The world is grappling with the "most complex" geopolitical and geo-economic landscape in decades, warned Borge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

In an interview with AFP ahead of the WEF’s Summer Davos meeting in Tianjin, Brende cautioned that persistent global instability is casting a long shadow over economic growth prospects.

"It is the most complex geopolitical and geo-economic backdrop we've seen in decades," Brende emphasized, cautioning that without effective measures to stimulate growth, the world could face "a decade of lower growth."

The meeting in Tianjin comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly in light of the United States' involvement in the war on Iran, following months of economic strain caused by a tariff war initiated under US President Donald Trump.

Brende noted that it is too early to assess the consequences of these trade measures, stating: "It is too early to say what these tariffs will end with because the negotiations are still ongoing."

Uncertain future for globalization and trade growth

According to Brende, the traditional form of globalization is fundamentally transforming, "The jury is still out, but the traditional globalisation we saw is now changed into a different system."

"That is a new chapter... especially since trade was the engine of growth."

Brende further warned that increasing global conflict could have a "very negative impact" on overall economic expansion.

High-ranking officials, including Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, are set to attend the WEF's meeting in the northern Chinese port city of Tianjin, colloquially known as the "Summer Davos."

The forum is expected to address the urgent need for economic revival amid an unstable geopolitical climate.