GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – On September 14, the World Trade Organization will host its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day at its Geneva headquarters. This event aims to assemble trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders. Its overarching theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” will steer conversations around artificial intelligence and its impact on international trade. The focus will be on developing policies that broaden access to AI tools while promoting more inclusive global commerce.
The event will kick off with remarks from Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. A ministerial panel will explore why artificial intelligence has become a key issue in trade policy debates. The agenda also includes a keynote speech and a panel discussion featuring private-sector representatives. Topics will cover digital services, intellectual property, technical standards, and the role of developing economies in AI-driven value chains. These sessions aim to connect technology policies with the practical needs of international business.
A central reference for the discussions 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 projects that the worldwide gross domestic product might increase by up to 13%. However, the extent of these benefits will depend on factors such as infrastructure, skills, technology adoption, and policy environment. The report highlights that unequal access could restrict participation from lower-income economies.
Trade policy in the spotlight
Several panels will analyze how AI can reduce the costs associated with international trade. Attendees will evaluate tools that assist companies in processing documents, ensuring compliance, and analyzing supply chains. The agenda will also address digital services and intellectual property management. Another session will explore how technical standards can facilitate compatibility across different markets. These discussions reflect the increasing integration of AI into customs, logistics, finance, and other trade-related sectors.
The event will also consider obstacles limiting broader AI deployment. Many businesses still lack dependable connectivity, adequate computing resources, skilled personnel, and affordable financing. Smaller firms often encounter additional legal and technical hurdles when entering digital markets. The WTO’s small-business group discussed these issues during a June session on AI and trade, reviewing how new tools can improve market research, lower costs, and enhance access to trade information.
Hands-on AI applications showcased during the event
World Trade and Tech Day will include an exhibition featuring AI applications used in international commerce. A pitching segment will showcase tools tailored for companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. Demonstrations will bridge policy discussions with tangible technological applications, illustrating how AI can support supply-chain analysis, regulatory functions, and access to market data. Participants will have the opportunity to see real-world systems already functioning in trade contexts.
Scheduled for September 14 at the World Trade Organization’s headquarters in Geneva, the event will blend ministerial dialogue, input from the business community, policy analysis, and technology showcases. The focus areas include artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic participation. Infrastructure and skill development for wider AI adoption will also be key topics. Details about registration and online access are available on the official event page.