eTrade for all Newsletter

Dear all,

Welcome to the April edition of the newsletter. This month, global policy discussions continued to highlight that digital transformation is no longer a parallel agenda, but it is increasingly central to development, trade, and economic resilience.

At the Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund, discussions focused on implementation and measurable impact. Under the theme “Building prosperity through policy”, the Meetings highlighted how policy reforms, investment, and innovation can support job creation, unlock private investment, and strengthen economic systems across sectors including energy, agriculture, health, water, and digital development.

According to the latest United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Global Trade Update, digital technologies, ICT products, semiconductors, and AI-related goods were among the strongest drivers of manufacturing growth in 2025 and continue to shape trade expansion in 2026. However, this positive trend remains fragile. 

Updates have also been provided by UNCTAD on the services side, and the growing share of digitally delivered services in global trade growth. However, persistent trade tensions and rising trade costs may slow down overall prospects in 2026. 

Also, the 29th session of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) brought together governments, experts, and stakeholders to examine science, technology and innovation in the age of artificial intelligence, including the role of digital technologies in advancing the 2030 Agenda. The discussions reflected a broader recognition that emerging technologies are reshaping economies and societies faster than many policy frameworks can adapt. Conversations will continue in the following months, with several high-level discussions taking place here in Geneva, in the week 6-10 July. 

Last but not least, we end the newsletter with a recap of key activities undertaken in 2025.

Enjoy the read!