The United Nations Office of Supply Chain Management (OSCM) is expanding its vendor base to empower businesses from developing countries, least-developed countries and countries with economies in transition to participate in the United Nations (UN) Secretariat’s procurement exercises. The goal is to broaden the UN’s vendor base through tailored business outreach activities to potential suppliers especially from these regions. with the aim to promote sustainable, equitable growth worldwide, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Creating an Inclusive Global Marketplace
The UN’s commitment to diversity and expansion entails more than simply increasing its vendor base. It is a proactive step toward building a global marketplace that provides tangible opportunities for economic empowerment. By working with suppliers from developing countries, least-developed countries and countries with economies in transition, the UN seeks to support SDG 8 (Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all), SDG 10 (Reduce Inequality within and among countries) and SDG 17 (Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development). This commitment to inclusivity helps bridge economic divides, reduce inequalities and strengthen partnerships, ultimately fostering a resilient, diverse global supply chain.
Supporting Suppliers
A central part of the UN’s efforts to engage suppliers from non-industrialized countries is being undertaken through the Office of Supply Chain Management (OSCM). OSCM plays a pivotal role in preparing and empowering businesses from these regions, providing training, resources, and networking opportunities to assist potential suppliers in navigating and participating in UN procurement opportunities.
Since 2019, OSCM has organized many global seminars and workshops to guide participating companies through UN procurement processes, requirements and registration steps. These events, held in partnership with governments and/or other UN agencies, offer essential insights into meeting the requirements of the UN to become a prospective UN supplier. Interested businesses can explore additional resources on business seminars through the UN Procurement Division’s website.
The United Nations Global Marketplace
The United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM) is the central platform for UN procurement opportunities, enabling suppliers to connect with over 30 UN organizations. Registering on UNGM opens the door to all suppliers to potentially work with UN agencies and access resources and guidance tailored to their needs. In recent years, the UN has seen a significant rise in registrations from developing countries, least-developed countries and countries with economies in transition. This reflects the Organization’s success in building an inclusive supply chain.
In 2024, over 81% of suppliers invited to participate in UN tenders were from developing countries, least-developed countries and countries with economies in transition, underscoring the UN’s commitment to fostering diversity. Suppliers can visit the Information for New Vendors page to learn more about registration requirements.
Impact of Suppliers from developing countries, least-developed countries, and countries with economies in transition on UN Procurement
Suppliers from developing countries, least-developed countries and countries with economies in transit play a vital role in supporting the UN’s global operations, providing essential goods and services across a broad spectrum of sectors. In 2024 alone, approximately US$1.7 billion was procured from developing countries, least-developed countries, , and countries with economies in transition, representing 60.6% of the UN Secretariat’s total procurement volume. The contracts awarded do not only support the UN’s mandate, they also nurture sustainable development within the suppliers’ home countries by creating long-term economic benefits.
Building Sustainable Growth Together
The United Nations’ commitment to working with suppliers from developing countries, least-developed countries and countries with economies in transition is more than an operational choice — it is part of a larger vision for an equitable and sustainable global economy. By connecting with vendors in regions that have faced historical barriers to international trade, the UN supports diverse economies and drives growth in ways that align with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Through an inclusive procurement approach, the UN builds resilience within its supply chain and provides economic pathways for communities around the world.
Join the UN Supplier Network
Businesses are encouraged to register on UNGM, where they can learn about upcoming procurement opportunities and obtain reference materials to becoming a UN supplier. The UN’s free training and outreach events are specifically designed to help new suppliers navigate the procurement process and succeed within the UN system.
To explore these resources, please visit UNGM.