Global Trade Expands in First Half of 2026

Global trade continued its upward trajectory in the first half of 2026, reaching a total value of approximately $13.7 trillion. This growth primarily stemmed from rising prices of high-tech products, according to the latest Global Trade Update report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Surge in Global Trade Volumes

The report highlights a 12.5% increase in global goods trade compared to the same period in 2025. Additionally, the services sector experienced a growth of 10.5%, contributing nearly $2 trillion to the global trade landscape. This trend positions global trade on track to achieve record annual levels.

Significantly, the report notes that much of this growth results from price increases rather than volume expansion. Maritime shipping faced disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, coupled with concerns over energy supplies, which led to higher transportation, logistics, and manufacturing costs.

Key Drivers of Trade Growth

Regarding prices, the report indicates that traded goods prices rose by approximately 3.6% in the first quarter, followed by a 5% increase in the second quarter. This price surge primarily reflects rising energy costs and certain raw materials.

East Asia emerged as a key driver of trade growth during the first quarter, bolstered by strong import and export performance in China and South Korea. In contrast, other Asian regions experienced declines in trade, while Africa and the Americas saw imports grow at a rate surpassing that of exports, enhancing South-South trade dynamics.

Booming Technology Goods Trade

The report reveals robust growth in technology-related goods trade, with notable increases in:

• Critical minerals: 38%
• Semiconductors: 25%
• Batteries: 15%
• Information and communication technology products: 14%
• Electric vehicles: 11%

Conversely, trade in chemical products, iron and steel, and some renewable technology equipment declined. Meanwhile, fossil fuel trade saw significant growth, highlighting the contrasting trends within global markets.

For more insights, visit the full report on Yemen TV.

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