GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – Scheduled for September 14 at its Geneva headquarters, the World Trade Organization will hold its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day. This event aims to gather trade officials, policymakers in technology, business leaders, and other stakeholders. The theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” will steer discussions centered on artificial intelligence and international commerce. The focus of the agenda is on policies that broaden access to AI tools while promoting more inclusive global trade practices.
The event will be inaugurated by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who will deliver opening remarks. A ministerial dialogue will explore why artificial intelligence has become a significant issue in trade policy. Attendees will also participate in a keynote speech and a panel discussion featuring representatives from the private sector. Topics will include digital services, intellectual property, technical standards, and the participation of developing economies in AI-related value chains. These sessions aim to connect technology policies with the real-world needs of cross-border trade.
A key reference for the meeting will be the World Trade Report 2025. According to WTO modeling, artificial intelligence could boost global trade by as much as 37% by 2040. It also estimates that global gross domestic product might increase by up to 13%. The magnitude of these potential benefits will depend on factors such as infrastructure, skills, technology adoption, and policy environment. The report highlights that unequal access to AI could restrict participation among lower-income economies.
Trade policies at the forefront
Multiple sessions will analyze how AI can reduce international trade costs. Discussions will include tools that facilitate document processing, compliance management, and supply chain analysis. Additional topics on the agenda will cover digitally delivered services and the treatment of intellectual property. Another focus will be on how technical standards can enable market compatibility. These discussions reflect the increasing role of AI in customs procedures, logistics, finance, and other trade-supporting services.
Addressing obstacles to wider AI adoption, the program will highlight issues like lack of reliable connectivity, insufficient computing power, a shortage of skilled labor, and the challenge of affordable financing. Smaller enterprises often encounter more complex legal and technical hurdles when entering digital markets. The WTO’s small-business group discussed these concerns during a June session on AI and trade, emphasizing how new tools can enhance market research, cut costs, and improve access to trade-related information.
Showcasing AI applications in trade
An exhibition of artificial intelligence solutions relevant to international trade will be featured during World Trade and Tech Day. A pitching session will showcase tools tailored for companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations aim to link policy discussions with tangible applications of AI technology. Organizers plan to illustrate how AI can support supply chain analysis, regulatory tasks, and access to market data. This format will provide attendees with concrete examples of AI systems already functioning within trade-related activities.
Taking place at the World Trade Organization’s headquarters in Geneva, the September 14 event combines ministerial discussions, input from the business sector, policy analysis, and technology showcases. The focus areas include artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic participation. The event will also explore the infrastructure and skills essential for wider AI adoption. Details on registration and online participation are available on the official event page.