WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
28 April 2020  
(20-3287) Page: 1/226 
Committee on Trade and Development  
Aid for Trade    
 
ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICA TION AND EMPOWERMENT  
JOINT OECD -WTO AID-FOR-TRADE  MONITORING AND EVAL UATION EXERCISE  
FOR THE GLOBAL REVIE W 20191 
 
Contents  
 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 3 
SECTION 1: AID -FOR-TRADE PRIORITIES  ................................ ................................ ........  5 
Trade as a priority in development strategies  ................................ ................................ .........  5 
Priorities identified in the development strategy  ................................ ................................ ...... 6 
Changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2016  ................................ ................................ ...... 18 
Drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities  ................................ ................................ .........  23 
Changes in priorities are reflected in the dialogue with partners  ................................ .............  28 
SECTION 2: ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION  ................................ ................................ .... 35 
Economic diversification is a priority in the development stra tegy ................................ ...........  35 
Constraints to economic diversification  ................................ ................................ ................  44 
Categories of Aid -for-Trade financing to support economic diversification  ................................  50 
Alignment of Aid -for-Trade support with priorities in the development strategy  ........................  55 
Progress in economic diversification  ................................ ................................ ....................  60 
Areas of progress in economic diversification  ................................ ................................ ........  66 
Sectoral progress in economic diversification  ................................ ................................ ........  69 
Areas in which Aid -for-Trade support provided is impactful for economic diversification  ............  73 
Success factors of Aid -for-Trade support for economic diversification  ................................ ...... 76 
Factors limiting the success of Aid for Trade for economic diversification  ................................ . 80 
Mobilizing other forms of deve lopment finance  ................................ ................................ ..... 84 
Source of Aid -for-Trade financing for economic diversification: development partners  ...............  88 
Source of Aid -for-Trade financing for economic diversification: South -South partners  ...............  93 
Sectors requiring further Aid -for-Trade support in economic diversification  ..............................  97 
Categories of Aid -for-Trade financing required to support economic diversification  .................  100 
Aid-for-Trade proj ects or programmes supporting economic diversification  ............................  104 
SECTION 3: ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT  ................................ ................................ ...... 118  
 
1 This document has been prepared under the Secretariat's own responsibility and is without prejudice 
to the positions of Members or to their rights and obligations under the WTO.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Economic empowerment is a priority in the development strategy  ................................ ........  118 
Groups the development strategy aims to empower  ................................ ............................  127 
Indicators or targ ets for economic empowerment  ................................ ...............................  131 
Linking economic empowerment and participation in international trade  ................................  137 
Categories of Aid -for-Trade financing to support economic empowerment  .............................  142 
Alignment of Aid -for-Trade support with the priorities in the development strategy  ................  145 
Aid for Trade contributes to women's economic empowerment  ................................ .............  149 
Forms of Aid -for-Trade financing that can best  support women's economic empowerment ....... 158 
Success factors of Aid -for-Trade support for women's economic empowerment  ......................  162 
Aid for Trade contributes to the economic empowerment of MSMEs  ................................ ...... 165 
Forms of Aid -for-Trade financing that can support the economic empowerment of MSMEs  ....... 171 
Success factors of Aid -for-Trade support for the economic empowerment of MSMEs  ...............  175 
Aid for Trade contributes to the  economic empowerment of youth  ................................ ........  177 
Forms of Aid -for-Trade financing that can support the economic empowerment of youth  .........  181 
Success factors of Aid -for-Trade support for the economic empowerment of youth  .................  185 
Sources of Aid -for-Trade financing for economic empowerment: development partners  ..........  188 
Sources of Aid -for-Trade financing for economic empowerment: South -South partners  ...........  192 
Categories of financing further required to support economic empowerment  ..........................  195 
Aid for Trade contributes to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda  ................................  198 
Additional information on how Aid for Trade contributes to economic empowerment  ...............  204 
Aid-for-Trade projects or programmes supporting economic empowerment  ...........................  207 
 
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY  
1. This report documents the responses received to the 2019 Aid-for-Trade  (AfT) Monitoring and 
Evaluation (M&E) exercise (WT/COMTD/AFT/W/78). The document collates information from 
self-assessment questionnaires which were submitted by partner countries (developing and least 
developed Members), regional economic communities (RECs) and  transport corridors (TCs), donors 
(bilateral and multilateral) and providers of South -South trade -related assistance. A list of questions 
addressed to respondents (donor Members, South-South partners, developing country respondents 
and RECs or TCs) is ava ilable in Annex I. The figure below gives a breakdown of the replies received 
from 133 respondents.  
Overview of responses received in the Monitoring and Evaluation exercise  
 
   
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
2. Eighty -eight developing countri es, of which 38 were least  developed countries (LDCs), 
participated in the AfT self-assessment questionnaires as a response to the OECD -WTO AfT M&E  
exercise. A total of 36 donors participated: 31 bilateral and 5 multilateral donors. Five providers of 
South -South trade -related support (i.e. China, Colombia, Indonesia, Singapore, Turkey) also 
submitted self -assessments. Lastly, four regional organizations, including TCs and RECs, participated 
in the 2019 AfT M&E  exercise. 2 
3. This M&E exercise registered the hi ghest response rate (88) from partner developing 
countries. Thirty -eight out of 47 (81%) LDCs submitted responses to the partner country 
 
2 Number of replies as at 18 March 2019 is 135. Submissions received after cl osing of the exercise 
(i.e. Denmark and COMESA) are not reflected in the quantitative analysis to maintain consistency with the Aid 
for Trade at a Glance publication. Answers to the open -ended questions are, however, incorporated into the text.  38
5055305
Partner country 
(LDCs) , 29%
Partner country (developing 
countries) , 38%South -South , 4%REC, 4%Bilateral donors , 23%Multilateral donors , 4%
Total responses
133
84 8062 65886252
49 4645146132111 111133
0100200
2011 2013 2015 2017 2019Aid-for-Trade M&E responses, 
total, 2011 -2019
Others
Partner country3136
302838
0510152025303540
2011
2013
2015
2017
2019M&E responses from
LDCs, 2011 -2019
35, 
40%
23, 
26%18, 
21%10, 
11%2, 
2%Partner country responses,
by region, 2019
Africa Asia Americas
Oceania EuropeWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  questionnaire. Moreover, 69% of landlocked developing countries  (LLDCs),  (22 out of 32) and United 
Nations ( UN) category of Small Island Developing States  (SIDS),  (24 out of 38) participated in the 
exercise. Of the 88 responses received from partner developing countries, 35 are from Africa, 
23 from Asia, 18 from the Americas, 10 from Oceania, and 2 from Europe.  
4. The analy sis is separated into three sections following the structure of the 
2019 M&E questionnaire.  
• The first section examines changes to AfT priorities since 2016. It examines if, and why, AfT 
priorities have changed since 2016. It looks at the reasons why  respondents may have 
changed their strategy or priorities and if those changes were integrated in the development 
strategy and reflected in the dialogue with development finance partners.  
• The second section discusses AfT support for economic diversification. This section analyzes 
priorities and challenges in economic diversification, as well as the role Aid for Trade  plays 
in furthering economic diversification.  
• The last section examines AfT support for economic empowerme nt. It assesses priorities in 
economic empowerment and the different ways that Aid for Trade  can contribute to the 
economic empowerment of women, micro, small, and medium enterprises ( MSMEs ), and 
youth.  
5. An analysis of the M&E information collected was incl uded in the 2019 joint OECD -WTO " Aid 
for Trade  at a Glance: Economic Diversification and Empowerment" publication. This analysis can be 
found in chapter 1 "Setting the Scene" and accessed using this hyperlink:  
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/booksp_e/aid4trade19_chap1_e.pdf .  
6. In addition to the regular disclaimer reproduced in Footnote 1, please note that the document 
has been compiled on the basis of a "minimal editing" o f the information received from Members. 
The text reproduced after each Member is stated (in bold) is the text entered by the respondent. 
Only very light editing has been applied to aid understanding or correct obvious errors.  
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  SECTION 1: AID-FOR-TRADE  PRIORIT IES 
Trade as a priority in development strategies3 
7. Eighty -five out of the 88 partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire (97%) indicated that their national development strategy includes 
trade priorities (i.e. AfT priorities).  
8. Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with all 35 respondents indicating that 
their national or regional deve lopment strategy includes trade priorities. Ninety -seven percent of 
LDC respondents and all (100%) LLDC respondents have trade priorities incorporated in their 
national or regional development strategy.  
Trade priorities are part of national or regional dev elopment strategy  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  35 100%  
Asia 22 96% 
Americas  17 94% 
Oceania  9 90% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 37 97% 
LLDC 22 100%  
UN SIDS  22 92% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
Quotes on national or regional development strategies4 
Burkina Faso  [quoted the] National Plan for Economic and Social Development  
 
Chad  [quoted the] National Development Programme  (NDP) 2017 -2021 
 
Côte d'Ivoire  [quoted the] Plan National de Développement  
 
El Salvador  [quoted the] El Plan Quinquenal de Desarrollo and Estrategia Centroamericana de 
Facilitación de Comercio y Competitividad  
 
Georgia  [quoted the] Social -economic Development Strategy Georgia 2020 
 
Indonesia  [quoted the] 16 Economic Policy Packages  
 
Kiribati  [quoted the] Kiribati 20 -year Vision (KV20) Development Plan  
 
Mauritania  [quoted the] La Stratégie de Croissance Accélérée et de Prospérité Partagée (SCAPP)  
 
Myanmar  [quoted the] Myanmar National Export Strategy  
 
Nepal [quoted the] Nepal Trade Integration Strategy 2016  
 
 
3 Refer to index number 1 in the Annex.  
4 Refer to index number 2 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Niger  [quoted the] Plan de Développement Économique et Social  
 
Panama  [quoted the] Plan Estratégico de Gobierno 2015 -2019 
 
Peru [quoted the] National Strategic Development Plan  
 
Samoa  [quoted the] The Strategy for the Development of Samoa 2016/2017 - 2019/2020  
 
Tanzania  [quoted the] National Five -Year Development Plan 2016/ 2017 – 2020/ 2021 
 
9. All five respondents to the REC quest ionnaire stated that their regional or TC development 
strategy includes trade priorities.  
10. Of the five South -South providers that participated in the exercise, China , Indonesia , and 
Singapore  stated that they have an AfT strategy.  
11. Fifteen out of 35 donor countries stated that they have an AfT strategy. A number of donors 
provided additional information on their AfT priorities.   
Priorities identified in the development strategy5 
12. Export diversification was identified as a top priority  for partner countries, followed by trade 
facilitation and transport infrastructure. Export diversification was considered a top priority for 
respondents in Africa and Asia. It was also identified as a top AfT priority for respondents from the 
LDCs, LLDCs,  and UN category of SIDS. Trade facilitation and transport infrastructure also emerged 
strongly as one of the top three priorities across the different regions.  
 
5 Refer to index number 2 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top Aid-for-Trade  priorities identified in the national or regional development strategy: 
partner country's perspective  
 
Note:  Survey respondents were requested to select and rank 5 out of the 16 priority areas available. The 
score takes into account the rank given for e ach selected category . 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
Top three priorities identified in the national or regional development strategy: partner 
country's perspective  
Region  Priority 1  Priority 2  Priority 3  
Africa  Export diversification  Trade facilitation  Industrialization  
Asia Export diversification  Trade facilitation  Transport infrastructure  
Americas  Trade facilitation  Export diversification  Regional integration  
Oceania  Transport infrastructure  Export diversification  Trade facilitation  
Group  Priority 1  Priority 2  Priority 3  
LDC Export diversification  Trade facilitation  Transport infrastructure  
LLDC Export diversification  Industrialization  Trade facilitation  
UN SIDS  Export diversification  Trade facilitation  Transport infrastructure  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
0%1%2%3%4%4%5%5%5%6%7%8%8%10%14%18%
Adjustment costsWTO accessionOther priority areasE-commerceNetwork and/or transport infrastructure of a cross border natureTrade finance accessInternational competitivenessTrade policy analysis, negotiations and implementationNetwork infrastructureServices developmentConnecting to value chainsIndustrializationRegional integrationTransport infrastructureTrade facilitationExport diversification
0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 10% 12% 14% 16% 18% 20%WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Additional information provided by respondents on Aid-for-Trade  priorities covered in 
the national or regional development strategy  
Cabo Verde [added] services development, trade finance, MSMEs, women's economic 
empowerment, youth  
 
Cook Islands  [added] include increasing trade, diversifying exports, and enhancing mean s of 
monitoring trade  
 
Guatemala  [added] rural development  
 
Honduras  [added] trade facilitation and coordinated border management  
 
Niue [added] increase the share of AfT allocated to agriculture, transport, and regulations  
 
Papua New Guinea : The priority of the government is to grow the economy through increasing 
exports, reducing imports, wealth creation, and improving service delivery  
 
The Philippines  [added] MSMEs, e -commerce, innovation, financial technologies, innovative 
products, industrialization, network infrastructure (power, water, telecommunications)  
 
St. Kitts and Nevis  [added] upgrading transportation Infrastructure and networ k infrastructure  
 
Tuvalu  [added] MSMEs, women, and youth economic empowerment  
 
COMESA  [added] COMESA Medium -Term Strategic Plan, COMESA AfT Strategy, Leather Value 
Chain Strategy, COMESA Industrialization Strategy, COMESA Gender Policy  
 
 
 
13. El Salvador  stated in its self -assessment questionnaire that it is advancing the process of 
regional integration, with the purpose of increasing the capacities of micro, small and medium -sized 
companies to facilitate their insertion in international trade and take advanta ge of the commercial 
opening derived from the Free Trade Agreements.  
14. Gabon  noted the importance of quality infrastructure that will strengthen trade between 
Gabon and the rest of the world. In addition, trade facilitation should be consistent with the principles 
of the multilateral trading system. The respondent also noted the i mportance of services 
development as a contributor to gross domestic product ( GDP) and job creation. Industrialization 
was identified as a way to enhance the value of Gabon's subsoil resources and generate more income 
for the national economy. Gabon also h ighlighted the importance of export diversification to 
transform the country from a cash economy based on raw materials, such as hydrocarbons, wood, 
and mines into a diversified economy with more value -added activities.  
15. Malawi  noted that its national expor t strategy prioritizes export diversification and value 
addition. The National Transport Master Plan focuses on rebuilding the physical infrastructure 
networks while the revised Malawi Growth and Development Strategy III focuses on industrialization 
and to urism development trade facilitation complements realization of the prioritized initiatives.  
16. Mongolia  identified the development of agriculture, industry especially light and food 
industry, construction materials, copper processing, coal, fuel -chemicals, l ead processing plants, 
tourism, mining and extractive industries as the highest priority. In addition, energy and 
infrastructure sectors will be developed as the lead sectors. The country is looking to implement a 
sound macroeconomic policy and diversify i ts economy in order to meet the objectives of sustainable 
economic development.  
17. Niue stated its target of receiving at least 30% of official  development assistance (ODA).  The 
alignment of AfT support with the priorities of the country can be improved by in creasing the share 
of Aid for Trade  allocated to the agricultural sub -sectors that enjoy a comparative advantage, 
increasing the share of Aid for Trade  allocated to transport with a view of climate proofing its 
strategic infrastructure, increasing the share of Aid for Trade  allocated to trade -related regulations 
with a view of improving the enabling environment for the private sector.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  18. Samoa  identified AfT priorities as an integral part of its strategy. The strategy has four key 
priority areas, namely economic, social, infrastructure, and the environment. Exports can increase 
if the country is able to compete internationally including meeting overseas mark et requirements 
and demand. Building supply capacity in meeting these requirements will enable the country to 
diversify exports through value addition. While services dominate the economy, there is potential to 
further develop opportunities in trade in ser vices including in services framework and statistics. It is 
necessary that appropriate network infrastructure is available and fully accessible to support the 
production and service delivery including e -commerce development, trade facilitation. 
Implementat ion of trade policy remains a challenge including realizing and utilizing trade agreements 
to promote Samoa's interests. The impacts of climate change and managing trade risks associated 
therewith are equally important.  
19. Tonga  highlighted the importance of industrialization and product diversification because of 
the country's high reliance on imports and the need to close huge trade deficit. Tonga's long -term 
development strategy framework is focusing on private sector development to create more new jobs 
and to replace imports with locally processed products.  
20. Respondents to the REC questionnaire identified trade facilitation and regional integration as 
their top two priorities. The top AfT priorities for RECs participating in the self -assessment 
questionnaire  vary. 
Top priorities identified in the national or regional development strategy: regional 
economic community's perspective  
REC Priority 1  Priority 2  
ECOWAS  Regional integration  Infrastructure of a cross border nature  
PIFS E-commerce  Services development  
TMEA  Transport infrastructure  Trade facilitation  
Transnamib  Trade facilitation  Regional integration  
WAEMU  Regional integration  Trade facilitation  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
21. Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa  (COMESA) stated that the COMESA 
Medium Term Strategic Plan has incorporated all AfT priority areas. Programme s are equally 
designed around regional integration, trade facilitation, adjust support, industrialization, 
infrastructure development (i.e. transp ort, air, rail and energy), productive capacities focusing on 
regional value chains among others. Main challenges being faced is that there are not enough 
resources to support the effective implementation of all these programme s. In addition, the capacity 
constraints at secretariat reduce the efficiency of providing support to Member States. It is however 
important to note that secretariat continues to receive financial support from various development 
partners including E uropean  Union (EU) and USAID among others.  
22. Economic Community of West African States  (ECOWAS) identified several priorities in its 
existing regional instruments. The aims of the community are to promote cooperation and 
integration, leading to the establishment of  an economic union in West Africa in order to raise the 
living standards of its peoples, and to maintain and enhance economic stability, foster relations 
among Member States and contribute to the progress and development of the African Continent .  
Challeng es faced by ECOWAS include periodic peace and security issues which divert limited 
resources from economic development. Another priority is network (i.e. power, water, 
telecommunications) and transport infrastructure of a cross border nature. Infrastructur al 
development is critical to social and economic development, but the funds received to bridge 
significant infrastructural deficit are insufficient.  
23. A key ECOWAS strategy in this regard is the Infrastructural Master Plan. Connectivity to 
regional and global value chains  (GVCs)  contributes to value addition and promotes industrialization. 
However, poor connectivity and supply side capacity pose great challenges. A key strategy in this 
area is specified in the West African Industrial Policy and Action Plan.  Trade facilitation was identified 
as an important factor to improve the connection to regional and GVCs . However, there is a need to 
strengthen coordination of multiple actors. Key policies in this area include ECOWAS Customs Code 
and ECOWAS Trade Liberal ization Scheme. In terms of trade policy analysis, negotiations and 
implementation, improving utilization of current market access as well as negotiating additional WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  preferential market access are priorities for ECOWAS. Challenges in this area include the i nability to 
take advantage of current opportunities and full capacity to negotiate multiple new agreements 
simultaneously.  
24. TradeMark East Africa  (TMEA) stated that its goal of increasing trade and trade 
competitiveness is delivered by reducing barriers to trade to enable trade to flow through the region 
more efficiently and at reduced cost to traders, and improving business competitiveness for trade 
so businesses, large, medium and small, can trade more. Its programme s include transport and 
storage infrastr ucture, standards and non -tariff barriers, ICT for trade, trade policy and regulatory 
reform, export capabilities, and logistics support to the private sector. TMEA also incorporates 
cross-cutting programme s including women and trade and trade advocacy.  
25. Trade facilitation was identified as a top priority by respondents to the South -South 
questionnaire, followed by trade policy analysis, negotiations, and implementation.  
26. A number of South -South providers gave additional information in their replies to the 
South-South questionnaire. Indonesia  identified human capital development as a priority, while 
Singapore  identified MSMEs as a priority in the AfT strategy with South -South partners.  
27. Turkey  stated that although its development corporation does not have spe cific trade 
priorities, it has been engaged with trade -related activities and capacity -building projects through 
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency. These activities include facilitating the transfer of 
Turkish entrepreneurial know -how to partner countries, providing support to business matchmaking 
and contributing to physical and institutional infrastructure building in partner countries.  
28. Trade facilitation was identified as the number one AfT priority among donors, followed by 
connecting to value  chains. The African Development Bank  (AfDB) listed several priorities, namely 
industrialization, export diversification, trade facilitation, access to trade finance, regional 
integration, connecting to GVCs , infrastructure, and human capital. The Czech Re public  identified 
MSMEs as an AfT priority. Finland stated the importance of value chains and women's and youth's 
entrepreneurship, including MSMEs, support to productive capacities, especially in non -traditional 
sectors but also traditional ones. Germany  identified quality infrastructure, including metrology, 
accreditation, standardi zation, testing, and inspection, as a priority. Hungary  also listed a few 
priorities including youth issues, raising the awareness of companies to the investment opportunities 
and development needs of developing countries. Latvia  identified private sector development, SME 
capacity building, technical trainings, and agriculture as priorities. The Russian Federation  stated 
that the Concept of the State Policy of the Russian Federa tion on International Development 
Assistance contains certain provisions on trade priorities. Sweden  identified women's economic 
empowerment as one of the priorities. Spain  noted that its priorities are aligned with E uropean 
Union's priorities. The World Bank  made a reference to the World Bank Group Trade Strategy, 
2011-2021.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top Aid-for-Trade  priorities identified in the development strategy: donor's perspective  
 
