The 55th Global Business Forum is Set to Take Place in Marseille, France

The 55th Global Business Forum Set for Marseille

The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) is gearing up for its prestigious 55th Global Business Forum (GBF) from April 6 to 9, 2025, in vibrant Marseille, France. This event gathers business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts from various corners of the globe, highlighting Marseille as a vital hub for international trade and investment.

Over the course of four days, more than 300 participants from over 50 countries are expected to converge for this key event. Countries represented include Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United States, and many more. The forum aims to foster discussions on commercial opportunities, investment prospects, and partnerships, showcasing the dynamic characteristics of one of the world’s most vibrant economic regions.

A Thought-Leading Agenda

This year’s forum promises to be enlightening, featuring key sessions such as "Strategies for Success in an Evolving Market," "Free Trade Zones as Growth Drivers," and "Navigating Trade, Real Estate, and Investment Trends in 2025." A notable addition is the real estate summit, offering specialized sessions focused on major World Trade Center projects and the evolving landscape of real estate innovation and resilience.

Notable speakers at the forum include John E. Drew, WTCA Chairman; Benoit Vincent, CEO of WTC Marseille Provence; Angela Ellard, Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization; and Ken Levinson, CEO of the Washington International Trade Association. Together, they will lend insights that are particularly pertinent in the current global climate, characterized by shifting trade policies and economic uncertainty.

Networking Opportunities

The forum is designed to maximize engagement through structured B2B networking sessions. These sessions will enable participants to connect directly with businesses that align with their needs, facilitated by the partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur. The platform will be accessible immediately upon registration, providing ample opportunities for meaningful exchanges and collaborations.

Marseille’s selection as the venue for this significant event underscores its importance as a European hub for trade, innovation, and economic activity. Given its strategic geographical position bridging three continents, the Mediterranean region is critical in global commerce, fostering industries ranging from maritime and logistics to energy and technology.

As Benoit Vincent notes, "Our region has long been a crossroads for global trade, fostering economic growth and nurturing international collaboration. With its strategic location and thriving industries, Marseille is the ideal setting for this year's forum."

The previous GBF took place in Bangalore, India, where nearly 300 participants from 36 nations gathered, resulting in substantial B2B meetings and collaborative agreements. With high expectations for this year’s event in Marseille, WTCA aims to continue facilitating partnerships and expanding global opportunities.

The forum reflects WTCA's commitment to promoting free and fair trade, accessible markets, and healthy competition—principles essential for fostering economic growth and prosperity.

As global dynamics shift, the 55th Global Business Forum serves as a crucial platform for members to connect, explore emerging markets, and gain invaluable insights. As businesses navigate fluctuations in economic landscapes, this engagement will facilitate pathways to successful collaborations that impact a wide array of industries globally.

For those interested in the latest information around the GBF, visit wtca.swoogo.com/2025gbf and stay connected through social media with hashtags #WTCAEvents and #WTCAinMarseille.