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Business Standard
30-04-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Over 400 Leaders from More Than 50 Countries/Territories Attend World Trade Centers Association's 55th Annual Global Business Forum in Marseille, France
NewsVoir Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 30: World Trade Centers Association® (WTCA®) - an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center® (WTC®) locations in nearly 100 countries and territories - and World Trade Center Marseille Provence have successfully concluded the 55th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF) in Marseille, France. The four-day event, which took place April 6-9, brought together WTCA members and their global networks, including leaders from business, government, academia, and international organizations. Each gleaned new insights on shifting global trade dynamics, cross-border real estate investments, the importance of Free Trade Zones (FTZs) and sustainability efforts. Over 400 attendees across more than 50 countries and territories, and nearly 120 WTC businesses, gathered to forge new global business connections, and to learn about specific opportunities in Marseille, a popular Mediterranean port city and the oldest city in France. With the theme, "Gateway to the Mediterranean," the Forum helped attendees amplify their businesses' growth and international reach, further elevating WTCA's core mission, "Connecting Businesses, Globally." The event included more than 20 workshops, plus various keynotes, panels, local company tours and over 500 business-to-business (B2B) meetings. In addition, GBF attendees learned more about the Marseille region's business climate, including: its strategic position as a gateway to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Middle Eastern markets; the city's wide range of thriving industries, from maritime and logistics, to digital technology and biotechnology; and its ongoing infrastructure investments. Select WTC businesses also participated in the "Connections Showcase" to formally acknowledge the meaningful connections and promising conversations initiated with those they met at the WTCA GBF. This year also marked WTCA's first dedicated Real Estate Summit during the GBF. During this portion of the event, global experts analyzed the state of commercial real estate, including its role in driving economic growth, and ways in which sustainable infrastructure and energy innovation continue to shape the future of developments. Additional topics of discussion included hyper-growth areas like data centers and logistics facilities. Amid shifting global policies and economic uncertainties, the WTCA network showcased at this year's Forum how it continues to be a vital and resilient force, fostering dialogue collaboration and trust across borders. Sessions held throughout the GBF focused on how the role of trade organizations is not only increasingly relevant, but is more indispensable than ever as businesses are actively seeking guidance, access and a global perspective. Leveraging its unparalleled global network, WTCA showcased how its members bridge market gaps and open doors to new business opportunities, while also elevating a city's global profile and connecting it to the world economy. To help in strategic business planning, WTCA's members around the world are able to provide on-the-ground information and valuable resources that can be shared throughout the network to create more cross-border connections. "Our annual Forum stands as a powerful reminder of what is possible when business leaders from around the world come together in the spirit of collaboration - and that's precisely where the WTCA network excels," said John E. Drew, Chair, WTCA Board of Directors. "In today's climate, WTCA remains committed to promoting free and fair trade, open markets and healthy competition. We believe these principles foster an environment that attracts investment, drives prosperity and fuels economic growth. Through our global network of independent WTC operations - built on trust and collaboration - we actively support these principles by facilitating international business connections and trade opportunities worldwide. This year's GBF showcased the real value of connection: forging strategic partnerships between our WTCA members and local/international business delegates; opening new pathways to trade; and reaffirming our shared commitment to free, fair, and open commerce. Together, we will continue to 'Keep Calm and Trade On.' We are thankful to WTC Marseille Provence for hosting such a wonderful event to demonstrate the power of our global network." Speaking during one GBF session titled "Global Outlook: Navigating Trade and Investment Trends in 2025," Angela Ellard, Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), outlined the intergovernmental organization's role in navigating new trade policies, including the implementation or threat of tariffs. Her advice for GBF attendees was to remain level-headed and to consider not just the immediate effects, but the broader, long-term effects on global stakeholders. Benoit Vincent, CEO of WTC Marseille Provence, also said of the event, "This year's GBF underscored the vital role the Marseille region plays in shaping the future of international trade - we offer a thriving environment for innovation, industry and global collaboration. In partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Internationale) Provence Alpes Cote d'Azur, we united to host a B2B matchmaking platform that resulted in over 500 B2B meetings, connecting delegates from around the world with each other as well as with local Marseillaise companies. We are proud to have hosted an event that actually goes beyond dialogue - sparking real connections to catalyze regional and international business growth." The 2025 WTCA GBF concluded with a ceremonial announcement of next year's host during a Gala Dinner sponsored by Turkish Airlines. The 56th annual WTCA GBF is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia, USA from April 19-22, 2026, and will be hosted by WTC Greater Philadelphia.
