This panel will explore the rapidly changing landscape of global trade, with a specific focus on the Mediterranean’s strategic role in international trade corridors. The discussion will highlight actionable insights for businesses and investors, including the impact of global supply chain shifts, port modernization, and how companies are navigating these changes to stay competitive. A callout to trade through hospitality and tourism (via cruises) will be made since the industry contributes substantially to economies across the Mediterranean.  

Explore how real estate investments are transforming global trade hubs into thriving centers of commerce and innovation. This session will delve into the unique opportunities and challenges at the intersection of real estate, energy efficiency, and international trade.

Industry leaders will share insights into:

• The evolving role of commercial real estate in driving economic growth and enhancing global connectivity.
• How sustainable infrastructure and energy innovation are shaping the future of trade-oriented developments.
• Strategies for leveraging real estate assets within trade hubs to attract investment and catalyze long-term growth.

This session offers actionable insights for developers, investors, and trade leaders looking to maximize the value of real estate in a rapidly changing global marketplace.

This roundtable will bring together founders and executives from innovative and impactful start-ups who are disrupting industries, solving global challenges, and driving social, economic, or environmental change. The goal of the session is to showcase how these start-ups are leveraging technology, sustainability, and creative business models to make a lasting impact. The roundtable will provide attendees with key insights into emerging trends in the start-up ecosystem and inspire potential collaborations or investments.

This session will explore the real-world success stories of businesses and cities located within Free Trade Zones, demonstrating how these zones act as powerful engines for global trade, investment, and economic development. The audience will hear directly from a company or a city representative operating within an FTZ about the tangible benefits, challenges, and opportunities. The underlying message will be how the WTCA network amplifies these benefits through global connectivity.

Join us for a compelling session that highlights how businesses and World Trade Center branded businesses collaborate to drive local success stories onto the global stage. Through their experiences we’ll explore the transformative power of connection and collaboration.

Key takeaways will include:

• How the WTCA network fosters opportunities for local businesses to expand into global markets.
• Insights into the challenges and successes of growing innovative ventures across borders.
• Real-world examples of partnerships that exemplify the intersection of commerce, community, and global connectivity.

This session celebrates the stories of businesses and the WTCA global community working together to achieve extraordinary outcomes, offering inspiration and practical insights for attendees looking to scale their impact globally.

Enjoy a light lunch as you mingle with fellow attendees and visit our exhibitors.

Come and discover what makes Provence a uniquely attractive destination, centered around six key sectors: digital technology, healthcare, industry & logistics, aerospace, mechanical engineering, and naval.
Looking for strategic opportunities in critical areas such as decarbonization, sovereignty, and digitalization?
Join us and shape the future with us!
 

The Attractiveness of the Lille Metropolis with Key Growth Sectors: Health, Retail, Nutrition, and Cultural & Creative Industries — with the added spotlight this year of the Tour de France 2025 starting from Lille.

Discover how Provence Promotion helps companies find talent and facilitate family relocation so employees can settle in and thrive in the region.
Learn about recruitment strategies and quality-of-life resources through our platforms Invest in Provence and Living & Working in Provence
 

The Impact of Language Skills on International Business Success

• Case Studies: How language proficiency enhances negotiation, project management, and customer satisfaction
• Strategies & Best Practices: Effectively integrating language training into talent development plans
• Interactive Exercise: Test your intercultural agility in a hands-on activity

This workshop aims to equip SMEs with practical, cost-effective digital tools to boost their online visibility and attract more clients.

This workshop aims to guide companies through the key prerequisites and essential steps for safely exporting, importing, or expanding internationally. It will emphasize the importance of thorough preparation to minimize costs linked to poor planning, and highlight the critical role of support services such as logistics, customs, transportation, and sales administration.

Attendees have a special opportunity to join one of the dinners hosted by their region’s respective WTCA Board Members and Regional Advisory Councils (RACs). Each off-site dinner provides a dedicated space to connect with WTCA Members and their networks. RSVP is required, and the RSVP link, along with location and details for each regional dinner, will be sent to recipients in their respective regions via email soon.

Join us for an insightful workshop on the dynamics of labor outsourcing, with a special focus on Madagascar as a practical case study. This session will explore the factors that make Madagascar an attractive destination for outsourcing, including its economic landscape, key industries, and strategic advantages. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with outsourcing in Madagascar, supported by real-world examples and success stories. Whether you're a business leader, policy maker, or academic, this workshop will provide valuable insights into leveraging Madagascar's potential in the global outsourcing market.

Angela Ellard, Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization, will deliver the opening remarks, setting the stage for a dynamic discussion on global trade.

Following her remarks, in partnership with the Washington International Trade Association (WITA), the panel convenes top experts to analyze the key developments that will define international trade and investment in the year ahead. Moderated by Ken Levinson, CEO of WITA, the panel will provide expert insights into emerging challenges and opportunities shaping the global economy. Panelists will examine the potential impact of these policies on governments, supply chains, businesses, and investors, offering a comprehensive outlook on the evolving trade landscape.

