By Atoyebi Nike
Artificial intelligence could expand global trade by nearly 40% by 2040 if countries close digital gaps, according to the World Trade Organization’s 2025 World Trade Report.
The report forecasts trade growth of 34 – 37% and GDP gains of up to 13% from widespread AI adoption. But WTO chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala warned that access remains uneven, leaving poorer countries at risk of being left behind.
AI-enabling goods such as semiconductors and digital infrastructure accounted for $2.3 trillion in trade in 2023, yet tariffs and restrictions remain high in many low-income economies.
The WTO urged nations to invest in skills, infrastructure, and open trade policies. For Nigeria, analysts say the new National AI Strategy will struggle unless critical infrastructure and workforce gaps are addressed.
