GENEVA, Switzerland – UN Trade and Development convenes world leaders, ministers and experts to tackle today’s pressing issues, strengthen cooperation and build a brighter future.
From 20 to 23 October 2025, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) will welcome to Geneva, Switzerland, leaders from governments, business, academia and civil society for its 16th ministerial session – UNCTAD16.
The conference comes at a time when trade, investment and technology are reshaping economies at high speed. For developing countries, the stakes are clear: to secure access to finance, markets and innovation while building resilience against shocks.
A platform for solutions
Over four days, UNCTAD16 will feature more than 40 high-level sessions, ministerial roundtables and events. Discussions will focus on how countries can navigate today’s uncertainties while finding practical pathways to growth and sustainability.
“This is not just another conference,” said Rebeca Grynspan, secretary-general of UN Trade and Development. “It is a chance to rebuild trust, bring fresh solutions to the table, and show that multilateralism can deliver for people and for the planet.”
Leaders and voices from across the world
The official programme includes daily high-level dialogues on pressing global issues, a ministerial round table on trade and finance, and a closing segment on rethinking cooperation in a fragmented world.
Nobel Prize laureates, heads of state, ministers and CEOs will be among the speakers, engaging with civil society, youth and academia.
Building on a legacy in Geneva
UNCTAD 16 marks a symbolic return to the city where UNCTAD was created in 1964. Since then, the organization has served as a bridge between advanced and developing economies, ensuring that trade and investment contribute to inclusive prosperity.
The outcomes of the conference will guide UNCTAD’s work for the next four years and provide input to broader debates on global economic governance.