Disability inclusion in trade is an emerging but critical policy and research issue. Around 1.3 billion people—16% of the global population—live with significant disabilities, most in developing countries.
The rapidly growing assistive technology market is an important part of this picture. While the market is expanding, access to essential products remains uneven due to high costs, trade barriers and unequal distribution, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
This session will explore three interconnected dimensions: better trade data and classification to understand the assistive technology market; stronger evidence on the links between poverty, disability and economic participation, particularly in Africa; and practical solutions that support the participation of persons with disabilities in trade and entrepreneurship, drawing on experiences from ITC projects held in Ghana and other country-level initiatives.
This 90-minute information-sharing online session will bring together colleagues from ITC and UNCTAD to share insights, evidence and practical approaches on disability-inclusive trade, strengthening internal knowledge, and identifying opportunities for collaboration between ITC and UNCTAD.
Presentations will include:
- Trade data and classification for assistive products.
- Links between poverty and disability in Africa.
- ITC initiatives supporting the economic empowerment of persons with disabilities.
- Lessons from ITC’s Disabilities Relief and Innovation Support (DRISP) programme, including a beneficiary testimonial.
An interactive discussion will explore opportunities for collaboration and further action.
Participation
The session is open to ITC and UNCTAD staff and the wider public interested in inclusive trade, trade policy, entrepreneurship and disability inclusion.
Logistics
The connection link and accessibility arrangements will be shared ahead of the event.
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