Integrated Forum on Climate Change and Trade (IFCCT)
18.11.2025
Integrated Forum on Climate Change and Trade (IFCCT)
Context
The IFCCT was formally launched at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, on November 15, 2025, as the world’s first enduring platform to address rising tensions between climate policies and international trade frameworks.
About IFCCT
What it is
A politically supported, non-negotiating international forum facilitating structured dialogue between nations on the evolving and complex interplay between climate action and global trade policies.
Launched by
Brazil’s COP30 Presidency, with official backing from major UNFCCC and WTO actors.
Aim
To provide an ongoing, inclusive space for countries to debate and coordinate on climate-linked trade measures—including carbon border adjustments, supply-chain disruptions, subsidies, and industrial policies—without binding negotiations or commitments.
Key Features
- Non-negotiating Dialogue: Enables open, candid policy discussions without the pressure of formal agreements or legal obligations.
- Consultative Approach: Countries shape agendas and priorities through open-ended consultation during 2025–26.
- Coherence on Climate–Trade: Focuses on unilateral trade measures, decarbonisation pathways, and concerns of developing countries.
- High-level Participation: Ministers, WTO/UNFCCC leadership, climate experts, and industry representatives take part.
- Geneva-based Consultations: Integrated within the global trade governance system but institutionally independent.
- Expert Panel Support: Technical input from leading experts ensures robust, balanced dialogue.
Significance
- Bridges Policy Gaps: Addresses fragmentation between climate and trade by fostering cooperation and dialogue.
- Empowers Developing Nations: Strengthens the ability of developing countries to adapt to and influence new climate-related trade norms.
- Reduces Trade Friction: Encourages interoperability and predictability amid proliferating unilateral measures (e.g., EU CBAM, green subsidies).
- Promotes Inclusive Global Governance: Offers a model for multilateral cooperation and knowledge sharing at the intersection of trade and climate.
Conclusion
The IFCCT marks a significant step towards harmonising global climate action with trade policy, enabling countries to collaboratively tackle disputes and design future-ready, inclusive frameworks for a low-carbon economy.