The Forum, hosted by World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP), convened representatives from 116 World Trade Center businesses, including more than 200 business delegates participating both physically and virtually. Leaders from business, government, academia and international organizations attended the gathering with the objective of advancing global trade, investment and international collaboration.
Under the theme “Historic Foundations, Future Collaborations: Cultivating New Business Frontiers,” the Forum focused on strengthening global partnerships amid changing economic and trade conditions. Delegates participated in panel discussions, workshops, networking engagements and site visits, while B2B meetings facilitated through the B2Match platform connected participants with potential investors, distributors and business partners. Organizers emphasized practical business outcomes and cross-border commercial opportunities throughout the event.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker addressed attendees and highlighted the city’s economic growth, global connectivity and expanding reputation as a destination for international business and investment. Ambassador Xie Feng of the People’s Republic of China emphasized the importance of trade and dialogue in promoting long-term economic growth and global cooperation. Former United States Ambassador to Canada David Cohen discussed the evolving global trade environment and the growing importance of international connections.
A special session featuring NBA Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Pennsylvania State Representative Jordan Harris and WTCGP President and Chief Executive Officer Thomas Young examined the relationship between culture and long-term economic development. During the discussion, Erving reflected on how discipline, resilience and the pursuit of excellence in sports can influence business leadership, innovation and community impact. Additional sessions addressed investment trends, trade dynamics and collaboration across multiple sectors.
The Forum took place against the backdrop of shifting global trade conditions, including policy changes and uneven market environments. Participants used the platform to discuss risks, investment opportunities and strategies for business expansion. Conversations during the sessions focused on market access, execution strategies and maintaining business continuity during periods of uncertainty. Delegates repeatedly highlighted WTCA’s role as a stable international platform for advancing commercial relationships despite unpredictable economic conditions.
WTCA Board Chair John E. Drew stated that direct interaction remains essential in the current trade climate, where uncertainty, changing policies and economic pressures continue to reshape international business operations. He said the annual Forum enables global leaders to exchange perspectives, strengthen relationships and support regional economic growth through reliable trade and investment opportunities.
Philadelphia emerged as a central focus during the Forum due to its strengths in food and agriculture, higher education, life sciences, manufacturing, innovation and technology. Organizers also highlighted the city’s strategic position along the Northeast Corridor and its established international trade connections.
Thomas Young, President and Chief Executive Officer of WTCGP, stated that hosting the WTCA network in Philadelphia carried additional significance as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. He said the Forum generated meaningful business relationships and long-term commercial opportunities through formal meetings, panel discussions and informal interactions across the city.
The WTCA Real Estate Summit also returned for its second edition during the Forum, focusing on commercial real estate trends, investment strategies and international capital flows. Discussions examined Philadelphia’s growing position as a competitive global investment destination.
Another major development during the event was the launch of the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026, an international innovation initiative seeking scalable solutions in blue renewable energy, sustainable food systems, green maritime transport, coastal tourism, ecosystem restoration and blue technology. Organizers said the initiative reflects the growing relationship between sustainability, economic opportunity and international business cooperation. Companies, startups and research institutions have been invited to submit applications before June 19, 2026.
WTCA officials announced that the organization will continue strengthening international business partnerships through future programs and collaborations aimed at expanding opportunities for members across its global network. The 57th annual WTCA Global Business Forum is scheduled to take place from April 4 to April 7, 2027, in Binh Duong New City, Vietnam, hosted by World Trade Center Binh Duong New City. Organizers stated that the next Forum will highlight Vietnam’s growing role as a global center for innovation, industry and international connectivity.
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