On 9 February, the next Global Forum of the GS1 International Association officially commenced in the Dutch city of Noordwijk, located 50 kilometers from Amsterdam. The event brought together more than 900 participants in person and over 2,000 attendees in a virtual format.

Alongside the heads of GS1 member organizations representing more than 116 countries, the Chairperson of GS1 Turkmenistan, Aykamar Malikgulyyeva, is taking part in Global Forum 2026 online.

Traditionally, the Forum features a comprehensive and intensive agenda, including plenary and regional sessions, meetings of representatives of the Global Office divisions and national GS1 organizations, working group sessions and training workshops, as well as presentations by GS1 system users.

The focus of Global Forum 2026 is on topics related to the implementation of strategic initiatives and key projects of the GS1 International Association, as well as the opportunities for applying GS1 standards in the context of global digital identification.

In particular, one of the sessions titled “Applied AI Networks” aims to unlock the potential of artificial intelligence in shaping the future through improved products and optimized processes. Presentations by GS1 Member Organizations (MOs) showcase new AI-driven applications and projects.

A dedicated session is focused on the GS1 Digital Academy and its key role in global transformation. In the long term, the GS1 Digital Academy is positioned as a shared infrastructure for continuous learning and innovation, enabling the global community to confidently and flexibly address the challenges of the future.

Participants share their experience in applying global GS1 standards, as well as the use of 2D barcodes across various industries, including retail, healthcare, apparel manufacturing, construction, agriculture, transport, and logistics. Forum delegates are introduced to innovative initiatives and the future development of GS1 EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) standards within the framework of the Vision 2030 concept.

New GS1 members receive information about the history, governance, strategic priorities, and organizational foundations of GS1. The session “What’s Possible in 2026” provides insights into how real-world industries are already unlocking new opportunities through innovation and proven technologies. Participants gain practical solutions based on GS1 standards and next-generation barcodes—from creation and printing to scanning and the everyday use of 2D data.

The outcomes of Global Forum 2026 will be summarized on 12 February.

The annual global event is held to align a unified organizational strategy, foster innovation, and strengthen GS1 members by providing opportunities to learn about the latest developments in standards and solutions, share best practices in implementation and innovation from around the world, hear user perspectives, and engage with colleagues.