The World Trade Organization (WTO) has selected the Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) to convene a featured session at the WTO Public Forum 2026 on Trusted Digital Trade Corridors for Inclusive Services Trade, an emerging priority shaping the future of global commerce.
The session will explore how trusted, connected digital trade ecosystems can make cross-border trade more accessible, secure and efficient, helping businesses of all sizes—including women entrepreneurs and SMEs—participate more effectively in international markets while strengthening economic resilience, innovation and sustainable growth.
“We are honoured that the WTO has selected OWIT to lead this important conversation,” said Noreen Burroughes Cesareo MBE, FRSA, President of OWIT International.
“International trade is becoming increasingly digital and interconnected, yet many businesses continue to face fragmented systems and complex trade journeys. By bringing together governments, international organisations, business, finance and academia, we have an opportunity to explore how existing trade ecosystems can work together more effectively, enabling more businesses to participate successfully in international trade. When trade becomes more accessible and inclusive, innovation, competitiveness and economic resilience all benefit.”
The session, Trusted Digital Trade Corridors for Inclusive Services Trade, will take place on 16 September 2026 during the WTO Public Forum in Geneva. It will examine how greater interoperability, trusted partnerships and digital collaboration can reduce barriers to international trade by improving transparency, trust, efficiency and connectivity across borders.
The discussion will bring together senior representatives from the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Transform, the WTO Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender, Canada’s Permanent Mission to the WTO, together with invited contributors from government, business, entrepreneurship ecosystems, investment and academia. Drawing on international experience and practical examples, participants will explore the business case for greater collaboration and identify practical pathways towards trusted, connected digital trade ecosystems that expand participation in global trade.
Rather than proposing another trade platform, the discussion will examine how existing trade support ecosystems can be better connected to improve the experience of businesses navigating international markets. Participants will consider how Trusted Digital Trade Corridors for Inclusive Services Trade can help reduce fragmentation, strengthen collaboration and create more inclusive, resilient and competitive trading systems.
OWIT’s selection by the WTO reflects the organisation’s growing international role as a trusted convener of expertise across trade policy, business, research and entrepreneurship. Through its global network, OWIT brings together diverse perspectives to foster collaboration, advance practical solutions and strengthen international trade for the benefit of businesses, economies and communities worldwide.
Delegates attending the WTO Public Forum 2026 are invited to join OWIT International’s featured session, Trusted Digital Trade Corridors for Inclusive Services Trade, on 16 September 2026 at 9.00 AM the WTO Headquarters in Geneva. Registration for the Forum is open until 21 August 2026, and early registration is encouraged to ensure participation in this and the Forum’s wider programme exploring the future of international trade.
About OWIT International
The Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) is the leading global organisation advancing women’s leadership and expertise in international trade. Through its worldwide network of professionals, business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs and academics, OWIT connects expertise across sectors and borders to foster collaboration, develop practical solutions and expand participation in international trade, contributing to a more competitive, resilient and inclusive global economy.