News

Digital platforms connect artists, artisans, musicians, and filmmakers with a global audience — driving growth in emerging economies.

By Paul Akiwumi, Director for Africa and Least Developed Countries, UNCTAD

As centers of economic activity, special economic zones are a crucial development tool for nations. A new global alliance could help amplify SEZ voices alongside a push to modernize the zones.

The outlook for infrastructure investment is strong due to COVID-19 stimulus packages, but investment in industry remains weak. And while high-income countries more than doubled quarterly FDI inflows, low-income economies suffered a further 9% decline.

Investment promotion agencies form Costa Rica, Mauritius, the Netherlands the Republic of Korea and Seychelles are honoured during the 7th World Investment Forum.

By Marisa Henderson, Chief, Creative Economy Programme, and Amy Shelver, Public Information Officer, UNCTAD

UNCTAD brings together various stakeholders to discus how special economic zones contribute to economic diversification and sustainable development in Africa.

The Global Commodities Forum 2021 tackles the many facets of commodity dependence and the vulnerabilities of countries whose economies rely on primary goods exports.

Heavy dependence on commodities has increased globally, leaving about two-thirds of developing countries vulnerable to economic shocks such as sharp commodity price fluctuations.

Between the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and mid-2021, commodity prices increased across the region, with varied impacts on countries.