World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has warned that the rapid growth of artificial-intelligence-related trade may be hiding broader weaknesses in the global trading system.

WTO data showed that trade in AI-related goods, including semiconductors and industrial equipment, increased by 42 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026.

By comparison, trade in non-AI goods grew by only seven percent.

The strong demand for AI equipment has benefited chip manufacturers, data-center suppliers and technology companies.

Asia remains a major production center, while North America continues to attract substantial AI investment and venture capital.

However, the WTO chief cautioned that trade growth could weaken if investment in AI slows or if the sector fails to meet high expectations.

She also highlighted the impact of tariffs, geopolitical tensions and disruptions to energy supplies.

The warning suggests that the current strength of AI-related trade may not represent the performance of the wider global economy.

Governments and businesses are being urged to modernize trade rules and strengthen international cooperation.

Source: Financial Times.