GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – The World Trade Organization is set to host its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day on September 14 at its Geneva headquarters. This event aims to unite trade officials, technology policymakers, business leaders, and various stakeholders. Under the theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” discussions will focus on artificial intelligence and its influence on global commerce. The agenda emphasizes policies that broaden access to AI tools while promoting more equitable international trade.
The opening remarks will be delivered by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. A ministerial dialogue will explore the reasons why artificial intelligence has become a significant issue in trade policy. The program will feature a keynote speech alongside a panel discussion with private-sector representatives. Topics will include digital services, intellectual property, 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 business activities.
According to the World Trade Report 2025, artificial intelligence has the potential to boost global trade by up to 37% by 2040. It also projects that worldwide gross domestic product could grow by as much as 13%. Such gains are contingent upon factors like infrastructure, skills development, technology adoption, and policy frameworks. The report further warns that limited access to AI could restrict participation from lower-income economies.
Trade policy in focus
Multiple sessions will analyze how AI can reduce international trade costs. Attendees will evaluate tools that facilitate document processing, compliance management, and supply chain analysis. The agenda will also cover digital services and intellectual property management. Another discussion will examine how technical standards can promote compatibility across different markets. These topics reflect the increasing deployment of AI in customs, logistics, finance, and other trade-related sectors.
The event will also confront the obstacles hampering broader AI utilization. Many businesses still face challenges such as unreliable connectivity, limited computing resources, scarcity of skilled personnel, and high costs of financing. Smaller enterprises often encounter additional legal and technical hurdles when engaging in digital markets. During a June discussion on AI and trade, the WTO’s small-business group examined these issues and explored how innovative tools can enhance market research, reduce operational costs, and improve access to trade information.
Showcasing AI applications for trade
An exhibition of AI applications relevant to international commerce will take place during World Trade and Tech Day. A pitching session will showcase tools aimed at companies, public agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations are designed to link policy discussions with real-world applications of AI. Organizers intend to illustrate how AI assists in supply-chain analysis, regulatory procedures, and access to market data. The event format will offer participants concrete examples of existing systems supporting trade functions.
Scheduled for September 14, the event will be held at the World Trade Organization’s headquarters in Geneva. Its program will combine ministerial talks, input from the business community, policy reviews, and technology demonstrations. Focus areas include artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic inclusion. The event will also assess infrastructure and skill requirements to foster wider AI adoption. Details on registration and online participation are available on the official event page.