The article examines the growing role of the bioeconomy within the agendas of major international institutions and explores how global governance mechanisms shape its development. The study analyses conceptual approaches to the bioeconomy — biotechnological, bioresource and bioecological — and highlights the ongoing shift toward an integrated, cross-sectoral transformation model linking innovation, sustainability and circular economy principles. Particular attention is paid to the activities of key organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization, the International Energy Agency, the International Renewable Energy Agency, UNCTAD and the World Trade Organization, as well as specialized international platforms and partnerships that facilitate policy coordination and knowledge exchange.

The review demonstrates that institutional priorities differ depending on mandates: FAO focuses on sustainability, food security and inclusive growth; energy agencies emphasize technological development and the expansion of bioenergy; while UNCTAD and the WTO address trade rules, market access and regulatory frameworks for bioproducts. International forums serve primarily as spaces for dialogue and policy convergence rather than formal rule-making. The article concludes that the bioeconomy is increasingly framed as a key pathway to achieving climate and sustainable development goals, though tensions remain regarding resource competition, environmental impacts and trade regulation. Overall, the expansion of international cooperation and the convergence of bioeconomy and circular economy agendas signal a deepening mainstreaming of the concept across sectors and policy arenas

: the article was written on the basis of the RANEPA state assignment research programme

This Review was submitted 23.02.2026, approved for publication 07.03.2026

© I. Popova, 2026
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