GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – World Trade Organization will host its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day on September 14 at its Geneva headquarters. The event aims to unite trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders. Its theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” will steer conversations on artificial intelligence and international commerce. The discussion will prioritize policies that broaden access to AI tools and promote more inclusive global trade.
Opening the event, Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala will deliver welcoming remarks. A ministerial dialogue will explore why artificial intelligence has become a key issue in trade policy. The program will feature a keynote speech and a panel with private-sector representatives. Topics will include digital services, intellectual property, technical standards, and the role of developing economies in AI-driven value chains. These sessions will connect technology policies with practical cross-border business needs.
The World Trade Report 2025 will serve as a core resource for the gathering. WTO analysis indicates that artificial intelligence could boost global trade by up to 37% by 2040. It also suggests a potential increase of up to 13% in global gross domestic product. These benefits depend on infrastructure, skills, technology adoption, and policy frameworks. The report warns that unequal access might limit participation, especially among lower-income economies.
Trade policy takes center stage
Several sessions will examine how AI can reduce the costs of international trade. Participants will review tools that help companies process documents, ensure compliance, and analyze supply chains. The agenda will also include digital services and intellectual property considerations. Another session will discuss how technical standards can promote compatibility across markets. These topics highlight AI’s growing role in customs, logistics, finance, and other trade services.
The event will also tackle obstacles to wider AI use. Many businesses still lack reliable internet, computing power, skilled workers, and affordable financing. Smaller firms often face additional legal and technical hurdles when entering digital markets. The WTO’s small-business group examined these issues in a June discussion on AI and trade. They explored how new tools can improve market research, cut costs, and enhance access to trade information.
Showcasing practical AI applications
World Trade and Tech Day will feature an exhibition of AI tools for international commerce. A pitching session will showcase applications for companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations will connect policy discussions with real-world uses of AI. Organizers plan to highlight how AI supports supply-chain analysis, regulatory tasks, and market data access. The format will give attendees concrete examples of AI systems already aiding trade activities.
The September 14 event will be held at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. Its program combines ministerial discussions, business insights, policy analysis, and technology showcases. Topics include artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic inclusion. The event will also explore the infrastructure and skills necessary for broader AI adoption. Details on registration and online participation can be found on the official event page.