Note:  Survey respondents were requested to select and rank 5 out of the 16 priority areas available. The 
score takes into account the rank given for each selected category . 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
29. Austria  stated that Aid for Trade  in a wider sens e forms part of Austrian Development 
Cooperation strategy. Traditionally, there are three fields of intervention which touch upon Aid for 
Trade . Firstly, improving the business climate which, by definition, is part of trade development. It 
is mostly implem ented in cooperation with international financial institutions like the International 
Finance Corporation. Secondly, renewable energy generation, part of trade related infrastructure, is 
a traditional field of intervention of both the Austrian Development Agency and the Austrian 
Development Bank. Thirdly, within the main instrument for working with the private sector, business 
partnership programm e, several projects aim to set up supply chains, for example, on fruits, herbs 
or strengthen value chains. In ad dition, there is also a specific program m eme promoting imports 
from developing countries to Austria, implemented closely with other European donors.  
30. Australia  noted that the strategy for Australia’s AfT investments articulates how Aid for Trade  
supports t he aid programme ’s key objectives of reducing poverty and lifting living standards through 
sustainable economic growth. It encourages innovation, including by partnering with the private 
sector and promoting market -based solutions. Australia’s AfT prioriti es, listed in the strategy, include 
trade and investment policy, trade facilitation, GVCs , private sector development, services, economic 
empowerment of women, knowledge and skills development, infrastructure, and agriculture. An 
evaluation of trade facilitation investments by the Australian Office of Development Effectiveness 
found they have been effective in building capacity and improving the lives of the poor. Areas for 
further work include further incorporating disadvantaged groups, such as women and SMEs into AfT 
investments, and further coordination of bilateral, regional and global programme s. The Australian 
Government has set a target for AfT investments to be 20% of the aid budget by 2020. The target 
was achieved in 2016 -17, when Aid for Trade  reached 23.3%, and again in 2017 -18. Labour mobility 
is also a priority for the aid programme . 
31. Canada  stated that while Canada does not have an explicit AfT policy, it advances AfT-related 
priorities in the context of its Feminist International Assistance Policy and inclusive approach to 
trade. Through its Feminist International Assistance Policy,  Canada focuses on the goal of poverty 
reduction and on the empowerment of women and girls and promotion of gender equality as the 
most effective approach to achieving this goal. To ensure that Canada’s international assistance is 
best able to achieve thes e objectives, Canada focuses its efforts on six action areas, namely gender 
0%0%0%1%2%2%2%5%6%7%8%9%12%12%16%19%
Adjustment costsIndustrializationWTO accessionNetwork and/or transport infrastructure of a cross border natureNetwork infrastructureServices developmentTrade finance accessE-commerceTransport infrastructureOther priority areasRegional integrationExport diversificationTrade policy analysis, negotiations and implementationInternational competitivenessConnecting to value chainsTrade facilitation
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25%WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  equality and the empowerment of women and girls, human dignity, growth that works for everyone, 
environment and climate action, inclusive governance, and peace and security that re present 
interrelated global solutions that are intended to foster significant improvement in the lives of the 
poorest and most vulnerable, particularly women and girls. The action area focused on growth that 
works for everyone, through which Canada advance s women’s economic rights and leadership, 
promotes inclusive markets and entrepreneurship, and promotes resilience and financial security, is 
the most directly relevant to AfT considerations. Other elements of the policy contribute to fostering 
an enabling  environment for trade, such as those activities that occur in the context of environment, 
climate action, and inclusive governance.  
32. Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy also commits to a range of actions aimed at 
increasing women’s equal acc ess to capital markets, technology, business development services, 
and leadership and training opportunities so they can fully benefit from financing for development 
opportunities. Alongside the Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada’s inclusive approach 
to trade seeks to ensure all segments of society can take advantage of the opportunities that flow 
from trade and investment and that trade policies contribute to broader economic, social, and 
environmental policy priorities. In this context, Cana da’s trade agreements include provisions on 
labour rights, the environment, small and medium -sized enterprises ( SMEs ), gender equality, and 
Indigenous peoples. Canada is also prioritizing the participation of different groups into the economy, 
including wo men, indigenous -owned businesses, and SMEs and helping them connect to GVCs  and 
markets. Canada will continue to advance this inclusive approach to trade and support a rules -based 
trading system through enhanced bilateral and multilateral engagement and pa rticipation in 
international economic forums, such as the World Trade Organization ( WTO), G20,  the Organization 
of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD ), and  the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation  
(APEC) . This approach creates opportunities to extend  the benefits of trade to emerging economies 
and developing countries, and contributes to economic diversification, inclusive growth and an 
environment whereby the gains from trade are more sustainable and broadly shared, recognizing 
the role of innovative  private sector partnership to leverage expertise and resources.  
33. Canada stated that inclusive growth fosters progress across all dimensions of sustainable 
development. Such an approach seeks to enable countries to reduce and even eliminate extreme 
poverty  and enable all segments of the population to benefit. It can generate domestic resource 
mobilization and strengthen the capacities needed by countries to address their development 
challenges, including health, education and environmental protection. The g rowth that works for 
everyone is the action area of Canada’s international assistance policy which seeks to increase 
economic leadership and empowerment of women at all levels, help improve economic opportunities 
for and the resilience of rural women, prom ote greater financial inclusion for women, and equal 
access to capital, markets, digital technology and business development services, promote women’s 
economic rights and access to decent work, support technical and vocational training for women, 
and help address unpaid work and the disproportionate burden of care shouldered by women. 
Canada also recognizes that women’s and youth entrepreneurship is critical to support sustainable 
prosperity.  
34. In this context, Canada aims to help individuals and enterprises , particularly those led by 
women, become more competitive and innovative, increase their employment and market 
opportunities, shape markets that are economically and environmentally sustainable, and work 
better for the poorest and most vulnerable, especia lly women and youth. This entails building the 
capacity of institutional structures, supporting entrepreneurship, expanding access to financial 
services and to capital and improving supports to the private sector. It also places an emphasis on 
rural transf ormation, renewable technologies, value addition in the natural -resource sector and 
investments in quality infrastructure. Inclusive economic growth will require new public and private 
investments in quality infrastructure. To mobilize new sources of finan cing for development, Canada 
will encourage multi -stakeholder partnerships that involve blended finance and impact investment . 
In 2017 -2018, Canada invested USD 639 million in initiatives in the action area of growth that works 
for everyone. Among other th ings, these contributions have resulted in increased women’s economic 
participation and incomes, strengthened women -owned businesses, and increased capacities of 
women in leadership positions.  
35. Denmark  stated that Agenda 2030 is the overarching global strat egy for Denmark's 
development strategy "The World 2030". In addition to "The World 2030", Denmark has a specific 
AfT programme  for its support of multilateral activities in Geneva. Both aim to ensure sustainable WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  development and address youth and gender iss ues. In addition to the priority areas selected in the 
questionnaire, Denmark also prioritizes trade facilitation.  
36. Estonia  stated that e -commerce promotion is one of the horizontal elements in Estonian trade 
and economic development related international c ooperation. It includes the gender and youth 
economic empowerment and employment, widening opportunities for MSME establishment, using 
effective e -governance toolkit for trade, and investment facilitation. The e -Residency, established in 
2014, supports the se activities. The main obstacles to further these priority areas are sometimes 
political, sometimes internal. Since many e -governance tools and the e -residency programme  are in 
constant development phase, it needs support from the national legislation and  private sector 
stakeholders. On the other side, the international need of developing countries is large, and one can 
find successful cooperation projects across all continents. Estonian development cooperation policy 
and action is guided by the document " The Strategy for Estonian Development Cooperation and 
Humanitarian Aid 2016 -2020". The main objective of Estonian development cooperation is to 
contribute to the eradication of poverty and to attaining the other Sustainable Development Goals 
(SDGs). Across the areas of activities, promoting economic development belongs among the specific 
goals of Estonian development cooperation.  
37. The European Union  channels significant volumes of aid in the areas covered by the 
Aid-for-Trade Initiative. More than 30% of E uropean Union's ODA falls under the AfT categories. 
Therefore, the E uropean Union does not have a single set of priorities. The priority areas are defined 
with partner countries according to each country requirements and capacities, and therefore may 
cover many priority areas. The EU Aid-for-Trade  Strategy was updated in December 2017 by means 
of two policy documents, namely the European Commission Communication COM  (2017)  667 final 
and the European Council Conclusions 15573/17. Sustainability and inclusiveness (women, youth, 
social and environmental objectives) are now at the core of the updated EU's "Aid for Trade  
Strategy ". The response also refere nced New European Consensus on Development.  
38. Finland  stated that its development policy is structured around four priority areas. One of 
them is support to the development and diversification of the developing countries' own economies. 
That includes trade d evelopment, trade facilitation, value chains, and trade policy negotiations 
capacities.  
39. Japan  stated that in order to effectively address the current development challenges, the 
Government of Japan revised its ODA charter in February 2015 and established t he Development 
Cooperation Charter. The Development Cooperation Charter is the foundation of Japan’s ODA policy 
and is based on the notion of quality growth, that is inclusive, sustainable and resilient. On the basis 
of the charter, Japan provides necessar y assistance for the development of industrial infrastructure 
and industries through improvements in such areas as : infrastructure, finance and trade and 
investment climate, sustainable cities, introduction of information and communications technology 
and high technology, promotion of science, technology and innovation, research and development, 
economic policy, vocational training and industrial human resources development, employment 
creation, and the promotion of agriculture, forestry and fisheries that includes the development of 
food value chains. In addition, the Development Cooperation Charter does not specify trade 
priorities, but development cooperation projects are determined based on such factors as the 
socio-economic needs of each country and Jap an’s foreign policy.  
40. Luxembourg  stated that Aid for Trade  is clustered mainly under the second and third 
outcome of Luxembourg’s general Development Strategy. In terms of enhancing socio -economic 
integration of women and youth, Luxembourg stated that women  and youth are disproportionately 
facing the consequences of poverty, often lacking access to necessary skills and competencies to 
actively engage in sustainable and productive activities as a means to foster their socio -economic 
integration. Investing in women’s socio -economic integration is a key driver for overall economic 
growth and sustainable development and reduces inequalities in access to quality education and 
training. Luxembourg will therefore focus on strengthening of employability and promote e qual 
access to decent employment opportunities and entrepreneurship, by particularly targeting women 
and young people not engaged in education, employment or training.  
41. Luxembourg will support the development of initiatives for setting up an enabling emplo yment 
environment for women and youth. This will notably be achieved through enhanced engagement 
with private sector actors to strengthen opportunities for the employment of the domestic workforce 
and to keep pace with the needs of growing and diversifying  economies and automation. It will also WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  support the strengthening of vocational training systems and craftsmanship, specifically with regards 
to ICT and green jobs and their alignment with local labour market needs. In partner countries, 
Luxembourg will co ntinue leveraging its expertise in the vocational training sector and applying 
sector -wide approaches while taking a sectoral -lead whenever possible to contribute to the provision 
of new opportunities for women and young generations. In terms of promoting inclusive and 
sustainable growth,  
42. Luxembourg recognizes that achieving long -term development requires attracting domestic 
and foreign investment as well as fostering multi -stakeholder partnerships. These include 
South -South and triangular cooperation to s upport inclusive and sustainable socio -economic 
development, as well as, the building and retention of a skilled workforce in partner countries. 
Building on its expertise as a leading international financial centre and in integrated local 
development appro aches, Luxembourg will support partner countries in creating an enabling 
environment for enhanced private sector engagement and development and public -private 
partnerships by creating value chains and leveraging innovative financing mechanisms, such as 
blended, green and inclusive finance, as well as enhanced domestic resource mobilization, to 
promote sustainable growth that reaches all populations. Strengthening support for inclusive finance 
to ensure that the most vulnerable populations, typically cut off  from formal financial services, have 
access to basic financial services, including insurance mechanisms, to enable their active 
participation in a sustainable economic environment and improve their livelihoods. Promoting 
responsible investment, by providi ng specialised training to support economic and financial reform 
as well as targeted and demand -driven technical assistance linked to the integration of national 
economies into regional and international frameworks. Enabling ICT solutions and reliable data  as 
catalysts for innovative and inclusive growth and development. Luxembourg made a reference to 
the Luxembourg's General Development Cooperation Strategy – the Road to 2030.  
43. New Zealand  stated that it has committed to invest at least 20% of its total ove rseas 
development assistance in support of Aid for Trade  in the Pacific. This AfT obligation will be triggered 
when the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus Agreement (PACER Plus) enters into 
force. Preparatory work is underway between PACER  Plus signatories to identify priority areas to 
allocate this Aid for Trade . Signatories are also engaged in progressing further work on the concept 
of Aid for Trade  with a view to leveraging existing AfT mechanisms at global, regional and bilateral 
levels.  
44. Portugal  stated that in the absence of a formal strategy on Aid for Trade , the Strategic 
Concept of Portuguese Cooperation 2014 -2020 aims to strengthen synergies with the private sector, 
investment and trade, while referring to trade and finance as priority areas for policy coherence for 
development (PCD). In this national framework document for development cooperation, trade is 
particularly linked to the priority on rural development and the sea, which falls within the scope of 
Portuguese cooperation support for integrated and sustainable development models. It is aimed at 
strengthening local institutions and communities including, for example, support for increased 
production in a sustainable way and pr omotion of access and improvements in the functioning of 
markets. It is also linked to education for development strategies where policy coherence for 
development, fair trade, responsible consumption, solidarity economy and social justice are 
approached. I n national commitments on PCD (Council of Ministers Resolution no. 82/2010), 
Portugal has identified as particularly relevant sectoral policies on trade, finance, climate change, 
sea, food security, rural development, migrations and security, all of which are directly or indirectly 
addressed by EU member States' commitments. The document states that close coordination 
between the various public policies, such as the trade policy, supports development objectives.  
45. The Russian Federation  identified several tra de priorities which are equally important, as 
specified in the Concept of the State Policy of the Russian Federation on International Development 
Assistance. First, priorities in trade and investment facilitation focus on the improvement of 
conditions for trade and investment activities in aid recipient states, including facilitation of 
procedures for transborder movement of goods and services. Second, priorities in industry and 
innovations include shaping of industrial and innovative potential in aid recip ient states. Third, in 
terms of poverty reduction, priorities cover the promotion of economic activity in aid recipient states 
and creation of prerequisites for participation of the poorest segments of population in it. Fourth, 
trade priorities also focus on regional integration and transport networks. This includes fostering of 
regional economic integration, state institutions development, transport infrastructure creation, 
rational use of natural resources, realization of socio -economic projects on the te rritories of aid 
recipient states with involvement of the poorest segments of the population in the industrial activity. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Fifth, in the area of water and energy, priorities include the provision of access to the main sources 
of life activity, first of all w ater and electric energy, for the population of aid recipient states. Sixth, 
priorities also focus on information and communication technologies and bridging the information 
gap. Efforts in this area can be aimed towards the creation of conditions for tech nological sovereignty 
of aid recipient states in the sphere of information and communication technologies and bridging of 
information gap between developed and developing states. Seventh, in terms of food security and 
agriculture. Fostering food security a nd agricultural development of aid recipient states.  
46. The Slovak Republic  stated that the Medium -Term Strategy for Development Cooperation 
of the Slovak Republic for 2019 -2023 includes the trade related priorities indirectly. The strategy 
defines one of the  six sectoral priorities as support of the market environment, supporting micro, 
small and medium -sized enterprises  (MSMEs) , introducing innovation, creating jobs.  
47. Sweden  stated that in 2016, the Policy Framework for Swedish Development Cooperation 
and Hum anitarian Assistance was adopted, setting out the goals, priorities and direction of Sweden’s 
development cooperation. It provides a hierarchy of policies and steering documents and indicates 
how the goals of the Swedish development cooperation and humanit arian assistance are to be 
translated into implementation. The policy framework takes as point of departure the current global 
development landscape and relates to the 2030 Agenda, the Addis Agenda, the Paris Agreement and 
the Sendai Framework. One of the eight priority areas in the Policy Framework is "Inclusive Economic 
Development", of which one of two sub -priorities is free and fair trade and sustainable investment. 
Trade -related objectives are also included in several development cooperation strategies , both global 
thematic strategies, regional and bilateral country strategies.  
48. The main strategy guiding Sweden's global AfT initiatives is the Global Strategy for Sustainable 
Economic Development. An updated strategy was adopted by the Government in June 2018, 
covering the period 2018 -2022. One of the ten objectives in the strategy is support for improved 
capacity for free and fair trade. Trade is also part of the regional strategy for Sub -Saharan Africa, 
adopted in 2016, and the strategy for the Middle Ea st and Northern Africa, adopted in 2016. Trade 
is also part of several bilateral country strategies, including Zambia and Uganda, both adopted in 
2018.  
49. The United Kingdom  stated that Department for International Development (DFID) 
2017 Economic Developmen t Strategy focuses on trade as an engine for poverty reduction. The 
strategy commits the United Kingdom to build the potential for developing countries to trade more 
with the United Kingdom and the rest of the world and integrate into GVCs . Using its voice in the 
WTO, the United Kingdom will argue for better and fairer trading rules for developing countries and 
strengthen  its approach to Aid for Trade . 
50. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) stated that it supports 
private and public sec tor investments in all of the priorities selected. Priorities are rather determined 
at the country or regional level. This includes financial support for enterprises, including those with 
an export orientation, and specifically the development and strength ening of global and regional 
value chains. The EBRD also implement s the Value Chain Competitiveness Programme , under the 
EBRD -EU Trade and Competitiveness Programme , that aims to support local value chain 
development and promote exports to the E uropean Union and other markets, notably with a focus 
on SMEs in selected countries. EBRD financing also includes investments in cross -border transport 
infrastructure and regional power pools and projects to promote regional energy markets. In 
addition, EBRD has deve loped a Trade Facilitation Programme  that promotes trade by mitigating 
counter -party risks. Another initiative EBRD has launched is the Trade Ready Initiative, a new trade 
support initiative for MSMEs involved in trade, which enables them access trade fina nce and business 
advice to unleash their international trade potential.  
51. The United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  stated that UNDP’s policy direction 
and priorities are defined in its Strategic Plan , with the latest adopted by UNDP’s Executive Board in 
November 2017 for the period 2018 -2021. The Strategic Plan defines three development settings 
that require different forms of support, mainly eradication of poverty in all its forms and dimensions, 
accelerating structural transformation for sustainable development, and building resilience to shocks 
and crises, and six signature solutions which represent integrated responses to the complex and 
multi-dimensional challenges faced by countries. These signature solutions are: (i) keeping people 
out of poverty ; (ii) strengthening effective, inclusive and accountable governance; (iii) enhancing 
national prevention and recovery capacities for resilient societies; (iv) promoting nature -based WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  solutions for sustainable planet; (v) closing the energy gap; and (vi) st rengthening gender equality 
and the empowerment of women and girls. The delivery of UNDP’s support, inclusive of signature 
solutions, will be done though country support platforms. These platforms will help countries 
co-design solutions to complex developm ent problems with the support of partners form the UN, 
academia, civil society, private sector, etc.  
52. Building upon UNDP’s Strategic Plan 2018 -2021 which aims at galvanizing the private sector’s 
contribution to realizing the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, UNDP adopted a Private Sector 
Development and Partnerships Strategy (2018 -2021). The Strategy seeks to enhance the private 
sector’s role as a key actor in realizing the SDGs and to promote the alignment of all business 
strategies and operations with the SDGs. M ore concretely, the Strategy identifies three strategic 
priorities for UNDP’s work on private sector: (i) unlocking private finance for the SDGs; (ii) aligning 
business strategies and operations with the SDGs; and (iii) putting in place policies that foster 
inclusive and green economies. These priorities will be implemented through programme s at the 
global, regional and country level through a combination  of service offers that best respond to the 
country context. Trade -related support priorities by UNDP are best articulated at this level where a 
number of service offers contribute to trade -related outcomes. These include , for instance : policies 
and produc tive capacities for sustainable value chains and inclusive business; the private sector and 
gender equality; transforming MSMEs towards the SDGs; government policies that provide an 
enabling environment for doing business and shape sustainable business and  investment practices; 
and improving livelihoods at the bottom of the pyramid through inclusive business. With respect to 
women empowerment, it is worth mentioning UNDP’s Gender Equality Strategy 2018 -2021 which 
outlines UNDP’s contribution to gender equal ity throughout its programma tic work in response to 
the 2030 Agenda, as well as institutional reforms and targets within UNDP towards achieving gender 
equality.  
53. UNDP's Strategy (the third of this nature in UNDP) understands gender equality as a 
preconditi on and accelerator for achieving the SDGs and adopts a two -pronged approach for 
advancing gender equality: supporting women empowerment through gender -specific interventions 
and integrating gender concerns across all that UNDP does. The Strategy articulate s entry points for 
the realization of the Strategic Plan’s Signature Solution on Strengthening Gender Equality and the 
empowerment of women and girls across all development settings. Specifically on trade -related 
support and empowerment, examples of areas of intervention foreseen in the Strategy illustrate the 
linkages: support partners to invest in critical infrastructure such as water and sanitation, and clean 
and affordable energy, safe roads, gender -responsive public spaces and services, such as markets  
and transportation; supporting legal and policy reforms to close the gender wage gap, lift formal 
and informal barriers to women’s access to certain occupations and educational fields, and 
strengthen women’s legal protection from workplace discrimination and rights violations; support 
partners' efforts to expand women’s access to, control and ownership of land, property and finance 
as well as partnerships in new micro -SMEs enterprises established on green and inclusive value 
chains; supporting partners to expand women’s opportunities for decent work and advance gender 
equality in the public and private sector; designing market -based employment and livelihood 
opportunities in crisis and post -crisis settings that do not reinforce gender stereotypes and that 
benefit women and girls by providing them with skills and opportunities for decent work and 
sustainable employment and by preventing gender -based violence, etc.  
54. In relation to youth empowerment, UNDP’s Youth Strategy 2014 -2017 guides the 
organization’s int erventions across thematic areas. The Strategy takes a holistic approach aimed at 
supporting young people as a positive force for transformational change. It foresees contributions 
towards three outcomes:  (i) increased economic empowerment of youth; (ii) e nhanced youth civic 
engagement and participation in decision -making and political processes and institutions; and 
(iii) strengthened youth engagement in resilience building. The economic empowerment of youth, 
especially young women, involves promoting an e nvironment conducive to job creation for youth; 
promoting employment and livelihood opportunities for young people and access to social protection 
enhancing their skills through formal and non -formal skill development opportunities and 
entrepreneurship; fa cilitating access to finance and to markets, among others. A global programme  
encapsulating the tenets of the youth strategy runs through 2020. Finally, UNDP takes guidance 
from the UN Strategy on Youth launched in September 2018.  
55. A number of responses rec eived also highlighted challenges faced in furthering AfT priorities, 
ranging from inadequate infrastructure, access to trade finance, poor coordination, limited capacity, 
lack of resources, among others.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  56. Antigua and Barbuda  stated that access to trade fin ance has increased in importance with 
the growing impact of the de -risking phenomenon, causing many of the Caribbean indigenous banks 
to lose correspondent banking relations. The respondent highlighted that the economic impact would 
be critical if the tren d continues to plague the region's financial sector as it would negatively affect 
the ability to participate in international trade activities and overall economic performance.  
57. The Democratic Republic of Congo  noted that its economy is not very diversified  due to 
the lack of support infrastructure for production and marketing and poor business climate. The 
internal market is sparse and unintegrated. Trade facilitation is confronted with the problems of 
access to new information and communication technologie s and lack of commitment of the political 
authorities in implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement  (TFA) . There is also a lack of resources 
allocated to the National Trade Facilitation Committee. The country lacks quality infrastructure to 
provide good  border services and resistance to change by border officials and officials. Trade 
facilitation is also hampered by the predominance of informal trade. Despite its commitment to 
participate in regional and continental free trade zones, the Democratic Repub lic of Congo has some 
weaknesses in terms of garnering the political will to translate these commitments into realities. 
There are many reforms emerging from the Diagnostic Trade Integration Study  (DTIS) , trade 
strategy, and trade policy review that the co untry still struggles to fully implement.  
58. Kiribati  highlighted five areas in which it faces challenges in pursuing AfT priorities. 
Inadequate transport infrastructure, including poor port facilities on the outer islands, is a major 
challenge. Issues on net work infrastructure includes poor ICT connectivity on outer islands, 
insufficient supply of clean water, insufficient energy supply to support investment in manufacturing 
services. In addition, the country also has limited capacity in trade policy analysis , negotiations, and 
implementation. Export diversification remains a challenge due to lack of quality infrastructure, low 
supply capacity, and high logistics cost. In the area of trade facilitation, there is a need to align 
customs procedures with the TFA and improve coordination at the border through the 
implementation of Single Window.  
59. Lesotho  highlighted the need to implement e -commerce systems and strengthen capacity 
building. In terms of export diversification, there is limited capacity in terms of pro duct development, 
standards and quality assurance infrastructure. Funding to provide the necessary infrastructure for 
industrialization is inadequate. Technical assistance in establishing special economic zones is also 
needed. Lesotho is a small country th at needs to better integrate into the regional economic settings 
to find market access for its goods and services. Financial assistance is required to increase limited 
budgetary allocations to participate in trade negotiations. Moreover, Lesotho is pursuin g 
improvements in trade facilitation to facilitate cross -border trading with South Africa. However, 
additional funding is needed to expedite the process.  
60. Peru stated that the National Strategic Development Plan (PEDN) and the National Strategic 
Export Plan  (PENX) identify several areas of priorities, including international competitiveness, 
connection to value chains, export diversification, trade facilitation, and transport infrastructure. 
One of PENX's strategic objectives is to improve the competitivenes s of the export sector. The 
National Policy of Competitiveness and Productivity proposes to generate capacities for the 
internationalization of companies and the diversification of markets, through the insertion and 
escalation in global and regional value chains, as well as the promotion of diverse modalities of 
internationalization. In terms of export diversification, PEDN seeks to strengthen the policy and the 
strategy of opening up trade through diversification into new emerging markets and within the 
framework of trade agreements. Likewise, PENX establishes as one of its strategic objectives an 
increase in diversified and sustainable exports of goods and services with added value. Peru also 
seeks to consolidate the system of trade facilitation and coordi nation, as well as the mechanisms to 
prevent crimes linked to high informality and low financial intermediation. PENX also points out that 
it is necessary to continue promoting the improvement of logistics infrastructure, as well as 
connectivity and streng thening interoceanic corridors. The National Competitiveness Policy and 
Productivity proposes to optimize access to logistics services and strengthen the logistics chain of 
foreign trade. Studies such as "Integral Analysis  of logistics in Peru of 5 export chains" shows that 
logistics costs in Peru make up between 20% and 50% of the value of the products analyzed.  
61. In its reply to the self -assessment questionnaire, Uganda  noted a few challenges. High cost 
of doing business, sustainable productivity, developin g value chains, inadequate infrastructure and 
finance are some of the impediments associated with industrialization and value upgrading. Export 
diversification remains difficult due to huge infrastructure deficit and skill gap. In terms of WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  international co mpetitiveness, Uganda continue to face issues of compliance with international 
standards, low productivity, and poor quality of products and services. Non -tariff barrier is an 
obstacle to regional integration. Issues in trade facilitation include budgetary  constraints, capacity 
building, and logistical arrangements.  
Additional information provided on the obstacles faced in furthering trade priorities: 
partner country's perspective  
Guinea -Bissau: […] lack of resources and political instability  
 
Kenya: […] high cost of production, counterfeit goods, illicit trade, limited resources, capacity, 
cybercrime, lack of awareness on intellectual property rights and regulatory framework  
 
Liberia: […] falling prices of major Liberian exports, couple with in frastructural deficit and 
relevant human capacity and logistical gaps  
 
Papua New Guinea:  […] lack of coordination between the government agencies and the 
development partners in collaborating to implement these priorities  
 
Sudan:  […] lack of know -how and t echnology in addition to financial resources  
 
Tuvalu:  […] lack of funding  
 
Ukraine:  […] low productivity, market and product concentration, limited financial access, 
deteriorating physical infrastructure, and cumbersome regulations and customs procedures  
 
Yemen:  […] 4 years of destruction caused by a militia -led coup on 21 September 2014  
 
Zambia:  […] lack of financial resources, inadequate trade policy analysis and negotiation skills, 
poor road and support infrastructure, low levels of industrialization  
 
Zimbabwe:  […] funding to implement industrial strategies as well as market access challenges 
for both goods and services  
 
 
62. United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  listed several gaps, 
namely effective mechanisms to mobilize national and international public and private sector 
investments for targeted productive investments, which require industrialization partnerships, 
enhanced access, including through resilient p hysical and information communication technology 
infrastructure, to export markets to allow the resulting local value added to be integrated in GVCs . 
Changes in Aid-for-Trade  priorities since 20166 
63. Forty-six out of 88 respondents (52%) to the partner count ry questionnaire stated no change 
to the AfT priorities since 2016. Out of the 46 responses, 21 are from Africa, 9 from Americas, 
10 from Asia, and 6 from Oceania. The majority of LLDCs (73%) and LDCs (58%) indicated no 
change to their AfT priorities.  
Chan ges in Aid-for-Trade  priorities since 2016: partner country's perspective  
Region  Change  No change  Unsure  
Africa  40% 60% 0% 
Asia 48% 43% 9% 
Americas  28% 50% 22% 
Oceania  40% 60% 0% 
 
6 Refer to index number 3 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Group  Change  No change  Unsure  
LDC 40% 58% 2% 
LLDC 23% 73% 4% 
UN SIDS 38% 54% 8% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
64. Antigua and Barbuda  indicated no change to its priorities since 2016 because the high 
middle -income country categori zation is impacting its ability to access grant funding to aid in needed 
network  infrastructure development and investment in alternative energy initiatives.  
65. Samoa  stated that the Strategy for the Development of Samoa 2016/2017 - 2019/2020 
priorities build on the progress of the previous strategy. There is a focus on increased exports  and 
private sector participation in development. This requires a coordinated approach to develop 
potential opportunities in commercial agricultural, agri -processing, manufacturing, services, fashion, 
cosmetics, tourism, investment, as well as a framework to develop the capacity to supply.  
66. Tuvalu  stated that its priorities remain the same, focusing mostly on outer island 
development, and shipping issues on poor ports and wharf for delivering of goods to outer island. 
Similarly, Niue's priorities continue to  focus on transport and communication infrastructure.  
67. Viet Nam  stated in its response that while its AfT priorities have not changed since 2016, 
there is an increasing attention towards export diversification in the current global trade context.  
68. A couple o f responses attributed the unchanged priorities to insufficient provision of Aid for 
Trade . Mauritius , for example, noted that its AfT priorities have not changed, but the country has 
not received any Aid for Trade  so far. Sudan  stated that the amount of Aid for Trade  received in the 
country is so limited compared to its needs. Therefore, its priorities remain the same and no change 
took place.  
69. ECOWAS  stated that its priorities have not changed. However, new issues are emerging, 
including e -commerce which i s growing in importance. However, this is a cross -cutting issue and is 
being addressed at sectoral levels e.g. telecommunications, education.  
70. WAEMU  indicated no change in AfT priorities, namely regional integration, trade facilitation, 
transport infrastructure, e -commerce, trade policy analysis, negotiation, and implementation.  
71. Thirty -five out of 88  respondents (40%) to the partner country questionnaire indicated a 
change to t he AfT priorities since 2016. Out of the 35 responses, 14 are from Africa, 5 from Americas, 
11 from Asia, 4 from Oceania, and 1 from Europe.  
72. Benin  stated that priorities have changed with a new direction and vision of the new President 
who assumed office i n 2016. These new orientations are reflected in the Government Action 
Programme  (GAP), as well as in the new National Development Plan (NDP), as well as its 
operationalization plan, namely the Growth Programme  for Sustainable Development (PC2D).  
73. Costa Rica  stated that e -commerce is a priority in the plurilateral e -commerce initiative. 
Priorities of the country may change due to the increasingly complex infrastructure, which negatively 
affects the country's competitiveness.  
74. Liberia  stated that the country ha s a new political administration and a new development 
strategy. The AfT priorities remain relatively the same technically but with more emphasis on road 
connectivity, youth empowerment, and education. The goal is to diversify the economy, enhance 
structur al transformation, value addition in order to increase export.  
75. Papua New Guinea  indicated that its priorities may be changed from time to time. Changes 
will be considered at the Annual Development partnership Dialogue.  
76. Several responses provided additional  information on the changed priorities. Angola , for 
instance, indicated that the new AfT priorities in the country are regional integration and trade WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  facilitation. Grenada  identified the development and export readiness of MSMEs as an area which 
is receivi ng more focus. Kazakhstan  made a reference to Information Kazakhstan 2020 which aims 
to create an enabling condition for the transition into information society. Tonga  focuses more on 
the supply -side connectivity with an emphasis on value chain development , industrialization 
transformation, and manufacturing to increase our products export value and substitute imports. 
AfT priorities in Kiribati  now focus on enablers to support Tourism and Fisheries development. Main 
challenges include limited AfT resources . 
77. Cabo Verde  indicated in its self -assessment questionnaire that the New National 
Development Plan (PEDS 2017 -2021) intends to set a strategic and sustainable development plan 
aligned with the challenges from  the country's graduation from the LDCs group, d elivering a different 
approach for Cabo Verde to serve as a platform for middle Atlantic, and engaged with regional 
integration.  
78. Guinea  identified the development of exports, especially of non -mining products, as a priority 
of the government in its poverty  reduction programme . This policy is supported by the consideration 
of Guinean processed products, which increases the role of the country's industrialization. Trade 
facilitation is a major objective in improving Guinea's economic development and trade cap acity.  
79. Honduras  listed the several priorities, namely trade facilitation, transport infrastructure, 
airport, railways, roads and ports, cross -border network and/or transport infrastructure, connection 
to value chains, and regional integration. With respect  to trade facilitation, Honduras is jointly 
implementing with the rest of the Central American countries that are members of the Central 
American economic integration subsystem, the initiative derived from the command of Central 
American presidents and hea ds of state contained in the Punta Cana Presidential Declaration of 
June 2014. The Central American Strategy of Trade Facilitation and Competitiveness with an 
emphasis on the coordinated management of Central America, was approved through agreement 
number -2015 (COMIECO -LXXIII), defining the actions to be achieved in the short term as well as 
the five trade facilitation measures that are being implemented in medium and long term. Its main 
objective is to promote the coordination of public and private sector agencies to improve the 
processes of collection, control, border security and facilitation of the transit of people, goods in a 
framework of effective control and efficient use of resources. Another priority is the implementation 
of the deep integration pr ocess through the customs union between El Salvador, Honduras and 
Guatemala, to which El Salvador ratified its adherence to the process on 20 November 2018.  
80. Kenya  listed a few new AfT priorities in the self -assessment questionnaire. Industrialization 
is a new priority in intra -Africa trade. In addition, the following areas are also identified as priorities: 
value -addition, creation of export processing zones, special economic zones, new power tariffs, 
increased surveillance on counterfeiting and other forms  of illicit trade .  
81. Kenya  stated that there are new priorities in intra -Africa trade, value -addition, creation of 
export processing zones, special economic zones, new power tariffs, increased surveillance on 
counterfeiting and other forms of illicit trade.  However, challenges remain in implementing trade 
regulation due to financing, unfair competition, and high cost of production infrastructure. In trade 
policy analysis, negotiations and implementation, there has been improvements in the legal 
provision for  enforcement of intellectual property rights to combat counterfeiting, new policy 
documents developed, new export promotion and development strategy established, Buy Kenya 
Build Kenya Initiative launched, and resources to enhance the capacity of the nation al trade 
negotiations council. There are, nonetheless, challenges related to inadequate capacity to achieve 
effective negotiations and implement amendments. In the area of e -commerce, Kenya now has 
better internet connectivity, regulations to guide e -comme rce activities, more online stores, 
employment opportunities, simplification of business processes, and better customer services. 
However, challenges in data security remain due to the lack of capacity and infrastructure to collect 
revenue, cybercrime, exp ensive internet connectivity, poor network coverage, and financial 
constraints to implement e -commerce initiatives.  
82. Madagascar  noted in its self -assessment questionnaire the need to put in place a legal 
framework and standardization to support green value chains. In the area of e -commerce, there is 
a need to address legal failure and technical constraints. In trade facilitation, the financial resources 
made available by the Enhanced Integrated Framework ( EIF) for Madagascar remain limited. Further 
support is needed in terms of a trade and customs information portal and the implementation of the 
Harmonized Integrated Tariff.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  83. Mali identified several priorities in its self -assessment questionnaire. In trade facilitation, the 
priorities include the ongo ing creation of the Trade Facilitation Committee and the strengthening of 
the capacities of the single window. The latter involves ensuring interconnection of this window with 
the structures involved, the treatment of essential products within the framewor k of the Trade Portal 
Platform, and the support to the MERCATOR programme  at customs level. Priorities in export 
diversification include the support for the implementation of activities of the Mali Export Promotion 
Agency (APEX Mali) and the EIF. In connec ting to value chains, priorities include supporting 
agricultural sectors to integrate them into GVCs . In transport infrastructure, priorities include the 
renewal of the vehicle fleet, revitalization of the railway company, support for the Transport 
Facilit ation Committee, construction of car parks along road corridors, construction of rest areas for 
drivers, support for improving territorial coverage and interconnection of transport and equipment 
infrastructures. In terms of network infrastructure, prioriti es include the support for the development 
of renewable energies and increase d access to electricity at a lower cost for the population, the 
support for the promotion of the extension and the use of ICT for all sectors and stakeholders, and 
the support for  the extension of the Internet and voice network, including fixed and mobile 
telephony.  
84. The Philippines  made a reference to the Philippine Development Plan 2017 -2022 which lays 
down a strong foundation for more inclusive growth, a high -trust and resilient society, and a 
globally -competitive knowledge economy by 2022. This strategic outcome is supported by strategic 
policies and macroeconomic fundamentals, and built on a solid bedrock of safety, peace and security, 
infrastructure, and a healthy environment. Specifically, the plan supports the advancing science, 
technology, and innovation, ensuring sound macroeconomic and microeconomic policies, and 
accelerating infrastructure development. Previously stated market access restrictions in certain 
economic activi ties and burdensome procedures and unnecessary costs are some of the identified 
obstacles. Passage in 2018 of the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Delivery of Government 
Services Act will address bureaucratic red tape.  
85. Tajikistan  stated that the priori ties listed in the National Development Strategy 2016 –2030 
are energy security and efficient use of energy, improved communications and reposition as a transit 
country, food security, nutrition and improve d public access to quality food, and creation of jo bs 
through increased private investment, economic diversification, and competitiveness. Three 
medium -term development programme s will be sequenced, with the first phase covering 2016 -2020, 
where strategic directions will include developing an institutional  support system, improving the 
business environment for private sector development, and increasing human capital productivity. 
The second phase (2021 –2025) is planned for rapid growth of investments. The third phase 
(2026 -2030) is projected to mark the tra nsition from industrialized growth strategies to diversified 
production and knowledge -based innovation.  
86. Togo  stated that as part of export diversification efforts, the country is introducing new 
sectors with high growth potential both in the agricultural s ector and in manufacturing and mining 
beyond the traditional export sectors. One of the main challenges in this regard is to promote these 
sectors, to remove the obstacles that undermine the development of these sectors, and to 
strengthen the competitivene ss of raw and especially processed local products on regional and 
international markets in order to considerably improve the trade balance. In the area of trade 
facilitation, Togo aims to become a logistics hub of excellence and a first -class business cent re in 
the sub -region, based on its strategic positioning and in serving landlocked countries from the 
autonomous port of Lomé. Togo also prioritizes connection to value chains. One of the priorities of 
Aid for Trade  is to support the development of promisi ng sectors and their integration into GVCs .  
87. In the area of trade finance, Togo recognizes that trade is cross -cutting and affects almost all 
sectors of activity. However, its financing has often not been a priority in strategic development 
orientations. I n view of the many issues and challenges raised by the revised Diagnostic Study for 
Trade Integration in Togo in 2017, it is imperative that trade finance be included among the priorities 
for Aid for Trade . This would better help the country to mobilize th e necessary resources, through 
trade, to finance its development. Other priority areas, including the economic empowerment of 
MSMEs, women, and youth. The real actors in the socio -economic development of LDCs are MSMEs  
including men, women and youth in the  rural and urban areas. The National Development Plan aims 
to structurally transform the economy for strong, sustainable, resilient, inclusive growth that creates 
decent jobs and improves social well -being.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  88. Ukraine  stated that the Programme  of Activities o f the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine was 
approved by the Decree of the Verhovna Rada of Ukraine in 2016 and 17 top priorities for mid -term 
perspective w ere defined, including support for exporters. The programme  was directed at the 
fulfilment of EU -Ukrain e Association Agreement and the Mid -term plan was developed to define 
directions for 2017 -2020. The plan is updated each year. The mid -term plan is the basis for budget 
planning, annual operational plans, and focused at donors' support.  
89. Yemen  highlighted t hat the country is still going through a very difficult time, since a 
militia -led coup took place on 21 September 2014. Most trade -related infrastructures were 
destroyed, and normal trade had been negatively affected since then. Yemen has been suffering 
from political instability and armed conflict for several years. This has set back previous development 
programme s and strategies defined before  the conflict . These difficulties are additional to the 
difficulties experienced by the Yemeni population prior to  the conflict, as a LDC. In this troubled 
period the focus of aid has been on humanitarian assistance. This is likely to be necessary for some 
time until the country has stabilized. Post -conflict, Aid for Trade  will be necessary to rebuild the 
country's in frastructure, build productive capacities and support the populations, particularly the 
most fragile groups, women and youth.  
90. Nineteen out of the 35 donor countries participating in the self -assessment questionnaire 
indicated no change in the AfT prioritie s or strategy since 2016.  France  stated that its strategy has 
not changed since 2016 but it takes full account of sustainable development objectives and the fight 
against climate change. Finland  made a reference to the government report on development poli cy 
issued in 2016. Latvia  made a reference to the Development Cooperation Policy Guidelines for 
2016-2020.  
91. Australia  stated that the 2017 Australian Foreign Policy White Paper reaffirmed that Australia 
will continue to use Aid for Trade  to catalyse sustained and inclusive economic growth to help reduce 
poverty.  
92. The Russian Federation  indicated that there have been no si gnificant changes since 2016. 
The concept of the State Policy of the Russian Federation on International Development Assistance 
was adopted in 2014 and minor additions were introduced in 2016.   
93. Sixteen out of the 35 donor countries participating in the sel f-assessment questionnaire 
indicated some changes in the AfT priorities or strategy since 2016. Germany  stated that a new AfT 
strategy was presented in 2017. The Netherlands  indicated that new priorities have been added 
based on the new development strateg y 2018, including youth, better focus on the SDG s, 
e-commerce and innovation. Spain  stated that there is greater importance to SMEs, women and 
labour and environmental issues. Although Spain has always taken into account SMEs, labour, 
environmental and gen der issues, in recent months it is increasing efforts in these areas. Sweden  
noted the importance of setting the priorities, especially in bilateral and regional strategies, taking 
into account developments in the country or region, as well as national and  regional priorities. The 
AfDB  indicated that its trade interventions are now primarily guided by Industrialize Africa Strategy 
and regional integration strategy.  
94. Canada  stated that in June 2017, Canada launched its Feminist International Assistance 
Policy. Canada firmly believes that promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls, 
including economic empowerment, are the most effective way to SDG 5, achieving gender equality 
and empowering all women and girls, including economic empowerment, more  inclusive and more 
prosperous world. This is being pursued alongside an inclusive approach to trade that seeks to 
promote an economic and trade environment conducive to growth to which everyone can contribute 
and from which everyone can benefit. By priori tizing gender equality and the empowerment of 
women and girls, Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy represents a significant change. 
This new approach will enable Canada to maximize the effectiveness of its international assistance, 
provide mo re integrated and responsive assistance, invest in innovation and research, deliver better 
reporting on results, develop more effective partnerships, and concentrate on those regions of the 
world where Canada can make the greatest difference in reducing po verty and inequality, particularly 
for women and girls.  
95. In addition, Canada is advancing economic diversification and inclusive approach to trade that 
promotes domestic and international policy priorities and supports economic growth that benefits WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  everyon e and maintains confidence in an open, rules -based trading system. Canada’s inclusive 
approach to trade involves informed and inclusive trade policy -making to ensure that positions are 
informed before and during negotiations by thorough consultations and o ngoing dialogue, including 
with often underrepresented groups such as women entrepreneurs, SMEs, and Indigenous peoples, 
provisions in trade agreements that are responsible, transparent, and inclusive, and international 
engagement to promote and advance re sponsible, transparent, and inclusive trade initiatives.  
96. Estonia  stated that the current development policy strategy covers the period starting as of 
2016. One can find that there has been a shift towards making trade facilitation more prominent as 
it was  during the previous strategy cycle. The primary focus countries for international and bilateral 
cooperation are the same, but the practical cooperation grows more international due to the rapidly 
increasing demand for e -governance and e -commerce, digital t rade, trade facilitation, ICT 
infrastructure development, advisory work, and related support.  
97. The European Union  stated that EU Aid for Trade  Strategy was updated in December 2017 
by means of the following two policy documents, namely the European Commiss ion Communication 
COM(2017)667 final and the European Council Conclusions 15573/17. The objectives of the new 
strategy remain unchanged. It includes poverty reduction through trade -led inclusive and 
sustainable growth. The only change is the way the E urope an Union can better combine its various 
policy instruments for that purpose, including Aid for Trade , EU trade agreements, EU investment 
instruments. The main drivers of the change in AfT priorities include the SDGs.  
98. Ireland  stated that its AfT expenditure is undertaken within the framework of the joint EU 
Aid for Trade  Strategy which was updated in 2017 to better align  the European Union's  AfT 
interventions with actual market -driven opportunities and constraints, to ensure a  better qualitative 
focus on LDCs and to increase the contribution of Aid for Trade  to SDGs  while supporting a stronger 
participation of women in the economy.  
99. The United Kingdom  has updated its economic development strategy which includes a focus 
on trade as an engine for poverty reduction. Trade priorities remain focused on building the potential 
for developing countries to trade more with the United Kingdom and the rest of the world and 
integrate into GVCs .  
100.  The EBRD  stated that it does not have an explicit AfT strategy, and its priorities are tailored 
to its countries of operation and local market developments. Since the last monitoring exercise in 
2016, EBRD stepped up its sup port of value chain integration, notably through the Value Chain 
Competitiveness Programme  under the EBRD -EU Trade and Competitiveness Programme , launched 
in selected countries.  
101.  The UNDP  indicated that in November 2017, UNDP’s Executive Board adopted a ne w Strategic 
Plan for the period 2018 -2021. A new Private Sector Development and Partnership Strategy for the 
same period was formulated to facilitate the implementation of the Strategic Plan. In terms of 
changes to trade priorities, a sharper focus is fore seen on inclusiveness of women and youth as well 
as environmental sustainability as cross cutting and specific purpose interventions throughout 
UNDP’s programme s. The main driver of change in UNDP’s priorities is the adoption of the 
2030 Agenda for Sustain able Development and the SDGs.  
Drivers of change in Aid-for-Trade  priorities7 
102.  The top three drivers of change to the AfT priorities are new national development strategy, 
economic diversification, and change of government. Of all partner country responden ts that stated 
changes in AfT priorities, 23 identified national development strategy as a driver of this change.   
 
