WTO DG launches first world trade, tech day
World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has announced the launch of the first edition of the World Trade and Tech Day, aimed at strengthening discussions around artificial intelligence (AI), technology, and international trade.
Okonjo-Iweala disclosed this in a post on Monday, September 14, 2026, explaining that the initiative was introduced in response to growing interest among WTO members in creating a platform for deeper conversations on technology and trade.
The inaugural edition is being held under the theme, “AI and Trade: Turning Potential into Progress.”
According to the WTO Director-General, the event is expected to provide a platform for governments, technology companies, and other stakeholders to examine the relationship between trade, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies.
She said Trade and Tech Day “aims to be the premier platform for looking at interactions between trade, AI, and frontier technologies.”
The programme commenced with a Ministerial Dialogue, bringing together government officials responsible for digital development, economic affairs, industry, and investment.
Among those participating in the dialogue were Singapore’s Minister for Digital Development and Information, Josephine Teo; El Salvador’s Minister of Economy, María Luisa Hayem; Jamaica’s Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Aubyn Hill; and Iceland’s Minister of Industries, Hanna Katrín Friðriksson.
Okonjo-Iweala said the ministers participated in the session both physically and virtually as part of efforts to deepen understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by technological developments in global commerce.
She noted that the event was designed to respond to the growing demand from WTO members for greater dialogue on the impact of technology on trade.
The WTO Chief also acknowledged the participation of technology and AI company chief executive officers and partner organizations at the event.
She expressed appreciation to the companies and organizations for presenting practical applications and use cases of artificial intelligence during the inaugural programme.
“Many thanks to Tech and AI company CEOs and partner organizations who are here presenting use cases in AI,” she said.
The launch comes as artificial intelligence continues to influence various areas of the global economy, including manufacturing, financial services, logistics, digital commerce, and international supply chains.
The discussions are expected to help policymakers consider how AI and other frontier technologies can be harnessed to improve trade while addressing concerns surrounding access, regulation, and the unequal distribution of technological benefits.
The WTO said the Trade and Tech Day would serve as a platform for continued engagement among governments, businesses, and technology stakeholders.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen cooperation on policies that can ensure technological innovation contributes to economic growth and creates opportunities for businesses and developing economies.
Okonjo-Iweala’s announcement marks the beginning of a new WTO platform dedicated to examining how technological transformation can shape the future of international trade.