The Smart Trade track explores the transformation of global and regional commerce from fragmented, paper-based processes into intelligent, connected, and inclusive trade ecosystems. While physical movement of goods remains essential, many barriers to trade emerge from invisible processes—customs procedures, documentation, financial verification, information asymmetries, and fragmented supply chains. This track examines how artificial intelligence, digital platforms, blockchain, data analytics, and interoperable systems are reshaping cross-border commerce by improving transparency, reducing friction, strengthening trust, and expanding market access. Beyond technological efficiency, it critically investigates the deeper institutional and socio-economic mechanisms that determine whether digital trade systems reduce barriers or reinforce existing inequalities, particularly for small and medium enterprises in emerging markets. We invite contributions that move beyond technology adoption narratives to uncover how intelligent trade ecosystems can enable faster, fairer, and more resilient commerce through inclusive innovation, regional integration, and sustainable economic development.

1. Intelligent Customs and Trade Facilitation: How does digital customs transformation reshape trade efficiency, transparency, and cross-border transaction processes?

2. AI-Enabled Trade Finance and Risk Assessment: How can artificial intelligence improve access to trade finance, risk evaluation, and financial inclusion for businesses?

3. Digital Payments and Cross-Border Settlement: How does digital payment infrastructure influence the speed, cost, and trustworthiness of international trade transactions?

4. Supply Chain Visibility and Provenance: How can AI, blockchain, and data-sharing platforms enhance supply chain transparency, traceability, and accountability?

5. SME Digital Market Access and E-Commerce: How does digital commerce infrastructure enable small and medium enterprises to access regional and global markets?

6. Intelligent Logistics and Last-Mile Delivery: How can data-driven logistics systems improve trade resilience, efficiency, and accessibility across supply networks?

7. Regional Trade Integration and Digital Policy: How does digital trade governance shape regional economic integration, interoperability, and inclusive commerce?

8. Market Intelligence and Data-Driven Trade Decisions: How can AI-powered market intelligence enable businesses to anticipate demand, manage risks, and make better trade decisions?

Important Dates:

• Abstract Submission: 15th August 2026

• Paper Submission: 15th September 2026 (Midnight EAT)

• Peer Review Feedback: 30th September 2026

• Revised Paper Submission: 30th October 2026

• Early Bird Registration: 30th October 2026

• Late Registration: 15th November 2026