GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – The World Trade Organization is set to hold its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day on September 14 at its headquarters in Geneva, bringing together trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders for a comprehensive discussion. Under the theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” the event aims to explore how artificial intelligence can be integrated into international trade policies to promote broader access to AI tools and foster more equitable global commerce, emphasizing the importance of policy measures that support inclusion.
The opening remarks will be delivered by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, followed by a ministerial dialogue that will delve into why artificial intelligence has become a critical issue in trade policy. The program will feature a keynote speech and a panel discussion with private-sector representatives, addressing key topics such as digital services, intellectual property, technical standards, and the evolving role of developing economies in AI-driven value chains. These sessions aim to link technological policy considerations with practical challenges faced by cross-border business operations.
A central reference for the event will be the World Trade Report 2025, which highlights that modelling from the WTO indicates artificial intelligence has the potential to boost global trade by as much as 37% by 2040, while also projecting a possible increase of up to 13% in worldwide gross domestic product. However, these projected gains are contingent upon improvements in infrastructure, skills development, technology adoption, and supportive policies. The report also points out that unequal access to AI could restrict participation, especially among lower-income economies.
Trade policies are brought into focus
Multiple sessions will explore how AI might reduce the costs associated with international trade by examining tools that assist companies in processing documents, ensuring compliance, and analyzing supply chain logistics, all of which are increasingly driven by AI applications. Additionally, discussions will cover the digitization of services, the management of intellectual property, and the role technical standards play in ensuring interoperability across markets—topics that mirror the growing integration of AI into customs, logistics, finance, and other trade-related sectors.
The event will also tackle the persistent barriers impeding wider AI deployment, such as limited connectivity, inadequate computing resources, a lack of skilled labor, and the high costs of financing. Smaller firms often encounter additional legal and technical hurdles when attempting to enter digital markets. These issues were examined by the WTO’s small-business group during a June discussion on AI and trade, which considered how emerging tools could enhance market research, reduce operational costs, and improve access to vital trade information.
Practical AI applications take center stage in the program
The day will feature an exhibition showcasing real-world AI solutions for international trade, with a pitching session highlighting tools designed for companies, government agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations will aim to connect policy debates with tangible technological applications, illustrating how AI supports supply-chain management, regulatory processes, and access to market data—examples that will demonstrate the technology’s current role in facilitating trade activities.
Scheduled for September 14 at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, the event’s agenda will blend ministerial discussions, input from businesses, policy analysis, and technology showcases, all focused on artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic participation. The program will also address the infrastructure and skills needed to expand AI adoption worldwide. Details on registration and online participation are available on the official event page.