Global and regional supply chains face increasingly frequent and complex disruptions driven, among others, by geopolitical tensions, evolving trade policies, and climate-related extreme weather events. These disruptions continue to expose structural vulnerabilities in global trade and logistics systems.
The impact is particularly severe for the most vulnerable countries such as least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) and small island developing States (SIDS), where high dependency on external markets, limited infrastructure and geographic constraints exacerbate effects and costs.
Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are among the most notable recent incidents, with some LDC's and SIDS experiencing increases in their oil import bills exceeding 0.5% of GDP. Strengthening supply chain resilience is critical for sustainable development and to ensure that transitions towards low-carbon systems, digitalization and more robust trade networks are implemented in a way that is both equitable and inclusive.
Discussions at this roundtable will build on the dialogue and outcome of the 1st Global Supply Chain Forum (Bridgetown, 2024) as well as the Ministerial Round Table at UNCTAD 16 (Geneva, 2025), highlighting key issues and thematic priorities relevant to developing countries, including LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS, and provide an opportunity for Ministers to share their countries’ valuable experiences and perspectives.
Questions for discussion
- What are the main challenges and vulnerabilities that developing countries, LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS are facing from supply chain disruptions, and how can lessons learned from previous disruptions enhance preparedness and resilience to future shocks?
- What tangible strategies and policy priorities can best strengthen the resilience, sustainability and inclusivity of supply chains in countries most vulnerable to disruptions and their impacts?
- How can organizations and already existing mechanisms assist in the strengthening and promotion of supply chain resilience, ensuring sustainability and inclusivity?
- What concrete advice will your country bring to this Forum to strengthen supply chains globally?
Programme
Opening remarks: Secretary-General of UNCTAD
Followed by Panel 1 and Panel 2, with the participation of ministers.
Moderator: To be determined
Format: Davos-style
