GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – World Trade Organization is set to host its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day on September 14 at its headquarters in Geneva. This event will unite trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and various stakeholders. Under the theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” the discussions will revolve around artificial intelligence and international commerce. The focus will be on policies that broaden access to AI tools and promote a more inclusive approach to global trade.
The event will commence with opening remarks from Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. A ministerial dialogue will explore the reasons behind artificial intelligence emerging as a significant trade policy concern. The agenda also includes a keynote speech and a panel discussion involving private-sector representatives. Topics will encompass digital services, intellectual property rights, 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 commerce.
The World Trade Report 2025 will serve as an essential reference for the conference. According to WTO modeling, artificial intelligence has the potential to boost global trade by as much as 37% by 2040. It is also projected that the world’s gross domestic product could increase by up to 13%. The extent of these benefits will depend heavily on infrastructure quality, skills development, technological uptake, and supportive policies. The report highlights that unequal access might restrict participation for lower-income nations.
Trade policy’s pivotal role
Multiple sessions will focus on how AI can reduce the costs associated with international trade. Attendees will evaluate tools that assist companies in processing documentation, ensuring compliance, and analyzing supply chains. The agenda also covers digitally delivered services and intellectual property management. Additionally, a session will be dedicated to how technical standards can facilitate interoperability across markets. These discussions reflect the increasing integration of AI into customs procedures, logistics, finance, and other trade-related fields.
The event will also shed light on obstacles that hinder the broader adoption of artificial intelligence. Many businesses still struggle with unreliable connectivity, limited computing resources, skilled labor shortages, and high costs of financing. Smaller enterprises often face legal and technical hurdles when entering digital markets. The WTO’s small-business group examined these issues during a June discussion on AI and trade, emphasizing how new tools can enhance market research, reduce expenses, and improve access to trade information.
Showcasing practical AI applications
An exhibition of AI applications relevant to international commerce will be featured during World Trade and Tech Day. A dedicated pitching session will showcase tools created for companies, government agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations aim to bridge policy discussions with real-world applications of the technology. Organizers plan to highlight how AI can assist with supply-chain analysis, regulatory compliance, and access to market data. This format will offer participants concrete examples of systems already engaged in supporting trade functions.
Taking place at the WTO headquarters in Geneva on September 14, the event will include ministerial dialogue, input from the business community, policy analysis, and live technology demonstrations. The focus will be on artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic inclusion. The program will also explore the infrastructure and skills necessary for wider AI adoption. Details regarding registration and virtual participation are available on the official event page.