GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – On September 14, the World Trade Organization will hold its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day at its headquarters in Geneva. The event aims to gather trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss the role of artificial intelligence in global commerce. With the theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” the meeting will explore policies that promote wider access to AI tools and foster more inclusive international trade practices.
The opening remarks will be delivered by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. A ministerial dialogue is scheduled to analyze why artificial intelligence has emerged as a significant issue in trade policy. The program will feature a keynote speech and a panel discussion involving private-sector representatives. Topics will include digital services, intellectual property, technical standards, and the involvement of developing economies in AI-driven value chains. These sessions aim to connect technology policy with the practical needs of cross-border commerce.
The upcoming meeting will be anchored by the World Trade Report 2025, which serves as a key reference. According to WTO modeling, artificial intelligence could boost global trade by as much as 37% by 2040, while also potentially increasing global gross domestic product by up to 13%. These projected gains are contingent upon the development of infrastructure, skills, technology adoption, and supportive policies. The report emphasizes that unequal access to AI could hinder participation from lower-income economies.
Trade policy in focus
Multiple sessions will explore how AI can reduce the costs associated with international trade. Attendees will review digital tools that assist businesses in document processing, compliance management, and supply chain analysis. The agenda will also cover digital services and intellectual property rights, along with the role of technical standards in ensuring market compatibility. These discussions highlight AI’s increasing integration into customs procedures, logistics, finance, and other trade-related sectors.
The event will also identify barriers hindering broader AI adoption. Challenges such as unreliable connectivity, limited computing resources, a shortage of skilled workers, and high costs of financing still impede many companies. Smaller enterprises often encounter additional legal and technical hurdles when entering digital markets. During a June discussion on AI and trade, the WTO’s small-business group examined these issues, emphasizing how new AI tools can improve market research, lower costs, and enhance access to trade information.
Introduction of tangible AI solutions
An exhibition showcasing AI applications for international commerce will be part of World Trade and Tech Day. A pitching session will feature tools tailored for companies, public agencies, and trade organizations, linking policy debates with practical implementations. Demonstrations will illustrate how AI can aid supply-chain analysis, regulatory processes, and market data access. This setup aims to demonstrate real-world systems already functioning in trade-related activities.
Scheduled for September 14 at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, the event will combine ministerial discussions, business contributions, policy analysis, and technology demonstrations. The focus will be on artificial intelligence, reducing trade costs, digital services, and expanding economic inclusion. Infrastructure needs and skill development will also be key topics. Details for registration and online participation are available on the official event page.