Without deliberate action, the integration of trade and digital transformation risks deepening existing divides rather than closing them.
© UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
The digital economy marks the newest chapter in the long-running story of trade, driven in part by technological advances like artificial intelligence (AI) – a market projected to reach $5 trillion by 2033.
The digital economy is booming but highly concentrated in a handful of countries, leaving the rest of the world, including many least developed countries, often relegated to the role of mere data providers.
Currently, under one third of developing countries have AI strategies, and 2.6 billion people remain offline. Developing countries digital exports amount to $1 trillion, in a global market five times that size. Such divides come at an enormous cost – economic, developmental and human – jeopardizing connectivity, job opportunities and aspirations for a better future.
Against this backdrop, the 16th United Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD16) sets out to forge a crucial path to shared prosperity, by ensuring that digital trade and artificial intelligence expand horizons, connect communities and shape a more inclusive global economy.
Topical focus at UNCTAD16
UNCTAD16 will bring into sharp focus the strategies and policy options and cooperation mechanisms needed to help developing economies capture a fair share of digital opportunities.
To ensure that digitalization brings benefits for all and helps protect the planet, UNCTAD16 discussions will centre around:
Bridging divides: Harnessing artificial intelligence, data and digital trade while closing gaps in access and skills; Enhancing global digital cooperation through the UN’s Global Digital Compact, as well as the 20-year review of the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society.
Pivot towards a circular digital economy: The environmental footprint of digital growth has come to the fore, due to the sector’s energy-intensive nature. Key concerns in this area include the depletion of raw materials for digital and low-carbon technologies, rising water and energy consumption, as well as e-waste management.
More broadly, what UNCTAD is doing to help
UNCTAD works to inform global policy debates and help countries harness the digital economy as a driver of inclusiveness and sustainability.
Its work on data governance contributed to the decision by UN Member States to establish a dedicated working group under the Commission on Science and Technology for Development.
It co-leads the implementation of the UN’s Global Digital Compact in the areas of inclusive digital economy and data governance.
In 2025, UNCTAD also serves as the chair of the United Nations Group on the Information Society.
Key reports
For more data and analysis on the digital economy, sustainability and inclusive development, see:
- Digital Economy Report 2024: Shaping an environmentally sustainable and inclusive digital future
- Technology and Innovation Report 2025: Inclusive artificial intelligence for development
UNCTAD16 programme and registration
The full programme is available. All participants, including members of the press, are required to register online for the Conference.