Artificial intelligence is reshaping the global economy at an unprecedented pace, demonstrating immense potential in enhancing trade efficiency, reducing transaction costs, and creating new service models. According to WTO forecasts, AI could boost global trade growth by nearly 40% by 2040, becoming a new driver for global economic recovery and growth. How to ensure the dividends brought by AI benefit all countries, and effectively address issues such as the digital divide, infrastructure gaps, and policy incoherence, deserve in-depth consideration by all stakeholders.

At this pivotal moment, one of the key events of the 8th Hongqiao International Economic Forum (HQF)—Seminar on the World Trade Report 2025 and Launch of Its Chinese Edition—will be held on November 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Conference room C003 of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).

The Seminar will focus on how to "Making Trade and AI Work Together to the Benefit of All", centering on policy coordination, capacity building, and international cooperation. It aims to make AI technology not only for technologically leading nations and large corporations but also as a powerful tool for fostering inclusive growth and narrowing development gaps.

This event is hosted by the Ministry of Commerce of China, organized by the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics, and supported by the China Society for WTO Studies. It will bring together high-level representatives from government, industry, academia, and research institutions, both domestic and international.

A peek at the Seminar Highlights:

High-Level Speakers: The keynote speech session will include Han Yong, Director General of the Department of WTO Affairs of Ministry of Commerce of China, Johanna HILL (Video Address), Deputy Director General of WTO, Ma Jianchun, President of the China Society for WTO Studies, and Wang Rongming, President of Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (Moderator).

In-Depth Dialogues: The panel discussion will include WTO experts, former ambassadors, government officials, leading scholars, and industry leaders. They will explore cutting-edge issues at the intersection of AI and trade from policy, technological, and industrial perspectives. Confirmed speakers include:

Michael BLANGA-GUBBAY, Economist of WTO Secretariat

Chen Yusong, Deputy Director General of Department of WTO Affairs, Ministry of Commerce of China

Alejandro Jara, Former Ambassador of Chile to the WTO

Wei Kai, Chief of AI Research Centre, China Academy of Information and Communications Technology

Bernard Hoekman, Professor of European University Institute

Zha Xiaogang, Director of International Policy Center, Tencent Research Institute

Ding Ru, Associate Professor of School of International Law, China University of Political Science and Law (serving as Moderator)