Trade analysis | UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)15

We monitor trends and provide evidence-based analysis to make international trade an engine for sustainable development.

Non-tariff measures (NTMs)

Data, Statistics and Trends in International Trade

Voluntary Sustainability Standards

Trade and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Capacity building for trade policy analysis

Creative Economy Programme

News

Africa’s vulnerability to global shocks highlights need for stronger regional trade

Dependence on commodities, high debt, and weak infrastructure make African economies more vulnerable. Stronger and more diversified trade networks can enhance their resilience and drive growth.

10 Feb 2025

Africa’s $3.4 trillion opportunity: Turning vulnerabilities into resilience

Stronger intra-regional trade, strategic investments and bolder economic reforms are crucial to unlocking the vast potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

10 Feb 2025

2024 year in review: Top 10 stories from UN Trade and Development

From low growth, trade disruptions and Gaza’s destruction to the critical minerals boom, investment shifts, freight rate spikes and UNCTAD’s rebranding, here are the most-read stories of the year.

31 Dec 2024

Services are powering growth. Here’s how developing nations can catch up

The rise of services prompts developing countries to look beyond manufacturing-led exports and enable productivity growth across the economic system.

23 Dec 2024

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Featured Podcast

Southbound traffic: Giselle Datz on the shifts in global trade

The Weekly Tradecast looks at the trends in South-South trade – along with some challenges on the horizon – with Giselle Datz, an expert in the global political economy at Virginia Tech.

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Global Trade Update

This quarterly report provides insight on key trends in world trade. It provides up-to-date analysis on the evolution of imports and exports for different regions and economic sectors, and provides short-term forecasts.

World Tariff Profiles

Jointly produced by the WTO, UNCTAD and the International Trade Centre, this annual report provides comprehensive information on the tariffs and non-tariff measures imposed by over 170 countries and customs territories.