The aim of this workshop is to introduce the mentorship, which supports fast-growing SMEs by connecting them with experienced entrepreneurs (mentors) who provide guidance, advice, and insights. The program aims to help business leaders overcome challenges and accelerate their growth through mentorship.

Join the Real Estate Summit at the 2025 WTCA GBF for a comprehensive exploration of global real estate trends, innovation, and collaboration. Open to all attendees in the real estate ecosystem, this summit brings together industry experts to discuss the evolving real estate landscape and showcase groundbreaking projects within the WTCA network.
Attend key sessions:
•    Panel Discussion: Evolving Trends in Real Estate Investment
•    Global Spotlight: World Trade Center Projects in Focus
•    Innovation Roundtable on sustainability, PropTech and more
•    Real Estate Networking Reception

Click the "Real Estate Summit" tab at the top of the agenda page to view the full schedule.
 

Provence Promotion presents its ‘Go Between’ program dedicated to business takeovers.
💡 You want to start a business by taking over an existing one? 
This program will help you:
    Identify businesses available for takeover
    Access essential funding
    Settle into a flourishing region.
 

This workshop helps businesses understand how to secure and protect their intellectual property when expanding internationally.

Boost your growth in western France: Nantes, the gateway for trade & business

• Pioneer territory of transitions, a leading region for decarbonized transportation, decarbonization solutions, blue economy, smart cities, health sector, and plenty of opportunities to explore
• Access to a local network and ecosystem
• "International Week" : How the event is a tool for international influence, improves the growth of companies in foreign markets and allows increased visibility for our partners

Enjoy a light lunch as you mingle with fellow attendees and visit our exhibitors.

Where is Brest? Discover free-spirited Brest through an economic overview featuring top employers, key growth sectors, and emerging industries. Learn more about the Narwhal Challenge — an innovative soft landing initiative designed to support business expansion.

B'Welcome is a program by Apex Club that supports foreign companies in establishing themselves in the region. It provides tailored guidance, resources, and networking opportunities to help businesses navigate local regulations and connect with key stakeholders. The program aims to foster successful international business expansion.

Discover how Provence Promotion supports foreign companies in securing the ideal, R&D lab office or industrial premises in the greater Marseille area, leveraging local expertise and a comprehensive real estate network. 

This workshop will share Provence Promotion’s methodology and best practices.
 

Presentation on Winnipeg and Manitoba as a market to do business. 

Discover how WTCA Members are driving global business forward. At the WTCA Global Business Forum, we’re spotlighting the innovative programs, trade initiatives, and events that power our global network. Tune in to see how Members are transforming local success into international opportunity—through business club events, trade shows, and exclusive trade programs. Don’t miss the chance to be inspired and connect with the people shaping the future of global trade.

Presenters include representatives from:

WTC Thane, WTC Yerevan, WTC Taipei, WTC Kuala Lumpur, WTC Mumbai

In this session, we’ll outline the various public funding options, tax incentives, and subsidies available to businesses in Provence. 
Learn how to leverage financial support programs to optimize investment and ensure a successful setup or expansion in the region.
 

Discover Shenzhen—miracle city, innovation hub, sustainable leader. From a small town to Asia’s top 5 economy, with a GDP of 3.68 trillion RMB (2024) and home to 10 Fortune 500 giants like Huawei and Tencent.

• 45 years of growth: Leading in trade and innovation.
• 25,000 high-tech firms: 21 years of top global patents.
• 97% air quality: Eco-friendly urban development.

As the core of the Greater Bay Area, Shenzhen offers world-class business environments, cutting-edge industries, and global connectivity.

Join us and seize the opportunities!

Exquisite gifts await participants.
 

WTC Rennes Bretagne has strengthened its presence by establishing offices within the shared workspace of Ferrandi Paris – Rennes Campus. This strategic initiative bridges the worlds of business and haute cuisine, fostering an ecosystem where international trade and culinary excellence converge.   

By integrating this prestigious hub, WTC Rennes Bretagne enhances its support for businesses, facilitating high-level networking, knowledge exchange, and new opportunities in an exclusive environment. At the same time, WTC Rennes Bretagne plays a vital role in attracting international students to Ferrandi Paris in Rennes and forging partnerships with luxury hotels and fine-dining establishments—further elevating the school’s global appeal and contributing to its international growth.

Celebrate the spirit of collaboration and connection at the conclusion of Day 2. This session provides attendees an opportunity to formally acknowledge the meaningful connections and promising conversations initiated during the event with those they met at the WTCA GBF.

Participants are invited to take the stage for a photo opportunity, symbolizing their commitment to exploring future business opportunities and fostering ongoing dialogue. Whether you’ve discussed potential partnerships, investment ideas, or collaborative projects, this ceremony highlights the power of the connections made at the GBF without requiring a formal agreement, though MOU signing are also welcome.

Join us to recognize the relationships formed and celebrate the possibilities ahead! Sign up at the welcome desk anytime until Tuesday at 4pm.

