What are creative industries? There are differing views and much scepticism about which goods and services have been grouped into this new classification. There is no doubt, however, that modern technology has transformed delivery of services and created business models that do not charge customers, such as Google and Facebook, but which have generated huge wealth for their creators. There is no doubt either that the design industry is having a massive impact on how cultural heritage and tradition are transformed into products ranging from household goods and fashion items, to solutions for health care and new media and entertainment.

In this edition of Trade Forum we explore the potential of creative industries in developing countries. Through contributions from a diverse range of international commentators, we look at issues including the impact of globalization, technology and digitization, and the promotion and financing of creative industries in emerging economies. We also look at the opportunities that have been created through engagement with the corporate sector and creative industries, such as film and fashion, in developed countries.

The United Nations’ Creative Economy Report 2008 demonstrates that creative industries are powerful engines for economic growth and trade development in developing countries. This is true not only in terms of direct economic impact from the sale of goods and services but, importantly, also as a multiplier in other sectors by stimulating new business opportunities and enhanced capacity.

IDEO is a leading innovation and design firm that works with public, private and social sector clients to address organizational, social and global issues. The head of IDEO’s social innovation design domain, Jocelyn Wyatt, talks to Trade Forum about the power of design to change the world.

From fashion design to film, music, architecture, art and the advertising industry, the impact of digital technology has been one of the most profound on the creative industries in recent years. New technologies, particularly in information and telecommunications, have dramatically changed the way creative products are produced, distributed and consumed globally.

In 1972, Fazle Hasan Abed founded the Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC) and a holistic development model that has revolutionized income-generating opportunities for rural communities in developing countries. Through its handicraft and fashion section, Aarong, BRAC has developed a sustainable national brand that provides a livelihood in the creative industries for tens of thousands of people across Bangladesh.

Rolling Stone India & JWT: Traditional arts bring modern brands to life.

When Rolling Stone launched its new Indian edition in 2007, the creative team at JWT were presented with one of the most intriguing creative briefs an advertising agency could imagine. How to make the iconic magazine look familiar – but still be iconic?

The evolution of the Internet and digital technology has created an open market for the distribution and sharing of intellectual properties. But in the fast-paced and ever-changing world of the digital age, how can those who work in the creative industries protect their intellectual property?

Interactive web portal: Connecting creative communities

 Artisanconnect is an interactive web portal, launched with the support of ITC and the Netherlands' Centre for Promotion of Imports from developing countries (CBI), to connect artisans and experts in creative and indigenous crafts and provide them with a platform for sharing their experiences and information. While initial content was provided by ITC, the success of the portal, which is based on Web 2.0 technology, will depend on its users who have easy access to adding or modifying content. The aim is to encourage the exchange of information about craft markets, new technologies, designs and events, which has been scarce so far, particularly for French-speaking users (the portal is available in French and English).

www.artisanconnect.net