The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in International Trade: Trends and Scientific Mapping

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into various processes within international trade, much like its growing applications across multiple disciplines and industries. From customs automation and supply chain optimization to trade finance and market analysis, artificial intelligence technologies are reshaping the global trade landscape. This rapid technological transformation has also triggered a notable rise in scholarly interest, reflected in the increasing number of academic publications addressing the convergence of artificial intelligence technologies and global trade practices in recent years. This study aims to systematically evaluate the evolving body of literature on this subject through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis. The analysis encompasses a total of 544 academic publications indexed in the Scopus database between the years 2010 and 2025. R Studio software was utilized to conduct the analysis, employing the Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny packages, which are widely recognized tools for science mapping and bibliometric evaluation. The study identifies the most prolific authors, journals, and institutions contributing to this growing research area, as well as the countries with the highest output and impact. In addition, keyword co-occurrence analysis is used to uncover thematic clusters and trends that dominate the literature. The findings reveal a sharp increase in academic output starting in 2017, marking a turning point in scholarly engagement with the topic. Central themes emerging from the literature include “artificial intelligence,” “machine learning,” “big data,” “blockchain,” and “supply chain management,” indicating a strong convergence of technological innovation and global trade processes. Geographically, China, the United States, and India emerge as the leading contributors in terms of both publication volume and citation performance, suggesting significant research activity and policy relevance in these regions. Furthermore, international collaboration networks indicate a growing level of interdisciplinary and cross-border research cooperation in this field. Overall, this study offers a detailed scientific mapping of the intellectual landscape surrounding artificial intelligence and international trade. It provides valuable insights into emerging research fronts, influential contributors, and thematic developments, thereby serving as a reference point for scholars, policymakers, and industry practitioners interested in the strategic implications of artificial intelligence in global commerce.