At the TradeTech Forum, the UAE has launched a new initiative, Trade-AI with the intention to combine the power of technology with global trade and sustainability. The forum is running in parallel with the World Trade Organisations’ 13th Ministerial Congress (MC13) in Abu Dhabi.
The initiative aims to leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) in the supply chains, to boost global trade and also combat climate change. Through the initiative the UAE has identified several ways where it can make immediate impact – reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions by optimising shipping routes, improving logistics operations, developing climate-resilient trade infrastructure etc. The initiative will work with international organisations, industry leaders and governments, to produce reports on ways to explore the convergence of AI with trade and sustainability.
It will also arrange an annual symposium to bring together prominent AI, trade and sustainability experts. The idea is to develop an international alliance between ministers from key global trading hubs. The programme has confirmed the likes of ADIA Lab, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), Maqta Gateway – AD Port Group’s digital arm, and Core42.
Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade and MC13 Chair said, “These initiatives are crucial in enabling us to fully leverage the power of AI in global supply chains, with technological development working in parallel to regulatory oversight to ensure broad adoption and interoperability.”
Based in the UAE, the program has already confirmed several major partners, including ADIA Lab, Core42, and Maqta Gateway – AD Ports Group’s digital arm. Additional partners are set to be included into the initiative over time.
