The need to curb protectionism, promote ldcs' exports of manufactures and processed commodities, and diversify their markets were the main trade issues raised at UNCTAD V. The article examines the Group of 77's list of demands on these issues, as expressed in their Arusha Programme, and the response to them by Group B at Manila. Wide differences of interest and philosophy between the negotiating groups, as well as procedural difficulties, meant that the Conference failed to produce any resolutions likely to assist trade in the immediate future. For instance, Group B flatly rejected the suggestion that an international body be set up to advise on which of their industries should be run down rather than protected. Nearly all ldc proposals (such as those for an evaluation of the MTN and the GSP, assistance for Idc exports, inter‐ldc trade preferences, and a complementary financing facility) were referred to the UNCTAD Secretariat for further study or to specialist groups for further discussion.