Fashion Value Chain
30-04-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Over 400 Leaders from More Than 50 Countries/Territories Attend World Trade Centers Association's 55th Annual Global Business Forum in Marseille, France
World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) – an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center (WTC) locations in nearly 100 countries and territories – and World Trade Center Marseille Provence have successfully concluded the 55th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF) in Marseille, France. The World Trade Centers Association's 55th Annual Global Business Forum in Marseille, France, hosted by World Trade Center Marseille Provence focused on navigating global trade The four-day event, which took place April 6-9, brought together WTCA members and their global networks, including leaders from business, government, academia, and international organizations. Each gleaned new insights on shifting global trade dynamics, cross-border real estate investments, the importance of Free Trade Zones (FTZs) and sustainability efforts. Over 400 attendees across more than 50 countries and territories, and nearly 120 WTC businesses, gathered to forge new global business connections, and to learn about specific opportunities in Marseille, a popular Mediterranean port city and the oldest city in France. With the theme, 'Gateway to the Mediterranean,' the Forum helped attendees amplify their businesses' growth and international reach, further elevating WTCA's core mission, 'Connecting Businesses, Globally.' The event included more than 20 workshops, plus various keynotes, panels, local company tours and over 500 business-to-business (B2B) meetings. In addition, GBF attendees learned more about the Marseille region's business climate, including: its strategic position as a gateway to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Middle Eastern markets; the city's wide range of thriving industries, from maritime and logistics, to digital technology and biotechnology; and its ongoing infrastructure investments. Select WTC businesses also participated in the 'Connections Showcase' to formally acknowledge the meaningful connections and promising conversations initiated with those they met at the WTCA GBF. This year also marked WTCA's first dedicated Real Estate Summit during the GBF. During this portion of the event, global experts analyzed the state of commercial real estate, including its role in driving economic growth, and ways in which sustainable infrastructure and energy innovation continue to shape the future of developments. Additional topics of discussion included hyper-growth areas like data centers and logistics facilities. Amid shifting global policies and economic uncertainties, the WTCA network showcased at this year's Forum how it continues to be a vital and resilient force, fostering dialogue collaboration and trust across borders. Sessions held throughout the GBF focused on how the role of trade organizations is not only increasingly relevant, but is more indispensable than ever as businesses are actively seeking guidance, access and a global perspective. Leveraging its unparalleled global network, WTCA showcased how its members bridge market gaps and open doors to new business opportunities, while also elevating a city's global profile and connecting it to the world economy. To help in strategic business planning, WTCA's members around the world are able to provide on-the-ground information and valuable resources that can be shared throughout the network to create more cross-border connections. 'Our annual Forum stands as a powerful reminder of what is possible when business leaders from around the world come together in the spirit of collaboration – and that's precisely where the WTCA network excels,' said John E. Drew, Chair, WTCA Board of Directors. 'In today's climate, WTCA remains committed to promoting free and fair trade, open markets and healthy competition. We believe these principles foster an environment that attracts investment, drives prosperity and fuels economic growth. Through our global network of independent WTC operations – built on trust and collaboration – we actively support these principles by facilitating international business connections and trade opportunities worldwide. This year's GBF showcased the real value of connection: forging strategic partnerships between our WTCA members and local/international business delegates; opening new pathways to trade; and reaffirming our shared commitment to free, fair, and open commerce. Together, we will continue to 'Keep Calm and Trade On.' We are thankful to WTC Marseille Provence for hosting such a wonderful event to demonstrate the power of our global network.' Speaking during one GBF session titled 'Global Outlook: Navigating Trade and Investment Trends in 2025,' Angela Ellard, Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), outlined the intergovernmental organization's role in navigating new trade policies, including the implementation or threat of tariffs. Her advice for GBF attendees was to remain level-headed and to consider not just the immediate effects, but the broader, long-term effects on global stakeholders. Benoit Vincent, CEO of WTC Marseille Provence, also said of the event, 'This year's GBF underscored the vital role the Marseille region plays in shaping the future of international trade – we offer a thriving environment for innovation, industry and global collaboration. In partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Internationale) Provence Alpes Cte d'Azur, we united to host a B2B matchmaking platform that resulted in over 500 B2B meetings, connecting delegates from around the world with each other as well as with local Marseillaise companies. We are proud to have hosted an event that actually goes beyond dialogue – sparking real connections to catalyze regional and international business growth.' The 2025 WTCA GBF concluded with a ceremonial announcement of next year's host during a Gala Dinner sponsored by Turkish Airlines. The 56th annual WTCA GBF is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia, USA from April 19-22, 2026, and will be hosted by WTC Greater Philadelphia.
