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. This event aims to bring together trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and various stakeholders to focus discussions around the theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” which will serve as the central guiding principle for conversations concerning artificial intelligence and its role in global commerce. The agenda emphasizes fostering policies that broaden access to AI tools and promote more inclusive international trade practices.
The event will commence with opening remarks from Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, followed by a ministerial dialogue exploring why artificial intelligence has emerged as a significant issue in trade policy. The program will also feature a keynote speech and a panel discussion involving private-sector representatives, with topics covering digital services, intellectual property rights, technical standards, and the contributions of developing economies to AI-related value chains. These sessions aim to connect technological policy considerations with the practical needs of cross-border trade operations.
A key reference point for the discussions will be the World Trade Report 2025, which highlights that artificial intelligence has the potential to boost global trade by as much as 37% by 2040. Additionally, it projects a possible increase in global gross domestic product by up to 13%. However, the report also indicates that the extent of these benefits will heavily depend on factors such as infrastructure, skills, technology adoption, and policy frameworks, with particular concern over how unequal access might limit participation for lower-income economies.
Trade policy takes center stage
During the event, several sessions will investigate how artificial intelligence can reduce the costs associated with international trade. These discussions will include reviewing tools that assist businesses in processing documents, ensuring compliance, and analyzing supply chains. The agenda will also address digitally delivered services and the management of intellectual property, along with exploring how technical standards can facilitate compatibility across different markets. These topics reflect the increasing integration of AI into customs procedures, logistics, finance, and other services involved in international trade.
Furthermore, the program will highlight existing barriers to broader AI adoption, such as the lack of reliable internet connectivity, insufficient computing capacity, a shortage of skilled workers, and limited access to affordable financing. Smaller enterprises often face additional legal and technical hurdles when attempting to enter digital markets. During a June discussion on AI and trade, the WTO’s small-business group examined these challenges and reviewed how emerging tools could enhance market research, reduce operational costs, and improve access to trade information.
Introduction of practical AI applications to the debate
An exhibition of artificial intelligence solutions tailored for international commerce will be a highlight of World Trade and Tech Day, including a pitching session showcasing tools designed for companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations aim to bridge policy debates with tangible implementations, illustrating how AI can assist with supply-chain analysis, regulatory tasks, and access to market data. Participants will gain insights into existing systems actively supporting trade-related functions, exemplifying the practical use of AI technology.
The September 14 event will take place at the World Trade Organization’s Geneva headquarters, combining ministerial discussions, input from businesses, policy analysis, and technology demonstrations. The focus will be on artificial intelligence, reducing trade costs, digital services, and fostering economic participation. Additionally, the event will address the infrastructure and skill development necessary to facilitate wider AI adoption. Details for registration and virtual participation can be found on the official event webpage.