The Regional Science Association International (RSAI) and the Regional Science Association of India (RSAi) had invited regional scientists, economists, economic geographers, urban planners, policy makers, and researchers of related disciplines to participate in the 12th World Congress of the Regional Science Association International, with the main theme "Spatial Systems: Social Integration, Regional Development and Sustainability". The Regional Science Association of India had hosted the World Congress and the 49th Annual Conference of the RSAi in Goa, India, on May 29 - June 01, 2018.
The conference was open to regional scientists, practitioners and researchers in the field of regional science. The Congress includes Keynote Lectures, Scientific Sessions, Poster Sessions, Workshops and Themed Sessions. Field trip was organized in and around Goa. The theme has been chosen to focus upon the development needs of regions as spatial entities, which is the subject matter of spatial science. The conference had encouraged the environment for researchers across the globe, to interact and learn from one another, and to create a network that will be attractive and inspiring for young students and scholars. The intention was to strengthen the community of regional scientists and to achieve a better understanding of our future needs.