7 Refer to index number 4 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 24 - 
 
  Additional information provided on the top drivers of changes in the Aid-for-Trade  
priorities since 2016: partner country's perspective  
Cabo Verde: It is important to align the country's priorities with international, regional and 
continental integration as well as the new national development strategy  
 
Guinea: The employment of women and youth in Guinea and the creation of conditions to improv e 
their employability have been an integral part of the changes proposed in the AfT programme in 
recent years. Much of the Aid for Trade received by Guinea in the last two years has been directed 
towards these sectors.  
 
Guinea -Bissau  [quoted the] National Strategy 2015 -2015 and its operational plan 2015 -2020, 
2009 DTIS update, drafting of a trade strategy  
 
Liberia  [quoted the] the new government development agenda, the pro -poor agenda for 
prosperity, the development pillar 1 and 2, and programmes to empower  Liberians through 
opportunities in education, health, youth empowerment and social protection and economic 
stability and job creation  
 
Madagascar : The transition to the category II project, removal of trade barriers and increase in 
supply -side capacity, i ncludes priorities on trade facilitation, electronic commerce and regional 
integration  
 
Myanmar  [quoted] Myanmar National Export Strategy and the Trade Development Programme 
for Myanmar  
 
Philippines:  Change in AfT priorities can be attributed to e -commerce development, 
industrialization objectives, and digital or ICT -related strategy  
 
Tonga:  The Government of Tonga is focusing more on developing trade, tourism and investment 
potential to attract big m ultinational investors, to diversify and expand our economic base, and 
to modernize our manufacturing capability and increase capacities  
 
 
103.  Two out of the five RECs participating in the self -assessment questionnaire, Pacific Islands 
Forum Secretariat  (PIFS ) and Transnamib , stated that their AfT priorities have changed and 
that these changes have been reflected in the dialogue with development partners. Transnamib  
indicated several reasons for this change, including the 2030 SDGs , continenta l or regional policy 
instruments, Agenda 2063 The Africa We Want, Trade Facilitation Agreement Implementation, and 
e-commerce development.  
104.   The PIFS stated that the Pacific regional AfT priorities for the period 2014 -2017 were covered 
by the latest version  of the Pacific Aid-for-Trade  Strategy, which is currently being updated. 
Preliminary findings from Members consultations suggest the next Pacific Aid-for-Trade  Strategy will 
be aligned to contemporary trade issues, including e -commerce, quality infrastruc ture, and 
comprehensive trade connectivity.  
105.  One South -South provider, Singapore , stated that the AfT priorities in the development policy 
with South -South partners have changed since 2016. The change, mainly driven by the 2030 SDGs, 
has been reflected in t he dialogue with South -South partner countries and development institutions. 
Singapore contributes to the WTO's Aid-for-Trade Initiative through capacity -building programme s 
under the Singapore Cooperation Programme  (SCP), which is administered by the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs, Singapore. As much as 80% or more of SCP programme s have a direct or indirect 
contribution to Aid-for-Trade Initiative. These include programme s designed around Singapore's 
experiences in tr ade and investment promotion, as well as other fields which contribute to the 
building of a country's economic infrastructure, strengthening of its economic and trade 
policy -making capabilities and ability to be integrated into the multilateral trading sys tem. These 
diverse fields include economic development, education, environment, urban development, civil 
aviation, port management, public governance, information and communication technology, 
healthcare, and disaster risk reduction and management. Since 2 016, the SCP has introduced new 
programme s, including on the digital economy, public -private partnerships, upskilling the workforce, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  and green climate financing to support developing countries in taking advantage of the Fourth 
Industrial Revolution and tac kling climate change.  
106.  Turkey  indicated no change in the AfT priorities embedded within the development policy with 
South -South partners. Sharing best -practice experience in technical cooperation, capacity building, 
displaying sustainable and joint solution s for next generations, promoting human development and 
capacity development of human resources and institutions, contributing to regional and international 
development agenda, enriching its bilateral development cooperation with mutual learning and 
triang ular organizations in forming a common agenda for economic, social and humanitarian 
development have always been the polic ies of Turkey.  
107.  Colombia  stated that there is no specific aid strategy for trade . 
Top drivers of change in Aid-for-Trade  priorities: p artner country's perspective  
 
Note:  The percentage share takes into account the ranks indicated for each selected option . 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
108.  Kazakhstan  stated that SMEs  serve as the foundation for Kazakhstan's economic prosperity. 
There is a need to focus on export -oriented industrialization as a central element of economic policy. 
The main objective of the country is to increase labour productivity and export of processed 
agricultural products 2.5 times by 2022. All state support m easures should be focused on the 
large-scale attraction of modern agricultural technology to the country and development of areas of 
the future economy such as alternative energy, new materials, biomedicine, big data, the internet 
of things, artificial int elligence, blockchain, etc.  
109.  Kenya  identified three drivers of changes to its AfT priorities. In terms of e -commerce 
development, there have been changes in modes of payment, marketing, licensing. Industrialization 
objectives of the country can create poten tial for job creation, poverty reduction, and economic 
growth. The implementation of the TFA contributes to the ease of doing business and global 
competitiveness.  
110.  Kiribati  stated that its recently developed national strategies include the Kiribati 20 -year 
Vision (KV20) Development Plan and sector plans such as Trade Policy Framework, the National 
0.4%1.1%1.1%1.5%1.5%1.5%1.5%1.9%2.2%2.2%3.0%3.0%3.7%3.7%3.7%5.6%6.0%6.7%7.5%11.2%12.0%20.2%
0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0%Other (please specify)Digital or ICT-related strategyRegional Trade Agreements (e.g. CFTA)Continental or regional policy instruments (e.g. Agenda 2063…Green growth objectivesNew investment strategyWomen's economic empowerment objectivesNew trade capacity needsPoverty reduction objectivesYouth economic empowerment objectivesExternal factors (e.g changes in key trading partners policies)New regional development or integration strategy2030 Sustainable Development GoalsExpansion of domestic services sectors and/or trade in servicesTrade finance accessE-commerce developmentTrade Facilitation Agreement ImplementationMSMEs growth and development objectivesIndustrialization objectivesChange of governmentEconomic diversificationNew national development strategyWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 26 - 
 
  Quality Policy and the Foreign Investment Strategies. Kiribati is aligning its national strategies with 
the SDGs. In terms of economic diversification, Kiribati De velopment Plan 2016 -2019 (KDP) seeks 
to implement broader export diversification strategies.  
111.  Mali stated that the SDGs  are integrated in the document on the Framework for Economic 
Recovery and Sustainable Development (CREDD 2016 - 2018). The CREDD is curren tly being revised 
for the period 2019 -2023. The CREDD Priority Action Plan, TFA, and the Agreement on the 
Continental Free Trade are being implemented.  
112.  Papua New Guinea  identified economic diversification as the number one driver to changes 
in the AfT priorities since 2016. Papua New Guinea relies on the non -renewable resource sector. The 
priority of the government is to broaden the country's economy base by investing in  agriculture, 
renewable resource sector. The second driver of this change is a new national development strategy, 
that is the Medium -Term Development Plan. Another driver of this change is trade facilitation as it 
enhances the country's ability to trade co mpetitively.  
113.  Samoa  stated that the direction of the National Strategy for the Development of Samoa 
16/17 - 19/20 is aligned with the SDGs  and the 2014 Samoa Pathway. Samoa seeks opportunities 
to diversify economy and achieve poverty reduction objectives. S amoa is exploring ways to promote 
its trade interests in the PACER Plus and the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement.  
114.  Ukraine  stated that the Strategy for Sustainable Development Ukraine 2020 represents an 
overarching strategic framework of the reforms i n Ukraine. To implement the strategy, the Cabinet 
of Ministers adopted an annual -based plan of measures for the period 2015 -2020. The strategy 
provides for a total of 62 reforms including those related to trade, namely deregulation and 
development of entre preneurship, SME development programme , tax reform, customs reform and 
EU customs integration, and Ukrainian export development programme . Other key areas for export 
promotion include Ukraine branding programme , innovation development programme , and touris m 
development programme . The strategy also identifies priorities in many adjacent areas that should 
remove multiple impediments to exports. In addition, the Programme  of Activities of the Cabinet of 
Ministers of Ukraine includes priorities on providing sup port for exporters. The National Export 
Strategy of Ukraine for 2017 -2021 (Ukraine Strategic Trade Development Roadmap) is aimed at 
creating an enabling environment that stimulates trade and innovation for diversified exports and 
developing business and tr ade support services that improve the competitiveness of enterprises, 
including SMEs.  
115.  Yemen  stated that the militia -led coup of 21 September 2014 has disrupted life in Yemen 
after capturing the capital Sana'a. The legitimate internationally -recognized gove rnment had to 
move to Yemen second city of Aden in order to operate under extreme difficult conditions. Therefore, 
there is a basic need to reinstate security and stability and meet emergency humanitarian aid, as 
well as starting reconstruction of the coun try's infrastructure and productive capacities.  
116.  Zimbabwe  prioritizes industrialization for economic development and growth. The respondent 
stated that Zimbabwe ratified the TFA in 2018. Hence, there is a need to prioritize its 
implementation. Zimbabwe is a lso participating in Southern African Development Community 
(SADC), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), Tripartite and the African 
Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) negotiations on trade in services.  
117.  The top drivers of change in AfT priorities as identified by the RECs include the 2030 SDGs, 
the implementation of the TFA, and e -commerce development.  
118.  Among the drivers of change in AfT priorities identified by Singapore  as a South -South 
provider, the 203 0 SDGs, new regional development or integration strategy, and e -commerce 
development are among the top. Singapore  stated that the country is committed to supporting, 
through human resource development, the efforts of other developing economies to implement  the 
UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 SDGs. A key regional development is the 
signing of the ASEAN Agreement on e -commerce in 2018. The Agreement recognizes the potential 
of the digital economy and will help develop the e -commerce indu stry by creating a conducive 
environment for the growth of e -commerce through, among others, advancing trade rules in 
e-commerce and building up greater digital connectivity in the region.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 27 - 
 
  119.  The top driver of change in AfT priority from the donor's perspecti ve is the 2030 SDGs. 
Top drivers of change in Aid-for-Trade  priorities: donor's perspective  
 
Note:  The percentage share takes into account the ranks indicated for each selected option . 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
120.  Canada  stated that the country adopted a Feminist International Assistance Policy that seeks 
to eradicate poverty and build a more peaceful, more inclusive and more prosperous world. SDG 5, 
achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls, including economic empowerment, 
is at the heart of Canada’s approach to implementing the 2030. Canada believes that the best way 
to eradicate poverty and leave no one behind is through the Feminist International Assistance Policy 
and inclusive approach to trade. Can ada is committed to helping achieve the SDGs in Canada and 
in developing countries.  
121.  The EBRD  stated that its priorities are partly driven by the market developments in each of 
its countries of operations as well as updated country strategies. Under its Tra de Facilitation 
Programme , the EBRD has continuously supported access to trade and is working with other 
international organizations to enhance the coordination of capacity development activities to further 
improve access to trade finance in the face of em erging challenges.  
122.  Estonia  stated that going more digital is often related to new development strategies in the 
partner developing countries. E -commerce relates both to women and youth empowerment 
objectives, and thus, is also a horizontal catalyst. Growth  of MSMEs relates to the previous ones and 
creates increased demand for different trade facilitation tools, including enhancing e -governance 
toolkits.  
123.  The European Union  stated that the 2030 Agenda brought about an increased complexity 
for ODA due to the i nterdependence of the 17 SDGs and its 169 targets. It also calls for the 
mobilization of other means of implementation in trade, investment, and private sector beyond ODA. 
The change is also driven by EU Trade and Investment instruments. With the multiplic ation of EU 
FTAs with developing countries since 2007, there was a case for EU Development Cooperation to 
use them further as leverage for sustainable development in all three dimensions, economic, social, 
environmental. Likewise, E uropean Union's investme nt instruments, such as blending and the 
External Investment Plan, that are active in areas also falling under the Aid-for-Trade Initiative, offer 
leverage opportunities. In addition, women and youth empowerment, social and environmental 
sustainability als o drive these changes. Although being those most in need, LDCs absorption of Aid 
0%0%0%1%1%1%3%3%3%3%4%4%4%4%4%4%5%6%7%8%9%26%
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%Expansion of domestic services and/or trade in servicesExternal factorsNew trade capacity needsGreen growth objectivesTrade finance accessYouth empowerment objectivesIndustrialization objectivesNew investment strategyNew regional development or integration strategyOtherContinental or regional policy instrumentsTrade Facilitation Agreement ImplementationE-commerce developmentEconomic diversificationDigital or ICT-related strategyMSMEs growth and development objectivesPoverty reduction objectivesRegional Trade Agreements (e.g. CFTA)New national development strategyChange of governmentWomen empowerment objectives2030 Sustainable Development GoalsWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  for Trade  has not picked up overtime. In terms of trade facilitation, the updated EU Aid-for-Trade  
Strategy focuses on more relevant AfT delivery. This means delivering the ri ght support at the right 
time. The TFA is a landmark in that it embeds development cooperation. As such, it provides a clear 
blueprint for reform and facilitates donors' alignment and coordination.  
124.  Switzerland  stated that the AfT strategy is defined in Sw itzerland's messages on international 
cooperation, which are valid for a period of four years each. The current strategy can be found in 
the message on international cooperation 2017 -2020. In the new strategy, some adjustments have 
been made compared to th e old strategy, including more specific measures in promoting the private 
sector to improve the living conditions of poor population groups, access to financial services and 
technologies, more commitment to improving production conditions, and more energy efficiency and 
renewable energy projects. In addition, the new strategy also incorporates better consideration of 
the social dimension of sustainability to address the fact that while many developing and emerging 
countries have experienced rapid growth, th e gap between rich and poor has remained the same or 
has widened further.  
125.  The United Kingdom  stated that the country is committed to ensuring its AfT approach is 
aligned with its commitment to the SDGs, UK Aid Strategy, Economic Development Strategic 
Frame work, and the TFA. The United Kingdom will remain committed to poverty reduction and 
gender empowerment objectives after leaving the European Union.  
126.  The UNDP  stated that the UNDP’s new Strategic Plan (2018 -2021) charts the way of UNDP’s 
contribution to the  realization of the Agenda, recognizes the significant role to be played by private 
sector actors in sustainable development. This led, in turn, to the formulation of a new Strategy for 
Private Sector Development and Partnerships (2018 -2021) which articula tes among others, UNDP’s 
support to partner countries around service offers such as policies and productive capacities for 
sustainable value chains and inclusive business, the private sector and gender equality, transforming 
MSMEs towards the SDGs, governm ent policies that provide an enabling environment for doing 
business and shape sustainable business and investment practices, and Improving livelihoods at the 
bottom of the pyramid through inclusive business.  
Changes in priorities are reflected in the dial ogue with partners8 
127.  Thirty -two out of the 88 partner country respondents who indicated changes in their AfT 
priorities stated that these changes have been reflected in the dialogue with development partners.  
Liberia , for example, indicated in its reply to the self -assessment questionnaire that the New 
Development Agenda was subject to consultation with national and international stakeholders.  
Cabo  Verde  added in its self -assessment questionnaire that the dialogue with the development 
partners are aligned with the priority set in National Development Plan (PEDS 2017 -2021).  Grenada  
indicated that it conducts dialogue with donors to explore new markets and products to promote its 
country's exports.  Kenya  stated that its Government involves donors in t he crafting of a workplan. 
Yemen  stated that its Government takes every opportunity to consult and explain the situation in 
the country. Development partners are, therefore, made fully aware on the immediate needs of the 
country. Zimbabwe  stated that it ha s submitted requests for technical capacity training from the 
WTO, UNCTAD and UNIDO on trade facilitation, trade in services, and industrial policy 
implementation.  
 
8 Refer to index number 5 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 29 - 
 
  Changes in Aid-for-Trade  priorities are reflected in the dialogue with development 
partners:  partner country's perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  35 100%  
Asia 22 96% 
Americas  17 94% 
Oceania  9 90% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 37 97% 
LLDC 22 100%  
UN SIDS  22 92% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
128.  Angola  stated that the AfT priorities that have been taken into account with development 
partners are the implementation of the TFA within the framework of the WTO and the implementation 
of the Southern African De velopment Community Free Trade Agreement.  
129.  Benin  stated that changes in the AfT priorities have been taken into account through the 
consultation and dialogue frameworks designed around the dialogue tools of the National 
Development Plan, Government Action P lan, Growth Programme  for Sustainable Development 
(PC2D) and the Medium -Term Trade Programme  resulting from the Diagnostic Study on Trade 
Integration.  
130.  Guinea  stated that as part of the dialogue that the Government is holding with its partners, 
the issue of  youth employment is placed the heart of the agenda. For example, within the framework 
of the E uropean Union's "Support Programme for the socio-economic integration of the Guinean 
youth " (INTEGRA), the issues related to the employment of youth and women are taken into account.  
131.  Kiribati  stated that changes were discussed at the bi -annual Kiribati Development Partners 
Forum held in June 2018. The linkages between key development strategies in the KV20 and Aid for 
Trade  were discussed.  
132.  Madagascar  identified the EIF as the starting point of launching work on the elaboration of a 
medium -term trade development plan that will serve as a basis for negotiations with stakeholders 
and technical and f inancial partners.  
133.  Mali stated that the Common Country Assistance Strategy (SCAP) was developed by technical 
and financial partners to support the implementation of priority actions of CREDD. The Framework 
Plan of the United Nations for Development Assista nce (UNDAF) was developed by the UN agencies 
in Mali to support certain priority actions of the government. The African Forum of National 
Facilitation Committees were organized by UNCTAD and International Trade Centre  (ITC) with 
financial support of the Eu ropean  Union, the Bank Global Alliance, the Global Alliance on Facilitation 
of Trades.  
134.  Papua New Guinea  reflected changes in the AfT priorities through a dialogue mechanism 
between the Government, development partners, NGOs, and private sector. It also con ducts bilateral 
policy dialogue with all development partners through high -level forum and existing dialogue 
mechanism highlighted in the Development Cooperation Policy.  
135.  Tonga  stated that it has registered its interest to lead the supply -side connectivity programme  
of the Commonwealth Secretariat, and its intention to accede to the Economic Partnership 
Agreement (EPA) with the European Union.  
136.  Togo  stated that it is in the process of highly inclusive and participatory preparation of the 
National Development Plan 2018 -2022 and in high -level seminars on ownership of the development 
plan by technical and financial partners. It also reflects changes in priorities during bilateral meetings WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  with donors or in presenting on Togo's experience at the United Nations. Th e response also 
highlighted the importance of aligning national priorities with the SDGs . 
137.  Two RECs participating in the questionnaire indicated that changes in the AfT priorities have 
been reflected in the dialogue with development partners.  
138.  PIFS  stated th at at the Aid for Trade  Global Review 2017, the PIFS organized a closed -door 
side-event with development partners to identify priorities under the new Aid-for-Trade  Strategy, 
and many of the priorities identified on that occasion are being reflected in the  ongoing work to 
update the strategy. Moving forward, PIFS' engagement with relevant development partners will be 
guided by the institutional arrangements of the next Pacific Aid-for-Trade  Strategy. PIFS engages 
its development partners on a regular basis,  including through the annual Post Forum Dialogue 
Partners meeting.  
139.  Sixteen out of the 35 donors participating in the questionnaire stated that changes in the 
AfT priorities have been reflected in the dialogue with partner countries and development 
institutions.  
140.  Canada  stated that the country will continue to promote and advance inclusive trade and 
gender equality through enhanced bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement and participation 
in international economic forums, such as t he WTO, the OECD, the APEC, G7 and the G20. 
Throughout these engagements, Canada has affirmed its strong support for the global rules -based 
trading system and the important role that the WTO plays in facilitating world trade. In 2017 at the 
Eleventh WTO Mi nisterial Conference in Argentina, Canada led the charge on the Joint Declaration 
on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment, which aims to level the playing field and advance 
women’s economic empowerment around the globe, affirming its commitment expressed  in the 
Feminist International Assistance Policy.  
141.  Canada will continue to lead discussions at the WTO on transparency, dispute settlement and 
the development of trade rules for the 21st century. Canada continues to uphold and support the 
bodies and organi zations of the UN system. In 2017 -2018, Canada’s long -term institutional support 
to UN system organizations totalled USD 293.8 million. These contributions support the 
organizations’ core operations, including efforts to reduce poverty, promote sustainable  
development and foster inclusion, gender equality and women’s empowerment. More specifically, 
Canada’s support helps these organizations to advance key shared priorities in line with the Feminist 
International Assistance Policy, including the goal to acce lerate global progress in gender equality 
and the economic empowerment of women . Canada also supports a number of multilateral 
development institutions, global initiatives and international humanitarian assistance organizations, 
to fulfil its international  development mandate of helping lift people out of poverty. More than one 
third of Canada's ODA is channelled through trusted multilateral organizations, including AfDB, Asia 
Development Banks, World Bank and International Finance Institution. Canada’s dis cussions with 
partners include areas such as labour, environment, gender, and governments’ right to regulate; a 
focus on transparency in the negotiation process and inclusive consultations; and consideration of 
emerging trade policy and economic issues, su ch as innovation or goods and services traded online .   
142.  The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is an 
example of how changes in Canada’s trade policy reflect in Canada's  dialogue at the regional level. 
Once fully i mplemented, the 11 countries, including a number of developing countries will form a 
trading bloc representing 495 million consumers and 13.5% of global GDP. The CPTPP reflects 
Canada’s inclusive approach to trade and stands to benefit a broad range of sec tors, including 
agriculture (beef, pork), fish and seafood, forestry, financial services, and various industrial 
products. Bilaterally, Canada pursues the same approach. In 2017, Canada and Chile signed 
amendments to the FTA including a dedicated chapter o n trade and gender  — a first for Canada and 
any G20 nation. The modernized Canada -Israel FTA (2018) also included a gender chapter. Going 
forward, Canada is negotiating with M ERCOSUR  countries an ambitious, comprehensive and inclusive 
FTA in the pursuit of  tangible progressive trade elements, such as in the areas of gender, MSMEs, 
environment and labour.  
143.  Estonia  stated that Estonia has been a future -oriented and innovative advocate of 
e-commerce and digital trade in WTO and UNCTAD. The country also has sol id cooperation with the 
World Economic Forum, ITC, International Telecommunications Union and other stakeholders in WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  these fields. Estonian e -Residency programme  is a founding member of the UNCTAD e -Trade for All 
initiative from Nairobi in 2016. Of course, one could wish sometimes that the international policy 
discussions would follow the demand for these activities a little bit faster.  
144.  The Netherlands  stated that changes in AfT priorities are reflected in the dialogue with 
partners such as TradeMark East Af rica (TMEA), Trade Facilitation West Africa Project (TFWA), Centre 
for Business Innovation (CBI), ITC, the World Bank, ECOWAS, West African Economic and Monetary 
Union (WAEMU) through, inter alia , steering committees, policy dialogues, conversations, 
devel opment partners forums.  
145.  Spain   stated that the change in AfT priorities has not been reflected much in the dialogue 
with aid recipients, but mainly with trading partners when negotiating trade agreements  
146.  Sweden  stated that the changes in priorities during the period have not been dramatic, but 
priorities are continuously addressed in the dialogue with partner organizations and countries. The 
dialogue with partner countries and development institutions is also guided by the more specific 
country -level strate gies. 
Relevant policy documents which contain Aid-for-Trade  priorities9 
Albania  [quoted] Albania Work Plans and Strategies  
 
Angola  [quoted] the National Development Plan 2018 -2022 
 
Antigua and Barbuda  [quoted] Revised Treaty of Basseterre  
 
Bangladesh  [quot ed] 7th Five Year Plan, National Perspective Plan 2010 -2021 
 
Barbados  [quoted] IDB Country Strategy Paper Barbados, CDB Country Strategy Paper Barbados 
2015-2018, National Indicative Programme Barbados 2014 -2020 
 
Benin  [quoted] Benin's National Development Plan (NDP), the Growth Programme for Sustainable 
Development (PC2D), the Government Action Programme (GAP), the Medium -Term Trade 
Programme (MTP), the National Trade Development Policy (NTDP), the Strategic Plan for t he 
Development of the Agricultural Sector (SPDS)  
 
Burundi  [quoted] Strategic Framework for Growth and Poverty Reduction (CSLPII 2012 -2017), 
Burundi National Development Plan (PND 2018 -2027)  
 
Cabo Verde  [quoted] IX Legislature Government Programme, strategi c plan for sustainable 
development  
 
Cambodia  [quoted] Trade SWAP, Rectangular Strategy Phase IV, the Sixth Legislature of the 
National Assembly 2018 2023, Industrial Development Policy 2015 -2025 
 
Central African Republic [quoted] Diagnostic Study for Trade Integration, National Peace 
Recovery and Consolidation Plan (RCPCA), Strategy for the development of petroleum and mining 
resources, a five -year Central African Forest Policy Paper, Development Policy Paper 2017 -2021 
 
Chad  [quoted] The Second Diagnos tic Study on Trade Integration in Chad (EDIC II/2013), the 
National Development Plan 2017 -2021 (PND 2017 -2021), DTIS II Priority Action Plan 2016 -2020, 
National Trade Strategy, Sectoral Development Strategies  
 
China  [quoted] China and LDCs Accessions Progr amme (China Programme)  
 
Colombia  [quoted] Plan Nacional de Desarrollo 2018 -2022 
 
Comoros  [quoted] DTIS Revises 2015 Revised SCADD 2018  
 
 
9 Refer to index number 6 i n the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Cook Islands  [quoted] National Trade Development Framework, Regional Aid -for-Trade Policy 
developed by PIFS  
 
Costa Rica  [quoted] Border Integration Programme - IDB Loan  
 
Democratic Republic of Congo  [quoted] Plan National Stratégique de Développement (PNSD), 
Étude Diagnostique sur l'Intégration du Commerce (EDIC), Document National de Stratégie 
Commerciale (DNSC), Rapport d e l'Examen de Politiques Commerciales (2016)  
 
Dominican Republic [quoted] Decree, El Ministerio de Industria, Comercio y Mipymes (MICM)  
 
Ecuador  [quoted] National Development Plan of Ecuador 2017 -2021, Organic Code of Production, 
Trade and Investment (COP CI), Organic Statute of Organizational Management by Processes of 
the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment  
 
El Salvador  [quoted] Estrategia Centroamericana de Facilitación de Comercio y Competitividad, 
Plan Quinquenal de Desarrollo  
 
Ethiopia  [quoted] G rowth and Transformation Plan II  
 
Gabon  [quoted] Gabon Vision 2025, Emerging Gabon Strategic Plan, National Infrastructure 
Director Scheme, Gabon Industrial, Gabon Green, Gabon of Services, Human Development 
Strategy  
 
The Gambia  [quoted] National Development Plan 2018 -2021, National Trade Policy 2018 -2022 
Industrial Policy and Trade Strategy 2018 -2022, National Investment Policy 2018 -2022, National 
MSME Policy 2014 -2018, National Entrepreneurship Policy 2016, Gambia National Agri cultural 
Investment Plan, National Energy Policy, Strategy and Action Plan, National Transport Policy, 
National Quality Policy Diagnostic Trade Integration Study 2013  
 
Georgia  [quoted] Social -economic Development Strategy of Georgia "Georgia 2020", SME 
Development Strategy of Georgia 2016 -2020 
 
Grenada  [quoted] Grenada National Export Strategy 2017 -2021 
 
Guatemala  [quoted] Política Nacional de Desarrollo, K´atun, Nuestra Guatemala 2032.  
 