Cision Canada
29-04-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
Over 400 Leaders from More Than 50 Countries/Territories Attend World Trade Centers Association's 55th Annual Global Business Forum in Marseille, France
Hosted by World Trade Center Marseille Provence, WTCA's flagship event focused on navigating global trade and connecting leaders with international business opportunities NEW YORK, April 29, 2025 /CNW/ -- World Trade Centers Association® (WTCA®) — an international trade organization connecting more than 300 World Trade Center® (WTC®) locations in nearly 100 countries and territories — and World Trade Center Marseille Provence have successfully concluded the 55 th annual WTCA Global Business Forum (GBF) in Marseille, France. The four-day event, which took place April 6-9, brought together WTCA members and their global networks, including leaders from business, government, academia, and international organizations. Each gleaned new insights on shifting global trade dynamics, cross-border real estate investments, the importance of Free Trade Zones (FTZs) and sustainability efforts. Over 400 attendees across more than 50 countries and territories, and nearly 120 WTC businesses, gathered to forge new global business connections, and to learn about specific opportunities in Marseille, a popular Mediterranean port city and the oldest city in France. With the theme, "Gateway to the Mediterranean," the Forum helped attendees amplify their businesses' growth and international reach, further elevating WTCA's core mission, "Connecting Businesses, Globally." The event included more than 20 workshops, plus various keynotes, panels, local company tours and over 500 business-to-business (B2B) meetings. In addition, GBF attendees learned more about the Marseille region's business climate, including: its strategic position as a gateway to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Middle Eastern markets; the city's wide range of thriving industries, from maritime and logistics, to digital technology and biotechnology; and its ongoing infrastructure investments. Select WTC businesses also participated in the "Connections Showcase" to formally acknowledge the meaningful connections and promising conversations initiated with those they met at the WTCA GBF. This year also marked WTCA's first dedicated Real Estate Summit during the GBF. During this portion of the event, global experts analyzed the state of commercial real estate, including its role in driving economic growth, and ways in which sustainable infrastructure and energy innovation continue to shape the future of developments. Additional topics of discussion included hyper-growth areas like data centers and logistics facilities. Amid shifting global policies and economic uncertainties, the WTCA network showcased at this year's Forum how it continues to be a vital and resilient force, fostering dialogue collaboration and trust across borders. Sessions held throughout the GBF focused on how the role of trade organizations is not only increasingly relevant, but is more indispensable than ever as businesses are actively seeking guidance, access and a global perspective. Leveraging its unparalleled global network, WTCA showcased how its members bridge market gaps and open doors to new business opportunities, while also elevating a city's global profile and connecting it to the world economy. To help in strategic business planning, WTCA's members around the world are able to provide on-the-ground information and valuable resources that can be shared throughout the network to create more cross-border connections. "Our annual Forum stands as a powerful reminder of what is possible when business leaders from around the world come together in the spirit of collaboration — and that's precisely where the WTCA network excels," said John E. Drew, Chair, WTCA Board of Directors. "In today's climate, WTCA remains committed to promoting free and fair trade, open markets and healthy competition. We believe these principles foster an environment that attracts investment, drives prosperity and fuels economic growth. Through our global network of independent WTC operations — built on trust and collaboration — we actively support these principles by facilitating international business connections and trade opportunities worldwide. This year's GBF showcased the real value of connection: forging strategic partnerships between our WTCA members and local/international business delegates; opening new pathways to trade; and reaffirming our shared commitment to free, fair, and open commerce. Together, we will continue to 'Keep Calm and Trade On.' We are thankful to WTC Marseille Provence for hosting such a wonderful event to demonstrate the power of our global network." Speaking during one GBF session titled "Global Outlook: Navigating Trade and Investment Trends in 2025,", Deputy Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), outlined the intergovernmental organization's role in navigating new trade policies, including the implementation or threat of tariffs. Her advice for GBF attendees was to remain level-headed and to consider not just the immediate effects, but the broader, long-term effects on global stakeholders. Benoit Vincent, CEO of WTC Marseille Provence, also said of the event: "This year's GBF underscored the vital role the Marseille region plays in shaping the future of international trade — we offer a thriving environment for innovation, industry and global collaboration. In partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Internationale) Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, we united to host a B2B matchmaking platform that resulted in over 500 B2B meetings, connecting delegates from around the world with each other as well as with local Marseillaise companies. We are proud to have hosted an event that actually goes beyond dialogue — sparking real connections to catalyze regional and international business growth." The 2025 WTCA GBF concluded with a ceremonial announcement of next year's host during a Gala Dinner sponsored by Turkish Airlines. The 56th annual WTCA GBF is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia, USA from April 19-22, 2026, and will be hosted by WTC Greater Philadelphia. MEDIA CONTACTS: World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Chanelle Dimalanta Phone: +1 212 432 2644 Email: [email protected] Violet PR Kate Traina Phone: +1 908 967 2117 Email: [email protected] About World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is a network of more than 300 highly connected, mutually supporting businesses and organizations in nearly 100 countries and territories. As the owner of the "World Trade Center" and "WTC" trademarks, WTCA licenses exclusive rights to these brands for members to use in conjunction with their independently owned, iconic