WTO Public Forum 2025

Pedro Manuel Moreno, Deputy Secretary-General of UNCTAD, was a key speaker at the plenary session "Invisible Trade: Data, Services and the Digital Divide", which examined how the digital transformation is reshaping the global economy and making digitally delivered services one of the fastest-growing components of trade. He stressed that many developing and least developed countries remain excluded due to infrastructure gaps, limited digital skills, and insufficient data. Reliable and timely statistics are essential for evidence-based policies that can foster inclusive growth, fair competition, and consumer protection. The session began with a fireside chat featuring Mr. Moreno and Johanna Hill, Deputy Director-General of the WTO, followed by a panel discussion with experts and policymakers on how to close data gaps and ensure all economies can benefit from digital trade opportunities. More info: unctad.org/meeting/wto-public-forum-2025-session-invisibl... Also this week, UNCTAD presented the "Economic Development in Africa Report 2024: Unlocking Africa’s Trade Potential". The session highlighted strategies for reducing Africa’s exposure to external shocks, diversifying exports, strengthening regional markets, and enhancing firm competitiveness, while linking African-led solutions to global trade discussions. More info: unctad.org/meeting/wto-public-forum-2025-session-unlockin...