Which organization was established in 1964 to promote developing countries’ trade and development interests?

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development was established in 1964 to promote developing countries’ trade and development interests.

Usually abbreviated UNCTAD, it was created by the United Nations General Assembly after developing countries argued that existing international economic institutions did not sufficiently address their concerns. Its first conference was held in Geneva in 1964, and it later became a permanent intergovernmental body within the UN system.

UNCTAD conducts research, produces economic and trade analysis, and provides technical assistance. Unlike the WTO, it is not primarily a treaty-based organization that enforces a comprehensive set of trade obligations. Its work covers commodities, investment, technology, debt, shipping and development policy.

The organization was renamed UN Trade and Development in 2024, while retaining the acronym UNCTAD. This change can cause confusion in questions using its historic formal name. It is headquartered in Geneva and works with governments, researchers and other international institutions.