ع
The Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services will organize the second Global Logistics Forum while partnering with the United Nations and the Saudi Ports Authority to host the Global Supply Chain Forum in Riyadh. The events are scheduled under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman from November 29 to December 1, 2026 at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, according to an announcement published by the Saudi Press Agency. Both forums will serve as platforms for global leaders, decision makers and experts to exchange knowledge on transport, international trade and sustainable supply chains.
The first Global Logistics Forum held in 2024 drew more than 13,000 attendees along with 140 speakers and 80 exhibitors representing over 30 countries. That edition resulted in 67 agreements valued at more than 16 billion Saudi riyals, equivalent to 4.3 billion dollars, the ministry reported. Organizers view the upcoming forums as a launchpad for new strategic initiatives and international partnerships that support Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.
Saudi Arabia occupies a strategic location between three continents and serves as a principal transit point for more than 13 percent of global trade flows, the announcement stated. The Kingdom’s port system is among the fastest growing in the world thanks to sustained investments in infrastructure, digital transformation and green transition projects. These efforts have reinforced the country’s role as a reliable partner in shaping the future of global trade according to the Saudi Ports Authority.
The Global Supply Chain Forum represents the second edition of the event after its debut in Bridgetown, Barbados in 2024, UNCTAD indicated on its website. It follows the adoption of the Geneva Consensus at UNCTAD16 last year and will focus on confronting supply chain challenges through coordinated international efforts. The agenda includes identifying opportunities presented by structural transformation, digitalization and sustainability while providing support to economies disproportionately affected by disruptions.
In its overview of the forum, UNCTAD highlighted the need to enhance the resilience, sustainability and inclusiveness of transport and logistics systems worldwide. Practical measures and policy options will be considered during sessions that promote experience sharing among participants. The co-location with the Global Logistics Forum organized by the Saudi ministry is designed to amplify impact across related domains.
The Saudi Ports Authority signed a memorandum of understanding with UNCTAD to facilitate the hosting of the supply chain forum, official records show. This collaboration underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to international cooperation in logistics as outlined in national development plans. Additional preparations are underway to ensure the events deliver meaningful outcomes for the global supply chain community.
