From supporting responsible production and consumption to promoting circularity and sustainable alternatives, trade must be part of the solution to plastic pollution, not part of the problem.
But persistent policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and signs of slowing global growth pose risks for trade in the second half of the year.
Stronger competition enforcement, along with more upskilling and better infrastructure and support for start-ups are vital to ensuring the digital boom benefits all.
The United States is departing from nearly a century of declining tariffs that once made its rates among the world’s lowest. Amid exemptions, pauses, and country-specific rules, how high are the new tariffs facing developing countries?
The group includes critical minerals needed for electric vehicles, solar panels, AI infrastructure and other technologies powering the energy and digital transitions.
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) warns a looming copper shortfall could stall the world’s shift to clean energy and digital technologies.
Maritime transport moves over 80% of goods traded worldwide. Country-level seaborne trade data is vital for shaping better transport, trade and investment policies.
A higher GDP doesn’t guarantee shared benefits or sustainable growth. To better measure real progress, UNCTAD combines it with data on living conditions, equality and the environment.
But momentum slowed in the second half of the year, and uncertainty looms for 2025 as shifting policies reshape the global landscape.
As trade uncertainty grows, global cooperation and balanced policies will be key to preventing economic fragmentation and safeguarding long-term growth.
