The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) announced on Tuesday that the global economy, which started 2026 on a favorable note, is now facing a period of disruption and uncertainty due to geopolitical crises. The agency forecasts a slowdown in economic growth for the year.
According to UNCTAD's report, the global economy is projected to grow at a slower pace than initially expected, with the agency citing ongoing conflicts, trade tensions, and policy uncertainties as key factors. The report emphasizes that developing countries are particularly vulnerable to these shocks.
UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan stated, 'The global economy is navigating through turbulent waters. Geopolitical tensions are exacerbating existing vulnerabilities, especially for developing nations.' The agency calls for coordinated international action to mitigate the impacts.
The report highlights that inflation remains a concern in many regions, and supply chain disruptions continue to affect trade. UNCTAD urges governments to prioritize fiscal stability and social protection to support the most affected populations.