AI能否成为全球贸易的“共享”机遇？（环球热点）

Core Insights - The World Trade Organization (WTO) predicts that artificial intelligence (AI) could drive global trade growth by nearly 40% by 2040, primarily by reducing trade costs and enhancing supply chain efficiency [4][10] - The report highlights a shift in global trade dynamics, where data control becomes a core competitive advantage, potentially exacerbating the digital divide for developing countries lacking technology and infrastructure [4][10] Group 1: Opportunities for SMEs - AI is enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to overcome language and information barriers, allowing them to enter international markets more easily [5][6] - In Yiwu, China, nearly 30,000 merchants are utilizing various AI tools for business, akin to using a calculator, which enhances their operational efficiency and market reach [5][6] - AI assists SMEs in analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and compliance costs, thereby improving logistics and reducing inventory risks [6][7] Group 2: Data as a Valuable Asset - Unlike traditional business models, AI captures data to create real-time feedback and reduce forecasting errors, positioning data as the new core of international trade [8][9] - Companies like SHEIN leverage AI to analyze global fashion trends, significantly reducing the time from trend identification to product delivery, thus transforming the business model [8][9] Group 3: Challenges for Developing Countries - Developing countries face significant risks of imbalance in global trade due to a lack of digital infrastructure, talent, and funding, which may hinder their participation in AI-driven markets [10][12] - The report indicates that without improvements in digital infrastructure, income growth for high-income countries could reach 14%, while low-income countries may only see an 8% increase by 2040 [10][12] - The potential job displacement in service sectors, particularly in translation and customer support, poses additional challenges for low-income countries that rely on these sectors for export opportunities [11][12] Group 4: Future Directions for Global Trade - The report emphasizes the need for inclusive AI governance to create fair global trade rules, with China playing a significant role in promoting cooperation among developing countries [13][14] - Investment in infrastructure, talent development, and open collaboration is crucial for AI to serve as a new engine for global trade and inclusive growth [13][14] - The evolving international trade rules must adapt to the digital age, focusing on cross-border data flow and AI governance frameworks to ensure equitable participation [14]