Discover Marseilles' Business Landscape with an Exclusive Local Company Tour!

Elevate your GBF attendee experience with a unique opportunity to explore the dynamic local industry scene in Marseille. Choose from a selection of renowned local businesses and gain invaluable insights into their operation, innovations and success strategies. Transportation + Lunch will be provided. View all 3 tour options here.

Celebrate the close of the 2025 WTCA Global Business Forum at Marseille’s Palais de la Bourse, located on the famous Canebière Street. A historical monument once frequented by Napoleon and Empress Eugénie. In the heart of Marseilles, the 630-square-meter Palace’s Grand Hall can accommodate up to 800 guests for a cocktail-style reception or 500 guests for dining. Three remarkable premium reception areas feature black and white paving stones, and majestic columns and arches decorated with sculptures.

Networking cocktail hour begins upstairs at 19:00 CEST and sit-down dinner begins at 20:00 CEST.

Join us for an insightful workshop on the dynamics of labor outsourcing, with a special focus on Madagascar as a practical case study. This session will explore the factors that make Madagascar an attractive destination for outsourcing, including its economic landscape, key industries, and strategic advantages. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with outsourcing in Madagascar, supported by real-world examples and success stories. Whether you're a business leader, policy maker, or academic, this workshop will provide valuable insights into leveraging Madagascar's potential in the global outsourcing market.

The aim of this workshop is to introduce the mentorship, which supports fast-growing SMEs by connecting them with experienced entrepreneurs (mentors) who provide guidance, advice, and insights. The program aims to help business leaders overcome challenges and accelerate their growth through mentorship.

Provence Promotion presents its ‘Go Between’ program dedicated to business takeovers.
💡 You want to start a business by taking over an existing one? 
This program will help you:
    Identify businesses available for takeover
    Access essential funding
    Settle into a flourishing region.
 

This workshop helps businesses understand how to secure and protect their intellectual property when expanding internationally.

Boost your growth in western France: Nantes, the gateway for trade & business

• Pioneer territory of transitions, a leading region for decarbonized transportation, decarbonization solutions, blue economy, smart cities, health sector, and plenty of opportunities to explore
• Access to a local network and ecosystem
• "International Week" : How the event is a tool for international influence, improves the growth of companies in foreign markets and allows increased visibility for our partners

Where is Brest? Discover free-spirited Brest through an economic overview featuring top employers, key growth sectors, and emerging industries. Learn more about the Narwhal Challenge — an innovative soft landing initiative designed to support business expansion.

B'Welcome is a program by Apex Club that supports foreign companies in establishing themselves in the region. It provides tailored guidance, resources, and networking opportunities to help businesses navigate local regulations and connect with key stakeholders. The program aims to foster successful international business expansion.

Discover how Provence Promotion supports foreign companies in securing the ideal, R&D lab office or industrial premises in the greater Marseille area, leveraging local expertise and a comprehensive real estate network. 

This workshop will share Provence Promotion’s methodology and best practices.
 

Presentation on Winnipeg and Manitoba as a market to do business. 

Discover how WTCA Members are driving global business forward. At the WTCA Global Business Forum, we’re spotlighting the innovative programs, trade initiatives, and events that power our global network. Tune in to see how Members are transforming local success into international opportunity—through business club events, trade shows, and exclusive trade programs. Don’t miss the chance to be inspired and connect with the people shaping the future of global trade.

Presenters include representatives from:

WTC Thane, WTC Yerevan, WTC Taipei, WTC Kuala Lumpur, WTC Mumbai

In this session, we’ll outline the various public funding options, tax incentives, and subsidies available to businesses in Provence. 
Learn how to leverage financial support programs to optimize investment and ensure a successful setup or expansion in the region.
 

Discover Shenzhen—miracle city, innovation hub, sustainable leader. From a small town to Asia’s top 5 economy, with a GDP of 3.68 trillion RMB (2024) and home to 10 Fortune 500 giants like Huawei and Tencent.

• 45 years of growth: Leading in trade and innovation.
• 25,000 high-tech firms: 21 years of top global patents.
• 97% air quality: Eco-friendly urban development.

As the core of the Greater Bay Area, Shenzhen offers world-class business environments, cutting-edge industries, and global connectivity.

Join us and seize the opportunities!

Exquisite gifts await participants.
 

WTC Rennes Bretagne has strengthened its presence by establishing offices within the shared workspace of Ferrandi Paris – Rennes Campus. This strategic initiative bridges the worlds of business and haute cuisine, fostering an ecosystem where international trade and culinary excellence converge.   

By integrating this prestigious hub, WTC Rennes Bretagne enhances its support for businesses, facilitating high-level networking, knowledge exchange, and new opportunities in an exclusive environment. At the same time, WTC Rennes Bretagne plays a vital role in attracting international students to Ferrandi Paris in Rennes and forging partnerships with luxury hotels and fine-dining establishments—further elevating the school’s global appeal and contributing to its international growth.