GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – On September 14, the World Trade Organization will host its first-ever World Trade and Tech Day at its Geneva headquarters. The event aims to assemble trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders. The central theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” will steer discussions centered on artificial intelligence and its impact on international commerce. The focus will be on policies designed to broaden access to AI tools while fostering a more inclusive approach to global trade.
The opening will be marked by remarks from Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. A ministerial dialogue is scheduled to explore why artificial intelligence has gained prominence as a key trade policy concern. The program features a keynote speech and a panel discussion with representatives from the private sector. Topics will include digital services, intellectual property rights, technical standards, and the participation of developing economies in AI-related value chains. These sessions aim to link technological policy with practical cross-border business needs.
The meeting will be informed by the World Trade Report 2025, serving as a crucial reference point. According to WTO modeling, artificial intelligence could boost global trade by as much as 37% by 2040. Additionally, the report projects that the world’s gross domestic product might grow by up to 13%. The realization of these benefits hinges on improvements in infrastructure, skill development, technology adoption, and supportive policies. It also highlights that unequal access may limit participation for lower-income economies.
Trade policy in the spotlight
Several panels will investigate how AI can reduce costs associated with international trade. Attendees will review tools that facilitate document processing, compliance management, and supply chain analysis. The agenda will further explore digital services and intellectual property management. A dedicated session will discuss how technical standards can enhance compatibility across different markets. These topics reflect the expanding role of AI in customs procedures, logistics, finance, and other trade-related services.
Addressing obstacles to broader AI utilization, the program will consider issues such as unreliable connectivity, limited computing resources, a shortage of skilled workers, and financial affordability. Smaller enterprises often encounter additional legal and technical hurdles when entering digital markets. During a June discussion on AI and trade, WTO’s small-business group examined these challenges, emphasizing how new technological tools can improve market research, cut costs, and enhance access to trade information.
Showcasing practical AI solutions in the spotlight
An exhibition at World Trade and Tech Day will showcase artificial intelligence applications tailored for international commerce. A pitching session will feature tools aimed at companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations will bridge the gap between policy debates and tangible applications of AI. Organizers plan to exhibit how AI is already supporting supply chain analysis, regulatory processes, and access to market data, providing attendees with real-world examples of AI-driven trade functions.
The event on September 14 will be held at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. Its agenda will combine ministerial discussions, input from the business sector, policy analysis, and live technology demonstrations. The focus areas include artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic participation, alongside infrastructure and skills development for wider adoption. Details regarding registration and online participation are available on the official event page.