The World Trade Organization (WTO) will open its largest annual outreach event, the WTO Public Forum 2025, today at the organisation's secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland.
The two-day forum is expected to explore how digital advancements are redefining standards within the international trading system, while enhancing global connectivity, innovation, and cooperation.
As the WTO marks its 30th anniversary, this year's forum offers an opportune moment to reflect on the digital transformations shaping the interconnected global economy and to look ahead, according to a WTO statement.
Participants will examine both the risks and opportunities presented by evolving digital tools, aiming to empower small businesses, expand market access, and maintain a robust digital trading environment.
The event also provides a platform for stakeholders from around the world to discuss the latest developments in global trade and propose ways to strengthen the multilateral trading system.
The forum was previously known as the Public Symposium, first held in 2001 to address challenges facing the world trading system. In 2006, it was renamed the Public Forum.
This year, there will be 88 sessions featuring around 350 speakers who will discuss the challenges and opportunities of rapid digital transformation in global trade and sustainability.
"A modernised, digitised trading system offers the potential to improve living standards, create jobs, and sustain our resources," the WTO statement said.
It further emphasised commitments under the Marrakesh Agreement, noting, "Achieving this vision requires partnership, innovation, and strategic foresight. It is also crucial to incorporate developing and least-developed countries into the digital economy."
Some 4,500 participants - including trade experts, researchers, economists, corporate officials, business leaders, and civil society representatives - are attending the forum this year.
Speaking to The Financial Express, Ismaila Dieng, director of the WTO's Information and External Relations Division, said, "The Public Forum is our flagship outreach event, bringing together stakeholders from civil society, academia, business, government, media, and international organisations to exchange ideas on the multilateral trading system."
He added, "It provides a unique space outside formal negotiations, where stakeholders can offer fresh thinking to identify challenges and opportunities, including those in digital trade, which is this year's focus."
On the opening day, the WTO will also release the 23rd edition of its flagship publication, the World Trade Report 2025. This year's report examines harnessing artificial intelligence to promote inclusive trade and economic growth, offering policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders data-driven insights to guide decisions on trade strategy and policy.
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