GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – The World Trade Organization is set to hold its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day on September 14 at its Geneva headquarters. This event will bring together trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and other participants. Its central theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” will steer discussions on artificial intelligence and international commerce. The focus will be on policies that improve access to AI tools and foster more inclusive global trade.
Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala will kick off the event with opening remarks. A ministerial dialogue will explore why artificial intelligence has become a key trade policy concern. The program will include a keynote speech and a panel discussion with private-sector representatives. Topics will cover digital services, intellectual property, technical standards, and the role of developing economies in AI-related value chains. These sessions aim to connect technology policy with the practical needs of cross-border trade.
The World Trade Report 2025 will serve as a crucial resource for the event. WTO models suggest that artificial intelligence could boost global trade by up to 37% by 2040. It estimates that the world’s gross domestic product could grow by as much as 13%. The extent of these gains depends on infrastructure, skills, technology use, and policy frameworks. The report also warns that unequal access might limit participation from lower-income economies.
Trade Policy Takes a Leading Role
Several sessions will analyze how AI can reduce the costs of international trade. Attendees will review tools that assist companies with document processing, compliance management, and supply chain analysis. Discussions will also include digitally delivered services and intellectual property treatment. Another session will focus on how technical standards can promote compatibility across markets. These topics highlight AI’s increasing role in customs, logistics, finance, and other trade services.
The event will also address obstacles that limit broader AI adoption. Many businesses still struggle with reliable internet, computing power, skilled workers, and affordable financing. Smaller firms face additional legal and technical hurdles in digital markets. The WTO’s small-business group examined these issues during a June discussion on AI and trade. Participants explored how new tools can enhance market research, cut costs, and improve access to trade information.
Hands-On AI Applications Take Center Stage
World Trade and Tech Day will showcase an exhibition of AI applications for international commerce. A pitching session will highlight tools designed for companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations will connect policy discussions with real-world applications of AI. Organizers will demonstrate how AI supports supply-chain analysis, regulatory tasks, and access to market data. Attendees will see examples of systems already used in trade-related functions.
The September 14 event will be held at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. Its agenda includes ministerial discussions, input from businesses, policy analysis, and technology showcases. The focus will be on artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic participation. It will also look at infrastructure and skills needed for wider adoption. Details about registration and online participation are available on the official event page.