The World Trade Organization (WTO) will host “The First World Trade and Tech Day” on 14 September 2026 at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together trade and information and communications technology (ICT) policymakers, industry leaders and other stakeholders to discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) strategies can better support economies’ efforts to maximise the gains of international trade.
Held under the theme “AI & Trade: Turning Potential into Progress”, the event will examine practical ways to harness AI’s economic benefits. Particular attention will be given to the policy, regulatory and economic considerations associated with the adoption of AI, including its implications for trade, development and international cooperation.
According to the WTO’s “World Trade Report 2025”, AI could increase global gross domestic product (GDP) by 13% and global trade by up to 37% by 2040, if issues such as uneven AI adoption, labour market disruptions and the unequal distribution of benefits are addressed. Discussions will focus on how governments can capture the projected gains while addressing these challenges.
The programme includes a welcoming address by the WTO Director-General, a ministerial dialogue on why AI is a trade policy issue, a fireside chat with private-sector leaders and a keynote address from a high-level executive. Several panel discussions will examine AI’s role in reducing trade costs, supporting the participation of developing economies in the AI value chain, enabling digital trade through services, promoting innovation through intellectual property and exploring the role of standards. The event will also feature an exhibition and a pitching session showcasing AI case studies in trade.
The full programme, registration details and links for online participation are available on the World Trade and Tech Day webpage:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/reser_e/dtech_1409202609_e/dtech_1409202609_e.htm