The 16th session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD16) opened on Monday at the Palais des Nations in Geneva under the theme: “Shaping the Future: Leading Economic Transformation for Fair, Inclusive, and Sustainable Development.”

The conference is attended by trade and economy ministers from nearly 100 countries, alongside heads of international organizations, experts, and representatives from the private sector, civil society, and youth. Participants include officials from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, as well as representatives from the G20, World Bank, IMF, and WTO.

Over the course of four days, discussions are set to focus on financing for development, digital transformation, investment in the green economy, and global economic governance.