Guinea -Bissau  [quoted] DTIS Updated in 2016, Guinea -Bissau Trade St rategy 2017 -2021, 
Guinea -Bissau Strategic Plan 2015 -2025 and its Operational Plan 2015 -2020 
 
Honduras  [quoted] Strategic Plan for the Economic Development Sector  
 
Indonesia  [quoted] Rencana Pembangunan Jangka Menengah 2020 -2024 
 
Iraq [quoted] National Deve lopment Plan  
 
Kazakhstan [quoted] Kazakh Export, Kazakh Invest  
 
Kenya  [quoted] National Trade Facilitation Work plan, Medium Term plan III under vision 2030, 
National Export Promotion and Development Strategy, National Trade Policy, Kenya Health Policy, 
2014-2030 
 
Kiribati  [quoted] Trade Policy Framework, KV20, KDP 2016 -2019, Fisheries Policy, National ICT 
Policy  
 
Lao PDR  [quoted] DTIS, Trade and Private Sector Development Roadmap 2016 -2020 
 
Lesotho  [quoted] Diagnostic Trade Integration Study Update 2013, A GOA Implementation 
Strategy for Lesotho National Trade Policy  
 
Liberia  [quoted] Pro -Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (2018 -2023)  
 WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Madagascar  [quoted] study on the inventory and analysis of bilateral, regional and multilateral 
trade agreements, st udy on the capitalization of trade studies and research, Madagascar's export 
strategy for industry and services, rapid assessment of e -readiness  
 
Malawi  [quoted] Malawi Growth and Development Strategy III, National Export Strategy, 
National Transport Master Plan  
 
Mali [quoted] The National Trade Development Policy (NTDP) and its Action Plan 2018 -2023, 
Report of the Review of Mali's Trade Policy Review pre pared in 2017, Mali's report on the Trade 
Surveillance of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), Diagnostic Trade 
Integration Study (DTIS) and its action matrix updated in 2015 developed as part of the 
implementation of the EIF in Mali 
 
Myan mar [quoted] Myanmar National Export Strategy, The Trade & Development Programme 
for Myanmar, Myanmar DTIS (2016)  
 
Nepal  [quoted] Nepal Trade Integration Strategy 2016  
 
Niger  [quoted] Plan de Développement, Économique, et Social  
 
Niue [quoted] Niue Trade Policy Framework 2016  
 
Papua New Guinea  [quoted] National Trade policy 2017 – 2032, Medium -Term Development 
Plan      2016 - 2017 /2018 -2019, PNG Development Cooperation Plan 2018 – 2022 
 
Peru [quoted] National Strategic Development Pl an, National Export Strategic Plan, National 
Competitiveness and Productivity Policy, National Policy on International Technical Cooperation, 
National Strategy to Strengthen Trade Capacities  
 
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  [quoted] National Economic and Social Development Plan 
2013- 2025 
 
Samoa  [quoted] Strategy for the Development of Samoa 16/17 - 20/21  
 
Sao Tome and Principe  [quoted] Medium and long -term business strategy and detailed 
roadmap for its implementation Programme of the 17th Constituent Gove rnment Roadmap for 
Trade Facilitation 2022 -2023 and the Diagnostic Trade Integration Study  
 
Senegal  [quoted] The Emerging Senegal Plan (PSE), the Diagnostic Trade Integration Study 
(revised DTIS 2013), the Medium -Term Plan, the Emerging Senegal Plan (ESP) , the trade sector 
policy letter and the AfT resource mobilization strategy  
 
Solomon Islands  [quoted] Solomon Islands Trade Policy Framework  
 
Tajikistan  [quoted] ADB Country Partnership Strategy Tajikistan 2016 -2020, National 
Development Strategy of the Re public of Tajikistan  
 
Tanzania  [quoted] Tanzania Diagnostic Trade Integration Study (DTIS) 2017, National Five Year 
Development Plan 2016/17 -2020/21, Regional Development Strategy 2016/17 -2020/21  
 
Togo  [quoted] National Trade Development Policy, Diagnostic Study for Trade Integration and 
Operational Action Plan, National Development Plan, National AGOA Utilization Strategy  
 
Tonga  [quoted] The recent Private Sector Development Strategy (PSDS), the Nation al Trade 
Policy statement submitted to WTO, Tonga Foreign Direct Investment Bill, and the National 
Investment Policy Statement  
 
Turkey  [quoted] Strategy and Budget Presidency, Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency,  
Ministry of Trade  
 
Uganda  [quoted]  National Development Plan (NDP) II, Uganda Diagnostic Trade Integration 
Study Update, Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Sector Development Plan 2015/16 -2019/20  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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Ukraine  [quoted] Ukraine Strategy 2020  
 
Uzbekistan  [quoted] Aid -for-Trade (Phase III) Project Goal 
 
Vanuatu  [quoted] Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan, Vanuatu Trade Policy 
Framework  
 
Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela  [quoted] Programmea Patria 2013 -2019 
 
Viet Nam  [quoted] strategy of international integration  
 
Yemen  [quoted] the UNDP in  Yemen  
 
Zambia  [quoted] Seventh National Development Plan (7NDP), National Trade Policy, National 
Export Strategy, Zambia African Growth Opportunity Act Strategy (AGOA), Micro, Small and 
Medium Enterprise Development Policy, National Industrialization Poli cy, Vision 2030, Local 
Content Strategy  
 
Zimbabwe  [quoted] Industrial Development Policy, National Trade Policy Agriculture 
Development Policy, SMEs Development Policy, National Export Strategy  
 
ECOWAS  [quoted] Policy documents relevant to Aid for Trade in clude: Community Development 
Programme (CDP), ECOWAS Aid -for-Trade Strategy and Action plan (2016 – 2020), ECOWAS 
Customs Code (2017), ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), ECOWAS Regional 
Infrastructures Development Master Plan, Revised ECOWAS power generation masterplan 
(2019 -2033), ECOWAS West African Power Pool (WAPP), West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), 
ECOWAS Energy Policy (2003), ECOWAS/UEMOA White paper for Energy Access in 
Rural/Peri -Urban Areas (2006), ECOWAS Electricity Generation and Transmis sion Master Plan, 
Supplementary Acts to harmonize the ICT sector’s policy and regulatory frameworks , ECOWAS 
Private Sector Development Strategy , ECOWAS MSME Charter (2016), ECOWAS Gender Policy 
(2005), Supplementary Act on Equality between Women & Men fo r Sustainable Development 
(2014), ECOWAS Policy for Gender Mainstreaming in Energy Access, ECOWAS Framework & Action 
Plan for Gender and Trade (2014), ECOWAS Framework & Action Plan for Gender and Migration 
(2014), ECOWAS Youth Policy, ECOWAS Youth Employm ent Action Plan (2018 – 2022), ECOWAS 
Common Industrial Policy and Action Plan (2016 – 2020), West Africa Quality System Programme, 
ECOWAS Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP) and Regional Agricultural Investment Policy, ECOWAS 
Mining Development Policy, ECOWAS Te chnical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) 
strategy, PESCAO – Improved Regional Fisheries Governance in West Africa  
 
PIFS  [quoted] PIFS Trade Policy Framework, Members’ Trade Policy Frameworks e.g. Solomon 
Islands, Republic of Marshal Islands, Vanuatu  
 
WAEMU  [quoted] WAEMU Strategic Plan 2011 -2020, Regional Trade Facilitation Programme 
(PRFE), Regional Trade Development Prog ramme (PRDEC), Regional Programme for the 
Implementation of Common Market Building Instruments (PRMIEM), Document for Community 
Action on Road Infrastructure and Transport (PACITR), Regional Air Transport Development 
Programme (RATDP), Regional Programme f or Industrial Development and Promotion of the 
Private Sector, Regional Energy Development Programme (PRDE), Regional Programme to Reduce 
the Vulnerability of Populations from Food Insecurity, Regional Support Programme for Gender 
Mainstreaming and Women's  Empowerment in the UEMOA region  
 
 
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  SECTION 2: ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION  
Economic diversification is a priority in the development strategy10 
147.  Eighty out of the 88 partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire (91%) indicated that their national development strategy identifies 
economic diversification as a priority.  
Trade priorities are part of national or regional development strategy: partner country's 
perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Perce ntage share per region  
Africa  34 97% 
Asia 21 91% 
Americas  15 83% 
Oceania  8 80% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 38 100%  
LLDC 22 100%  
UN SIDS  19 79% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
Additional information on the economic diversification priorities: partner country's 
perspective  
Bhutan [mentioned] diversification of export products and markets and focussing more on service 
sector such as tourism.  
 
Brunei Darussalam  [mentioned] diversification fro m oil and gas industries  
 
Burkina Faso  [mentioned] PNDES National Export Strategy, DTIS, National Rural Sector 
Programme (PNSR2), Sectoral Policy Industrial and Artisanal Transformation (PS - TIA) 
 
Democratic Republic of Congo  [mentioned] agricultural and i ndustrial sectors with economic 
growth such as coffee, cocoa and palm oil  
 
Ethiopia  [mentioned] foreign exchange which is primarily important for Agricultural development 
led industrialization  
 
Georgia  [mentioned] export diversification, SME development, agriculture development, and 
significant industrialization  
 
Indonesia  stated that industrialization encourages economic diversification  
 
Kyrgyz Republic  noted the importance of economic diversification through FDIs to support the 
modernization of production facilities  
 
Lao PDR  noted the importance of economic diversification to improve inclusiveness and reduce 
heavy dependence reliance on resource sectors  
 
Madagascar  stated that economic diversification is a priority for the national emergence 
programme for the new regime that has just been launched in January 2019  
 
Mauritius  [mentioned] Vision 2030 statement and three -year strategic plan. Economic 
diversification is measured by share of each sector contr ibution in overall GDP  
 
 
10 Refer to index number 7 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Mexico  noted the importance of economic diversification to reduce trade dependency from the 
US and open new export markets and input supplies  
 
Solomon Islands  noted the importance of an economic base that is inclusive of diverse economic 
activities and investmen ts 
 
Sudan  noted the importance of promoting other sectors such as services sector and diversifying 
seasons in production to satisfy the needs of different consumers in different regions  
 
148.  A set of responses indicated the process through which economic dive rsification is being set 
as a priority in the national or regional development strategy. Angola stated that the Angolan 
Executive established a programme  to support production and diversification of exports and import 
substitution called PRODESI. This programme  should accelerate the diversification of national 
production in a targeted and effective manner. Barbados  stated that its national development 
strategy is currently being revised. Grenada  stated that the Government has been communicating 
with differe nt donor agencies in terms of developing new ways to diversify exports.   
149.  Cabo Verde  stated that tourism makes up the largest share of the country’s GDP, making 
the country highly dependent on this sector. The National Development Plan targets other sectors  
of the economy for better diversification.  
150.  Central African Republic  stated that the country is rich in important natural resources. 
However, the economy is only based on a few cash crops, such as coffee, cotton, diamonds, and 
wood. Economic diversificatio n is defined as the expansion or development of new sources of income 
for the country.  
151.  Chad  stated that the overall objective of Axis 3 of the 2017 -2021 National Development Plan 
is to diversify sources of economic growth and boost sectors that generate gr owth and create decent 
jobs. Economic diversification will be based on Chad's comparative advantage and, in particular, the 
development of sectors in agriculture, livestock, fisheries and mining. The development of these 
sectors will initiate the structura l transformation of the national economy and ensure food 
sovereignty. Three sub -axes have been identified, namely a diversified and rapidly growing 
economy, financing of the economy mainly through domestic savings, credits to the economy as 
well as foreign  private capital; and infrastructure as a lever for sustainable development.  
152.  Colombia  stated that the National Council of Economic and Social Policy (CONPES) 3866 of 
the 2016 National Policy of Productive Development contains objectives which aim to divers ify and 
upgrade the productive apparatus as well as the export basket. It seeks to do so through a 
methodology that sets priorities for each productive sector. This document shows measurements of 
economic diversification such as mapping of economic complex ity, revealed and latent comparative 
advantage, productive chains, among others.  
153.  Comoros  highlighted the importance of diversification with a view to widening the export 
base to three products of agricultural origin. The country also aims at satisfying dom estic demand 
while targeting the regional market to take better advantage of regional integration.  
154.  Cook Islands  stated that tourism is currently the main economic driver of Cook Islands. While 
the country does not envision this changing any time soon, ther e is recognition in both the country's 
overarching country policy document, the National Sustainable Development Plan, and the country's 
trade framework. The response noted that it is risky to have 70% of the country's GDP bolstered by 
tourism, given its v ulnerabilities to climate change. Thus, it is a priority to diversify the country's 
economy through fisheries, trade, and offshore financial services.  
155.  Côte d'Ivoire  stated that economic diversification is seen as the process to make the national 
economy mo re resilient to internal or external shocks. This results in increasing the number of types 
of goods sold to increase income from sales and guard against the risk of their volatility. Moreover, 
diversification is a priority of the country's development str ategy in the sense that the government, 
in accordance with the 2016 - 2020 National Development Plan 2016, has put economic 
diversification at the centre of its economic development strategy. Unlike in previous years where 
agriculture was the basis of the economy, the government is now placing particular emphasis on 
services, construction and industrialization that contribute to economic growth. After several WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  decades, horizontal diversification in sectors such as coffee, cocoa, cotton, rubber, sugar, palm  oil, 
cashew, pineapple, banana, Côte d'Ivoire remains dependent on fluctuating world prices of 
agricultural products. Today, vertical diversification, namely the local processing of its products, is 
essential for adding value locally and helping reduce pove rty of small producers through distribution. 
In addition, this is critical for creating wealth and jobs, especially for women and young people, and 
also promoting local consumption. Furthermore, vertical diversification should enable cooperatives 
to transf orm products immediately with small adapted equipment and improve the income of small 
producers. Under the macroeconomic plan, the tax base of the state would be enlarged.  
156.  Ecuador  stated that the fourth objective of the 2017 -2021 National Development Plan 
consists of consolidating the sustainability of the social and solidarity economic system as well as 
consolidating the dollarization of the economy. Its target is to increase the trade balance in relation 
to Gross Domestic Product from 1.26% to 1.65% by 20 21. Ecuador also aims to increase the 
participation of the economy in the amount of public procurement by 2021. The fifth objective of the 
National Development Plan consists of boosting productivity and competitiveness for sustainable 
economic growth in a redistributive and supportive manner. One of its targets for 2021 is to increase 
agricultural and agro -industrial exports by at least 33%.  
157.  Ecuador plans on increasing the national agricultural productivity index from 98.9 to 112 by 
2021. It also seeks to increase exports of high, medium and low technological intensity from 
USD 55.2 to USD 74.5 per capita by 2021. Decreasing the concentration index of non -oil exports by 
product from 0.1252 to 0.0799 will be achieved by 2021. Ecuador plans on increasing the value of 
non-traditional exports from USD 295 to USD 375 per capita by 2021. The non -oil trade balance 
results are expected to be improved by 2021. In addition, the country seeks to increase the access 
of the economy to local and international markets by 2 021. By the same year, Ecuador will also 
increase the direct investment of the productive sector in relation to the non -petroleum Gross 
Domestic Product, under conditions that guarantee the income of foreign exchange, clean production 
processes, technology  transfer and generation of employment. The government also aims to improve 
the National Productivity Index by 2021. The sixth objective of the National Development Plan 
consists of developing productive and environmental capacities to achieve food soverei gnty and good 
rural living standards.  
158.  El Salvador  stated that diversification is an essential component of the government's strategy 
to reverse the trap of low economic growth that has been present in El Salvador for several decades. 
In addition, the gover nment aims to influence the structural deficiencies of the labour market 
through an integrated set of actions defined and prioritized by a process of participative planning 
that has opened spaces of sectoral dialogue with employers, workers and academia. T he aim of the 
said actions is to significantly contribute to raising the quality of human resources and their capacity 
to be integrated in quality jobs, as well as to lay the foundations of a diversified economy with high 
added value, both in domestic and foreign markets, through strategic support to the productive 
sector, leading to the renewal of the production capacities of companies.  
159.  Equatorial Guinea  stated that the EIF Category 1 project has been approved, with a 
diagnostic study on trade integration in its final phase for the World Bank. The respondent also 
mentioned a diagnostic study for the improvement of the business climate in Equatorial Guinea by 
the World Bank.  
160.  The Gambia  stated that the country’s National Development Plan promotes economic 
transformation and emphasizes the modernization of the agricultural sector, development of human 
capital, as well as the need for modern, reliable and efficient energy and infrastructur al services.  
161.  Guinea  stated that the country’s strategy to diversify its economy is based on the four 
fundamental objectives contained in the National Programme  for Economic and Social Development 
for 2016 - 2020. This programme , which has received financia l support from Guinea's trade financing 
programme , should eventually enable the diversification of the economy to begin electrification, 
transport links, trade financing through projects to improve and develop the production of goods for 
the local market a nd for exports. In addition, human resources capacity building programme s of the 
Ministry of Trade and other trade -related structures are to be taken into account in the diversification 
of Guinea's economy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  162.  Iraq stated that the country aims to focus on sus tainable economic diversification and reduce 
the reliance on a single source of income to boost GDP. The country aims to achieve sustainable 
development through the creation of jobs, enhanced standards of living, and a stable political 
environment.  
163.  Kazakhstan  stated that its 2050 strategy includes a plan for the next phase of 
industrialization as a part of the economic policy. The country has systematically diversified our 
economy. The country sets forward a clear task to accelerate the industrializa tion programme  and 
to help transform the shape of its economy, make it immune to global commodity price fluctuations 
within the decade. It also recognizes the challenge of the next industrial revolution with technological 
innovation and the need to conside r emerging sectors. Kazakhstan is looking to increase global 
information flows by 2050. By the same year, Kazakhstan must apply the latest technology 
standards to all of its production assets. In the most competitive sectors, the country needs to 
develop s trategies for domestic producers on forming new market niches. This will allow Kazakhstan 
to avoid the potential destructive effects of deindustrialization. Kazakhstan recognizes the need to 
develop new industries with an emphasis on expanding the export o riented non -energy sector. 
Kazakhstan is also looking into modernizing the agricultural sector.  
164.  Kiribati  stated that the Kiribati Development Plan for 2016 -2019 seeks to implement product 
and export diversification strategies through the formulation and ef fective implementation of its 
coconut sector development strategy. It also seeks to support implementation of fisheries policy by 
encouraging investments in value -added economic activities in the sector. It also seeks to expand 
international employment in new and existing markets through improved marketing and recruitment 
strategies in order to maximize revenue from remittances. The Kiribati 20 -Year Vision (KV20) 
Development Plan seeks to diversify the economy through maximizing development benefits in the 
fisheries and tourism sectors. Economic diversification is defined in terms of the number of new 
value -added products in a particular sector and accessing new overseas employment markets and 
new sectors i.e. hospitality instead of the traditional sectors l ike seafaring.  
165.  Lesotho  stated that the current National Strategic Development Plan II has prioritized 
economic diversification as one of its key national development strategies. The framework 
emphasizes the need for Lesotho to tap into its existing compara tive advantage to broaden sources 
of growth by supporting economic diversification and export competitiveness as a result of 
developing industrial clusters under Productive Sectors. The country further needs to establish 
Special Economic Zones and draw syn ergies across sectors by clustering government ministries 
which serve as strategic support sectors for the current strategic framework.  
166.  Liberia  stated that the country is moving away from its dependence on major extractives 
sectors. Liberia seeks to increa se the domestic production of manufacturing, industrialization, and 
value -added products. The respondent mentioned the Special Economic Zone in Buchanan Port.  
167.  Malawi  stated that export diversification is at the heart of the Government’s plans to broaden 
the export base and industrialization and value addition is embraced to drive the economic growth 
and sustainable development. The Malawi Growth and Development Strategy III and sectoral 
national export strategy clearly focuses on these initiatives.  
168.  Maldives  stated that since the country is dependent on fishing and tourism, it is vital to 
develop and diversify the economic sectors, to both expand the GDP as well as improve employment 
prospects in the country.  
169.  Mali stated that the objectives of the CREDD are t o promote diversified and sustainable 
agriculture that ensures food self -sufficiency and competitiveness in sub -regional and international 
markets as well as to promote internal and external trade. The objectives of the National Trade 
Development Policy in clude improving trade governance to create an enabling environment for trade 
activities, organizing and strengthening the capacities of actors to participate in national, 
sub-regional, regional and international trade activities and develop value chains wi th competitive 
potential.  
170.  Mauritania  outlined the economic diversification policy that Mauritania has adopted in its 
National Economic Diversification Strategy. The "Accelerated Growth and Shared Prosperity" 
programme  aims to fully exploit the economy's gr owth potential and reduce its vulnerability to WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  exogenous shocks related to commodity price volatility and climate change. In this perspective, 
interventions will seek to create more wealth through sustained growth from a greater number of 
sectors and benef iting as many actors as possible. To achieve this objective, the engines of growth 
must operate at full capacity and all economic opportunities and potential must be exploited 
efficiently and optimally. The main priority growth sectors targeted are livesto ck, agriculture, 
fisheries and the extractive industries sector. The strategy aims to promote transformation and 
industrialization. The economic diversification strategy will be based on several strategic sectors and 
focused on strengthening the economic p artnership with ECOWAS and the creation of the 
Nouadhibou Free Zone.  
171.  Mongolia  stated that according to Art 2.1. of the Mongolia Sustainable Development Vision 
for 2030, the economy will be diversified in order to meet the objectives of sustainable economic  
development. The development of agriculture, industry, especially the light and food industry, 
construction materials, copper processing, coal, fuel -chemicals, lead processing plants, tourism, 
mining and extractive industries will be the highest priority and the energy and infrastructure sectors 
will be developed as the lead sectors.  
172.  Nepal  stated that the Constitution of Nepal along with its periodic plans, annual budget and 
programme s have focused on socio -economic development and economic diversification  in various 
forms. It focuses on inclusive and balanced development, industrialization, export diversification, 
and sustainable development.  
173.  Niger  stated that the country seeks to contribute to building a modern, democratic and united, 
well-governed and pe aceful country open to the world, as well as an emerging economy based on a 
balanced distribution of the fruits of progress. The first strategic axis focuses on the social 
development of the populations. The second axis pertains to the improvement of econo mic growth 
and the third axis is aimed at the improvement of governance. Preliminary studies suggest clear 
opportunities for the emergence of value chains and for the development of certain sectors including 
livestock and agriculture.  
174.  Panama  stated that ac cording to the Government's Strategic Plan for 2015 -2019, the 
diversification and productivity of the economic foundation is based on the development of logistics 
and transport, the agricultural and rural development, tourism and mining, as well as territo rial 
development and environmental sustainability.  
175.  Papua New Guinea  stated that given the heavy reliance on extractive industries, the country 
is now looking at investing as well as supporting activities and programme s in the agricultural and 
livestock sec tor. This is to ensure that the economy is resilient to any external stocks such as the 
fall in mineral prices, which has negatively impacted revenue for the country. Specific indicators 
such as production export revenue and agricultural commodities will b e monitored. GDP will be the 
main measure used.  
176.  Samoa  stated that its economic development is one of the three priority areas in the Strategy 
for the Development of Samoa. The first key outcome pertains to increasing and sustaining 
macroeconomic resilience . The second outcome focuses on increasing agricultural and fisheries 
productivity. The third key outcome aims to increase export products. The fourth key outcome is 
focused on improving the development and performance of tourism. The fifth key outcome ser ves 
to enhance the participation and development of the private sector. The development of 
infrastructure and the environment are the other two priority areas.  
177.  Senegal  stated that the Plan of the Emerging Senegal (PES) is the country’s economic and 
social policy reference framework. The PES, through its Priority Action Plan, makes economic 
diversification a priority. The plan identifies three strategic axes in the first report, namely growth 
and structural transformation of the economy, the promotion of hum an capital, and good governance 
and the rule of law. Thus, the first axis takes into account economic diversification through flagship 
projects in the field of trade, including a project for the construction of commercial platforms for 
agricultural product s in rural areas. Another initiative is the construction of a commercial 
infrastructure complex in Diaobe. In addition, another project will focus on the creation of areas 
dedicated to ready -to-use export services, public and public -private partnership  components as well 
as the formalization of internal trade through the creation of wholesale markets for cereals, fruits 
and vegetables.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  178.  Another flagship project in the field of trade aims to create local product labelling houses in 
tourist areas. Since trade  is a transversal sector, the PES has identified and implemented other 
sectoral projects linked to trade, particularly in the fields of agriculture, fisheries and tourism, as 
well as logistics and industry. In the field of agriculture, various projects hav e been initiated, 
including the Programme  Acceleration of the Cadence of Senegalese Agriculture (PRACAS). This has 
made it possible to increase the production of certain speculations including increased groundnut 
production (1,400,000 tonnes in 2017) as we ll as increased horticultural production. In an effort to 
revive the tourism sector, various projects and measures have been taken such as the abolition of 
visa for entry into Senegal, construction of a new airport in Diamniadio, the establishment of hotel  
credits for the financing of tourist accommodation with an initial amount of USD 5 billion, designing 
Casamance as a special tourist area of national interest. This area features special tax status for 
tourist operators of Casamance, upgrading of certain accommodation, integrated tourist areas, 
installation of the kerosene tank at Cap Skirring airport, among others. High tourism potential, the 
assembly of an integrated industrial pole in Diamniadio, and the start -up of the agropole in the south 
of the coun try were also mentioned.  
179.  Tajikistan  stated that the following triune tasks of this period will be tackled, namely the 
policy of import substitution with regard to consumer goods, export diversification and the expansion 
of investment  opportunities in the n ational economy. The construction and reconstruction of the 
planned TCss will be completed, and Tajikistan will get out of railway siding tracks. Transportation 
to the sea will be open, and opportunities of  transportation system operations will improve ove rall. 
180.  Togo  stated that its National Development Plan aims at structural transformation of the 
economy through increasing the contribution of key sectors, including trade, agriculture and 
fisheries, industry, and tourism, to economic growth and GDP.  
181.  Tonga  stated that the country has been exporting copra, bananas, vanilla beans, kava, and 
squash for the last 45 years. Tonga's main sources of income are remittances from diaspora, 
agricultural, fisheries and handcraft exports. The country failed to diversify an d add more value to 
primary commodities, which explains the change in focus into industrialization transformation.  
182.  Tuvalu  stated that according to a study undertaken under Tuvalu DTIS, trade cannot exist if 
sectors such as tourism, fisheries, agriculture a nd labour mobility are not prioritized. All sectors are 
interconnected and work together to overcome constraints faced in tourism or any other sector.  
183.  Ukraine  stated that one of the strategic goals for trade development of Ukraine, according to 
the Export Strategy of Ukraine for 2017 -2021, is the creation of beneficial opportunities that promote 
trade and innovation for export diversification.  
184.  Viet Nam  stated that economic diversification for trade was clarified in recent statements of 
the Prime Minister an d Minister of Industry and Trade as export market diversification through 
regional or free trade agreements, product quality enhancement and diversification, better 
participation in international value chains and export promotion.  
185.  Yemen  stated that the dec line in crude oil and petroleum commodity prices means that the 
country has to look for ways to diversify its economy. Yemen's agriculture is a main source of 
employment and income for the country and contributed to feeding the population. There is a need 
to support this field to guarantee food supplies for the increasing population. Agriculture will also 
contribute to the export production of the country.  
186.  Zambia  stated that 7NDP identifies economic diversification as a mechanism that will create 
opportunities to create additional jobs, benefits from natural and human resources, strong 
manufacturing base and value addition through forward linkages to manufacturing  and 
agro-processing, thereby increasing the production and exportation of non -traditional exports to 
domestic and international markets.  
187.  Zimbabwe  stated that Zimbabwe’s 2019 -2021 trade policy recognizes that exports are 
concentrated on agricultural and mi neral commodities, hence the need to add value and participate 
in regional value chains.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Additional information on how economic diversification is defined and measured: 
partner country's perspective  
Benin  stated that economic diversification is defined as the fundamental element of contributing 
to poverty reduction in the country. All actions outlined in the national strategy documents 
contribute to the diversification of the economy and above all to the c onnection of the economy 
to Regional and GVCs.  
 
Costa Rica  stated that export diversification is measured by the relative level of concentration of 
exports between different products and between different destination markets. The model of 
development that  Costa Rica has followed, based on the commercial opening and the attraction 
of foreign direct investment (FDI) is mainly oriented towards the diversification of the national 
exportable offer.  
 
Kenya  stated that export diversification can be measured thro ugh the average contribution of 
the different sectors towards GDP, the production and export of several tariff lines, and the 
production of finished as well as primary products.   
 
St. Kitts and Nevis  stated that economic diversification is defined and meas ured by the 
contribution of various economic sectors to the GDP and the performance of new and emerging 
sectors.  
 
Uganda  indicated that economic diversification is defined in terms of value addition to traditional 
export commodities and is measured by the  manufactured exports as a percentage of total 
exports.  
 
188.  Four respondents to the REC questionnaire, namely ECOWAS, WAEMU, TMEA, and 
Transnamib, stated that their regional or TC development strategy includes trade priorities.  
189.  COMESA  stated that COMESA's ec onomic diversification agenda is premised on the 
industrialization Policy and Strategy. Its main emphasis is on the need for value addition in the 
products produced and exported so as to ensure competitiveness. To successfully help these 
countries, COMESA supports the development of vibrant private sector through capacity building. To 
this effect, the COMESA Business Council was established to assist the growth of the private sector. 
Other institutions established include the Africa Leather and Leather Prod ucts Institute, Regional 
Investment Agency among others.  
190.  ECOWAS  listed a few key regional policies/strategies including ECOWAS Common Industrial 
Policy and Action Plan, ECOWAS Agricultural Policy and Regional Agricultural Investment Policy, 
ECOWAS Private Sector Development Strategy, West African Quality System Programme , ECOWAS 
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) strategy, revised ECOWAS power generation 
masterplan (2019 -2033). ECOWAS highlighted a few indicators to monitor the performan ce of the 
ECOWAS Common Industrial Policy and Action Plan including the percentage increase in exports, 
percentage share of industry or manufacturing of regional GDP, the level of employment in industry, 
the value addition, the level of processing, savings  and investment ratios, the ratio of imported 
inputs from outside the region, and the ratio of intra -regional trade.  
191.  WAEMU  stated that economic diversification is underway in WAEMU through the 
implementation of regional programm es, including the Regional Programme  for Industrial 
Development and Promotion of the Private Sector and national programme s in various sectors of 
activity.  
192.  TMEA  stated that countries in East Africa have recently focused on value -added 
manufacturing, such as agro -processing, to increa se the value of exports as well as for job creation.  
193.  Among the five South -South providers participating in the self -assessment questionnaire, 
Indonesia identified economic diversification as a priority in its development or AfT strategy with 
South -South pa rtners. Turkey  stated that development assistance is provided according to the 
demands from the recipient countries within the framework of Turkish -Type Development Model 
which is human -oriented and aware of local sensitivities without expecting anything i n return.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  194.  Twenty -five out of the 35 donor countries participating in the self -assessment questionnaire 
identified economic diversification as a priority in their AfT strategies.  
195.  Australia  stated that one of the three objectives of the Strategy for Australi a’s AfT 
investments is structural transformation through improving the regulatory environment. Improving 
regulatory settings through Aid for Trade  is essential to creating a competitive and market -based 
environment in developing countries. The right regula tory environment involves clear and 
transparent rules that apply to everyone in an equal manner and in a way that is consistent with 
international trade rules. Predictability in the rule -making process is also crucial. Reforms in policy 
and regulations sho uld be focussed in the priority areas of trade and investment policy and 
facilitation, GVCs  and the economic empowerment of women. Another crucial element is the 
development assistance that encourages the right investment policies which can help build 
international investor confidence, retain foreign investments in the longer term, engender a better 
range of productive investments, and extend and link those investments to the benefit of local 
businesses.  
196.  Canada  stated that Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy’s action area on growth 
that works for everyone guides development assistance to help increase women’s access to economic 
opportunities and resources. Under some of Canada’s programme s includin g the Trade and 
Investment for Growth Program , as aligned to the Feminist International Assistance Policy, economic 
diversification is addressed through projects on access to finance and women’s economic 
empowerment, public private partnerships for infrast ructure, and access to markets. Furthermore, 
Canada’s inclusive approach to trade reflects and promotes domestic and international policy 
priorities to support economic growth that benefits everyone and maintains confidence in an open, 
rules-based trading system. Trade diversification is about securing more opportunities for exporters 
and investors to compete and succeed in thriving and fast -growing global markets and sectors. In 
that context, Canada’s development assistance promotes GVC connectivity, and p rovides resources 
to SMEs to help them explore new opportunities, including export opportunities. One excellent 
example for this approach is the Canadian Market Access and Capacity Building Services project, 
implemented by Trade Facilitation Office Canada.  This project aims to build the capacity of SMEs  
and related trade -support institutions in developing countries to pursue export opportunities in 
Canada.  
197.  Canada’s new development finance institute (FinDev), a subsidiary of Export Development 
Canada, provi des financial services to the private sector in developing countries with the aim of 
combating poverty through economic empowerment and diversification. Areas of focus include green 
growth, agribusiness, and support for SMEs  through local financial institu tions with specific goals to 
generate economic development by job creation, climate change mitigation and poverty reduction. 
Canada continues to negotiate free trade agreements with developing countries and growing 
markets in South America, such as the Pac ific Alliance and the Mercosur bloc, and is continuing 
exploratory discussions with China and ASEAN countries. A number of members of these 
organizations are developing countries, and they can advance their sustainable growth through these 
strategic free t rade agreements. FTA with Canada will remove barriers to trade in many areas, 
provide a more predictable trade environment and foster FDIs and economic diversification.  
198.  Canada also helps RECs build linkages to promote economic diversification and more 
value-added trade. For example, Canada's support to boosting Intra African trade (BIAT), amounting 
to USD 13.22 million in year 2015 -2020, contributed to the efforts of the UN Economic Commission 
for Africa's African Trade Policy Centre and a Consortium of Ca nadian Centers of Trade Expertise to 
provide strategic guidance and technical support to the African Union Commission in coordinating 
the implementation of the BIAT Action Plan. This involved, inter alia , technical assistance to national 
governments and RECs on trade policy modelling, trade -related reforms, formulation and analysis 
to support implementation of BIAT Action Plans, including reducing barriers to trade within Africa. 
Some noteworthy results include enhanced market information systems to facilit ate movement of 
staple foods within Africa, increased participation of private sector operators and civil society 
organizations, including women entrepreneurs, in regional and continental dialogues on the African 
Union’s  (AU) trade agenda, increased share of intra -African trade in terms of value from 12% to 
15%. In addition, technical assistance and advisory services provided to up to 8 RECS  and as many 
as 30  countries.  
199.  The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa's African Trade Policy Centre, with the 
help of Canada's Centre for Trade Policy and Law, directly supported the negotiation process of the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Agreement establishing the AfCFTA . The Centre provided crucial tec hnical advice to the African Union 
Commission and African governments throughout the negotiation process. This included advice on 
how to include the concerns of women traders in the Agreement. In March 2018, 44 African countries 
signed the AfCFTA , with mor e signatures expected to follow and as signed, the AfCFTA  liberalizes 
trade in goods and services and includes explicit objectives with regard to the promotion and 
attainment of gender equality.  
200.  Denmark  stated that Denmark's AfT programme  executed out of G eneva is supplemented by 
Denmark's bilateral development programme s in 12 priority countries. Most of these have thematic 
programme s on inclusive growth where economic diversification and similar Aid for Trade -related 
priorities feature prominently. Priori ty countries are described further in our overall development 
strategy and on the designated Danida webpage.  
201.  Estonia  stated that there is no specific definition for economic diversification, but the activities 
to support economic diversification may includ e women and youth empowerment, MSME creation, 
and trade facilitation in general. The country supports and is open to new opportunities, for example 
creating a new value chain for some specific product or to support some new economic segment 
promotion, for entrepreneurs in recipient countries.  
202.  Finland  stated that economic diversification means the development of new enterprises in 
non-traditional sectors. It is not measured in Finland's development policy.  
203.  Germany  stated that economic diversification is a cr oss-cutting issue in the country’s AfT 
strategy, contributing to it is relevant for all support measures.  
204.  Hong Kong, China  stated that on the level of ODA implementation agency, there are sectoral 
strategies with programme s that support the elements of Aid for Trade , but there is no strategy or 
policy which directly engages Aid for Trade . Hong Kong, China contributes to the industrialization of 
a recipient by supporting the improvement of  clearance environment including providing support for 
the establishment of electronic clearance system.  
205.  Ireland  stated that Ireland's Policy for International Development One World, One Future 
underlines that business and innovation must be encouraged, for example, through its innovative 
Africa Agri -Food Developm ent Fund.  
206.  Luxembourg  stated that its business partnership facility supports the transfer of expertise 
and technology to businesses in developing countries, in the areas of biohealth, ICT, fintech, 
eco-innovation, circular economy and logistics.  
207.  New Zealand  stated that economic diversification is a priority in the country’s bilateral and 
regional development strategy. New Zealand places an emphasis on supporting sectors of 
comparative advantage, which in turn  encourages diversification in these sectors. For example, 
New Zealand supports the Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access (PHAMA) programme , 
which works to strengthen the supply chain for commercial agriculture. Through a market -led 
approach, PHAMA assists producers and exporters to leverag e maintained and new export market 
access for Pacific export products.  
208.  Portugal  stated that economic diversification is a major concern in the country’s support to 
its partner countries, namely those with explicit goals in their national strategies, such a s in the case 
of Angola. Therefore, Portugal’s ODA reflects these concerns when it finances projects to support to 
the rule of law or good governance by contributing to a favourable and stable trade, business and 
regulatory environment. In the area of e -government, Portugal aims at improving quality and access 
to public services. In rural development and food security, key intervention areas focus on value 
chains.  
209.  Spain  stated that among the destination of the aid, there are several projects aimed at 
promot ing the diversification of the economy as an innovation project of organic production.  
210.  Sweden  stated that economic diversification is not one of the specific priority areas in the 
Swedish Development Cooperation Policy Framework and is not defined or measu red. It is however 
stated that development cooperation can also improve conditions for diversifying the economy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  211.  Switzerland  identified enhancing trade integration and international competitiveness of 
developing countries as an important lever for the sust ainable diversification of sources of growth 
and job creation. This diversification makes it possible to address income inequalities and imbalances 
between rural and urban areas, thus strengthening social inclusion. This rebalancing is particularly 
necessa ry in the countries where the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) cooperates 
economically, given their high dependence on one or two export sectors, in order to mitigate external 
economic shocks and thus promote resilience.  
212.  The United Kingdom  stated that its economic development strategy prioritizes interventions 
in sectors that can support economic diversification such as manufacturing, commercial agriculture 
and financial services.  
213.  The EBRD  stated that economic progress and growth are at the cen tre of EBRD's mandate, 
and structural transformations and economic diversification are key drivers to achieve such progress. 
The Bank's operations include assistance for clients and partner countries including support to 
improve efficiency in the use of re sources, transition to greater value -added activities, and 
strengthened competition and competitiveness in domestic and international markets.  
214.  UNIDO  stated that SDG 9 indicator 9.2.1 measures manufacturing value added as a 
proportion of GDP and per capita.  In addition, indicator 9.b.1 shows the proportion of medium and 
high-tech industry value added in total value added.  
Constraints to economic diversification11 
215.  Limited industrial or manufacturing capacity was reported by 67 out of the 88 respondents 
(76%) a s the top constraint to economic diversification identified in their national or regional 
development strategies. Thirty -seven of 38 LDC respondents (97%) also reported limited industrial 
or manufacturing capacity as a major constraint to economic diversif ication.  
 
