Public Forum 2025

Public Forum 2025 Public Forum 2025 Public Forum 2025

WTO Chairs Programme

The WTO Chairs Programme aims to support and promote trade-related academic activities by universities and research institutions in developing and least-developed countries. The WTO Chairs Programme was launched in 2010. It aims to enhance knowledge and understanding of the trading system among academics and policymakers in developing countries through curriculum development, research, and outreach activities by universities and research institutions.

Programme

18 September 2025   EM Gallery

Time slots Sessions

10:45 – 12:00

Session 1

The Role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in Driving Inclusive Growth

This session explores how Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) can transform digital industrialization and level the playing field for developing and least-developed countries. It highlights DPI’s trade dimension by showcasing global success stories while emphasizing the need for increased international collaboration, both within the WTO framework and beyond.

Panelists will assess and compare popular private digital infrastructure models with public alternatives, discussing their respective advantages and drawbacks in terms of trade inclusivity.

  • India WCP Chair
  • Nepal WCP Chair
  • Mexico WCP Chair
  • Costa Rica WCP Chair

13:30 – 14:45

Session 2

Facilitation of Digital Trade between China and Latin America

Discussion covers digital trade facilitation between China and Latin America, outlining supply chains, FDI trends, and investment landscapes. Emphasis is placed on China–Peru relations and an e-commerce case study centered on Shanghai and Chancay, featuring key ports and Cosco Shipping while addressing trade war and Asian integration with Latin America.

  • Peru WCP Chair
  • China (Shanghai) WCP Chair

15:15 – 16:30

Session 3

Digital Trade Agreements: Bridging Internet Fragmentation and Enabling Digital Development

This session examines how digital trade frameworks influence international trade law and development. Panelists explore whether trade law enables or constrains digital progress while considering regulatory convergence and Internet openness. Case studies from Latin America and Asia provide practical insights into how digital trade agreements can either mitigate or exacerbate Internet fragmentation.

  • Colombia WCP Chair
  • Peru WCP Chair
  • Qatar WCP Chair
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in these sessions are those of the participants. They do not necessarily represent the positions or opinions of the WTO or its members and are without prejudice to members' rights and obligations under the WTO.