P166 short courses on key international economic and development issues for Geneva-based delegates

Trade facilitation and non-tariff measures: How to ensure access to essential goods such as food and medical products

Recent and current shocks such as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, as well as related disruptions in global value chains and the food security crisis, demonstrate the importance of and linkages between trade and safety and health. Efficient and transparent trade is a necessary condition for the availability of essential goods such as food and medical products in all countries at reasonable prices. The objectives of the course are as follows:

• Underscore the importance of trade facilitation and innovative approaches, to reduce bureaucratic procedures at borders and support efficient trade procedures
• Provide an overview of the digital tools of UNCTAD in the field of trade facilitation, such as the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) and trade information portals
• Provide an understanding of non-tariff measures, to ensure the transparency and effectiveness of trade-related regulations that affect all trade procedures
• Present transparency initiatives to ease access to information on trade procedures and regulations, to facilitate trade for small and medium-sized enterprises and support regional integration
• Highlight the example of the cutting-edge approach in Africa, under the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, to address non-tariff barriers and how regional trade can be strengthened

The aim of the courses is to give delegates from permanent missions an opportunity to become better acquainted with topical issues and developments in the international economic agenda as they are reflected in the work of UNCTAD.

The secretariat invites permanent missions to nominate delegates who follow matters pertaining to UNCTAD and/or the World Trade Organization to attend these courses.