UNCTAD, as coordinator of the United Nations Inter-Agency Cluster on Trade and Productive Capacity, is among the key collaborating agencies at a Myanmar business and trade event.
Myanmar Business and Development Week is taking place in Yangon from 23 to 27 September.
As the country continues with its ongoing political and economic opening to the international community, the Government of Myanmar is highlighting the importance of the private sector for the country's socio-economic development.
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and the Inter-Agency Cluster have organized the five-day event, in cooperation with the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
The week's activities include a series of focused technical workshops with members of the business community, government officials, and representatives of international agencies, civil society and academia.
The purpose of the sessions is to strengthen participants' skills and increase their knowledge in all matters pertinent to business, trade and investment.
UNCTAD experts are participating in discussions on how the country can set up effective foreign direct investment (FDI) policies - with a particular focus on competition law and policy - that can help to mobilize investment and enhance competitiveness.
On 25 September, UNCTAD, as coordinating agency for the Cluster, will participate in the presentation of a "Proposal for inter-agency assistance in the area of trade and related issues".
The proposed action plan, developed jointly by ESCAP, the United Nations Development Programme, UNCTAD, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, and the International Trade Centre, aims to define UN-coordinated assistance so that it effectively supports Myanmar's full integration into the world trading system. The plan includes multilateral and regional trade policies. It also reviews the effective use of support measures for the Least Developed Countries, and discusses support for industrial policies, small and medium-sized enterprises, tourism promotion, national infrastructure expansion, agro-industry development, and energy efficiency.
Donors are invited to contribute to the United Nations Inter-Agency Cluster's joint programme.
