ITC-DFID: "Empowering Women, Powering Trade: Integrating Women into Global Value Chains"

13.00-15.00 - Room D, WTO, 19 July 2011 Programme (pdf)

Corporations are discovering that integrating women into their value chains makes good business sense. The diversification of the supply base brings new skills, innovation and increases competition. It also strengthens the communities in which supplies are secured. For governments and international organizations, empowering women through trade is a catalyst for achieving gender equality and the internationally agreed goals and commitments, including the Millennium Development Goals. Panellists will present the business case and share impact achieved in the lives of women in developing countries as a result of sourcing from women. ITC will unveil a new initiative to link buyers and sellers and CIDA will present an innovative approach to supporting women’s economic empowerment through trade.