Published on, Oct. 1 -- October 1, 2025 1:08 AM

The World Trade Organisation (WTO) recently estimated that by 2040, artificial intelligence could lift global trade flows by almost 40 per cent and expand global GDP by 12-13 per cent. These are staggering figures-comparable to the arrival of containerization in the 20th century or the Internet revolution of the early 2000s. Yet, as I argue here, these forecasts are not destiny. They are conditional possibilities, shaped by how nations build infrastructure, regulate AI, invest in skills, and design ethical frameworks.

But there will be clear winners, losers, and the New Geography of Trade within this realm!

Winners.

Countries that have already invested in AI ecosystems, advanced R&D, and...