Global leaders are convening at the Palais des Nations in Geneva for the 16th session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD16) from 20 to 23 October 2025.

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.

Under the theme “Shaping the future: Driving economic transformation for equitable, inclusive and sustainable development”, 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.

Selected events will be livestreamed over four days (no registration required): https://unctad.org/unctad16/videos

Full programme: https://unctad.org/unctad16/programme

Hosted by Switzerland and UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the conference brings together governments, business, academia and civil society.

UNCTAD conferences, held every four years, refine the organization’s mandate in response to new developments in the global economy.

With its 195 member states, UNCTAD offers the strongest convening power among trade organizations - a strength especially vital in today’s fractured global economy.

UNCTAD16 - Opening Plenary & Leaders Dialogue (see video)

Videos on UN Web TV: https://webtv.un.org/en/search/categories/meetings-events/conferences/unctad/16th