The United Nations (UN) Global Business Forum on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) concluded on 14 July 2026. This year, it was held under the theme "Business and the Real Economy: Delivering Sustainable Development in a Changing Global Context". Business leaders, government representatives, and international organisations discussed the contribution of the private sector to accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
Participants focused on Goal 9, dedicated to industry, innovation and infrastructure, as well as the implementation of action 55(c) of the Pact for the Future. The document was adopted by UN Member States at the Summit of the Future in 2024 and outlined directions for modernising global governance and accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Action 55(c), in particular, provides for strengthening cooperation with the private sector and increasing business accountability.
The business forum programme included two thematic discussions. The first focused on key trends shaping modern industrial policy, including digitalisation, the development of artificial intelligence, the green transition and the transformation of global supply chains. During the second session, participants examined practical aspects of implementing action 55(c) at the national level, presenting examples of cooperation between government bodies and businesses, including in the preparation of Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs).
