WTO Public Forum 2026 spotlights role of services in driving world trade

The Public Forum is the WTO's largest annual outreach event, with this year's edition featuring 540 speakers across 113 sessions, a record number. Many breakout sessions, networking opportunities and cultural events are also an integral part of the event, providing an unparalleled opportunity for WTO members and other attendees to interact and engage on key issues facing global trade. 

Representing more than two-thirds of global GDP and accounting for more employment than any other sector, trade in services is not just a driver of global economic growth. It is the most dynamic component of world trade. In 2026, services trade volume is projected to expand by 4.8 per cent, significantly outpacing trade in goods. 

The Forum kicked off with a high-level panel exploring how technological innovation, geopolitical shifts, climate issues and evolving business models will shape the trading system of the future. Jointly organized by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), the session brought together WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Dispute Settlement Body Chair and Brazil's WTO Ambassador, Guilherme Patriota, ICC Secretary-General John Denton and IISD President and CEO Patricia Fuller. Moderated by the Peterson Institute for International Economics Senior Fellow Inu Manak, the session examined how international cooperation and trade can contribute to prosperity, sustainability and trade opportunities for future generations.  

DG Okonjo-Iweala reminded the audience that over 70 per cent of world trade is conducted under the WTO's most-favoured nation (MFN) rules, providing stability for businesses. But she also acknowledged the need for WTO reform.