Fueled by a strong demand, markets for sustainable goods and services are growing at a fast pace, generating increased opportunities for developing countries to adopt green production models and further diversify their economy.
Between 2008 and 2015, the total cultivated area covered by voluntary sustainability standards for major agricultural crops traded on international markets (e.g. soybeans, coffee, sugarcane) has grown from over 2 million hectares to more than 14 million hectares . Similarly, the total market value of organic food and beverages rose from 46 US$ billions in 2007 to almost 90 US$ billions in 2016 . This rapid growth of sustainable markets also extends to a wide range of sectors such as cosmetics, personal care products, clothing, wood, seafood, aquaculture and tourism.
Building on the results from 8 UNCTAD National Green Export Review (NGER) projects in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Pacific, UNCTAD's Green Export Forum convened in Geneva on 8-9 October 2018 will discuss how developing countries are harnessing green market opportunities to promote economic diversification and contribute the achievement of the SDGs. Officials and national experts from all 8 NGER beneficiary countries will share their experiences in identifying promising green export sectors and promoting their development through a cross sectoral multi-stakeholder approach. They will also discuss issues such as value addition, national and voluntary standards, export promotion, marketing, package and sustainability management. Sectors covered during the forum include among other, ecotourism, fish products, timber products, coffee, cocoa, olives, dates, nuts, leather, grains and honey, among many others.
If you have an interest in green production and markets, please join us and come with questions. Interactive discussion will be encouraged in this event.
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Topic
Trade and environment