11 Refer to index number 8 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Constraints to economic diversification: partner country' s perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
Top constraints to economic diversification: partner country's perspective  
Region  Top constraints  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  Limited industrial or manufacturing capacity  33 94% 
Limited access to trade finance  29 83% 
Limited agricultural production capacity  26 74% 
Asia Limited industrial or manufacturing capacity  16 70% 
Poor international competitiveness  15 65% 
Transport infrastructure  14 61% 
Americas  Limited access to trade finance  13 72% 
Limited industrial or manufacturing capacity  11 61% 
Small domestic market  10 56% 
Oceania  Transport infrastructure  9 90% 
Limited agricultural production capacity  8 80% 
High input costs  7 70% 
1 (1%)4 (5%)11 (13%)18 (20%)27 (31%)31 (35%)33 (38%)40 (45%)41 (47%)44 (50%)45 (51%)46 (52%)47 (53%)47 (53%)49 (56%)50 (57%)52 (59%)52 (59%)60 (68%)67 (76%)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80UnsureOtherHigh tariffs in target markets/productsLimited customs and other border agency capacityUnaffordable and/or unreliable electricity accessLimited services capacityLimited network and/or transport infrastructure of a cross border natureLow levels of training and skillsSmall domestic marketLimited e-trade readinessLimited inward foreign direct investmentInadequate network infrastructureHigh trade costsLimited standards complianceHigh input costsPoor international competitivenessLimited agricultural production capacityTransport infrastructureLimited access to trade financeLimited industrial or manufacturing capacityWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC Limited industrial or manufacturing capacity  37 97% 
Inadequate network infrastructure  30 79% 
Limited access to trade finance  30 79% 
LLDC Limited industrial or manufacturing capacity  18 82% 
Limited access to trade finance  15 68% 
High trade costs  14 64% 
UN SIDS  Limited agricultural production capacity  19 79% 
Small domestic market  19 79% 
Transport infrastructure  18 75% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019).  
 
216.  High trade costs were listed as one of the top 3 constraints to economic diversification 
encountered in LLDCs by 14 out of 22 respondents (64%). Among the UN SIDS category, the size 
of the domestic market emerged as the most critical constraint.  
217.  Respondents in Asia and Africa identified limited industri al or manufacturing capacity as the 
number one constraint to economic diversification. In addition, limited access to trade finance came 
out as the major constraint in Latin America and the Caribbean ( LAC) and as the second  
highest -ranked constraint in Asi a. In Asia, limited industrial or manufacturing capacity was ranked 
first by respondents in both LDCs and other developing countries in Asia.  
218.  A few responses made references to policy documents which identify challenges to economic 
diversification. Kenya , for instance, made a reference to its National Export Development and 
Promotion Strategy. Burkina Faso  mentioned the diagnostic study on trade integration. Zambia  
stated that the 7NDP prioritizes the implementation of strategies to address socio -economic a nd 
structural challenges to promote economic diversification.  
219.  Cabo Verde  stated that what characterizes the country as islands with a good geostrategic 
position are the same characteristics that define huge challenges the country faces for larger trade 
integration and economic diversification. The poor islands’ connectivity between themselves and the 
continent along with its cost inhibit trade. The size of its market and the measures needed in order 
to increase its scale are also something to consider not o nly to target the international market, but 
also to supply the tourism market with national products.  
220.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the country suffers from a lack of 
infrastructure to support the production and marketing of goods and servic es. It also suffers as a 
result of the difficulties of ensuring the connectivity of different entities of the national territory as 
well as the deficit in the supply of energy.  
221.  Côte d'Ivoire  stated that the majority (71.9%) of exporting or importers in the country 
identifies non -hazardous barriers and tariffs as a major constraint to their activities. The response 
made a reference to the National Office of Technical Studies and Development (B NETD) and the 
Trade and Regional Integration Support Programme  (PACIR). Local initiatives by the financial sector 
are not enough. The capabilities of installed processes are insufficient because of low funding. Low 
competitiveness is linked to relatively h igh production costs.  
222.  Equatorial Guinea  stated that after the completion of the first phase of the National 
Development Plan Equatorial Guinea Horizon 2020, a phase that was financed by the National 
Government after the fall in oil prices in a sector that has nourished the national economy for years, 
many sectoral programme s and projects that should have been implemented in the second phase 
of the national economic and sectoral development plan could not be implemented because the 
country is going through a n economic recession that has led it to adopt fiscal adjustment measures.  
223.  Guinea  stated that the recurrent problem of economic diversification in the country remains, 
mainly due to lack of basic infrastructure including water, electricity, and telecommunic ations. Lack WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  of direct foreign and domestic investment in productive sectors such as agriculture and fisheries 
have for some time limited the country's ability to diversify the Guinean economy.  
224.  Kazakhstan  stated that its dependence on raw materials is a si gnificant constraint to its 
economic diversification. Kazakhstan 2050 addresses this issue by highlighting the importance of 
improving access to Kazakhstan commodities in international markets to stay ahead of the curve as 
fall in prices or financial colla pse can destabilize the economy. Kazakhstan intends to maintain the 
status of a big player in hydrocarbon, while developing the production of alternative energy 
resources. By 2050, alternative and renewable energy sources must account for at least half of the 
country's total energy consumption. Destabilization of the economy is addressed in Kazakhstan 
2050. The global economic system may fail again due to a fall in global commodities prices. Such a 
scenario is highly undesirable for Kazakhstan. Reduced dema nd for commodities can bring the 
stability of Kazakhstan's export deliveries into question.  
225.  Kiribati  stated that the main challenge is sustaining supply capacity for value -added products, 
especially in the fisheries sector, which is the main natural resour ce for Kiribati, to meet the domestic 
and global market demand at a competitive price. Fisheries and tourism have been identified as the 
key productive sectors in the Kiribati 20 -Year Vision (KV20) Development Plan.  
226.  Madagascar  stated that the lack or deter ioration of production, storage and transport 
infrastructure and insufficient energy supply constitute major handicaps to economic diversification. 
In addition, limited access to financing, particularly for MSMEs, is becoming a constraint for the 
developme nt of industrialization.  
227.  Mali stated that the low level of support to authorities and trade financing programme s for 
capacity building is a constraint to economic diversification. The lack of financial, qualified human 
and material resources also contribut es to the said constraint. Other issues include the lack of certain 
equipment and modern control laboratories to ensure phytosanitary inspection and the quality of 
agricultural, food and non -food goods. In addition, the lack of means to promote quality and  facilitate 
access to external markets presents a challenge along with the lack of logistical means to allow 
coverage of the national territory by the main trade support institutions. There are difficulties in 
transporting products due to the state of tran sport infrastructure. The low level of assistance to 
exporters in obtaining phytosanitary certificates, inspection bulletins, inspection certificates, or 
seizure certificates within the deadlines also poses a significant challenge to economic diversificati on. 
228.  Mexico  stated that although the country has undertaken a strategy of market diversification 
through trade negotiations, no obstacles are identified in the National Development Plan.  
229.  Nigeria  stated that there are a few social constraints affecting econo mic diversification. 
Performance in the corruption index, shortage of electricity supply, human capital, and inadequate 
or inefficient infrastructure pose economic constraints to the country. Additionally, significant gaps 
in the availability and quality o f human capital infrastructure poses a challenge to the economic 
diversification of Nigeria.  
230.  Palau  stated that trade is not included as a national priority. The country puts efforts in 
improving its trading capacity but there is no view of doing things fo r economic reasons. Donors 
may provide funding for building communications infrastructure or renewable energy, but it is not 
viewed through the lens of trade.  
231.  Papua New Guinea  stated that the country has a rugged terrain and accessibility to goods 
and serv ices, and particularly to markets has always been a challenge. The enabling environment to 
support economic activities such as the network infrastructure and transport infrastructure has 
limited the ability of people to venture into other areas of developm ent. Other factors affecting the 
quality of agriculture produce and meeting biosecurity standards for exporting agriculture and 
livestock are lacking.  
232.  Peru stated that according to the National Strategic Development Plan, the Peruvian economy 
has to review  the structure, content and future destination of its exports. For decades, Peruvian 
exports have been composed mainly of primary products. This is manifested in the high participation 
of mining and hydrocarbon exports. This is mainly due to the marked imp ortance of mining in the 
Peruvian economy and the increase in the prices of traditional products.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  233.  Senegal  stated that the main barriers to economic diversification identified in the Plan for an 
Emerging Senegal are the slowdown of traditional engines (e.g. , construction, telecommunications, 
financial services); the weak dynamism of the private sector; the delay in implementing reforms in 
the energy and business environment sectors; the insufficient level of productivity; the insufficient 
level of infrastruc ture to support production; the difficulties of access to production factors 
(e.g.,  water, quality inputs); the vulnerability of agriculture to climate hazards; the weak structuring 
of agro -pastoral value chains; problems of access to land; adequate financ ing; and governance 
issues.  
234.  Ukraine  stated that one of the constraints that limits export development and prevents the 
internationalization of SMEs is the lack of customs procedures efficiency. In addition, limited direct 
foreign investment needs to be imp roved through proper investment incentives, as well as 
transparent competition rules for investors. Lastly, Ukrainian goods and services are not competitive 
enough on the national arena, which hinders export capabilities.  
Additional information on the cons traints to economic diversification: partner country's 
perspective  
Iraq [mentioned] the fluctuation of oil revenues, limited role of private sector, unclear trade 
policies, fiscal deficits, poor infrastructure, all of which are major disadvantages to the business 
environment  
 
Malawi  [mentioned] narrow export basket  
 
Mauritius  [mentioned] limited natural resources, limited domestic market, distance from major 
markets  
 
Samoa  [mentioned] business risk management, climate change, coordination of internal links  
 
Tonga  [mentioned] lack of technical and technology know -how, high cost s of spare parts, high 
costs of repair and maintenance  
 
Tuvalu  [mentioned] high cost of market access, lack of infrastructure and tools to assist the 
private sector and trade development  
 
Zimbabwe  [mentioned] foreign currency challenges  
 
 
235.  Limited network and transport infrastructure were identified as a major constraint by regional 
economic communities. PIFS  highlighted the importance of recovery and rebuilding from frequent 
and severe natural dis asters.  
236.  Three South -South providers, namely Singapore, Indonesia, and China , identified low 
levels of training and skills as a top constraint to economic diversification. Singapore added that the 
SCP's capacity -building programme s cover a diverse range of topics that contribute to the building 
of a country's economic infrastructure, strengthening of its economic and trade policy -making 
capabilities and the ability to be integrated into the multilateral trading system. These topics include 
economic developme nt, education, environment, urban development, civil aviation, port 
management, public governance, information and communication technology, healthcare, and 
disaster risk reduction and management.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Constraints to economic diversification: donor's perspecti ve 
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
237.  Twenty -three out of the 35  respondents to the donor questionnaire identified low levels of 
training and skills as a major constraint to economic diversification their AfT strategy seeks to 
address.  
238.  Australia  identified the following constraints to economic diversification: poor infrastructure, 
including roads, ports and information and communications technology; lack of private sector 
capability, including limited access to finance and distribution channels, a nd a lack of a skilled 
workforce; and weak public sector institutions, including in formulating economic policy and 
regulations and negotiating trade -related agreements  
239.  The European Union stated that it provides Aid for Trade  through bilateral, regional and 
thematic interventions in more than a hundred partner countries. The constraints identified to 
economic diversification therefore vary widely across partner countries. Such identification is based 
on needs assessments and d iagnostics when available and dialogue with partner countries' 
governments, private sector and other stakeholders.  
240.  Japan  identified limited legal institution or system as a constraint to economic diversification.  
241.  Spain  stated that it should be noted that t hese economic constraints particularly affect 
women.  
242.  Sweden  stated that no specific barriers to diversification are defined in the Policy Framework.  
2 (6%)2 (6%)4 (11%)7 (20%)7 (20%)7 (20%)9 (26%)10 (29%)10 (29%)11 (31%)13 (37%)13 (37%)13 (37%)13 (37%)15 (43%)16 (46%)18 (51%)18 (51%)19 (54%)23 (66%)
0 5 10 15 20 25High tariffs in target markets/productsUnsureOtherHigh input costsLimited services capacitySmall domestic marketLimited inward foreign direct investmentLimited e-trade readinessLimited network and/or transport infrastructure of a cross border natureUnaffordable and/or unreliable electricity accessHigh trade costsLimited access to trade financeLimited customs and other border agency capacityTransport infrastructureLimited agricultural production capacityLimited industrial or manufacturing capacityInadequate network infrastructureLimited standards compliancePoor international competitivenessLow levels of training and skillsWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  243.  The World Bank  stated that high levels of economic concentration and absence of or poor 
implementation of c ompetition policy disciplines is a major constraint to economic diversification. In 
addition, weak investment climates (i.e. unclear value proposition able to attract needed types of 
FDI) also poses a challenge along with weak inter -agency coordination and  inadequate/ineffective 
external stakeholder consultation channels/public -private dialogue. World Bank work suggests the 
following key elements for successful diversification: an appropriate incentive framework through 
reforms to the business and investmen t climate, reviewing trade policies to remove bias against 
exporting and ensuring effective competition in product markets and in key backbone services such 
as transportation, energy and communications . It also suggests  investment, trade policy and trade 
facilitation reforms that reduce trade costs, increase transparency and predictability for traders and 
result in declining trade costs and efficient trade logistics lie at the heart of the success of countries 
in integrating into the global economy and achi eving more diversified economies with not only more, 
but also better, jobs . It adds the need for  effective policies to support adjustment and the 
reallocation of resources to new activities – from declining sectors as well as from the informal sector 
and n ew entrants to the job market. The focus should be on supporting workers, identifying and 
overcoming constraints on mobility including gender related constraints, rather than jobs; 
government interventions that target specific markets, policy and instituti onal failures.   
244.  EBRD  stated that the major constraint to economic diversification identified in EBRD's 
operations is a general lack of competitiveness, often driven by inefficiencies in the use of resources 
and inputs related to infrastructure, energy and labour as well as government regulations that in 
turn affect the environment for doing business, thus hindering economic diversification.  
245.  The UNDP  stated that other constraints to economic diversification that UNDP's support seeks 
to address is the lack of  information by small businesses about market opportunities, trends for 
future growth, and market intelligence.  
Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing to support economic diversification12 
246.  Trade facilitation was identified as a top category of AfT financing received to promote 
economic diversification, as stated by 56 respondents to the partner country questionnaire. RECs 
participating in the exercise identified trade facilitation and region al integration as the top two 
categories of AfT financing their region or TC received for economic diversification.  
 
12 Refer to index number 9 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing received to support economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing received to support economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  Trade facilitation  26 74% 
Trade policy and regulations  21 60% 
Agriculture  18 51% 
Trade education and training  18 51% 
Asia Trade facilitation  13 57% 
Trade education and training  13 57% 
Trade policy and regulations  12 52% 
Trade development  12 52% 
Americas  Trade facilitation  13 72% 
Trade policy and regulations  9 50% 
Trade education and training  9 50% 
Oceania  Transport infrastructure  6 60% 
Trade policy and regulations  6 60% 
Regional trade agreements  6 60% 
0 10 20 30 40 50 60Other trade related needsUnsureBanking and financial servicesForestryMineral resources and miningTrade related adjustmentCommunications infrastructureBusiness support servicesBuilding productive capacityTravel and tourismTrade-related infrastructureEnergy supply and generation infrastructureMultilateral trade negotiationsIndustryTrade developmentFishingTrade policy and administrative managementTransport and storage infrastructureRegional trade agreements (RTAs)AgricultureTrade education/trainingTrade policy and regulationsTrade facilitation
4 (5%)4 (5%)7 (8%)12 (14%)12 (14%)13 (15%)15 (17%)16 (18%)18 (20%)20 (23%)22 (25%)23 (26%)24 (27%)24 (27%)26 (30%)27 (31%)31 (35%)31 (35%)36 (41%)42 (48%)44 (50%)49 (56%)58 (66%)WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 52 - 
 
  Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC Trade facilitation  28 74% 
Trade policy and regulations  23 61% 
Agriculture  21 55% 
LLDC Trade facilitation  18 82% 
Trade policy and regulations  16 73% 
Trade education and training  13 59% 
UN SIDS  Trade facilitation  14 58% 
Trade policy and regulations  12 50% 
Trade education and training  10 42% 
Regional trade agreements  10 42% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
247.  Barbados  stated that the national development strategy is currently being revised.  
248.  Central African Republic  stated that the WTO and the International Organization of La 
Francophonie (OIF) have trained several officials in the field of trade policy. The OIF and the ITC 
have supported the country in formulating trade facilitation needs and strategy. The World Ban k and 
the European Union have supported the improvement of road networks. But when it comes to 
electricity, the difficulties are enormous.  
249.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the country has benefited from the financing 
of some partners in several  fields including agriculture, mining, environment, transport and energy. 
One of the initiatives is the Western Growth Pole Development Project (PDPC) for the revival of palm 
oil, rice and cassava production, which was financed by the World Bank. Another p roject aims to 
revive the oil palm sector of the EIF financed by the Special Assignment Fund of the CIR. The AfDB 
financed a project to provide support for the rehabilitation of fisheries resources of the Edouard and 
Albert Lakes.  
250.  Guinea  stated that the fi nancing of the commercial sector supports projects initiated by the 
EIF project in Guinea, which includes activities that have contributed greatly to the diversification of 
production in some sectors. This has made it possible to produce processed goods, w hich in essence 
constitutes a means of diversifying the Guinean economy.  
251.  Kazakhstan  stated that AfT support to Kazakhstan between 2006 -2016 amounts to 
USD 600,000.  
252.  Lesotho  stated that the country is a LDC that receives AfT support for economic diversification 
under the EIF and other multilateral financial assistance from AfDB, World Bank, Food and 
Agriculture Organization  (FAO) , the European Union and other development partners. Through 
initiatives such as Smallholder Agric ultural Development Project, smallholder farmers are supported 
to improve agricultural productivity through the use of modern technology such as greenhouses to 
produce vegetables and improvement of livestock production and rearing.  
253.  Madagascar  stated that m ost of AfT themes identified are carried out through the work plan 
of the Category I project as an implementation arrangement and subsequently Category II to a 
lesser and varying degree.  
254.  Mexico  stated that with regard to the section on trade policies and r egulations, support is 
limited to the training of public officials, through online or face -to-face courses provided by 
international organizations, particularly the WTO.  
255.  Nigeria  stated that AfT financing to government agencies and the private sector includ es 
institutional and human capacity building, such as the E uropean Union assistance to government 
agencies in areas such as industrial and manufacturing.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 53 - 
 
  256.  Panama  stated that in accordance with the Government's Strategic Plan for 2015 -2019, the 
diversificati on and productivity of the economic base is based on the development of logistics and 
transport, the agricultural sector and rural development, tourism and mining, as well as territorial 
development and environmental sustainability.  
257.  Papua New Guinea  stated  that funding support for specific programme s such as the Trade 
Related Assistance by European Union and others were received.  
258.  Samoa  stated that support received from development partners is not demand driven most 
of the time. A number of reports have bee n prepared, but there is a lack of implementation.  
259.  Senegal  stated that the country has received AfT funding to implement an institutional 
support project for the EIF Programme ; carry out the revised DTIS; implement national 
implementation arrangements (CDN , Focal Point, UNMOCIR); better integrate trade into national 
development strategies; support the preparation of the Ministry of Trade's Sectoral Development 
Policy Letter (LPSD); train Ministry of Trade staff and private sector agents; implement a project  to 
support the competitiveness of the Senegalese mango sector (PACMS), which has enabled producers 
to build their capacities on good agricultural practices, processing techniques, among others; 
implement a project on metrology; elaborate a strategy for th e development of trade in services and 
a strategy for the development of electronic commerce.  
260.  Tanzania  mentioned the National Five -Year Development Plan for 2016/17 -2020/21.  
261.  Tonga  stated that the country needs Aid for Trade  on quality assurance infrastruct ure 
(e.g. laboratories), technology and high advanced technical processing and manufacturing 
equipment, and a common processing Center for research and development.  
262.  Tuvalu  stated that AfT financing has been provided through the EIF project.  
263.  Uganda  stated that the country has received support for trade committees 
(SPS-TBT Committee, Trade Facilitation Committee, Inter -Institutional Trade Committee); market 
access; and value addition for various sectors, including coffee, cotton, honey and rice.  
264.  Yemen  stated  that as a LDC in -conflict, the country’s needs for support are very important. 
The bulk of Aid for Trade  received since inception of the Initiative has been concentrated in the oil 
sector. Other sectors of the economy could benefit from Aid for Trade  for economic recovery and 
diversification in areas such as agriculture, business support, e -commerce, transport and trade 
facilitation.  
265.  Zambia  stated that AfT financing includes the implementation of support programme s such 
as irrigation, rural road devel opment, and training to improve productive capacity in the agriculture 
sector. Financing also includes the formalization of small -scale miners to engage in the mineral value 
chain.  
266.  The top category of AfT financing identified by the RECs was trade policy a nd administrative 
management, followed by trade facilitation and regional trade agreements. In its response to the 
self-assessment questionnaire, WAEMU  added that financing and technical support agreements are 
signed with technical and financial partners.  
267.  The top category of South -South AfT financing to support economic diversification is trade 
policy and regulations and trade education and training, as indicated by four South -South providers.  
268.  Turkey  made a reference to the Turkish Development Assistance R eport 2016 which 
highlighted Turkey's assistance to developing countries in many fields including in the support of 
their economy and infrastructure. Turkey noted that the assistance provided aligns with the 
achievement of the SDGs .  
269.  Twenty -five of the 35 donors participating in the questionnaire identified trade development 
as the top category of AfT financing provided to support economic diversification. Agriculture was 
identified as the top second category of AfT financing provided to support economic di versification, 
as stated by 24 donors.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 54 - 
 
  270.  Australia  stated that in 2016 -2017, 55.4% of Australia's Aid for Trade  was directed to building 
productive capacity, 40.3% was directed to economic infrastructure, and 4.3% was directed to trade 
policy and regulations . 
271.  The European Union  stated that it provides Aid for Trade  through bilateral, regional and 
thematic interventions in more than a hundred partner countries. The definition of the categories of 
Aid for Trade  that the E uropean Union provides to support econom ic diversification therefore varies 
widely across partner countries.  
272.  The Republic of Korea  stated that their responses to this question are based on the 
assumption that the AfT financing can be associated with projects based on grants, which are not a 
form of budget support. The grant ODA projects for the Technical and Vocational Education and 
Training Programme  could be viewed as support of AfT category under building productive capacity 
and industry.  
273.  New Zealand  stated that it does not directly support ec onomic diversification; rather, there 
is a focus on building more robust sector or businesses that can diversify organically. For example, 
strengthening the agriculture sector of a development partner, or connecting a business with 
advisory support service s, may indirectly assist the diversification of that sector or business.  
274.  EBRD  stated that it provides AfT financing mostly through its general investment operations. 
EBRD provides its financial support to private and public entities and gets involved in po licy dialogue 
to drive economic growth and diversification in the countries it operates. EBRD also gives specific 
trade finance support through guarantees and other risk sharing instruments as part of its Trade 
Facilitation Programme . 
275.  The World Bank  stated that AfT financing has been provided to support WTO accession, 
connectivity, and the logistics sector.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing provided to support economic diversification: 
donor's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
Alignment of Aid-for-Trade  support with priorities in the development strategy13 
276.  Sixty-two out of the 88 partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire (70%) indicated that the AfT support rec eived for economic 
diversification is aligned with the priorities established in the national or regional trade and 
development strategies.  
Trade priorities are part of national or regional development strategy: partner country's 
perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  27 77% 
Asia 15 85% 
Americas  12 67% 
Oceania  6 60% 
 
 
13 Refer to index number 10 in the Annex.  
0 5 10 15 20 25UnsureMineral resources and miningOther trade related needsTrade related adjustmentFishingForestryIndustryMultilateral trade negotiationsTravel and tourismEnergy supply and generation infrastructureTrade policy and administrative managementRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Banking and financial servicesBuilding productive capacityTransport and storage infrastructureCommunications infrastructureBusiness support servicesTrade facilitationTrade-related infrastructureTrade education/trainingTrade policy and regulationsAgricultureTrade development
0 (0%)5 (14%)5 (14%)6 (17%)7 (20%)9 (26%)9 (26%)10 (29%)11 (31%)12 (34%)13 (37%)13 (37%)13 (37%)15 (43%)16 (46%)16 (46%)16 (46%)17 (49%)18 (51%)19 (54%)23 (66%)24 (69%)25 (71%)WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 56 - 
 
  Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 29 76% 
LLDC 17 77% 
UN SIDS  15 63% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
277.  Among those that indicated that the AfT support received is misaligned with the priorities, 
Angola  identified three areas requiring better alignment, namely agriculture, infrastructure, and 
export diversification. Burkina Faso  identi fied specific issues including limited aid, aid not geared 
to the country's priorities, difficulties in disbursement procedures, and lack of donor coordination.  
278.  Barbados  stated that the national development strategy is currently being revised.  
279.  Bhutan  stated that AfT support is channelled through the Gross National Happiness 
Commission, which is the Government institution responsible for national planning and aligning 
donors' support with national priorities.  
280.  Cabo Verde  made a reference to the National Deve lopment Plan (PEDS).  
281.  The Central African Republic  stated that support is commensurate with needs. However, it 
is largely insufficient in view of many of the challenges facing the country, including security and 
free movement.  
282.  Comoros  stated that it received limited support in the areas and volumes of aid  granted.  
283.  The Cook Islands  stated that the support received for economic diversification is aligned 
with the priorities established in the country’s strategy, but it is limited. There are other needs 
outlined in its policy that are not met, simply because the Cook Islands  are particularly involved in 
this area.  
284.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that projects resulting from the DTIS action 
matrix of the EIF are closely linked to the National Strategic Development Plan (PNSD) which defines 
the national priorities.  
285.  Côte d'Ivoire  stated that the national development plan includes commercial challenges and 
four intervention areas of Aid for Trade . 
286.  Ecuador  stated that one of the attributions of the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, 
Investment and Fisher ies of Ecuador is to propose, coordinate and execute guidelines, policies, rules 
and agreements in the area of economic trade negotiations, administration and management of 
trade relations and agreements and bilateral investments with the other countries o f Latin America 
and the Caribbean, as well as in economic and regional integration processes including the Andean 
Community of Nations (CAN), MERCOSUR, Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), Union of 
South American Nations (UNASUR), Pacific Allian ce, Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Central 
American Integration System (SICA), among others.  
287.  Guinea  stated that the priorities defined by the Guinean Government in the National Economic 
and Social Development Plan (PNDES) were presented, for example, at th e round table organized 
by donors to finance this programme . These priorities have been taken into account in the financing 
plan developed for this purpose.  
288.  Kazakhstan  stated that the support received for economic diversification is aligned with the 
priorities established in the country’s strategy, including in sectors of energy resources and 
infrastructure. Additional resources may support the development of skills, tr aining, and 
trade -related education. South -South cooperation is also important. The New Silk Road can 
transform Kazakhstan’s role in Central Asia.  
289.  Kenya  stated that the aid provided supports the priorities in the national or regional trade 
and development strategy. However, in some cases, other emerging issues are addressed.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  290.  Kiribati  stated that Aid for Trade  is aligned to priorities in the Kiribati 20 -Year Vision (KV20) 
Development Plan, the Kiribati Development Plan (KDP) and other sector plans i.e., fish eries policy, 
trade policy framework, labour mobility strategy, ICT policy, national quality policy.  
291.  Lesotho  stated that economic diversification is one of the priorities in the NSDP II for which 
AfT support assists to accomplish its objectives.  
292.  Madagascar  stated that the financing of the category II project falls exactly within the 
framework of economic diversification, in particular with the development of green value chains and 
the improvement of the added value of products through industrialization.  
293.  Mali mentioned the Implementation of the National Trade Development Policy (PNDC) Action 
Plan, the implementation of the DTIS Action Matrix, the implementation of sectoral policies, including 
national industrial policy, national quality policy and national ag ri-food sector strategy. The response 
also mentioned the implementation of the Private Sector Orientation Act, Agricultural Orientation 
Act (AOA). The implementation of the export sector strategy is currently being finalized.  
294.  Nepal  stated that the size of Aid for Trade  as per the international commitment is very low in 
Nepal. Additional resource mobilization under Aid for Trade  focusing on the national priorities of the 
country in export sector development would be preferred to support economic diversificat ion. 
295.  Niger  stated that the AfT support it receives remains low in terms of need and potential.  
296.  Papua New Guinea  stated there is an existing need to review development strategies 
(e.g.,  Medium -Term Development Plan, Trade Policy) vis-à-vis the programme s being supported.  
297.  Peru stated that national exports have doubled since 2006. Non -traditional exports in 
2018 will reach an export value of USD 13.608 billion, a historic record, achieving an increase of 
16% over 2017. Value -added exports currently reach 178 m arkets. Trade liberalization potentially 
benefits more than 90% of Peruvian exports, providing access to 59 countries and more than 
2.5 billion consumers. Between 2012 and 2017, Peruvian exports of services grew by 50%, according 
to the Central Reserve Ban k of Peru, which allowed for the second highest growth of the Pacific 
Alliance countries, after Mexico (65%). In 2017, this amount reached USD 7,394 million and 
according to recent estimates provided by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, it is expe cted 
that in 2018 the amount exported will reach USD 8000 million. Peru is the 52nd largest export 
economy in the world. The economic complexity index ranks Peru 94th (-0.763) out of 127 countries. 
The number of exported tariff lines has increased from 4,2 76 in 2006 to 4,791 in 2017.  
298.  Saint Vincent and Grenadines  stated that the AfT support received for economic 
diversification is aligned with the priorities established in its national or regional trade and 
development strategy, as reflected in the zero -hunger initiative and support in education.  
299.  Samoa  stated that the support the country receives for economic diversification would be 
aligned with the priorities established in the country’s strategy, if discussions with development 
partners would enable the co untry to articulate its actual needs.  
300.  Senegal  stated that the support received under Aid for Trade  for economic diversification is 
well aligned with the priorities established in Senegal . As already indicated, the various projects 
financed under the EIF are relevant and consistent with the PES, in particular through its first axis. 
Agriculture, industr y, services and human capital are priority sectors for which projects have been 
identified and implemented in the first phase of the Plan for an Emerging Senegal (PES). In the 
second phase of the PES (2019 -2023), projects were identified in the above -menti oned sectors as 
well as in others such as tourism and energy.  
301.  Sudan  stated that the Aid for Trade  must be utilized according to the country’s proposals and 
identified priorities that satisfy its needs.  
302.  Uganda  stated that there has been support for producti ve capacity enhancement, adjustment 
assistance, support for infrastructural development, technical assistance, capacity -building support, 
and market access support.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  303.  Vanuatu  stated that in the services sector, support for the tourism via Aid for Trade  has 
remained constant. The export of unskilled labour into Australia and New Zealand is increasing and 
Aid for Trade  to that sector can be improved with a refocus towards skilled labour. It is important to 
increase with the building blocks first before exportin g labour (e.g. through training, certification 
and accreditation of qualifications) which is now limited to a few sectors. Domestic value chain 
improvements should be further supported as there is currently limited support, particularly those 
arising from the agriculture sector where most Ni -Vanuatu are engaged in.  
304.  Zambia  stated that the 7NDP has outlined the implementation of strategies in the sectors the 
country receives AfT support to drive the economic diversification agenda forward. Further, economic 
empowerment of citizens to participate in value chains of the priority sectors will be promoted.  
305.  Zimbabwe  stated that some of the priorities in national development strategies like transport 
and storage, industry, energy, and communications have not benefit ed from Aid for Trade . 
306.  Three RECs participating in the self -assessment questionnaire indicated that the AfT support 
provided for economic diversification is aligned with South -South partners' priorities as established 
in their national or regional developm ent strategies.  
307.  WAEMU  stated that cooperation frameworks are defined in advance to ensure that the 
region's priorities are in line with the support provided by partners.  
308.  ECOWAS  stated that it received support through the Trade Facilitation West Africa 
Programme , which aims to simplify, harmonize, standardize and modernize trade procedures. It also 
listed the implementation of ECOWAS' Trade Facilitation Agenda and the WTO agreements on trade 
facilitation. In addition, it stated that the West African Competit iveness Programme  aims to 
strengthen national and regional value chains with higher export and job creation potential. ECOWAS 
also received support to improve the business climate at regional and national levels. Regarding 
energy governance, ECOWAS receive d AfT support to improve regional governance of the energy 
sector in order to achieve the following three objectives of SE4ALL 2030: ensure universal access to 
modern energy services; double energy efficiency; and double the share of renewables in the glob al 
energy mix. Regarding transport governance, support was received for institutional and regulatory 
capacities as well as to strengthen the capacities of governments and national agencies.  
309.  ECOWAS also stated that it received aid to improve maintenance of the regional network and 
its sustainability by the cessation of overloading. It also highlighted PESCAO, which is the initiative 
on Improved Regional Fisheries Governance in West Africa. In addition, support was received to 
improve the coord ination of national fisheries policies. Regarding governance resilience, it listed the 
strengthening of regional governance in food and nutrition security and agricultural policies, 
including in gender equality, in the context of resilience in West Africa with a view to enhancing 
Achieving the Zero Hunger Target by 2025.  
310.  Three South -South providers indicated that the AfT support provided for economic 
diversification is aligned with South -South partners' priorities as established in their national or 
regiona l development strategies. Singapore  stated that one platform through which the Singapore 
Cooperation Programme  supports developing economies is customized bilateral programme s where 
training programme s and study visits are tailored based on the needs and i nterests of the requesting 
party. Singapore also supports the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI), which seeks to narrow the 
development gap among ASEAN member states. In this regard, Singapore  works closely with its 
South -South partners (Cambodia, Laos , Myanmar and Viet Nam ) to ensure that the SCP programme s 
for the IAI address these countries' priorities.  
311.  Thirty out of the 35 donor countries that participated in the self -assessment questionnaire 
indicated that the AfT support provided for economic dive rsification is aligned with partners' priorities 
as established in their national or regional development strategies.  
312.  Australia  stated that AfT investments are developed in partnership with partner countries, 
on the basis of the needs identified in their n ational development strategies.  
313.  Canada  stated that in line with the aid effectiveness principles and the requirements of the 
Official Development Assistance Accountability Act, Canada provides assistance in collaboration with WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  host country governments and in support of national poverty reduction strategies. The Official 
Development Assistance Accountability Act came into force on 28 June 2008. Its purpose is to ensure 
that all Canadian ODA is focused on poverty reduction and is consistent with aid effectiveness 
principles and Canadian values. It applies to all federal departments and agencies that provide ODA. 
The following are examples of how Canada ensures the alignment of its international assistance with 
partners’ priorities.  The Trade and Private Sector Assistance (TPSA) project signed a Memorandum 
of Understanding with the Indonesian Ministry of Trade, which is aligned with the priorities of the 
Ministry through the Director General for National Export Development.  
314.  Projects  under the Canada -Asia Trade and Investment for Growth Regional Programme  
(TRIGR) programme  were designed with considerations of partners’ national or regional 
development strategies. For example, ASEAN Infrastructure Centre for Excellence (AICOE) project 
is designed to support ASEAN’s implementation of the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity. Trade 
Facilitation Office Canada (TFO Canada) works with countries that prioritize Canada as an export 
market or have products or services for which there is a demand i n Canada; and where there is the 
opportunity to involve women -led exporters and create jobs for women. Projects under the 
Pan-Africa Regional Programme  are anchored in the priorities of the African Union -endorsed Agenda 
2030, which includes the aspiration of Africans for the free movement of people, capital, goods and 
services, which will result in significant increases in trade and investments.  
315.  Denmark  stated that as part of the initial programmi ng of AfT support in bilateral contexts, 
Denmark performs sca nning and identification of the partner country. This includes aligning as much 
as possible with the national country context including national plans for poverty alleviation, 
economic and sustainable growth.  
316.  Estonia  stated that the country is unsure about  the alignment with partners' priorities as 
established in their national or regional trade and development strategy. Estonia noted that the 
wishes of partner countries are not clearly communicated. In finding the critical catalysts or 
determinants for cro ss-sectoral development, the wishing -all approach is often used.  
317.  The European Union  stated that the identification of AfT support for economic diversification 
is based on national/regional strategies, needs assessments and diagnostics when available, 
dialogue with partner countries’ governments, private sector and other stakeholders. The E uropean 
Union is committed to the key principles of development effectiveness, defined in the Busan 
outcome, among which the country has ownership.   
318.  Finland  stated that al ignment is part of the Government's strategies. In most cases, support 
to business development services are aligned with the beneficiaries' or companies needs rather than 
the government's needs.  
319.  Iceland  stated that AfT support is not a priority area in Ice land's international development 
cooperation.  
320.  Ireland  stated that the country’s partners (e.g. ITC and WTO Standards and Trade 
Development Facility  (STDF ) work to ensure that activities align with partners' priorities in their 
national or regional trade an d development strategies and WTO EIF Diagnostic Trade Integration 
Studies.  
321.  The Republic of Korea  stated that the proposals for the grant ODA projects are submitted 
to its embassies after its partner country's deliberation on national priorities. Once submi tted, the 
proposals are reviewed in view of the Republic of Korea Government's Country Partnership Strategy 
for core partner countries. The Country Partnership Strategy in itself reflects the national priorities 
based on the national development strategy o f the partner country, which has reconfirmed the 
Country Partnership Strategy through policy dialogue. With regard to proposals from non -core 
partner countries support is still delivered with the considerations to the national priority stated 
either in the  national development strategy or government policy. Several recipient countries such 
as Ethiopia and Ghana have adopted electronic clearance system of the Republic of Korea.  
322.  The Netherlands  stated that the AfT support provided for economic diversification  is aligned 
with partners' priorities as established in their national or regional trade and development strategy. 
The country provides and aligns its support through RECs and with like -minded donors  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  323.  Norway  stated that its AfT support is mainly channelled via multilateral organizations. As an 
example, national development strategies form an important part of the country's policy dialogue 
with the World Bank.  
324.  Sweden  stated that country and regional support is always guided by de mand and needs, 
and strategies are one of the tools for assessing this.  
325.  The United Kingdom  stated that DFID works with partners to ensure support is provided in 
line with national trade and development strategies. Much of its AfT support is provided on a 
demand -driven basis, responding to requests for support from partner governments.  
326.  The EBRD  stated that part of EBRD's mandate is to work closely with enterprises on the 
ground as well as with public stakeholders to provide support for improving the economic  climate 
and promote economic growth. For this, EBRD relies on regularly updated country strategies to guide 
its operations, which are elaborated in close consultation with local stakeholders from both the public 
and private sector.  
327.  The World Bank  stated t hat in the organization’s country or regional interventions, it aligns 
its efforts to the stated diversification strategies of partner countries and coordinate with donor 
agencies.  
328.  The UNDP  stated that the alignment of development support with national dev elopment 
priorities, trade -related or otherwise, is a fundamental programma tic principle for UNDP. Examples 
of alignment of UNDP's support to national development priorities include the AfT interventions in 
Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan which suppo rt the implementation of these countries’ trade 
strategies. In addition, UNDP’s AfT programme s provide upstream policy support to partner countries 
which involves financial and technical assistance for the formulation of trade and sectoral policies, 
and th e identification of policy priorities. One example of this type of work is UNDP’s partnerships 
with LDCs for the formulation of the DTIS under the EIF. 
Progress in economic diversification14 
329.  Forty-seven of the 88 respondents (53%) to the partner country que stionnaire reported 
progress in economic diversification since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006. Across 
different regions, Africa records the highest share with 71% of respondents reporting progress in 
economic diversification. The share of LDCs reporting progress was 50% higher than that of other 
respondents. Sixty -six per cent of LDC respondents reported progress compared with compared with 
44% among non -LDC respondents.  
Trade priorities are part of national or regional development strat egy: partner country's 
perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  34 97% 
Asia 21 91% 
Americas  15 83% 
Oceania  8 80% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 38 100%  
LLDC 22 100%  
UN SIDS  19 79% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
330.  Angola  stated that the Angolan Executive has invested in the agriculture, infrastructure and 
telecommunications sectors.  
 
14 Refer to index number 11 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  331.  Burundi  indicated limited progress due to insufficient AfT financing.  
332.  Cabo Verde  stated that  the country recorded progress in trade and economic diversification 
through oriented dialogue with partners by setting industrial policy and strategic plans, building a 
new technological  park, through the privatization of the national airline, and other p ublic private 
partnerships in sectors like renewable energy and maritime transportation.  
333.  The Central African Republic  stated that the results of the efforts made in this regard have 
been largely destroyed by the crisis in the country since 2013.  
334.  Comoros  stated that limited progress in processing traditional products and leading to some 
exports at regional level due to support for the EIF. 
335.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  is focusing on the rehabilitation of growth sectors such 
as coffee, palm oil and cocoa.  
336.  Costa Rica  stated that Costa Rica's exportable offer has diversified significantly in terms of 
products and destinations since 2006. For example, medical devices, grow th in pineapple exports, 
and an increase in the share of exports from the service sector.  
337.  Côte d'Ivoire  stated that the Government has recorded progress in economic diversification 
since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006. This is evident in the elaboration of the 
National Export Strategy with support for several sectors other than coffee and cocoa. C ôte d'Iv oire 
also noted the development of an industrialization policy aimed at increasing the level of industrial 
transformation of certain agricultural sectors, including cocoa, cashew nuts, cotton, rubber, palm oil 
and fruits and vegetables. The response also m entioned the eligibility to benefit under the African 
Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and a new approach to the American market.  
338.  Dominican Republic  stated that it is unsure whether the government recorded progress in 
economic diversification since the la unch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative. The response mentioned the 
following three categories: export diversification, industry, and services.  
339.  The Gambia  stated that the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs prepares annual 
progress reports on the impleme ntation of the National Development Plan. There is a requirement 
to provide quarterly updates at the sectoral level in the implementation of the National Development 
Plan (NDP) to the Office of the President.  
340.  Guinea  stated that in 2007, some projects carri ed out under the EIF programme  made 
significant progress in diversifying the economy through Aid for Trade . 
341.  Kazakhstan  stated that the country has reached a 12 -fold growth of its foreign trade and a 
20-fold increase in the country’s industrial output. Over  these years, its oil output grew three -fold, 
and natural gas output increased five -fold. Carrying out the accelerated industrialization programme  
since 2010, Kazakhstan has implemented 397 investment projects worth 1,797 billion tenge and 
created over 44, 000 jobs. 225 projects worth 101.2 billion tenge have been approved over the two 
years of implementing the 2020 Business Roadmap programme . The country is developing the 
services of transportable medicine, which now provides most remote areas of the countr y with 
healthcare services at a rapid pace.  
342.  Kazakhstan has successfully created a modern and efficient oil, gas and mining sector. Its 
success in this area will help the country build a new economy of the future. It has diversified the 
country’s export ma rkets and secured its positions, thereby reducing its dependence on any 
particular export. Over recent years, Kazakhstan has launched a number of major infrastructure 
projects that includes highways and railroads, pipelines, logistics centers, terminals, a irports, train 
stations and ports that support the strengthening of the economy. All of these projects have created 
jobs for many citizens of Kazakhstan and integrated the country into the regional and global 
economic system. Over the last 11 years, the hi ghway development sector received over 
1,263  billion tenge and has built and reconstructed over 48,000 km of public highways, as well as 
1,100 km of railways. The country opened access to the Gulf and Middle East countries through the 
establishment of the Uzen – Turkmenistan border railroad. Having put together the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Korgas  - Zhetygen railway, Kazakhstan has opened the eastern gate, paving the way towards the 
markets of China and all of Asia. The country also began building the Zhezkazgan – Beineu railway.  
343.  Kiribati  stated that investment in the production and export of fresh and frozen fish was 
achieved in 2014 when Kiribati Fish L TD., was established through a joint venture between the 
Government and foreign investment. There have been new products in the co conut sector like Virgin 
Coconut Oil, coconut sap sugar, among others.  
344.  Lao PDR  stated that the progress made in economic diversification is monitored as part of 
the LDC graduation process.  
345.  Lesotho  stated that there was an improvement in agricultural produc tivity, particularly in 
vegetable and fruit production, through the assistance of the EIF, the World Bank and the FAO. 
346.  Madagascar  stated that currently, diversification is not yet felt in terms of export volume or 
trade balance or currency inflows as suppo rt is provided in particular in terms of policy and strategy 
improvement but not really in terms of production infrastructure.  
347.  Mali stated that there was an increase in export volumes in mango, gum arabic, cotton, 
livestock, hides and skins, among others.  
348.  Mauritius  stated that the country has not received any Aid for Trade  until now.  
349.  Mexico  stated that the aid received has focused on public officials’ education and training.  
350.  Nepal  stated that the export -import ratio of the country in foreign trade of goods has declined 
from 1:2 in 2005/2006 to 1:15 in 2017/2018. As a result, the country is facing a huge trade deficit.  
351.  Niger  stated that notable progress has been made in the sector (e.g., hides and skins). 
Exports have increased significantly, and the outlook in this area is promising.  
352.  Panama  stated that the country is distributed in development programme s and projects 
aimed at the sectors indicated above, in accordance with the Government's Strategic Plan 
2015-2019.  
353.  Papua New Guinea  stated that study needs to be undertaken in order to determine progress 
in economic diversification since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006.  
354.  Paraguay  stated that there has been progress in structural transformation and economic 
diversific ation. In the last four years, there has been an important advance in the industrial sector, 
which has increased its contribution to the growth of the Paraguayan economy between 2013 and 
2017. According to the Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP), 2017 has close d with a 9.4% growth in 
manufacturing industry. The growth observed in the last five years was mainly driven by the food 
industry, which includes: beef, vegetable oils and soybean meal. Other important sectors have been: 
plastic goods, pharmaceuticals, lea ther goods, textiles, paper and cardboard and cables.  
355.  Paraguay's industrial sector grew at an average rate of 7.1% during the period 2013 -2017, 
while during the period 2008 -2012 it grew at an average rate of 2.1%. There was an evolution of 
the workforce i n the industrial sector. The data from the Continuous Employment Survey of the 
General Directorate of Statistics, Surveys and Censuses, which takes the values of Asunción and 
urban areas of the Central Department, which represents close to 40% of the natio nal Economically 
Active Population; they indicate that the workforce employed in the industrial sector has maintained 
a growing trend during the period 2013 -2017. From 2013 to 2017, a total of 104 export industries 
operating under the maquila regime have b een installed, representing an increase of 259% over the 
previous five -year period. The most important indicator corresponds to the labour force generated 
by the installation of these export industries in the national territory. A total of 9,310 new jobs w ere 
created in this sector, 156% more than in the previous five -year period.  
356.  The Raw Materials Regime aims to encourage investment and stimulate existing industrial 
enterprises, through tariff releases, improving the conditions of competitiveness of indus tries as a 
source of employment and job creation, of added value, and in particular to stimulate the creation WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  of and the growth of MSMEs. Through this regime, industries may enjoy the benefit of importing raw 
materials and inputs with a customs tariff of 0 %, when it is demonstrated that they are used as such 
in their own production processes and if there is no national production of such inputs. The use of 
this benefit grew by 76% over the previous five -year period, and the number of certificates issued 
increased by 58%. The National Product and Employment Regime is governed by Ministerial 
Resolution 1.212/2012, which establishes a preference margin of 20% in public bids for products 
that have the Certificate of National Origin issued. The number of certific ates of origin issued has 
increased year after year since 2013 and this is due to various reasons. One of them is the greater 
participation of bidders in the various calls that are made, the requirement by the conveners to 
submit such document, as well as the incentive granted by Law 4.558/11 with this document. As for 
the certificates issued for products, the food sector for school lunches stands out. In services, the 
category of constructions (civil and roads) stands out, as well as security, gastronomic and cleaning 
services.  
357.  The National Automotive Policy Regime, established in Law 4.838/2012, aims to promote the 
national automotive industry. Under this scheme, automotive industries can benefit from exemption 
from customs duties on imports of capital go ods and raw materials. Value -added tax ( VAT) of 2%  on 
imports of capital goods and raw materials, with the exception of kits and components for 
motorcycles, which will be subject to a 4% VAT on imports. In the last five years, a total of 
4,727  four-wheeled  vehicles have been assembled in Paraguay, including trucks, pickup trucks, 
automobiles and, recently, tractors. The Unified System for the Opening and Closing of Companies 
(SUACE) was created by Law  Nº 4.986/2013. It is a single window for the opening and /or 
formalization of physical and legal companies, for the entry of applications and state registrations, 
which aims to facilitate and streamline the process of opening new business ventures. From 2013 to 
2017, a total of 2,037 companies were created, repr esenting an 84% increase over the previous 
five-year period. The Industrial Registry contributes to the formalization of the Industrial Sector, in 
addition to providing updated information on productive capacity, thus facilitating the creation of 
plans and  policies for industrial development. According to data from the Coordination of Online 
Industrial Registration (RIEL), from 2013 to 2017, 2,208 new industries were registered and a total 
of 2,974 industries are currently registered. The improvements that were implemented have 
contributed to the observed increase in the number of records and to the improvement in sector 
statistics.   
358.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  stated that since the launch of the National Adaptation Strategy 
(2006 -2017) in 2006, the progress of ea ch economic or social sector is monitored and reported on 
an annual basis. Cross -cutting issues such as security and environmental impacts are also 
monitored. The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis is in the process of acquiring technical 
assistance to de velop a new National Development Strategy.  
359.  Samoa  stated that there has not been progress reported specific on Aid for Trade . 
360.  Senegal  stated that the country recorded annual growth rates of less than 5% over the period 
2006-2012. But with the implementation  of the Plan for Emerging Senegal (PES), the growth rate 
averaged 6.6% per year from 2014 -2018 with inflation under control (less than 3% in 2017) and a 
reduction in the budget deficit from 5.4% in 2011 to 3.0% in 2017. Economic growth has been 
driven by a griculture, consumption, investment and exports. The implementation of the Programme  
to Accelerate the Pace of Senegalese Agriculture (PRACAS) has made it possible to diversify 
agricultural production and achieve high production levels. Thus, thanks to a p roactive policy, 
Senegal achieved satisfactory levels of agricultural production in 2017, particularly in the rice sector 
with 1,011,269 tonnes, onions with 400,000 tonnes, groundnuts with 1,405,223 tonnes and fruit 
and vegetables with 100,445,762 tonnes o f exports. On the export side, there was an average 
annual increase of 9% over the period 2014 -2018.  
361.  Tanzania  stated that the remarkable viability of AfT support has been enunciated in the 
National Development Plan for 2016/17 -2020/21.  
362.  Uganda  listed the i ncreased market access (COMESA Free Trade Area, Continental Free Trade 
Area), substantial increase in exports in terms of value, and the expansion of services and increase 
in exports of services.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  363.  Vanuatu  stated that there is additional trade infrastructure being developed but the 
investment needs are extremely large with very limited resources. The training and development of 
human resources to consider the next level of economic progress and diversificat ion needs can be 
improved from current levels.  
364.  Zambia  stated that non -copper merchandise exports have grown briskly alongside copper 
exports. The number of exporting firms and exported products has grown.  
365.  Zimbabwe  stated that since 2008, Zimbabwe has enter ed into trade in services agreements 
with a view to diversify the economy. Value addition programme s in the clothing and leather sectors 
have been implemented with a view of improving the quality of exports.  
366.  Two RECs stated that their region or TC recorded  progress in economic diversification since 
the launch of the AfT Initiative in 2006.  
367.  COMESA  stated that some of the notable progress in economic diversification include 
facilitating the establishment of the Djibouti Corridor, providing adjustment support amounting to 
over EUR 86 million to among other priorities build productive capacities for economic diversification 
focusing on value addition, formulation of national specific strategies on industrial expansion, SME 
development, agriculture investment, an d trade facilitation.  
368.  ECOWAS  provided additional information on intra community trade as percentage of ECOWAS 
Exports. For instance, in 2011 intra -community trade accounted for 10% of ECOWAS trade and 
12% in 2016. From 2004 -2008, the export of goods and services (as a per cent of GDP) accounted 
for 28.2%. Between 2009 and 2017, it ranged from 15.3% to %26.9, and 18.8% in 2017. The 
import of goods and services (as a per cent  of GDP) accounted for 23.7% between 2004 -2008, with 
a range of 19.9% – 27.3% between 2009 - 2017, and 21.4% in 2017. Value added agriculture (as 
a percent of GDP) accounted for 31.6% in 2006, and 22.1% in 2018. Value added industry (as a 
percent of GDP) accounted for 37.4% in 2006, and 21.3% in 2018. Value added services (as a 
percent of GDP) accounted for 31% in 2006, and 56.6% in 2018.  
369.  WAEMU  mentioned the establishment of juxtaposed checkpoints and the establishment of a 
pilot phase of an interconnection of customs information systems. WAEMU benefits from a joint 
review of the trade policies of the eight countries in 2017, capacity building in several trade areas, 
the establishment of transport and trade facilitation committees, a pilot project to dematerialize 
certificates of origin, the implementation of trade information portals, the implementation of a trade 
barrier alert mechanism, the implementation of national trade negotiation committees, and the 
preparation of an annual report for trade monitoring.  
370.  One South -South provider, China , stated that the So uth-South AfT support provided for 
economic diversification had resulted in progress in partner countries since the launch of the 
Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006. In that regard, China mentioned the establishment of China and 
LDCs Accession Programme . China also stated that the amount of donations has been increased 
from USD 400,000 to USD 500,000.  
371.  Indonesia added in its reply to the self -assessment questionnaire that aid given are based 
on recipient request and needs.  
372.  Twenty -three out of the 35 donor cou ntries that participated in the self -assessment 
questionnaire stated that the AfT support provided for economic diversification had resulted in 
progress in partner countries since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006.  
373.  Australia  stated that in  2016-17, AfT investments in infrastructure, trade facilitation and 
international competitiveness were assessed as being 85% effective and 89% sustainable. All new 
aid investments explored innovative ways to either promote private sector growth or engage t he 
private sector in achieving development outcomes.  
374.  Canada  stated that Canadian Market Access and Capacity Building Services (CMAS) 
2014-2018 is a prime example how Canadian AfT funding produced results and contributed to the 
progress in partner countries . The project provided general services to all small and medium 
exporters from OECD DAC listed countries including web -based Canadian Market Information, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  match -making with Canadian importers and outreach and capacity building through webinars to 
Trade Supp ort Institutions (TSIs). It delivered market access information and trade facilitation for 
46 countries from Africa, Asia, Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean. For 15 developing 
countries, CMAS provided face -to-face training for trade representati ves and trade support 
institutions and technical assistance for market access (trade shows, B2B, market familiarization).  
375.  For an additional six developing countries with Free Trade Agreements with Canada and 
ten LDCs, CMAS provided comprehensive capacity building and market access activities for SMEs. 
Companies led by women increased their exports into Canada and the project achieved 
30% participation rate of women -led companies. This was achieved by having targets for the number 
of women exporters and by providing training in areas such as understanding the expectations of 
and negotiating with the Canadian buyers. The project helped exporters to increase their exports, 
which sustained or created new jobs and ensured companies were aware of their responsibi lity for 
decent working conditions and in many cases the companies were fair trade certified which ensured 
decent working conditions for their employees. By setting targets for the number of women 
participants, the project was able to ensure gender equalit y in international trade. As the project 
worked in a variety of developing countries and LDCs, local managerial capacity and technical 
capacity of Trade Support Institutions (TSIs) ranged widely.  
376.  In general, TSIs from poorer countries have less resources for trade promotion and relatively 
less managerial and technical capacity. In many cases, TSIs did not have well -functioning monitoring 
and evaluation systems and did not collect or analyze gender -disaggregated data. The project 
provided capacity building to improve technical and M&E knowledge and skills. The results reported 
based on 3.5 years of the project are as follows: 267 SMEs accessed TFO Canada Trade Information 
Services in support of their business decision -making 145 Trade Support Institutions su pported SMEs 
to access the Canadian market , 64 Canadian buyers made contracts with SME exporters 30 TSIs 
supported 111 SMEs to develop and implement Canadian market entry plans 63 (of which 17% are 
women -led) SMEs made USD 11.6 worth of export sales to Can ada. 
377.  Estonia  stated that no particular measurement in general terms, but every single cooperation 
project goes through the evaluation process, and the success rate has been quite high so far. The 
country hopes that those smaller successes build up a more g eneral country level success in 
economic diversification which also supports the general economic development of that country.  
378.  The European Union  stated that progress is measured on a project basis and aggregated by 
country/region through country, region, strategic and thematic evaluations.  
379.  Finland  stated that Finland's total Aid for Trade  has declined strongly since 2006, most 
notably that of agriculture, forestry, infrastructure and communications.  
380.  Germany  stated that the progress with respect to economic diversification impacts has not 
been systematically evaluated for the AfT portfolio as a whole. Germany welcomes that AfT impact 
is currently being discussed more intensively, not at least among E uropean Union Member States. 
Programme s specific evaluations are regularly conducted for AfT measures, in some cases including 
economic diversif ication. However, the results are, so far, not aggregated for methodological 
reasons.  
381.  Iceland  stated that AfT support is not a priority area in Iceland's international development 
cooperation.  
382.  Ireland  made a reference to WTO 's STDF  Results Booklet and ITC's Impact Brochure 2018.  
383.  New Zealand  stated that economic diversification has not been recorded, so specific 
comments on progress cannot be provided.  
384.  Sweden  stated that for a long time, economic diversification has featured among the 
objectives of Swedish trade -related support. Recent debates and increased demands around, for 
example the implications of digitalization and automation for structural transformation, has 
increased our attention to these issues, although this is not necessarily visible in the st atistics.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  385.  The United Kingdom  stated that all its AfT projects are reviewed on project completion to 
determine progress. Project completion reports can be found publicly.  
386.  The United States  mentioned USAID 2017 Trade Capacity Building Evaluation.  
387.  The EBRD  stated that EBRD does not track macro -level developments, but rather progress is 
tracked on individual projects, where the direct impact can be identified. In 2017, the Bank's internal 
monitoring registered 294 projects as successfully closed, measured again st the expected transition 
and development impact, including support for economic diversification in various dimensions.  
388.  The World Bank  stated that progress or targets can be measured by the growing insertion 
of many developing countries in regional and gl obal supply chains, in the expanding product mix of 
exports and in heightened levels of inward FDI in efficiency -seeking/export -oriented sectors and 
activities.  
Areas of progress in economic diversification15 
389.  Export diversification was identified as the top  area of progress for partner developing 
countries, as indicated by 40 out of the 88 respondents. The top areas of progress reported by the 
RECs were structural transformation and industrialization.  
Top three priorities identified in the national or regional development strategy: partner 
country's perspective  
Region  Export diversification  Structural 
transformation  Industrialization  
Africa  21 (60%)  9 (26%)  14 (40%)  
Asia 9 (39%)  7 (30%)  5 (22%)  
Americas  8 (44%)  5 (28%)  2 (11%)  
Oceania  2 (20%)  1 (10%)  1 (10%)  
Group  Export diversification  Structural 
transformation  Industrialization  
Donors  19 (54%)  10 (29%)  14 (40%)  
Partner countries  40 (45%)  22 (25%)  22 (25%)  
LDC 22 (58%)  13 (34%)  13 (34%)  
LLDC 10 (45%)  7 (32%)  7 (32%)  
UN SIDS  7 (29%)  2 (8%) 4 (17%)  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
390.  Angola  stated that the Government of Angola has made progress in the agriculture and 
infrastructure sectors.  
391.  Burkina Faso  stated that the country’s progress made through the EIF intervention relates 
to the expansion of the sesame, fresh and dried mango, cashew nuts and shea butter export product 
base. Export revenues from these products have increased and actors have experienced an 
improvement in their income level. Example of effects recorded through  the production of cashew 
nuts include over CFAF 6 billion (USD 12 million) turnover between 2014 and 2016; substantial 
income increases for more than 10,000 people, 90% of whom are women in processing; and over 
200 new jobs created between 2015 and 2016. The production of mango has allowed for more than 
CFAF 10 billion (USD 20 million) in turnover of dried mango exported in 2015 and 2016; substantial 
increase in income of more than 6,679 employees in mango processing units, 80% of which are 
women; and 2,79 6 new jobs created between 2015 and 2016.   
 
