Tenth Annual Global Trade and Investment Forum Brings Together Leaders in NYC

The Tenth Annual Global Trade and Investment Forum took place today, April 8, 2026, at the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business in New York City, with the Baltic American Chamber of Commerce (BACC) proudly partnering in this landmark event. The Forum convened business executives, policymakers, and thought leaders to address the unprecedented levels of global uncertainty affecting trade and investment today.

In an era marked by rising trade protectionism, tariff escalations, persistent geopolitical conflicts, volatile markets, and shifting international norms, the Forum explored innovative approaches to build predictability, resilience, and trust in cross-border trade and investment. The strategic competition between the U.S. and China, particularly in technologies such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors, has disrupted global supply chains, created distinct geopolitical blocks, and fragmented regulatory and security frameworks.

This year’s discussions focused on how businesses and governments can adapt and thrive amid these uncertainties, with an emphasis on emerging strategies to strengthen cross-border trade and investment.

Featured Panels

  1. Building Global Trade and Investment Resilience in a Time of Uncertainty: A Multilateral View from New York – Examining multilateral approaches to navigate global trade disruptions.

  2. Voices from the Frontline: International Leaders on Making It in America – Insights from international executives driving growth and competitiveness in the U.S. market.

  3. Domestication of Global Supply Chains: Challenges and Opportunities – Addressing the risks and benefits of reshaping supply chains in response to geopolitical pressures.

  4. Using AI for Competitiveness: How U.S. Companies Can Take Advantage of AI to Become Worldwide Market Leaders – Moderated by Fernando Gómez-Baquero, Ph.D., Director of Runway and Spinouts, who contributes to and participates in various BACC programs and activities, this panel highlighted strategies for leveraging AI to drive global market leadership.

  5. Growing from Within: Investing in Innovation and Partnerships – Exploring how internal innovation and strategic collaborations can enhance sustainable growth.

The Forum was organized by the Center for International Business Acceleration (CIBA), with Dr. Elena A. Iankova, President and Founder of CIBA, in partnership with Jacobs Technion-Cornell Institute at Cornell Tech.

For BACC members, participation in the Forum provides a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insights from global leaders, connect with international partners, and explore innovative strategies for resilient and profitable cross-border investment. Our continued partnership ensures that members remain at the forefront of developments in global trade, technology, and investment.

We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Elena A. Iankova for her trust and collaboration in making this event a success.

BACC New York