The TradeTech Forum 2025 recently convened in Abu Dhabi, gathering high-level leaders and stakeholders from around the world to explore the transformative potential of technology in the sector.
The event is a key pillar of the TradeTech initiative, which was launched by the UAE Ministry of Economy and the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) in partnership with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to modernize the global trading system through technology-driven solutions.
It featured a series of keynote addresses by Juma Al Kait, assistant undersecretary for foreign trade affairs at the Ministry of Economy, Wamkele Mene, secretary-general of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and Johanna Hill, deputy girector-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), highlighting advances in technology that can be integrated into the supply chain to create a greener, smarter and more inclusive trade environment.
“Technology can revolutionize global supply chains at every stage, creating opportunities to expand international trade. It enables less developed countries and small and medium-sized enterprises to participate more effectively and fairly in the global trading system while enhancing security and transparency,” stated Dr. Thani Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade.
TradeTech accessibility key for growth
Opening the TradeTech Forum 2025, Al Kait emphasised the UAE’s commitment to transforming this sector during his keynote address, stating, “The TradeTech Forum is not just about ideas; it is about action.”
He added that trade must lead the digital revolution and that nations must harness the power of technology to reshape global trade. By scaling innovative solutions, developing supportive regulatory frameworks, and promoting their widespread adoption, the world can ensure that trade flows freely, efficiently and sustainably.
Al Kait added that the UAE is determined to lead this transformation, empowering the next generation of TradeTech entrepreneurs and creating a future where trade is smarter, faster, and more accessible for all.
“In today’s world, we need more bridge builders—governments, institutions, and innovators—willing to align strengths and build common ground. That’s what TradeTech is about. It’s not just about deploying the latest technologies—it’s about applying them holistically, across borders and across sectors,” stated Tim Stekkinger, head of the TradeTech Initiative at the WEF.
Startups showcase cutting-edge trade solutions
The TradeTech Forum 2025 also highlighted the TradeTech Regulatory Sandbox’s milestones, with eight participants piloting solutions that streamline trade finance and enhance digital documentation. Innovations such as an MLETR-compliant digital trade platform and a blockchain-based Digital Product Passport were among the groundbreaking projects highlighted during the forum.
The inaugural TradeTech Accelerator Program, in collaboration with Plug and Play Abu Dhabi, also concluded successfully, culminating in a Demo Day where 14 pioneering startups presented their cutting-edge solutions aimed at transforming global trade and supply chains, with solutions spanning smart ports, AI-driven logistics, trade finance, smart customs, computer vision, fraud document detection and smart tires.
The TradeTech Forum 2025 represents a commitment to fostering collaboration and partnerships that drive the accelerated adoption of TradeTech solutions.
