusive international trade.
Opening remarks will be delivered by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. A ministerial dialogue will delve into why artificial intelligence has become a significant issue in trade policy. Additionally, the program will feature a keynote speech and a panel discussion with private-sector representatives. Topics will include digital services, intellectual property, technical standards, and the role of developing economies within AI-related value chains. These sessions aim to connect technology policy with the practical needs of cross-border business activities.
The upcoming meeting will be informed by the World Trade Report 2025. According to WTO modeling, artificial intelligence could boost global trade by up to 37% by 2040, while potentially increasing worldwide gross domestic product by as much as 13%. The extent of these benefits depends heavily on infrastructure, skills, technology adoption, and policy environments. The report highlights that unequal access could restrict participation, especially among lower-income economies.
Trade policy discussion highlights AI’s role in reducing international trade costs
Multiple sessions will explore how AI can lower expenses associated with international trade. Attendees will review tools that assist companies in document processing, compliance management, and supply chain analysis. The agenda also includes digitally delivered services and intellectual property considerations. Another focus will be on how technical standards can facilitate interoperability across markets. These discussions reflect AI’s increasing use in customs, logistics, finance, and other trade-related functions.
Further, the event will address obstacles hindering wider AI adoption. Many enterprises still face issues such as unreliable connectivity, limited computing power, skilled workforce shortages, and lack of affordable financing. Smaller firms often encounter additional legal and technical hurdles when engaging in digital markets. During a June discussion on AI and trade, WTO’s small-business group examined these challenges, exploring how emerging tools can enhance market research, cut costs, and improve access to trade data.
Showcasing AI applications in international commerce
A key feature of World Trade and Tech Day will be an exhibition showcasing artificial intelligence applications tailored for global trade. A pitching session will highlight tools aimed at companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations aim to link policy debates with real-world uses of AI, illustrating how the technology supports supply-chain analysis, regulatory processes, and access to market information. Attendees will gain insights into systems already operational in trade-related sectors.
Scheduled for September 14, the event will take place at the World Trade Organization’s headquarters in Geneva. Its agenda combines ministerial discussions, industry input, policy analysis, and technology demonstrations. The focus areas include artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic inclusion. Infrastructure needs and skill development for broader AI adoption will also be examined. Details about registration and online participation are available on the official event webpage.
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