properties, facilities and trade services offerings. Through a robust portfolio of events, programming and resources that it offers its members, the goal of WTCA is to help local economies thrive by encouraging and facilitating trade and investment across the globe, creating an ecosystem built around commerce, community and connection. To learn more, visit About World Trade Center (WTC) Marseille Provence Established in 1984, World Trade Center (WTC) Marseille Provence stands out as a genuine emblem of the regional economy, to make it a decisive driver of the region's international dynamics and attractiveness. WTC Marseille Provence has evolved its offer to meet the entrepreneurs' expectations. Located in the heart of the city of Marseille and in the perimeter of Euroméditerranée, WTC Marseille Provence proposes exceptional places: business, convention centers and a corporate club, connected to the global World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) network. WTC Marseille Provence is a certified ISO 20121. To learn more, visit
Sharjah 24
10-04-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
ECS showcases its lineup of events at WTCA Forum in Marseille
This participation underscores the Centre's commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments and best practices associated with the global conference, business and exhibition industry. During the global gathering, His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Midfa engaged in discussions with several forum participants outlining the advancements and recent progress within the exhibitions sector and the performance indicators recorded during the past period. He emphasized Expo Centre Sharjah's pivotal role in contributing to sectoral growth through its portfolio of specialized trade shows which serve as catalysts for trade and business development in Sharjah. He further highlighted the Centre's commitment to facilitating strategic partnerships, promoting business sustainability, and integrating cutting-edge technologies to optimize exhibitor experience and competitive positioning. Al Midfa affirmed that the participation of over 300 delegates from more than 50 countries at the WTCA Global Business Forum offered a unique platform for advancing key strategic goals. These included exploring cooperation opportunities, fostering the exchange of expertise, and identifying more ways to develop the services offered by Expo Centre Sharjah in accordance with the best global practices. The forum also served as a valuable opportunity to Promote the Centre's calendar of business-focused exhibitions and events. He noted that the Expo Centre Sharjah's participation in the 2025 GBF is part of a broader vision to strengthen the Centre's role as a leading platform for trade and business on both the local and regional levels. This strategic direction focuses on strengthening international partnerships with global trade centers and related institutions, while also investing in infrastructure and technological advancements to deliver world-class services. These efforts aim to attract a broader range of international events to Sharjah, thereby contributing to the diversification of the local economy and promoting sustainable development. During the forum, Expo Centre Sharjah's delegation participated in discussions focusing on the importance of adapting to economic changes by employing innovative strategies that ensure the sustainability and growth of the business sector. The forum also addressed strategies for speeding up expansion into emerging markets, enhancing collaboration between members, and promoting innovation in processes and services within the sector to drive economic growth and increase its contribution to global economic development.
Zawya
10-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Expo Centre Sharjah showcases its diverse lineup of specialized events and exhibitions
Sharjah: Expo Centre Sharjah, represented by H.E Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah and Board Member of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), participated in 55th annual World Trade Centers Association (WTCA)'s Global Business Forum (GBF) recently held in Marseille, France. This participation underscores the Centre's commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments and best practices associated with the global conference, business and exhibition industry. During the global gathering, H.E Saif Mohammed Al Midfa engaged in discussions with several forum participants outlining the advancements and recent progress within the exhibitions sector and the performance indicators recorded during the past period. He emphasized Expo Centre Sharjah's pivotal role in contributing to sectoral growth through its portfolio of specialized trade shows which serve as catalysts for trade and business development in Sharjah. He further highlighted the Centre's commitment to facilitating strategic partnerships, promoting business sustainability, and integrating cutting-edge technologies to optimize exhibitor experience and competitive positioning. Al Midfa affirmed that the participation of over 300 delegates from more than 50 countries at the WTCA Global Business Forum offered a unique platform for advancing key strategic goals. These included exploring cooperation opportunities, fostering the exchange of expertise, and identifying more ways to develop the services offered by Expo Centre Sharjah in accordance with the best global practices. The forum also served as a valuable opportunity to Promote the Centre's calendar of business-focused exhibitions and events. He noted that the Expo Centre Sharjah's participation in the 2025 GBF is part of a broader vision to strengthen the Centre's role as a leading platform for trade and business on both the local and regional levels. This strategic direction focuses on strengthening international partnerships with global trade centers and related institutions, while also investing in infrastructure and technological advancements to deliver world-class services. These efforts aim to attract a broader range of international events to Sharjah, thereby contributing to the diversification of the local economy and promoting sustainable development. During the forum, Expo Centre Sharjah's delegation participated in discussions focusing on the importance of adapting to economic changes by employing innovative strategies that ensure the sustainability and growth of the business sector. The forum also addressed strategies for speeding up expansion into emerging markets, enhancing collaboration between members, and promoting innovation in processes and services within the sector to drive economic growth and increase its contribution to global economic development. For further information, please contact: Ali Elgendy Misbar Communications ali@ Ahmad Aldwairi Misbar Communications
