GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – The World Trade Organization is set to host its inaugural World Trade and Tech Day on September 14 at its headquarters in Geneva. The event aims to assemble trade officials, tech policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders. Under the theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress,” the discussions will center on artificial intelligence and its impact on international trade. The focus will be on developing policies that broaden access to AI tools and foster more inclusive global commerce.
Opening remarks will be delivered by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. A ministerial dialogue will delve into why artificial intelligence has emerged as a key trade policy concern. The agenda features a keynote speech and a panel discussion with private-sector representatives. Topics will include digital services, intellectual property rights, technical standards, and the role of developing economies in AI-driven value chains. These sessions aim to connect technology policy with practical cross-border trade needs.
The World Trade Report 2025 will serve as a primary resource for the day’s proceedings. According to WTO modeling, artificial intelligence has the potential to boost global trade by up to 37% by 2040. The report also projects that the world’s gross domestic product could grow by as much as 13%. Realizing these benefits, however, depends on infrastructure, skills, technology adoption, and policy frameworks. It also highlights that unequal access may restrict participation among lower-income economies.
Trade policy takes center stage
Multiple sessions will explore how AI can reduce the costs associated with international trade. Participants will review tools that assist companies in processing documents, ensuring compliance, and analyzing supply chains. The discussions will also include digitally delivered services and the management of intellectual property. Another focus will be how technical standards can promote interoperability across different markets. These areas reflect the increasing integration of AI into customs procedures, logistics, financial services, and other trade-related sectors.
The event will also confront barriers impeding broader AI deployment. Many businesses still face challenges such as unreliable connectivity, limited computing power, a shortage of skilled workers, and high costs of financing. Smaller enterprises often encounter additional legal and technical hurdles when entering digital markets. During a June discussion on AI and trade, the WTO’s small-business group examined these issues, highlighting how new tools can enhance market research, cut costs, and improve access to trade information.
Showcasing practical AI solutions
An exhibition will be part of World Trade and Tech Day, showcasing AI applications relevant to international commerce. A pitching session will feature tools aimed at companies, government agencies, and trade organizations. These demonstrations will bridge policy discussions with tangible technological applications, illustrating how AI can support supply-chain management, regulatory processes, and market data access. Attendees will see examples of systems already functioning within trade operations.
The September 14 event will take place at the WTO’s headquarters in Geneva. Its agenda combines ministerial-level discussions, input from the business community, policy analysis, and technology showcases. Focus areas include artificial intelligence, trade costs, digital services, and economic inclusion. The program will also examine the infrastructure and skills necessary for wider AI adoption. Details on registration and virtual participation are available on the official event webpage.