World Trade Centers Association to host 55th annual Global Business Forum in Marseille
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is set to host its 55th annual Global Business Forum (GBF) in Marseille, France, from April 6 to April 9, 2024. This significant event brings together over 300 participants from more than 50 countries and territories, reflecting the organisation's extensive global network, which comprises more than 300 World Trade Center (WTC) locations across nearly 100 nations. The participating countries this year include Albania, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, India, Nigeria, the United States, and many others.
The Forum, themed "Gateway to the Mediterranean," will feature an extensive programme designed to address various pressing issues in global trade and commerce. Key topics include “Strategies for Success in an Evolving Marketplace,” “Free Trade Zones as Engines of Growth,” and “Navigating Trade, Real Estate and Investment Trends in 2025.” A new addition to this year’s assembly is a dedicated Real Estate Summit, which will host specialised sessions focused on “World Trade Center Projects in Focus” and “FDI Trends Reshaping Real Estate & Infrastructure,” among others.
Keynote addresses will be delivered by prominent figures in the international trade community, including John E. Drew, Chair of the WTCA Board of Directors, and Benoit Vincent, CEO of WTC Marseille Provence. Other distinguished speakers scheduled to present include Angela Ellard, Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization; Ken Levinson, CEO of the Washington International Trade Association; and various leaders from sectors including technology, finance, and health. John E. Drew emphasised the critical role of the Forum in navigating today's economic landscape, stating, “WTCA remains committed to promoting free and fair trade, open markets, and healthy competition – principles that drive investment, prosperity and economic growth. With an active and engaged B2B program supported by a robust matchmaking platform, this year’s GBF reinforces our commitment to fostering partnerships and expanding global opportunities,” as reported by The Times of Bengal.
The Forum has been designed not only as a networking opportunity but also as a conduit for direct business-to-business (B2B) relationships across various industry sectors. These sectors include agriculture, logistics, and maritime services, and are intended to create avenues for investment and collaboration. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in structured B2B matchmaking sessions, designed to align individual business needs with potential partners. This matchmaking initiative is in collaboration with the International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Internationale) Provence Alpes Cote d’Azur, providing immediate access to attendees upon registration.
Marseille's selection as the venue for the GBF has been influenced by its position as a significant trade and innovation hub in Europe. Boasting a strategic location that connects three continents, the region plays a pivotal role in global commerce, especially in maritime trade and technology. Benoit Vincent remarked on the importance of this choice, stating, “Our region has long been a crossroads of global trade, driving economic growth and fostering international collaboration. Between its strategic location, diverse industries and thriving innovation ecosystem, Marseille is the ideal setting for this year’s Forum.”
The upcoming Forum follows last year's successful event in Bengaluru, India, which was attended by nearly 300 representatives from 36 countries and territories, marking a significant engagement among WTCA members. The event resulted in over 300 scheduled B2B meetings and the signing of 12 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), reinforcing the goals of global partnership and economic collaboration.
As the 55th WTCA Global Business Forum approaches, anticipation builds around the discussions and connections that will shape the future of international trade across the Mediterranean and beyond.