15 Refer to index number 12 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  392.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the country has made progress in not relying 
solely on the export of mineral resources. It is committed to boosting its exports of agricultural 
products despite the fra ud registered at its borders for the benefit of neighbouring countries . 
393.  Costa Rica  stated that there has been progress, particularly in the medical device sector.  
394.  Côte d'Ivoire  made a reference to its National Export Strategy as a part of the progress the 
government has recorded in economic diversification since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative 
in 2006.  
395.  Guinea  stated that the main progress made by the country in the field of economic 
diversification since 2006 has been the resumption of activities at the Fria alumina factory, which 
transforms raw bauxite into alumina; the introduction of the Conakry suburban tr ain, which is very 
profitable and employs many young people and women; and the resumption of activities at the 
Kankan fruit juice factory.  
396.  Honduras  stated that in recent years, the country has diversified exports in agricultural 
products as well as market diversification as a result of its commercial policy and commercial 
opening.  
397.  Kenya  stated that even though there has been diversification in the ec onomy, Aid for Trade  
is one of the drivers for diversification.  
398.  Lesotho  stated that improving the productive capacity of smallholder agricultural farmers is 
an area of progress that the Government has recorded progress in since the launch of the 
2006 Aid-for-Trade Initiative.  
399.  Madagascar  stated that diversification of exported products has been observed, but these 
are mainly raw and not processed products, and even less so with packaging or rebranding.  
400.  Mali stated that exports are not very diversified (e.g. , cotton, gold, livestock, mango, shea).  
401.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  stated that cross -sector activities undertaken since 2006 to advance 
the National Adaptation Strategy (NAS) include numerous structural reforms at the institutional 
level, including improving t he efficiency and effectiveness of tax collection as well as improved 
business registration, consolidating smaller taxes into a VAT, the restructuring and reduction of 
National Debt, the incorporation of technology to streamline activities at the Customs a nd Excise 
Department, measures to improve Public Financial Management, reform to social or community 
assistance mechanisms including improving social assistance targeting mechanisms, development 
and implementation of National Youth and Gender Development P olicies or Strategies, the 
implementation or ratification of new trade agreements, expansion of educational services including 
offshore education, and numerous incentives to stimulate FDI which include investment in the 
tourism or real estate sector. Infra structural transformations to increase trade have included 
investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies to reduce electricity costs, 
expansion and protection of the water distribution grid, the establishment of Commercial Parks 
includ ing the installation of road and utility infrastructure, upgrading of the island road network and 
associated infrastructure, upgrade of the air and sea ports, and incorporating resilience measures at 
every stage to mitigate against climate change.  
402.  Saint Vi ncent and Grenadines  stated that an increase in the export of other agricultural 
crops other than banana is an area of government recorded progress in economic diversification 
since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006.  
403.  Senegal  stated that w ith the implementation of the Plan for Emerging Senegal, Senegal has 
achieved significant growth rates of 6.6%, 6.4%, 6.2%, 7.2% , respectively , in 2014, 2015, 2016  
and 2017, representing an average growth rate of 6.6%. This growth is based on consumption, 
exports and investment in economic and social infrastructure (e.g., energy, education, construction 
and public works) and on a revitalization of agriculture. On the supply side, growth is characterized 
by a predominance of services, whose activity still ac counts for nearly 61% of total value added over 
the period 2014 -2018, compared with 62.1% between 2009 and 2013. The secondary sector 
accounts for 22.6% of total value added over the period 2014 -2018 compared to 21.8% in the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  previous period. Its contributi on to growth improved over the P lan for an Emerging Senegal  
implementation period compared to the 2009 -2013 period, from 0.9% to 1.4%. The improvement 
in the energy situation has contributed significantly to the resurgence of activity in the secondary 
sector. The primary sector, with very volatile growth due to climatic hazards, accounts for only 
17% of GDP over the 2014 -2018 period, compared with 16.1% of GDP between 2009 and 2013. On 
the external trade side, even if the trade balance remains in deficit, t here is a continuous increase 
in exports, which have an average growth rate of 9.1% between 2010 and 2017.  
404.  It should be noted that in recent years there has been a beginning of diversification of the 
exportable base with new sectors that drive Senegal's e xports. For example, in 2017, exports of 
horticultural products reached 106,000 tonnes. Export diversification has also been well taken into 
account in the implementation of the category project on improving the competitiveness of 
Senegalese mango ( "Projet  d'amélioration de la compétivité de la marque sénégalaise" ). Thus, a 
number of activities have been implemented, including the organization by the "Agence sénégalaise 
de promotion des exportations"  of training sessions on export standards and quality; ass istance to 
producers or exporters until they obtain Global Gap certification; conducting a study of market 
opportunities in the target countries of the Maghreb (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and Mauritania) with 
an action plan on fresh and processed mango; upd ate of a study on the European market (Germany, 
England and others) and the action plan; launch of the "Mango from Senegal" label; support for 
mango exporting companies that participated in the Fruit Logistica exhibition (2016 and 
2017 edition).  
405.  Togo  stated that the Government has recorded progress in transport and road infrastructure, 
trade development and improvement in the business climate.  
406.  Uganda  stated that there has been an increased variety and volume of exports of both goods 
and services as we ll as increased market access (COMESA Free Trade Agreement, AfCTFA ), increased 
percentage of manufactured goods exports to total exports, increased sectoral productivity, and 
increased labour productivity.  
407.  Zambia  reported that the share of non -traditional exports to total exports grew from 19.8%  to 
25.6% (2006 -2015) as highlighted in the 7NDP.  
408.  Zimbabwe  stated that Zimbabwe has not received support for Economic Diversification save 
for capacity building support in trade in services, trade facilitation and ex port promotion.  
409.  Two RECs reported progress in economic diversification since the launch of the AfT Initiative 
in 2006.  WAEMU  noted, however, that this progress remains insufficient and needs to be 
strengthened with the support of technical and financial pa rtners.  
410.  Nineteen out of the 35 respondents to the donor questionnaire identified export diversification 
as an area in which progress in economic diversification has been recorded.  
411.  Australia  stated that supporting labour mobility is an important component o f Australia's Aid 
for Trade . Remittances, especially for the Pacific region, are an important source of investment. In 
the period 2012 -2017, Australia's Pacific Seasonal Worker Programme  delivered over 
USD 144 million in net income gains to Pacific island countries and Timor -Leste. Typically, a worker 
under the Seasonal Worker Programme  sends home over USD 8,850.  
412.  Canada  stated that the Agribusiness Development project supports the Government of the 
Philippines in its efforts to improve the productivity and the competitiveness of the agribusiness 
sector. Specifically, the project aims to enhance farmers’ business management skills, financial 
literacy and their access to better farming practices; help farmers and agribusiness firms gain access 
to finance; faci litate public -private partnerships in agriculture -related infrastructure; and help the 
government design new and enhanced policies, regulations, and procedures that lower transaction 
costs for farmers and agricultural enterprises. The intermediate outcomes  are improved incomes of 
smallholder farmers, especially women; increased investments in the agriculture and agribusiness 
sectors by men and women smallholder farmers; and reduced compliance and transactions costs for 
farmers and the agribusiness sector.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  413.  Progress to date includes providing advisory services to Bayer CropScience to improve the 
delivery of technical extension services and enhance financial literacy and business management 
skills of farmers. As a result, Bayer and its partner institutions hav e now reached 43,061; individuals 
(38% women) through technical training on improved agricultural practices; and assisted rural and 
commercial financial institutions, namely, CARD SME Bank and Rizal Microbank, to develop financial 
products and services tha t meet agribusinesses ' and farmers ' financing needs. As of the end of 
December 2017, total loan disbursements stood at 2,856 loans, with a total value of USD 9.0 million . 
Progress also includes advising CARD -Pioneer Micro -Insurance Inc. in the development and 
deployment of an indemnity -based typhoon or tropical depression insurance product for rice and 
corn farmers. Some 3,840 rice and corn farmers were insured as of 31 December 2017. The project 
also provided advisory services to government agencies to red uce compliance and transaction costs 
in the agribusiness sector. A total of 16 laws/regulations/amendments/codes were enacted and 
government policies adopted that will increase the government’s ability to regulate and support 
trade and logistics for agribu siness and farmer competitiveness. Some 2,684 businesses are now 
using the electronic processing for inspection requests which  the International Finance Corporation  
helped the Department of Agriculture (DA) to develop under the Trade Enabling Risk Manageme nt 
System. This process has reduced the need for businesses to manually process their inspection 
documents and allows the DA to capture accurate information for proper inspections risk 
management.  
414.  The European Union  reported examples of progress including  export diversification through 
PRO CADENAS, which is a project for the Promotion of Diversified and Sustainable Livestock 
Production in Paraguay. In addition, structural transformation was also an area of progress through 
adaptation Strategies of Banana P roducing Countries. The E uropean Union also recorded 
industrialization as an area of progress, especially with regard to the support the E uropean Union 
provided to Ethiopia.  
415.  Latvia  recorded export facilitation and private sector development as an area of progress in 
economic diversification since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006.  
416.  Norway  made a reference to the progress reported by multilateral organizations such as the 
ITC. 
417.  The United Kingdom  stated that country funds a wide range of AfT Initiatives with varying 
impacts which have not yet been aggregated across all AfT programme s.  
418.  The UNDP  stated that employment creation (including for women) has been a significant area 
of progress along with  business expansion and sustainability; increased trade; market 
diversification; and policy formulation.  
419.  The World Bank Group  stated that progress has been recorded in diversification into services 
production and trade, including services supplied online w ith beneficial backward linkages to goods 
production.  
Sectoral progress in economic diversification16 
420.  At the sectoral level, agriculture is the sector in which progress in economic diversification has 
been reported the most, followed by industry and service s. Thirty -four out of the 88 respondents 
reported progress in agriculture, 29 in services and 28 in industry. Agriculture is the top sector in 
which progress in economic diversification has been recorded by LDCs. Within the LDC Group, African 
LDCs report m ost progress in agricultural diversification. The f igure below highlights the sectoral 
distribution across different regions. The top sector in which progress has been reported is 
agriculture in Africa and services in LAC. Respondents who reported progress  at the sectoral level in 
Asia, largely from the LDCs, identified agriculture and industry as the top sectors.  
 
16 Refer to index number 13 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top priorities identified in the national or regional development strategy: partner 
country's perspective  
Sector  Partner countries  LDCs  LLDCs  UN SIDS  
Agriculture  34 (39%)  23 (61%)  10 (45%)  4 (17%)  
Industry  28 (32%)  16 (42%)  9 (41%)  5 (21%)  
Services  29 (33%)  13 (34%)  7 (32%)  8 (33%)  
Fisheries  23 (26%)  11 (29%)  4 (18%)  6 (25%)  
Forestry  11 (13%)  6 (16%)  3 (14%)  0 (0%)  
 
Sector  Africa  Asia Americas  Oceania  
Agriculture  20 (57%)  19 (83%)  16 (89%)  10 (100%)  
Industry  14 (40%)  20 (87%)  15 (83%)  5 (50%)  
Services  13 (37%)  19 (83%)  17 (94%)  8 (80%)  
Fisheries  13 (37%)  7 (30%)  15 (83%)  9 (90%)  
Forestry  7 (20%)  1 (4%)  5 (28%)  1 (10%)  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
Additional information on the sectors in which progress has been recorded: partner 
country's perspective  
Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela  [mentioned] communication and financial services  
 
Cambodia  [mentioned] tourism  
 
Kenya  [mentioned] mining, MSMEs  
 
Nigeria  [mentioned] agriculture, manufacturing and packaging  
 
Bhutan  [mentioned] services sector, tourism, ICT  
 
 
421.  The Democratic Republic of C ongo  stated that there is increasing funding for projects for 
the rehabilitation of certain agricultural sectors such as coffee, palm oil and cocoa. In the field of 
forestry, the country is deploying efforts to ensure the traceability of Congolese timber f or export.  
422.  The Gambia  stated that there has been an emergence of investments in the industrial sector 
since 2006. Two flour mills have been established, and there is ongoing investment to establish a 
cement production factory which is expected to commence operations in 2019. Furthermore, there 
are also a number of investments in agro -processing and poultry.  
423.  Guinea  stated that agriculture has made significant progress in terms of the quantity and 
quality of agricultural goods produced. Several projects benef iting from the financial support of trade 
financing partners have made it possible to achieve these results. This is also true for the industrial 
sector where several SMEs have been set up and also for fishing, which has seen the arrival of 
several foreign  investors.  
424.  Lesotho  stated that diversification of agricultural production away from traditional crops into 
cash crops has been a sector of progress in economic diversification.  
425.  Madagascar  stated that Madagascar exports a certain quantity of fisheries and forest 
products but not directly induced by Aid for Trade . Similarly, Madagascar is currently starting to 
export services in the field of IT and consulting. In the area of fisheries, works hops on fisheries 
subsidies and SPS measures for fisheries, products were funded by the EIF. 
426.  Mali stated that the diversification of agricultural and agri -food sectors has been one of the 
government -recorded sectors of progress in economic diversification since the launch of the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Aid-for-Trade Initiative in 2006. In addition, there has been a diversification of agroforestry exports; 
development of the telecommunications sector (mobile phones); and development of road corridors.  
427.  Peru reported progress in seve ral sectors, both in terms of export diversification (through 
increased variety, volume, prices, trading partners) and in terms of value addition and quality 
improvement. For example, the agriculture and services sectors stand out. In 2006, non -traditional  
agricultural exports accounted for 5% of total exports, compared with 11% in 2017. Likewise, by 
2018, it is estimated that the export of services has reached around USD 7,400 million, being 
approximately 2.75 times greater than the exports of services in 2006.  
428.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  stated that the services sectors that were prioritized in the 
2006-2017 National Adaptation Strategy (NAS) are tourism, ICT, financial services and agriculture. 
Significant progress has been made in tourism, ICT, financial servi ces, education services and 
general services provision.  
429.  Senegal  stated that in the field of agriculture, thanks to a proactive policy, notably through 
the Programme  to accelerate the pace of agriculture in Senegal (PRACAS), Senegal achieved 
satisfactory levels of agricultural production in 2017, particularly in the rice sector with 
1,011,269  tons, onion with 400,000 tons, groundnut with 1,405,223 tons and fruits and vegetables 
with 100,445,762 tons of exports. In addition, other trade -specific projects have been implemented. 
Among them, the country mentioned the Project for the construction of commercial platforms for 
agricultural products in rural areas; the construc tion of a commercial infrastructure complex in 
Diobe; the creation of areas dedicated to ready -to-use export services, public and public -private 
partnership  components; the creation of a market of national interest in Diamniadio; the creation of 
a station for large carriers in Diamniadio.  
430.  Finally, as trade is a transversal sector, the P lan for Emerging Senegal  has identified and 
implemented other sectoral but trade -related projects, notably in the fields of agriculture, fisheries, 
tourism, logistics and in dustry. In agriculture, various projects have been initiated such as PRACAS 
and community agricultural domains (DACs), among others. In tourism, the sector has been revived 
through, various projects and measures such as the abolition of visas for entry int o Senegal; 
construction of a new airport in Diamniadio; establishment of hotel credits for the financing of tourist 
accommodation with an initial amount of CFAF 5 billion; Casamance as a special tourist area of 
national interest (special tax status for tou rist operators of Casamance, upgrading of certain 
accommodation, integrated tourist areas, installation of the kerosene tank at Cap Skirring airport, 
among others) for activities in this area with a high tourist potential; construction of an integrated 
industrial centre in Diamniadio; start -up of the agropole in the south of the country.  
431.  Zambia  reported progress in the establishment of Multi Facility Economic Zones to promote 
industrialization and economic diversification as well as improving the productive  capacity of 
beekeepers in the apiculture sector.  
432.  Responses received from the RECs identified industry and services as the top two sectors 
which have recorded progress in economic diversification.  
433.  WAEMU  added that this progress remains insufficient and nee ds to be strengthened with the 
support of technical and financial partners.  
434.  One South -South provider, China, identified industry and services as the top two sectors which 
have recorded progress in economic diversification of partner countries.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top prioriti es identified in the national or regional development strategy: donor's 
perspective  
Sector  Donors  
Agriculture  20 (57%)  
Industry  15 (43%)  
Services  14 (40%)  
Fisheries  9 (26%)  
Forestry  7 (20%)  
 
435.  Donor countries identified agriculture as the sector in which progress in economic 
diversification has been reported the most, followed by industry and services. Twenty out of 35  donor 
countries reported progress in agriculture, 15 in industry, and 14 in services.  
436.  Canada  reported progress with regard to women m icro-entrepreneurs in the food, 
textile/woven cloth and home style sectors; textiles and apparel, fresh fruits and vegetables, 
processed foods, home decor and services.  
437.  The United Kingdom  stated that a better approach to agriculture will deliver stronger 
economic growth and contribute more effectively to ending poverty, hunger and malnutrition. The 
right policies and investments could unlock an extra USD 2 trillion in rural growth by 2030 . The 
United Kingdom is  providing the infrastructure and capital inves tments that agriculture needs 
including through Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) and InfraCo Asia.  
438.  The UNDP  conveyed two examples of sectors of progress in economic diversification. First, 
job creation and trade expansion in Tajikistan. In U zbekistan, a project evaluation noted the positive 
impact of support provided. One example includes a small business venture which three years after 
receiving support from the project expanded its business, employment and trainee staff. It also 
internation alized expanding sales to Russia.  
439.  The World Bank  stated that e -commerce, connectivity, and logistics services are some of 
the areas which have registered progress and contributed to economic diversification.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Areas in which Aid-for-Trade  support provided i s impactful for economic diversification17 
Categories of Aid-for-Trade  support which are impactful for economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
 
17 Refer to index number 14 in the Annex.  
0 10 20 30 40 50 60Other trade related needsUnsureBanking and financial servicesMineral resources and miningForestryCommunications infrastructureTrade related adjustmentBuilding productive capacityTravel and tourismEnergy supply and generation infrastructureIndustryTrade-related infrastructureFishingBusiness support servicesTransport and storage infrastructureMultilateral trade negotiationsTrade policy and administrative managementRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Trade developmentTrade education/trainingTrade policy and regulationsAgricultureTrade facilitation
1 (1%)7 (8%)9 (10%)9 (10%)10 (11%)12 (14%)12 (14%)14 (16%)16 (18%)19 (22%)19 (22%)20 (23%)20 (23%)21 (24%)22 (25%)25 (28%)26 (30%)31 (35%)31 (35%)35 (40%)39 (44%)40 (45%)52 (59%)WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  The most impactful Aid-for-Trade  support categories for economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  Trade facilitation  22 63% 
Agriculture  20 57% 
Trade policy and regulations  19 54% 
Asia Trade facilitation  13 57% 
Trade development  11 48% 
Trade policy and regulations  9 39% 
Americas  Trade facilitation  14 78% 
Trade education and training  9 50% 
Agriculture  9 50% 
Oceania  Regional trade agreements  6 60% 
Trade policy and regulations  4 40% 
Trade policy and administrative 
management  4 40% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC Trade facilitation  23 66% 
Agriculture  23 66% 
Trade policy and regulations  20 57% 
LLDC Trade facilitation  16 73% 
Trade policy and regulations  11 50% 
Agriculture  11 50% 
UN SIDS  Trade facilitation  11 46% 
Trade education/training  10 42% 
Trade policy and regulations  9 38% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
440.  Trade facilitation was identified as the top category of Aid for Trade  in which the support 
received was impactful for partner country respondents and RECs participating in the 
self-assessment questionnaire. Trade facilitation was also identified as the top AfT category by 
respondents from LDCs, LLDCs, and UN SIDS category.  
441.  A few responses provided additional information on the role Aid for Trade  plays in delivering 
impacts in economi c diversification. Angola , for example, emphasized that aid has a positive 
economic impact on its economy. Others identified specific areas in which Aid for Trade  has delivered 
impacts in improving economic diversification. The Democratic Republic of Congo , for example, 
stated that E uropean Union support for traceability in the timber industry and coffee production has 
contributed to the growth of export diversification. Costa Rica  identified technical capacity building 
and the modernization of border posts  as key areas in which AfT support received has been impactful 
for economic diversification. ECOWAS  mentioned the development of ECOWAS customs code, 
completion and handing over of two joint border posts, and the establishment of West Africa Quality 
System  programme . 
442.  Other responses identified rooms for improvement for Aid for Trade  to deliver measurable 
impacts in economic diversification. Madagascar  stated that the impact of AfT financing is evident 
at the level of policy and strategy, but not in a concre te way at the level of economic agents.  
Papua  New Guinea  noted the need to review programme s funded by the development partners 
and assess their impact. Sudan  noted that due to the limited amount of Aid for Trade  received, Aid 
for Trade  has not been impact ful. Palau  noted that no trade support has been received. WAEMU  
stated that progress in economic diversification remains insufficient and needs to be strengthened 
with the support of technical and financial partners.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  443.  Guinea  stated that the country has bene fited from several projects and programme s to 
strengthen productive capacities and support national structures, which in turn contribute to the 
diversification of the country's economy. Kazakhstan stated that the strong support provided in the 
energy secto r improves business and trade connections, which plays an important role for 
Kazakhstan as a trade avenue between Central and South Asia.  
444.  Kiribati  stated that support to quality infrastructure improves market access for fisheries and 
agriculture products,  contributing to income, employment and livelihood for the community through 
increased exports. Support to trade agreements improves market access for value -added products 
in the fisheries and agricultural sector. Support to education or training contribut es to an increase 
in income from remittances received from overseas employment. Support to trade -related 
infrastructure improves domestic and GVC linkage in the key productive sectors hence increasing 
exports, employment, income and livelihood generation.  
445.  Ukraine  identified aid support for promoting the alignment of the Ukrainian legislation to that 
of the E uropean Union on phytosanitary measures, technical regulations, and standards. There were 
also some projects to support export opportunities of the priv ate sector, E uropean Union's support 
on the elimination of technical barriers, support of Ukrainian farmers entering E uropean Union 
markets. The response also mentioned the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale 
Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) initiative Fit for Partnership with Germany that conducts studies on 
national SMEs in Ukraine on how to find business partners in Germany, facilitates meetings with 
potential clients, and a ssists them in building relations. As a result, some Ukrainian enterprises, with 
the help this programme , could enter the German market. Canada provided support in trade 
facilitation, SME development, market access information, improving business climate, public private 
partnership development. USAID provided support in export diversification, customs procedures and 
modernization, trade facilitation. IFC provided support in business regulations, agribusiness 
markets, food safety, trade facilitation, and log istics. EBRD provided support in economic reforms, 
increasing access to finance, improving business climate. EU4Business provided support in SME 
development, access to finance, business advice, and entrepreneurship skills for SMEs.  
446.  Yemen  stated that suppor t to the agricultural sector had benefited the production of the 
reputed honey and few other agricultural products. Yemen also noted a few key export sectors 
including crude oil, petroleum products and minerals.  
447.  Zambia  stated that Aid for Trade  in sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing has 
assisted in diversifying the country's export portfolio away from copper dependence. This is evident 
as indicated in the increased share of non -traditional exports in total exports from 19.8% in 2006  to 
25.6% in 20 15, as highlighted in the 7NDP.  
448.  Zimbabwe  stated that the country has received capacity -building support in trade in services, 
trade facilitation and export development.  
449.  Responses from the South -South questionnaire indicated trade policy and trade education  as 
the top two categories of Aid for Trade  which delivered impacts in improving economic diversification.  
450.  Fifty-two out of 35 donor countries identified agriculture as the top category of Aid for Trade  
which delivered impacts in economic diversification.  
451.  Australia  stated that in 2016 -17, AfT investments in infrastructure, trade facilitation and 
international competitiveness were assessed as being 85% effective and 89% sustainable. All new 
aid investments explored innovative ways to either promote private s ector growth or engage the 
private sector in achieving development outcomes.  
452.  Germany  noted that there is considerable variance in scope and impact of measures.  
453.  New Zealand  stated that the impact of Aid for Trade  targeted to economic diversification has 
not been specifically measured.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Categories of Aid-for-Trade  support which are impactful for economic diversification: 
donor's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
454.  The Slovak Republic  stated that its development strategy is not directly focused on Aid for 
Trade . However, the country has been supporting agricultural projects in Kenya and Ethiopia, which 
influences the trade capacities of the beneficiaries, including SMEs  exporting diffe rent types of nuts.  
455.  The United Kingdom  stated that the country funds a wide range of AfT initiatives across 
several sectors with varying impacts which have not yet been aggregated across all AfT programme s. 
456.  The AfDB  stated that in the area of travel and to urism, the Africa Visa Openness Index has 
been particularly successful in promoting visa policy reforms for Intra -Africa travel.  
457.  The EBRD  stated that it measures and monitors its impacts on all individual projects along 
six qualities of a sustainable marke t economy, namely being competitive, well -governed, green, 
inclusive, resilient and integrated. Progress tracked over the past two years are evident in various 
sectors.  
Success factors of Aid-for-Trade  support for economic diversification18 
458.  Views gathered f rom the exercise reveal that the alignment of AfT support with national or 
regional priorities is the key factor of success. Sixty -two partner countries stated that the Aid for 
Trade  they received for economic diversification is aligned with their prioriti es. This view is shared 
by the RECs participating in the questionnaire. Nonetheless, diverging overall priorities between 
partner and donor remains a constraint to the success of Aid for Trade , as stated by half of the 
partner country respondents.  
 
18 Refer to index number 15 in the Annex.  
0 5 10 15 20 25UnsureOther trade related needsFishingTrade related adjustmentMultilateral trade negotiationsMineral resources and miningForestryTrade policy and administrative managementRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Energy supply and generation infrastructureIndustryTravel and tourismBanking and financial servicesTrade education/trainingCommunications infrastructureBusiness support servicesBuilding productive capacityTrade facilitationTransport and storage infrastructureTrade-related infrastructureTrade policy and regulationsTrade developmentAgriculture
2 (6%)3 (9%)5 (14%)5 (14%)7 (20%)7 (20%)8 (23%)10 (29%)10 (29%)10 (29%)10 (29%)10 (29%)13 (37%)14 (40%)14 (40%)15 (43%)15 (43%)16 (46%)16 (46%)17 (49%)20 (57%)20 (57%)22 (63%)WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Success factors for the Aid-for-Trade  support received in economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
Top success factors for the Aid-for-Trade  support received in economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Alignment of support with priorities  27 77% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  19 54% 
Country ownership  17 49% 
Asia Alignment of support with priorities  15 65% 
Country ownership  12 52% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 11 48% 
Americas  Alignment of support with priorities  11 61% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 8 44% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  8 44% 
Oceania  Alignment of support with priorities  5 50% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  5 50% 
Country ownership  5 50% 
1 (1%)4 (5%)8 (9%)9 (10%)10 (11%)12 (14%)14 (16%)20 (23%)21 (24%)31 (35%)34 (39%)38 (43%)40 (45%)44 (50%)60 (68%)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70OtherUnsureMobilization of domestic private investmentServices capacityGood digital and ICT connectivitySufficient funding and appropriate implementation timelinesLeveraging of foreign direct investmentCapacity to draft funding applicationsGood trade-related infrastructureCoordination among donorsNational/regional coordinationDonor interest in specific projects/programmesCountry ownershipInstitutional capacity to implement projectsAlignment of aid-for-trade support with prioritiesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Alignment of support with priorities  30 79% 
Country ownership  25 66% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  24 63% 
LLDC Alignment of support with priorities  16 73% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  12 55% 
Coordination among donors  10 45% 
Country ownership  10 45% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 10 45% 
UN SIDS  Alignment of support with priorities  15 63% 
National/regional coordination  12 50% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 11 46% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  11 46% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
459.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the turmoil in the country for more than a 
decade has attracted much attention from partners that have focused their attention on funding 
projects in conflict zones. This has contributed to the success of the AfT support the country receives 
for economic diversification.  
460.  The Gambia  stated that following the change of government, there has been a positive 
response from development partners to support the country in its implementation of the National 
Development Plan, which was launched in Febru ary 2018.  
461.  Guinea  stated that the country's priorities in the preparation of several financial projects by 
the trade financing partners have been taken into account in the preparation of these projects. This 
indicates a match between Aid for Trade  and finan cial interventions granted to Guinea. However, 
respecting the interest of some donors in particular sectors such as agriculture, for example, rather 
than others, has also contributed to the success of Guinea's support in diversifying its economy 
through Aid for Trade . 
462.  Kenya  stated that public private partnerships contribute to the success of the AfT support it 
receives for economic diversification.  
463.  Kiribati  stated that political will by the Government to create an enabling environment has 
been an important  factor that has contributed to the success of the AfT support it receives for 
economic diversification. Key productive sectors (e.g., fisheries and tourism) are strongly articulated 
in the Kiribati 20 -Year Vision (KV20) Development Plan. This also include s the need to develop 
complementary infrastructure and a broader enabling environment.  
464.  Madagascar  stated that given the country's enormous need for trade development in 
particular and development in general, Aid for Trade  is always in line with national pr iorities. 
However, that there is much to be done in terms of coordination between stakeholders and the 
various initiatives.  
465.  Mali stated that the inclusion of Aid for Trade  in the following documents contributed to the 
success of the AfT support the country  received, for example the report on the Trade Policy Review, 
the document on the National Trade Development Policy, and Mali's report on WAEMU trade 
monitoring.  
466.  Mexico  stated that the aid received focuses on the training of public officials.  
467.  Tonga  stated that the country did not receive any Aid for Trade  that directly supports its 
economic diversification.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  468.  Uganda  stated that most of the AfT support is in line with the National Development Plan II 
(NDPII) 2015/2016 -2019/2020, the National Trade Policy (NTP)  2008, the National Export 
Development Strategy (NEDS) and seeks to address the constraints identified in the DTIS 2013.  
469.  Ukraine  stated that not all SMEs in Ukraine are able to find business partners across the 
border. It is very important to spread inform ation online and create different e -platforms of 
exchanging information between exporters including on sector -specific or regional platforms.  
470.  Zambia  stated that the Government convenes donor platform meetings as a way of 
coordinating donor AfT support. AfT projects focus on areas prioritized in National Development 
Plans and Strategies.  
471.  Three South -South providers, namely China, Indonesia, and Singapore , identified the 
alignment of AfT support with national or regional priorities as the top factor of succes s for the 
support provided to partner countries.  
Success factors for the Aid-for-Trade  support received in economic diversification: 
donor's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
472.  Donor countries largely held the view that the alignment of AfT support with national or 
regional priorities is the key factor of success.  
473.  Austria  noted that economic diversification has not been identified as a priority in its 
development or AfT strategy.  
474.  The European Union  stated that improved investment climate is conducive to increased 
domestic and foreign private investment, which in turn are key factors for economic diversification. 
Market access and the degree to which local productive capacities are  fit for seizing market 
1 (1%)4 (5%)8 (9%)9 (10%)10 (11%)12 (14%)14 (16%)20 (23%)21 (24%)31 (35%)34 (39%)38 (43%)40 (45%)44 (50%)60 (68%)
0 5 10 15 20 25 30OtherCapacity to draft funding applicationsUnsureDonor interest in specific projects/programmesSufficient funding and appropriate implementation timelinesGood digital and ICT connectivityLeveraging of foreign direct investmentServices capacityCoordination among donorsGood trade-related infrastructureMobilization of domestic private investmentNational/regional coordinationCountry ownershipInstitutional capacity to implement projectsAlignment of aid-for-trade support with prioritiesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  opportunities, especially those created by trade agreements, are also key factors for successful 
economic diversification.  
475.  New Zealand  noted that the success factors contributing to economic diversification has not 
been measured by the New Zealand Aid Programme . 
476.  Sweden  identified various factors determining success of the specific projects undertaken. 
However, in determining success in terms of a country’s diversification as a whole, additional factors 
should be considered, including  good trade related infrastructure, leveraging of FDI, and mobilization 
of domestic private investment.  
477.  The EBRD  stated that its operations are strongly related to private sector and market 
developments in its countries of operations, hence the results of EBRD's support are also influenced 
by each country's business environment and regulations.  
Factors limiting the success of Aid for Trade  for economic diversification19 
478.  Diverging overall priorities between partner and donor was identified as the top constrai nt to 
the success of Aid for Trade , as stated by half of the partner country respondents.  
Factors limiting the success of the Aid-for-Trade  support received in economic 
diversification: partner country's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
 
