Geneva – BETH

Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, highlighted the Kingdom’s upcoming hosting of the second edition of the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum in November 2026 — a joint initiative between the United Nations and the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) — during his participation in the 16th session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) held in Geneva, Switzerland.

Al-Jasser welcomed participating nations and expressed pride in Saudi Arabia’s selection to host this major global event, affirming that the forum underscores the Kingdom’s leadership role in supporting global trade, enhancing international connectivity, and advancing logistics cooperation, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 to transform the Kingdom into a global logistics hub connecting three continents.

He noted that Saudi Arabia enjoys one of the world’s most strategic geographic locations, positioned between Asia, Africa, and Europe, and serves as a transit point for more than 13% of global trade flows. The Kingdom’s ports rank among the most efficient globally, with some of the fastest-growing logistics systems worldwide, powered by major infrastructure investments, digital transformation, and green initiatives, strengthening its position as a trusted and influential partner shaping the future of global trade.

Al-Jasser emphasized that the forum comes at a time when global trade faces mounting challenges — from rising costs to geopolitical tensions and climate change — calling for collective action and innovative, sustainable solutions to ensure more efficient, fair, and resilient supply chains.

The UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum serves as a premier global platform bringing together world leaders, policymakers, experts, and international organizations to redefine the future of trade, boost sustainable investment, and promote balanced economic development in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).