Global Heads Converge at World Trade Centers Association's 55th Yearly Global Business Meet in Marseille, France for Participation of Over 400 Leaders from Above 50 Nations/Territories.
Unleashing Global Potential: The 55th WTCA Global Business Forum in Marseille
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), a melting pot linking over 300 World Trade Centers in nearly 100 countries, alongside World Trade Center Marseille Provence, wrapped up a triumphant 55th annual Global Business Forum (GBF) in Marseille, France.
The four-day extravaganza, spanning April 6-9, 2025, united WTCA members, international networks, and movers and shakers from the government, academic, and international organization spheres. The goal? Unraveling the enigma of evolving global trade dynamics, exploring cross-border real estate investments, and championing the epic battle for sustainability. The event attracted a diverse throng of 400 attendees from over 50 countries and territories, with nearly 120 WTC businesses in tow, seeking to forge new global connections and explore the myriad opportunities Marseille offered as a popular Mediterranean port city and the oldest city in France.
Under the self-explanatory theme "Gateway to the Mediterranean," this Forum served as a game-changer, amplifying businesses' global growth and reach, embodied by the WTCA's core mission: "Connecting Businesses, Globally." The extravaganza featured over 20 workshops, keynotes, panels, local tours, and a staggering 500+ business-to-business (B2B) meetings. Attendees were immersed in Marseille's business climate, understanding the strategic advantages of the city as a gateway to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Middle Eastern markets, while gleaning insights into the city's thriving maritime, digital technology, biotechnology, and logistics sectors. Particularly, the "Connections Showcase" welcomed WTC businesses to acknowledge the meaningful connections and engaging conversations embarked upon with their newfound connections at the GBF.
The event equally welcomed the Real Estate Summit, a first for the GBF, where global gurus shared insights regarding the role of commercial real estate in fueling economic growth. Sustainable infrastructure and energy innovation debated on their role in advancing future development, with hyper-growth zones like data centers and logistics facilities under the spotlight.
In the face of shifting global policies and economic uncertainties, the WTCA family stood tall, underscoring its significance as an indispensable, resilient force that fosters global discourse, alliance, and trust. Sessions echoed the ever-increasing importance of trade organizations as businesses crave guidance, access, and a global perspective. The WTCA network highlighted the pivotal role it played in bridging market gaps, opening doors to new opportunities, while elevating a city's reputation and integrating it into the world economy.
"With that collaborative spirit on high alert, the WTCA network thrives in today's dynamic landscape," quoted John E. Drew, Chair, WTCA Board of Directors. "We remain steadfast in our pursuit of championing free trade, open markets, and competition, crafting an environment that encourages investment, stimulates prosperity, and propels economic growth."
Angela Ellard, Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), captivated attendees within her session, "Global Outlook: Navigating Trade and Investment Trends in 2025." Ellard emphasized the WTO's role in navigating the new trade policies, including the imminent threat or utilization of tariffs, advising attendees to maintain a level-headed approach, considering not only immediate repercussions but the broader, long-term implications of their actions on international stakeholders.
As the curtains closed on this momentous event, Benoit Vincent, CEO of WTC Marseille Provence, affirmed the unforgettable impact of the GBF, "Marseille demonstrated its vital role in reshaping the future of international trade when the stakes are high. This alliance provided a thriving ecosystem that catalyzed innovation, industry, and global collaboration."
The 2026 WTCA GBF will unfurl in Philadelphia, USA, hosted by WTC Greater Philadelphia, with the event scheduled from April 19-22, 2026.
Insights:
- The WTCA's 55th annual GBF in Marseille, France, emerged as a notable platform for global trade dialogue and cooperation, emphasizing the significance of strategic collaboration in confronting trade challenges while underpinning economic growth.
- The GBF addressed pressing concerns such as trade retaliation, the advocacy of rules-based trade, and the need for increased international collaboration in tumultuous global markets.
- The event championed free and fair trade, open markets, and competition, recognizing their critical role in igniting investment, inspiring prosperity, and galvanizing economic growth.
- By fostering international business connections and opportunities, the WTCA network plays a significant part in upholding global trade and uniting markets, enabling cities to connect with the world economy.
- The 55th Global Business Forum (GBF) hosted by World Trade Center Marseille Provence, in partnership with the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), highlighted the potential of cross-border investments and innovative solutions in driving the global economy.
- At the GBF, discussions centered on the importance of sustainability and infrastructure development in technology-driven industries, such as data centers and logistics facilities, to promote economic growth.
- The event showcased Marseille as a desirable Mediterranean city for businesses, emphasizing its strategic advantages as a gateway to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Middle Eastern markets, and its thriving sectors like maritime, digital technology, biotechnology, and logistics.
- The Real Estate Summit during the GBF focused on the impact of commercial real estate investments on local economies and offered insights into the ever-evolving business lifestyle trends.
- As the WTCA network gears up for the 2026 WTCA GBF in Philadelphia, expect to find an event focused on fostering global connections and exploring innovative strategies to propel businesses in today's dynamic, technology-driven world.
