The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is the UN’s leading institution dealing with trade and development. It is a permanent intergovernmental body established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1964. UNCTAD supports developing countries to access the benefits of a globalized economy more fairly and effectively. It provides economic and trade analysis, facilitates consensus-building and offer technical assistance to help developing countries use trade, investment, finance and technology for inclusive and sustainable development.

In September 2021, Rebeca Grynspan of Costa Rica was named Secretary-General of UNCTAD. An economist, former Vice President of Costa Rica and recognized advocate of human development, she is the first woman to lead the organization in its almost 60-year history.