As the developed world has descended into financial crisis, there has been a tidal wave of despair and panic in governments and financial institutions around the world. Conflicting data underscored the fact that no one really understands the extent of the consequences. Uncertainty from investors and consumers has led to a massive contraction in demand: a 60-year low in world trade; a fall-off in foreign direct investment; a drop in commodity prices; a contraction in remittances; and an absence of trade finance.Life has indeed changed for all of us. At ITC, it remains our mandate to help enterprises in developing countries, and those who support them through national and regional trade support institutions, to not only survive the current crisis, but to build for a better future.Developing countries face huge challenges, but they should also see opportunities. Countries and companies need to focus on a few priorities that can contribute to their competitiveness and prepare for the reopening of markets.