Representatives from Angola joined international experts this week in Geneva, Switzerland to explore the dynamics of trade in services, and consider new ways to harness services trade for more sustainable growth.
With more than 93% of exports in 2016 connected to the oil sector, Angola has identified services trade as a way to diversify its economy.
The development of services is key to promoting sustainable economic and human development. Services also play an increasingly important role in trade, and the creation of jobs and investment opportunities.
Fostering the role of services is also a critical part of economic diversification strategies, which can lead to more inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and support countries in their efforts to achieve the targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
This is especially relevant in commodity-dependent countries like Angola.
The sixth session of the Multi-Year Expert Meeting on Trade, Services and Development focused on water and sanitation, energy and food-related logistic services, examined the ways and means to facilitate and expand services trade with respect to achieving the relevant Sustainable Development Goals under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The meeting was held from 7–8 May 2018.
Important instrument
Manuel Quizembo, Senior Expert on Logistics Platforms, Ministry of Transport, shared Angola’s experience with trade and transport logistics.