The flagship event of the United Nations in the field of global logistics and business flexibility is moving to the Middle East. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) announced on Wednesday that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host the second meeting of the United Nations Global Supply Chain Forum (GSCF) in November 2026.
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Organized by the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in partnership with the Saudi Arabian Ports Authority (MAWANI), the biennial forum brings together governments, industry leaders and global experts to outline strategies for creating more sustainable, inclusive and resilient supply chains.
Announcing the decision at the UNCTAD16 meeting in Geneva, UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebecca Greenspan said the upcoming forum addresses the growing challenges facing international logistics systems amid geopolitical tensions, climate impacts and changing trade patterns.
We need to ensure that the triple transition to carbon-free transport, digital systems and flexible and restructured trade routes is made. Transfer only“This forum will demonstrate how sustainable collective commitment and international cooperation can drive resilient, sustainable and inclusive global supply chains,” Greenspan said.
Navigating Fragile Global Trade Flows
GSCF 2026 comes at a critical time for global trade. According to UNCTAD data, maritime trade growth slowed to 2.2 percent in 2024 and is projected to slow to 0.5 percent in 2025, before stabilizing at roughly 2 percent per year by 2030. Regions
The forum will focus on coordinating policies, investing in sustainable infrastructure and digital innovation to help countries better adapt to crises and ensure a steady flow of essential goods. It also addresses the needs of vulnerable economies such as least developed countries, landlocked countries and small island countries, which often face transport costs up to three times higher than the global average.
Key priorities of Agenda 2026
Building on the outcomes of the inaugural GSCF in Bridgetown, Barbados, the Saudi-hosted event will promote targeted global cooperation in five key areas:
- Strengthening business infrastructure: Improvement of ports, corridors and internal transportation systems.
- Acceleration in digital business systems: Increasing efficiency and cyber security.
- Supporting small and vulnerable economies: Simplifying trade regimes, expanding access to finance and providing technical assistance.
- Decarbonization of maritime transport: Promote fleet modernization and sustainable transportation practices.
- Empowering the logistics workforce: Investing in skills, safety and good working conditions.
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global trade cooperation
Hosting GSCF 2026 underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a logistics and trade hub connecting Asia, Africa and Europe.
Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasir, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services of Saudi Arabia, said: We are proud to host the UN Global Forum on Supply Chain in 2026. “This gathering demonstrates our commitment to creating resilient, human-centered and environmentally responsible supply chains.”
The forum is aligned with Saudi Arabia Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s long-term plan for economic diversification and sustainable development. Based on this vision, Saudi Arabia plans to strengthen its logistics infrastructure, expand digital trade systems, and strengthen international cooperation to make global trade a force for shared prosperity.
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