© International Trade Centre, International Trade Forum
- Issue 3/2004
Expanding trade is an effective way for countries to develop their
economies and reduce poverty. Today's globalizing world offers new
market opportunities, but at the same time much greater
competition. With new challenges, some find it difficult to know
where to turn to for help. That's where the International Trade
Centre (ITC) comes in.
ITC has become a centre of excellence in helping developing and
transition economies apply practical trade development solutions to
reach their fullest potential. From expert trade support advice to
capacity building to market intelligence, ITC has helped developing
and transition economies become more competitive and integrated in
global markets.
ITC has adapted to changes in international business by redefining
its services and broadening its partnerships. On this special
occasion of ITC's 40th anniversary, we have taken stock of current
trade development challenges, as well as our capabilities, so that
our partners and clients can gain a rapid overview and better
understanding of our efforts in trade development.
Building on Trade Forum magazine
research of the past several years, we compiled a list of trade
issues that we believe firms, and countries, consider of particular
importance in developing international business. We took a fresh
look at issues and services that our clients request. A broad range
of ITC staff then contributed ideas to update these topics.
The result is a series of ten trade topics, each structured as
"challenges", "solutions" and "how ITC can help". In ITC's
tradition of practicality, we have kept the briefs accessible and
to the point.
In this online edition, you will also find two extra resources for
each topic: relevant Trade Forum
articles, and our choice of related sites.
We hope readers will find new perspectives on trade development
challenges, as well as food for thought in reassessing and
structuring their own trade development programmes.
J. Denis Bélisle
Executive Director
International Trade Centre
Competitiveness Trade Talks Trade
Law South-South
Trade E-trade Trade and
Environment Women in the Economy Reducing
Poverty Least Developed Countries Essential
Partnerships