Risks of inequality

The WTO warns that AI-driven growth could exacerbate inequality within economies if governments fail to invest in education, retraining, and social protections. “The ongoing political backlash against trade has much to do with underinvestment in education, skills, retraining and social safety nets during past decades of globalization,” Okonjo-Iweala said. “We cannot afford to repeat this mistake with AI.”

The report underscores the WTO’s role as a platform for member states to discuss AI-related trade issues. To date, 80 specific trade concerns have been raised at the WTO on AI, and discussions on inclusive AI adoption are part of its Work Programme on E-Commerce. The report also suggests that broader participation in the Information Technology Agreement and updated commitments under the General Agreement on Trade in Services could make AI more accessible and affordable worldwide.

The World Trade Report 2025 was launched at the WTO Public Forum in Geneva. Deputy Director-General Johanna Hill and WTO economist Marc Bacchetta presented the findings, followed by a panel discussion.

Okonjo-Iweala framed the report as both a warning and an opportunity: “The new report comes amid the worst disruptions the global trading system has experienced in 80 years. Yet amid the risks to trade, growth and development, there are bright spots — and one of them is the potential of artificial intelligence.”

(Source: World Trade Organization)