Paris AI Summit: Experts Discuss AI’s Role in Global Trade

Jane Aluko

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At the AI Action Summit held in Paris on 10 February 2025, global leaders, policymakers, and technology experts convened for a panel discussion on AI Governance.

The session explored the opportunities and challenges artificial intelligence (AI) presents in international trade, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in AI regulation.

Speakers emphasised the need for continuous dialogue to prevent regulatory fragmentation and ensure that AI-driven economic growth is inclusive, particularly for developing nations.

Among the notable participants was Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), who shared insights from the WTO’s report “Trading with Intelligence”. The report underscores that a more universal approach to AI adoption would significantly enhance global trade and economic growth.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala stressed the urgency of bridging the digital divide between developed and developing nations to prevent worsening global inequalities.

The panel also featured:

H.E. President Azali Assoumani – President of the Union of the Comoros

H.E. Minister Mauro Vieira – Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil

Ms. Anna Tumadottir – CEO of Creative Commons

The discussion was moderated by H.E. Ambassador Henri Verdier, France’s Ambassador for Digital Affairs.

Panelists collectively emphasised the need for harmonised international AI regulations to ensure that AI benefits all nations fairly.

The discussion concluded with a call for global collaboration to create policies that encourage innovation while safeguarding against AI-driven inequalities in trade and economic development.

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