More than 400 global leaders converge in Marseille for WTCA’s 55th Annual Forum with new real estate summit
More than 400 leaders from over 50 countries and territories gathered for the 55th Annual Global Business Forum of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) held in Marseille, France, from April 6 to April 9, 2025. Organised by the World Trade Center Marseille Provence, this significant event focused on adapting to global trade and connecting business leaders with international opportunities.
The forum attracted WTCA members, including business, government, academic, and international organisation leaders, providing insights into evolving trade dynamics, cross-border real estate investments, the significance of free trade zones, and sustainability initiatives. The gathering highlighted Marsella as a vibrant Mediterranean port city with a strategic role in connecting southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Under the theme "The Gateway to the Mediterranean," the forum supported attendees in expanding their businesses and international reach, aligning with WTCA's core mission to "Connect Businesses Globally." The event featured over 20 workshops, numerous keynote speeches, panels, site visits to local businesses, and more than 500 business-to-business (B2B) meetings. Participants gained deeper insights into Marsella’s business climate, including its diverse industries, from maritime logistics to digital technology and biotechnology.
This year marked a new addition to the forum, the inaugural real estate summit. During this segment, experts discussed the commercial real estate sector's status, its role in economic growth, and how sustainable infrastructure and energy innovation are shaping future developments. Other discussions revolved around key growth areas, such as data centres and logistics facilities.
In light of global policy shifts and economic uncertainties, the WTCA demonstrated its resilience and vitality. The forum emphasised the critical ongoing role of trade organisations as businesses seek guidance, access, and a global perspective. With its extensive worldwide network, WTCA highlighted how members shorten market distances and open doors to new business opportunities, thereby enhancing the global profile of cities like Marseille.
John E. Drew, WTCA Board Chair, addressed the gathering, stating, "Our annual Forum is an eloquent reminder of what can be achieved when business leaders from around the world convene in a spirit of collaboration, and this is precisely where the WTCA network excels." He further noted the association's commitment to promoting free and fair trade, open markets, and healthy competition as principles driving investment and economic growth.
Angela Ellard, Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), participated in a forum session titled "Global Outlook: Navigating Trade and Investment Trends in 2025." She outlined the organisation's role amid changing trade policies and advised attendees to consider both immediate and long-term implications for stakeholders globally.
Benoit Vincent, CEO of the WTC Marseille Provence, expressed the significance of the event, stating, "This year’s forum highlighted the vital role that the Marseille region plays in shaping the future of international trade." He noted the collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, which facilitated B2B matchmaking and contributed to the generation of impactful business connections.
The 55th WTCA Forum concluded with the ceremonial announcement for the host city of the next year’s event. The 56th edition will take place in Philadelphia, USA, from April 19 to April 22, 2026, organised by the WTC Greater Philadelphia. The event underscored the WTCA's ongoing role in fostering global business connections and supporting economic development through shared collaboration and dialogue.