Connecting Leaders. Advancing Global Trade.
Global Trade Summit
Bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore the ideas, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of global commerce.
Where Global Perspectives Meet
For four decades, Bryant University's Global Trade Summit has brought together leaders from business, government, and academia to examine the forces shaping international commerce.
Hosted by the John H. Chafee Center for International Business, the summit fosters meaningful dialogue, shares actionable insights, and builds connections that strengthen businesses and communities in an increasingly interconnected world.
Voices Defining Global Trade
Our speakers bring deep expertise across business, policy, academia, and international diplomacy — sharing actionable insights on global markets, trade strategy, emerging innovation, and economic competitiveness.
The Summit Experience
Insights That Matter: Timely perspectives on global markets, emerging trends, and practical strategies for navigating international trade.
Actionable Learning: Panels, case studies, and breakout sessions designed for immediate application in your business or organization.
Strategic Connections: High-impact networking with peers, partners, policymakers, and global experts from across sectors.
Real-World Impact: Tools, frameworks, and foresight to strengthen global competitiveness and foster sustainable growth.
Welcome Remarks and Opening Keynote
Opening remarks from the Global Trade Summit featuring global, state, and business leaders, followed by the keynote “Leadership, Learning & the Future of Global Trade” by James W. Keyes, former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster.
Logistics & Global Trade – Navigating the New Normal
Top retail brands, shipping companies, and logistics leaders discuss how they are adapting import and export operations in the face of global uncertainty.
The “Next Big Thing” is Here – How A.I. is Reshaping Global Trade
Industry and technology leaders discuss real-world applications of A.I., the opportunities it creates for global commerce, and how organizations can use emerging technologies to stay competitive.
Keynote Address: Brian Quigley
Brian Quigley of the U.S. Department of State shares insights on the intersection of government, business, and global economic strategy. The address explores how public-private partnerships, international policy, and diplomatic engagement shape global trade, investment, and economic opportunity.
Trade Perspectives from Around the World – A Diplomatic Roundtable
Senior representatives from the United Kingdom and Canada share how their nations are navigating today’s trade realities.
The Global Economic Outlook – Trends, Risks, & What Comes Next
Leading economists examine the macroeconomic forces influencing international trade, including inflation, labor markets, energy transitions, and shifting global alliances. The panel offers practical insight into the signals that matter most—and how organizations can prepare for what comes next.
Keynote Address: Adam Triolo
Adam Triolo of REGENT Craft shares insights on innovation, advanced manufacturing, and the future of global transportation. The address explores how emerging technologies and next-generation mobility solutions are shaping international trade, logistics, and cross-border commerce.
U.S. Trade Strategy – A Congressional Perspective
A candid discussion with U.S. Congressional representatives on how the federal government is shaping trade policy, navigating international relationships, and supporting American businesses on the global stage.
Inside the Global Trade Summit
Explore insights from last year’s Global Trade Summit as global business leaders, policymakers, and innovators tackled the forces shaping international commerce.
Get Involved
Sponsorship opportunities are open. Whether you’re growing a global business, exploring new markets, or deepening your trade expertise, the Global Trade Summit is your platform for connection and growth.