19 Refer to index number 16 in the Annex.  
3 (3%)3 (3%)12 (14%)13 (15%)14 (16%)18 (20%)20 (23%)24 (27%)25 (28%)26 (30%)26 (30%)27 (31%)33 (38%)34 (39%)38 (43%)42 (48%)44 (50%)
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50UnsureOtherPoor coordination among donorsTime horizon too shortLimited services capacityPoor digital and ICT connectivityPoor national/regional coordinationLack of country ownershipLack of donor interest in specific projects/programmesFailure to mobilize domestic private investmentInability to leverage foreign direct investmentPoor alignment of aid-for-trade received with national/regional prioritiesLimited financing for the private sectorResources dedicated to the project or programme too lowWeak institutional capacityInadequate infrastructureDiverging priorities between partner and donorWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Factors limiting the success of the Aid-for-Trade  support received in economic 
diversification : partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Diverging priorities between partner and donor  23 66% 
Resources for the project are too low  18 51% 
Inadequate infrastructure  18 51% 
Asia Inadequate infrastructure  10 43% 
Weak institutional capacity  9 39% 
Diverging priorities between partner and donor  8 35% 
Americas  Resources for the project are too low  9 50% 
Inadequate infrastructure  8 44% 
Diverging priorities between partner and donor  7 39% 
Weak institutional capacity  7 39% 
Oceania  Inadequate infrastructure  6 60% 
Diverging priorities between partner and donor  5 50% 
Weak institutional capacity  5 50% 
Lack of country ownership  5 50% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Inadequate infrastructure  24 63% 
Diverging priorities between partner and donor  23 61% 
Weak institutional capacity  20 53% 
Limited financing for the private sector  20 53% 
LLDC Inadequate infrastructure  15 68% 
Weak institutional capacity  13 59% 
Diverging priorities between partner and donor  12 55% 
UN SIDS  Diverging priorities between partner and donor  14 58% 
Weak institutional capacity  12 50% 
Resources for the project are too low  10 42% 
Limited financing for the private sector  10 42% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
479.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that oftentimes, donor priorities do not match 
the needs expressed by the country since donors often tend to focus on their agendas.  
480.  Guinea  stated that the choice of the right cause in the implementation of certain projects in 
Guinea due to dualism between financial partners or due to their misunderstanding with the Guinean 
counterpart was the reason for the failure of some AfT support, including poor national coordination.  
481.  Kazakhstan  stated that the dependency on one sector limits the success of the AfT support 
received for economic diversification. This is recognized in Kazakhstan 2050 as well as Kazakhstan 
2030 strategy. The goal is not to become a country whose economy is oriented to raw materials 
only. The country must develop l ight and food industries, infrastructure, oil -and-gas procession, 
chemistry and petrochemistry, certain subindustries of machine -building, finite science -consuming 
industries, services industry, tourism, all these - by priority rates. Diversification of pr oduction would 
help the country in ensuring sustainable growth. While the process of adaptation of entire branches 
and productions to the market in conditions of tough competition with liberal imports is ongoing , 
and while Kazakhstan's  produce, save for ra w materials, is hardly competitive on the world market , 
it is increasingly sliding to cumbersome raw -oriented structure of production whereas the whole of 
the civilized world advances in quite opposite direction. The downfall of production and its regressi ve WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 82 - 
 
  structure is a particularly dangerous factor which may no longer be ignored. If a free market is really 
free, it will invariably create new industries in Kazakhstan .  
482.  The country's mission is to present Kazakhstan in the eyes of world community as an at tractive 
site for investments, and to actively attract investors to most critical industries. However, so far, 
one cannot rely on the market only. The Government must set about launching an active industrial 
policy of diversification thus transferring the emphasis from macro to the microeconomic level. 
Firstly, the country shall focus on labour -consuming industries in light of the opportunities. They 
are - in order of priority - agriculture, timber -and timber -processing industries, light and food 
industries , tourism, housing construction and creation of infrastructure. By developing these 
industries, the country can settle not only structural issues of the economy, but also problems of 
employment and poverty, which are critical.  
483.  Kiribati  stated that regional  AfT priorities and projects being piloted tend to exclude very 
small island states in the Pacific like Kiribati. Most of the donor projects at the regional level tend to 
focus on larger countries in the Pacific, contributing to inequality and inadequate i nvestment in 
productive sectors in Small Island States like Kiribati. Economic diversification related priorities in 
the national development strategies and sector plans have remained unimplemented due to limited 
funding resources.  
484.  Lesotho  stated that coun try ownership and strong institutional capacity are key in sustaining 
support provided by donors for economic diversification.  
485.  Liberia  stated that limited infrastructures, access to road connectivity, and reliable electricity 
and energy availability are so me of the factors limiting the success of the AfT support provided for 
economic diversification.  
486.  Madagascar  stated that currently, there are many coordination committees within the 
Ministry of Commerce and other ministries. These committees are not coordin ated and sometimes 
the resolutions issued are contradictory. At this time, the Ministry of Commerce intends to merge 
these various committees into one to three major committees that will be able to coordinate trade 
initiatives and aid. The establishment of  these main committees is in draft form.  
487.  Mali stated that low interest of technical and financial partners in financing its AfT programme  
is a factor that has limited the success of the support received for economic diversification.  
488.  Mexico  stated that the aid received focuses on the training of public officials.  
489.  Nigeria  stated that social and economic constraints are some of the factors limiting the 
success of the AfT support provided for economic diversification.  
490.  Papua New Guinea  stated th at almost all factors above contribute in one way or another to 
limiting the success of Aid for Trade . All these are issues currently faced.  
491.  Samoa  stated that small private sector and limited production capacity may constrain the 
success of Aid for Trade  provided for economic diversification.  
492.  Sao Tome and Principe  stated that limited private sector financing is a factor that limits the 
success of the AfT support it receives for economic diversification.  
493.  Senegal  stated that the main problem encountered is re lated to the insufficient resources 
allocated to projects and even a problem of resource mobilization. Out of fourteen  sectoral projects 
identified in the Medium -Term Plan, only two have been funded by the EIF Programme . 
494.  Ukraine  stated that there is also o ne more problem, lack of mechanisms from the partner 
country to influence the donor to complete all the components within one project when the project 
has finished. It is difficult for the Government to finish this component at its own expenses because 
of limited staff, time, and lack of budget.  
495.  Zimbabwe  stated that insufficient capacity of institutions to coordinate Aid for Trade  limits 
the success of the AfT support provided for economic diversification.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  496.  RECs identified lack of country ownership as a majo r challenge limiting the success of the AfT 
support received in their region or TC. 
497.  Two South -South providers, namely China and Indonesia , identified poor alignment of Aid 
for Trade  received with national or regional priorities and poor national or regiona l coordination as 
the two major challenges limiting the success of the AfT support provided to South -South partners 
for economic diversification.  
498.  Twenty -one out of the 35 donor countries participating in the questionnaire identified weak 
institutional capa city as a factor constraining the success of the AfT support provided to partner 
countries.  
Factors limiting the success of the Aid-for-Trade  support received in economic 
diversification: donor's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
499.  New Zealand  noted that potential factors limiting the success of Aid for Trade  for economic 
diversification have not been actively measured.  
500.  Sweden  stated that there is a difference between factors that explain limited success in a 
specific support program me such as the lack of country ownership and factors that explain limited 
diversification, such as insufficient infrastructure.  
501.  The UNDP  stated that several factors such as constraints in the mobilization of investments 
whether from foreign or domestic sources, undermine the long -term viability of the economic 
diversification efforts and therefore, the success of the support programme s. 
0 (0%)0 (0%)1 (3%)3 (9%)6 (17%)7 (20%)7 (20%)8 (23%)8 (23%)9 (26%)9 (26%)11 (31%)11 (31%)13 (37%)15 (43%)18 (51%)21 (60%)
0 5 10 15 20 25Lack of donor interest in specific projects/programmesOtherUnsurePoor coordination among donorsTime horizon too shortLimited services capacityResources dedicated to the project or programme too lowDiverging priorities between partner and donorPoor digital and ICT connectivityFailure to mobilize domestic private investmentInability to leverage foreign direct investmentLimited financing for the private sectorPoor alignment of aid-for-trade received with national/regional…Poor national/regional coordinationInadequate infrastructureLack of country ownershipWeak institutional capacityWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Mobilizing other forms of development finance20 
502.  Forty out of the 88 partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire (45%) indicated that the Aid for Trade  received helps mobilize other 
forms of development finance for economic diversification. This view was shared by three REC 
respondents.  
Aid for Trade  helps mobilize other forms of development finance: partner country's 
perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  21 60% 
Asia 7 30% 
Americas  6 33% 
Oceania  5 50% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 21 55% 
LLDC 9 41% 
UN SIDS  14 58% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
503.  Barbados  stated that Aid for Trade  helps mobilize other forms of development finance though 
trade was not the specific focus of the loan. Barbados received a loan from the  International 
Monetary Fund  (IMF)  that allowed the country to access funding from the Inter -American 
Development Bank (IDB) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).  
504.  Burkina Faso  stated that the implementation of EIF project has made it possible to mobilize 
resources in addition to those of the Trust Fund, Structural Adjustment Facility (SAF). These include 
resources from  the AfDB and Luxembourg Cooperation funds to the level of approximately 
USD 2.5 million to implement two projects to support the shea sector. The projects aim, inter alia , 
to support women's economic empowerment.  
505.  The Central African Republic  stated that the political context, marked by the persistence 
of the political crisis, has made it difficult to mobilize foreign private financing. However, the 
agreement with the IMF has allowed the support of some bilateral and regional partners.   
506.  The De mocratic Republic of Congo  stated that the country is often satisfied with what is 
provided by the development partners without creating the appropriate framework to attract more 
investment.  
507.  Côte d'Ivoire  stated that according to the report on Aid for Trade, Panorama 2015, 
remittances from the country rose from EUR 183.5 million in the period 2006/2008 to 
EUR 373.5  million in the year 2013.  
508.  The Gambia  stated that the Aid for Trade  it received has helped mobilize other forms of 
development finance for econom ic diversification through the government's programme  with the 
Partnership for Aflatoxin Control in Africa (PACA), the EIF and the International Trade Financing 
Corporation (ITFC), which collaborated to support an Aflatoxin Mitigation Programme  in The Gambia. 
Furthermore, support in the energy sector has also led to private sector investments in said sector.  
509.  Guinea  stated that some projects in the country funded by the Guinean Government and 
foreign partners have led other donors to contribute t o the financing of complementary activities of 
these projects. This has often increased the results achieved and extended project activities to other 
sectors.  
 
20 Refer to index number 17 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 85 - 
 
  510.  Kenya  stated that the Aid for Trade  the country receives has helped mobilize development 
finance for capacity building of those involved in the projects.  
511.  Kiribati  stated that it received AfT funding for a project preparation grant on quality 
infrastructure which is informing the formulation of a grant proposal for mobilizing resources from 
different d evelopment partners. The EIF supported the formulation of Kiribati Trade Policy 
Framework, which helps in mobilizing resources through the implementation matrix. Kiribati is also 
a beneficiary of the long -term technical assistance under the Commonwealth Hu bs and Spoke 
Programme  which has assisted in mobilizing resources related to improving quality infrastructure.  
512.  Madagascar  stated it anticipated that the financing of the EIF category I project will provide 
the basis for resource mobilization. This is preci sely the case with the preparation of the 
Medium -Term Trade Development Plan (MTDP), which will constitute a shopping list for technical 
and financial partners.  
513.  Mali stated that financing of trade facilitation by WAEMU and Danish Cooperation (DANIDA) 
has h elped mobilize other forms of development finance for economic diversification.  
514.  Mexico  stated that the Aid for Trade  received has helped mobilize other forms of development 
finance for economic diversification aimed at training for officials.  
515.  Nepal  stated  that capacity development, infrastructure development, institutional capacity 
building, and other support extended through Aid for Trade  may have positive impacts on domestic 
and foreign investment in production and productivity development, export promot ion, value chain 
development, exploring the potentials and benefiting from the global trading system.  
516.  Papua New Guinea  stated that the country receives FDI from particular donors.  
517.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  stated that the mobilization of development financing plays an 
impacting role on the Federation's ranking in the Global Doing Business Report, in relation to FDI 
and the development of professional services.  
518.  Senegal  stated that since the implementation of the EIF Programme , the only funding 
received has come from the EIF. So far, there has been no non -concessional financing or FDI. 
519.  Uganda  stated that following and based on the successful implementation of the District 
Commercial Services Support Project (DICOSS), a Tier 2 project funded by the EIF in 25 pilot 
districts, the Government of Uganda rolled out the conditional grant to 121 districts and 
41 municipalities to support local governments to implement the Ministry policies, laws and 
strategies at the local government level and improve service delivery at t he districts in terms of 
market information and other commercial services.  
520.  Zambia  stated that the Aid for Trade  the country receives has helped mobilize development 
finance for border infrastructure under the Great Lakes Trade Facilitation Project, which i s a loan 
from the World Bank.  
521.  Three RECs participating in the questionnaire indicated that Aid for Trade  has helped mobilize 
other forms of development financing.  
522.  COMESA  stated that the successful implementation of one programme  raises the awareness 
and be lief from development partners that COMESA is able to implement programme s. This, in turn, 
helps in leveraging additional resources for programme  implementation.  
523.  ECOWAS  stated that Aid for Trade  has helped mobilize other forms of development financing, 
including the European Development Fund (EDF) and blended financing.  
524.  TMEA  stated that FDI can be catalysed by programme s to take a share of the risk in new 
investments in trade development infrastr ucture, such as the industrial sector and industrial parks 
or zones.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 86 - 
 
  525.  Among the South -South respondents, Turkey highlighted that Aid for Trade  mobilizes other 
forms of development finance.  
526.  Twenty -four out of 35  respondents to the donor questionnaire stated that the Aid for Trade  
has helped them mobilize other forms of development finance.  
527.  Australia  stated that remittances, especially for the Pacific region, are an important form of 
development finance for economic diversification in partner countries. In the  period 2012 -2017, 
Australia's Pacific Seasonal Worker Programme  delivered over USD 144 million in net income gains 
to Pacific island countries and Timor -Leste. Typically, a worker under the Seasonal Worker 
Programme  sends home over USD 8,850.  
528.  Canada  stated that the following are examples of Canada's AfT support which mobilized other 
forms of development finance: The Development Finance Institute Canada (DFIC) Inc., operating 
under the FinDev Canada brand, was launched in 2017, capitalized with USD  300 million, will support 
private sector investment to promote the growth and sustainability of businesses in developing 
markets. FinDev Canada will contribute to poverty reduction by creating jobs, supporting women’s 
economic empowerment, and contributing to a cl eaner and greener environment. By filling the gap 
between commercial support and development assistance, FinDev Canada will bring financial 
strength to businesses in developing markets that will in turn create stability and prosperity for local 
communities . It will support local private sector activity where it contributes to sustainable 
development. FinDev aims to be financially sustainable by generating returns on loans and 
investments, and to have a favourable economic and social impact in the communitie s where its 
clients operate.  
529.  FinDev Canada will have a dual geographic focus, covering areas where Canada has the 
greatest strengths and experience, and where poverty is an ongoing challenge: Latin America and 
the Caribbean, and sub -Saharan Africa. On 25 May 2018, Canada announced the creation of a unique 
Partnership for Gender Equality to catalyse new investments in support of gender equality and the 
rights of girls and women in developing countries. This initiative will bring together the Government 
of Canada, the philanthropic community, the investing community, the private sector and civil 
society to mobilize unprecedented levels of resources to address the funding gap faced by women’s 
organizations and movements working to advance women’s rights, gende r equality and the 
empowerment of women and girls in developing countries. The aim is to recruit organizations that 
have a compelling vision and innovative plan to create a sustainable, predictable and flexible source 
of financing above and beyond ODA. Trade and Investment for Growth Regional Programme  (TRIGR) 
projects such as INFRONT implemented by MEDA -Sarona Asset Management has leveraged funds 
from both private and public investors. A new TRIGR project, Catalyzing Women’s Entrepreneurship, 
is also expec ted to mobilize private sector investment to women entrepreneurs in Asia and the 
Pacific.  
530.  Pan-African regional projects such as the African Water Facility (AWF) (USD 19.25 million; 
2012-2018) and NEPAD Infrastructure Project Preparation Facility (IPPF) (U SD 15.25 million; 
2012-2018) crowd -in private sector investment by preparing 'bankable' projects (e.g. feasibility and 
engineering studies, environmental impact assessments, public -private partnership financing plans, 
and legal analysis). Since 2006, these  facilities have mobilized over CAD 1.3 billion (AWF) and 
USD 7.78 billion (IPPF) for infrastructure financing in the water, transportation and energy sectors. 
Furthermore, through the New Partnership for Sustainable Impact Investing in Frontier Markets 
project, Canada used its ODA as first loss protection (a guarantee or promise of partial insurance if 
the investor loses financing up to a certain amount) in a SME investment fund. The fund, which 
supports services in countries in central and South America, Africa and Asia, has invested in more 
than 93 SMEs, resulting in the creation of some 13,330 jobs (6,360 of which are held by women). 
Alongside its first loss protection, Canada also supported SMEs to adopt responsible business 
practices, such as integrate d gender consideration in staffing policies.  
531.  Estonia  stated that a lot of its support is guided by the principle of strengthening the country 
level institutional capacities. If that level becomes stronger and more able to deliver government 
services to the  trade community, this would also establish a way to attract more investments into 
the country, or a specific sector, for example, by attracting more tourists to visit a certain place.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 87 - 
 
  532.  The European Union  stated that blending is the combination of E uropean Union grants with 
loans or equity from public financiers and private investors. Through blending, the purpose of 
European Union funding is to increase the funding volumes available for a particular investment by 
attracting extra financing, both public and private. Since the first facility was introduced in 2007, 
European Union regional blending facilities have been established in all regions covered by E uropean 
Union development cooperation. Over the last ten years, around EUR 3.4 billion worth of E uropean 
Union grants funded over 380 blended projects.  
533.  The E uropean Union grant contributions have leveraged approximately EUR 26.2 billion of 
loans by European finance institutions and regional development banks. Blending has helped unlock 
investments with an estimated volume of EUR 57.3 billion in developing countries. Additi onal funds 
to the E uropean Union grants have come primarily from development finance institutions in the form 
of loans. Although not formally accounted as Aid for Trade , most blended projects concern sectors 
relevant to the Aid-for-Trade  Initiative. Synerg ies between E uropean Union Aid for Trade  and 
European Union blended projects can be further exploited to increase scale and impact of E uropean 
Union responses.  
534.  Finland  stated that many interventions are based on the assumption that other forms of 
finance a re mobilized, (e.g. public sector investment facility) which can fund infrastructure needs.  
535.  Iceland  stated that AfT support is not a priority area in the country’s international 
development cooperation.  
536.  Ireland  responded that the Aid for Trade  it receives helps mobilize other forms of 
development finance for economic diversification. For example, in 2017 USD 26.5 million in 
confirmed investment deals and USD 116.8 million in prospective leads were facilitated by the ITC 
from India and China to Ethiopia, Ken ya, Mozambique, Rwanda, Uganda, the United Republic of 
Tanzania and Zambia.  
537.  Japan  stated that its assistance, including private sector instruments (PSI), fully mobilizes 
private sector capital, leading to economic diversification.  
538.  The Republic of Korea  stated that based on the project schemes and how they are designed, 
some projects are implemented through joint funding from other donor agency, Civil Society 
Organization (CSO), multilateral organizations (i.e. the United Nation), or the private sector.  
539.  New Zealand  stated that the trade promotion supported by New Zealand in the Pacific can 
mobilize investment from private investors.  
540.  Norway  stated that Aid for Trade  mobilizes other forms of development finance through 
Norfund, the Norwegian Investment Fund for  developing countries.  
541.  Portugal  stated that Camões, I.P. (Portuguese Development Agency) together with SOFID 
(Portuguese Development Financial Institution) are working together to launch a strategy for the 
private sector in development cooperation. As a fi rst step, a support study has been commissioned 
to OECD, which will provide for different working streams and inform the final strategy by the 
Portuguese Development Cooperation.  
542.  Sweden  stated that its Aid for Trade  often aims to improve the enabling envir onment for 
trade and investment. So, when it is successful, it leads to increased trade flows, trade finance, FDI, 
inter alia . Secondly, the country also has specific and more direct forms of leveraging, where it, for 
instance, has public -private developme nt partnerships.  
543.  Switzerland  stated that strengthening of trade integration and international competitiveness 
of developing countries are important leverage effects for the sustainable diversification of sources 
of growth and job creation.  
544.  The United Kingd om stated that it funds the PIDG, which mobilizes private sector investment 
to assist developing countries in providing infrastructure vital to boost their economic growth and 
combat poverty. A new investment up to GBP  500 million will build essential infrastructure such as 
power, roads and water, that will lay the foundations for new trading and business opportunities, in WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 88 - 
 
  places businesses previously would not have been able to operate. CDC aims to invest up to GBP 
3.5 billion in Africa over 2018 -21. This is a combination of initial capital provided by the U nited 
Kingdom  and returns made from CDC’s existing investment portfolio. The U nited Kingdom  will aim 
to mobilize a further GBP 4 billion of private investment for Afr ican countries, particularly from the 
City of London.  
545.  The EBRD  stated that many of EBRD’s operations involve co -financing with local banking and 
non-banking financial institutions, as well as other international Development Finance Institutions, 
which help s to mobilize non -concessional and concessional financing sources locally and 
internationally.  
546.  The UNDP  stated that it is unsure if the Aid for Trade  received helps mobilize other forms of 
development finance for economic diversification, mainly because th e situation varies across 
countries and programme s supported by UNDP. In addition, there is no systematic monitoring of 
leveraging at the programme  or project level. An analysis undertaken by UNDP in 2017, with respect 
to EIF projects where UNDP features a s the main implementing entity, indicated that UNDP 
programme s had facilitated leveraging of its own and other resources for USD 3 million. However, 
this analysis was based on a sample of projects and excluded in -kind contributions.  
547.  The UNIDO  made a refere nce to the Programme  for Country Partnership.   
548.  The World Bank  stated that by helping to lower the risks arising in the environments in which 
it intervenes, the World Bank helps recipient countries mobilize additional sources of development 
finance, especia lly FDI (particularly efficiency -seeking FDI) that shows a greater propensity to be 
GVC- and export -oriented, hence to promote sustainable diversification gains.  
Source of Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic diversification: development partners21 
549.  The Worl d Bank and the WTO were identified as the top development partners that are most 
important source of AfT financing for economic diversification, as stated by 60 out of the 88 partner 
country respondents.  
Top sources of Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic  diversification: partner country's 
perspective  
Development Partners  Number of responses  Percentage 
share  
World Bank  60 68% 
World Trade Organization (WTO)  60 68% 
European Union  57 65% 
United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  45 51% 
United States  37 42% 
Japan  34 39% 
Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF)  33 38% 
International Trade Centre (ITC)  31 35% 
Germany  29 33% 
Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN (FAO)  28 32% 
African Development Bank (AfDB)  27 31% 
International Monetary Fund (IMF)  25 28% 
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)  20 23% 
UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  19 22% 
United Kingdom  17 19% 
Asian Development Bank (AsDB)  16 18% 
Inter-America n Development Bank (IDB)  15  17% 
 
21 Refer to index number 18 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Development Partners  Number of responses  Percentage 
share  
France  14 16% 
EU Institutions  13 15% 
Global Environment Facility (GEF)  12 14% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
Additional information on the most important source of Aid-for-Trade  financing for 
economic diversification: partner country's perspective  
Barbados [mentioned] UNCTAD  
 
Burkina Faso  [mentioned] West African Development Bank  
 
Kazakhstan  [mentioned] EBRD, Sil k Road Fund, World Bank, ADB  
 
Kenya  [mentioned] UNCTAD, Africa Union  
 
Kiribati  [mentioned] the STDF, TradeCom Facility, UNCTAD, Commonwealth Secretariat  
 
Madagascar  [mentioned] the EIF, all members of the Special Trust Fund, WTO, ITC, European 
Union, Trade  Support Programme (PROCOM), Programme for Export Development and Regional 
Integration (PADEIR), The French Development Agency Group (AFD), United States, African 
Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), China  
 
Saint Kitts and Nevis  [mentioned] Chinese Taipei  
 
Saint Vincent and Grenadines  [mentioned] Cuba, Chinese Taipei, Bolivarian Republic of 
Venezuela  
 
Samoa  [mentioned] Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)  
 
Sao Tome and Principe  [mentioned] UNCTAD  
 
Senegal  [mentioned] the funding received from the EIF for the implementation of the Category 
1 Project and the Category 2 Projects, namely the project to improve the competitiveness of 
Senegalese mango (PACMS) and Metrology Project.  
 
 
550.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  highlighted the need for more development partners to 
be involved, especially bilateral partners, partners that are starting to play an important role in 
economic diversification, including Belgium, France, the Republic of Korea, Japan.  
551.  Ecuador  stated that the counterpart for identifying development partners is the Ministry of 
Foreign Trade. Ecuador identified WTO as an important development partner that provide s support 
through capacity building, development of courses, workshops and semi nars (technical cooperation), 
topics that contribute mainly to the training and specialization of human talent. It should be noted 
that there is no specific knowledge on financing for economic diversification issues, nor on economic 
empowerment, although Ecuador  believes that these issues could implicitly be included in the 
cooperation offered by the E uropean Union and the WTO. The contribution of cooperation to the 
Trade Subsector reached around USD 150 million in the period 2007 -2017.  
552.  Guinea  stated that G uinea's traditional development partners are still among the main donors 
of Aid for Trade . Some of them are major contributors to the EIF. Bilateral partners have also started 
to become donors to the EIF as a result of the advocacy efforts by the National Unit for Implementing 
the EIF of Guinea.  
553.  Mali stated that major donors are supporting the implementation of the EIF to finance the 
Trust Fund.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  554.  Palau  stated that its development partners do not provide assistance under the AfT label. The 
country is currentl y focusing on tourism as its main industry.  
555.  Papua New Guinea  highlighted the need to undertake a study to identify all development 
partners from which the country has benefited in order to provide accurate information.  
556.  Peru stated that one of the most impo rtant programme s for economic diversification is 
Innóvate Peru. The non -reimbursable resources of the Innóvate Peru programme  come from 
Inter-American Development Bank loan contracts and national counterparts.  
557.  Yemen  identified the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia a s an important development partner, among 
all other countries that provide relief and reconstruction aid.  
558.  Zambia  stated that the USAID is providing funds to develop the Zambia E -Trade Portal, as 
part of the implementation of the TFA. The EIF supported the Trade and Investment Project for 
Enhanced Competitiveness of the Zambia Apiculture Sector (TIPEC -ZAS) project.  
559.  Responses from the RECs identified the United States as the most important source of 
financing for economic diversification in their region or TC. Transnamib  also identified UNECA as 
an important source of financing for economic diversification.  
560.  South -South providers identified a few partner countries to which they provide AfT financing 
for economic diversification, including Djibouti, Egypt, Mauritania, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, 
Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, and Tunisia. The AfT financing is provided mostly through 
bilateral programme s, regional programme s, and multila teral institutions.  
561.  Responses gathered from donor countries identified Kenya and Viet Nam as the top partner 
countries to which the donors provide AfT financing for economic diversification. Twenty -seven out 
of 35 respondents to the donor questionnaire ind icated that AfT financing is provided through 
bilateral programme s. Twenty -five respondents identified multilateral institutions as a channel 
through which AfT financing is provided.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top partner countries receiving support for economic diversification: do nor's 
perspective  
Partner countries  Number of responses  Percentage share  
Kenya  15 60% 
Viet Nam  15 60% 
Cambodia  12 48% 
Ethiopia  12 48% 
Lao People's Democratic Republic  11 44% 
Mozambique  11 44% 
Myanmar  11 44% 
Tanzania  11 44% 
Tunisia  11 44% 
Ukraine  11 44% 
Burkina Faso  10 40% 
Ghana  10 40% 
Mali 10 40% 
Senegal  10 40% 
Bangladesh  9 36% 
Colombia  9 36% 
Côte d'Ivoire  9 36% 
Egypt  9 36% 
Indonesia  9 36% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
562.  One South -South provider, Indonesia , indicated that financing has been provided to 
South -South partners to support capacity building for fisheries, oil and gas, ramp safety awareness, 
foam tender operation, and defensive driving. Indonesia channels its AfT financing to South -South 
partners th rough several means including through international organizations, such as the Islamic 
Development Bank (IsDB) as well as  the FAO of the United Nations . 
563.  Singapore  stated that it reaches out to its South -South partners through bilateral 
programme s, regional  programme s such as the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI), as well as 
triangular cooperation with various countries (e.g. the United States, Japan, Chile, Thailand), 
multilateral institutions (e.g. WTO, IMF, IFC, UN -Habitat, UNICEF) and the private se ctor 
(e.g. Google).  
564.  The AfDB  stated that all 54 African countries are important partner countries to which AfDB 
provides AfT financing for economic diversification.  
565.  Australia  stated that the primary geographical focus of the Australian aid programme  is the  
Indo-Pacific region.  
566.  Canada  stated that it provided ODA to over 130 countries in 2017 -18. Top ten recipients of 
Canada’s international assistance 2016 -2017 are Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Jordan, Haiti, Mali, 
Tanzania, Syria, South Sudan, Nigeria and Banglades h. With the new Feminist International 
Assistance Policy, Canada does not limit its international assistance to a geographic area or specific 
countries of focus. Rather, the funding is disbursed to respond to areas of particular need where 
Canadian experie nce, expertise and skills can add value, and where Canada’s contributions have the 
greatest positive impact.  
567.  Canada will address conflicts and climate change in fragile states and contexts, while 
continuing to foster economic development and growth that w orks for everyone in the poorest 
countries and supporting middle -income countries that face particular challenges, notably with 
respect to governance. As part of this new approach, Canada will increase its support for LDCs. It WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  will also scale up support to  those countries where population growth and climate change will 
continue to have a disproportionate impact. Half of the world’s poorest citizens live in sub -Saharan 
Africa. For that reason, Canada will ensure that no less than 50% of its bilateral interna tional 
development assistance is directed to sub -Saharan African countries by 2021 -22, to contribute to 
sustainable development including growth that works for everyone.  
568.  The European Union  stated that E uropean Union Aid for Trade  is demand -driven. It is a  
result of a programmi ng process with partner countries. All developing countries are eligible to 
receiving E uropean Union Aid for Trade  either bilaterally or regionally, but only those currently or 
recently having benefited from E uropean Union AfT projects are listed in the questionnaire.  
569.  Finland  stated that the country provides AfT financing to support communications 
infrastructure in Ke nya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Viet Nam. It also provides financing in business 
support services in Zambia, Tanzania, and Viet Nam. In agriculture, Finland provides AfT support to 
Ethiopia, Kenya, and Mozambique. AfT financing is also provided to support  the forestry sector in 
Kenya and Tanzania.  
570.  Germany  selected several partner countries based on the data on AfT disbursements in 2016. 
Partner countries receiving Aid for Trade  only through regional AfT programme s have not been 
included in the list of coun tries indicated in the questionnaire .  
571.  Ireland  stated that Ireland's key partner countries are Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, 
Sierra  Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Viet Nam and Zambia. However, Iceland supports a broad range 
of developing countries through its mu ltilateral AfT support e.g. the ITC and the WTO STDF.  
572.  The Republic of Korea  stated that all partner countries can be the recipient of AfT support 
since AfT elements are found in projects or programme s based on how they are identified and 
designed. There is  no limitation on the proposals its partner countries can submit.  
573.  The Netherlands  stated that the country provides support mostly through multilateral and 
regional programme s as well as private sector development programme s. The focus regions are East 
Africa, West Africa, and Middle East and North Africa (MENA).  
574.  Norway  stated that the country's main priority countries are Sub -Saharan African and the 
LDCs.  
575.  Slovak Republic  identified Kenya and Ethiopia as the two partner countries benefitting from 
the agricul ture projects supported by Slovak Republic. However, these projects are marginally linked 
to Aid for Trade . 
576.  Spain  selected a few partner countries as the main recipients of Aid for Trade , but it is not an 
exhaustive list.  
577.  Sweden  identified countries in foc us for support directly or indirectly aimed at diversification. 
In addition, through its global programme s, more countries may be beneficiaries.  
578.  Switzerland  noted a few partner countries in its response to the self -assessment 
questionnaire. This non -exhaus tive list corresponds to the list of priority countries for State 
Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). SECO focuses its interventions in advanced developing 
countries (middle -income countries), where a large proportion of the population lives in extrem e 
poverty and whose impact extends over entire regions. Global disparities and risks such as economic 
and financial crises or climate change have increased particularly in middle -income countries. 
However, SECO is also active in less developed countries su ch as Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nepal and 
others through regional or global projects.  
579.  The EBRD  stated that the EBRD operates in 38 developing countries called "countries of 
operation " or "CoOs". Under the EBRD EU Trade and Competitiveness Programme , the Bank is 
implementing the Value Chain Competitiveness Programme  in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia, 
which aims to increase the access that SMEs in these countries have to high -value markets suc h as 
the European Union.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  580.  The World Bank  stated that economic diversification is a key driver of the World Bank's trade 
engagement in developing countries, particularly those that are primary commodity dependent and 
the poorest. Examples of recent, or plann ed, engagements include for Mozambique, Cambodia, 
Guyana, Mauritania, Lao PDR, Ethiopia, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Mexico, Tunisia, Madagascar, 
Cameroon, Senegal, Malawi and Nigeria. Benin, Burkina Faso, C ôte d’Ivoire, Ghana, India, Kenya, 
Kiribati, Nepal , Niger, Pakistan, Philippines, Rwanda, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Tonga, 
Uzbekistan.  
581.  The UNDP  stated that it is a development organization with activities at the global, regional 
and country level and a physical presence in close to 170 countrie s and territories. The countries 
highlighted represent a sample of projects which support economic diversification.  
Source of Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic diversification: South -South partners22 
582.  Fifty out of the 88 partner country respondents identi fied China as the top South -South partner 
and the most important source of financing for their economic diversification, followed by India.  
Top South -South partners providing financing for economic diversification: partner 
country's perspective  
South -South  Partners  Number of responses  Percentage share  
China  50 56.82%  
India 30 34.09%  
Republic of Korea*  21 23.86%  
Turkey  14 15.91%  
United Arab Emirates  13 14.77%  
Brazil  10 11.36%  
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  9 10.23%  
Kuwait  9 10.23%  
Chinese Taipei  8 9.09%  
Singapore  8 9.09%  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
NB.  This list is sourced from the United Nations for Development Cooperation. Various of those 
South -South partners listed with an asterisk  are OECD member States, appear on the OECD DAC list 
and/or report to the OECD Creditor Reporting System . 
Additional information on South -South partners providing financing for economic 
diversification: partner country's perspective  
Côte d'Ivoire  [mentioned] the Industrial Infrastructure Development Fund (FODI) and the 
African Development Fund  
 
Panama  [mentioned] the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF)  
 
Ecuador  [mentioned] the Latin American Association of Integración (ALADI)  
 
Bolivarian Repub lic of Venezuela  [mentioned] China and Russia  
 
Saint Vincent and Grenadines  [mentioned] Ecuador and Chinese Taipei  
 
Mauritius  [mentioned] Saudi Arabia  
 
 
583.  The Central African Republic  identified China as one of the partners supporting the 
rehabilitation or construction of trade -related infrastructure (i.e. electricity, roads, bridges).  
 
22 Refer to index number 19 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  584.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the new industrialized countries, notably 
China and Indi a, are orienting their investments towards the country in order to source raw 
materials.  
585.  Guinea  stated that in the context of South -South cooperation, Guinea's development partners 
include China, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Kuwait and Tunisia. Pol itical and economic 
relations with these countries have not progressed and trade relations have not yet been developed.  
586.  Kazakhstan  made a reference to the One Belt, One Road Initiative. The Minister for 
Investment and Development noted that Kazakhstan inte nds to significantly win as a geographical 
center of the land part of the New Silk Road, which creates new opportunities for trade and industry, 
as local enterprises can benefit from lower export and import. The Minister also drew the attention 
of the part icipants to the results of work on the implementation of a number of major projects. So, 
for five years a number of large -scale infrastructure projects were commissioned: the port of 
Lianyungang; dry port of Khorgos on the border with China; Aktau port on the Caspian Sea; a new 
railway corridor Kazakhstan – Turkmenistan – Iran with a length of about 900 km, connecting the 
countries of Central Asia with the Persian Gulf and the port of Bandar Abbas in the south of Iran; 
the international transit corridor Wes tern Europe – Western China, part of which passes through the 
territory of Kazakhstan. The measures taken allowed the delivery of goods from China via 
Kazakhstan to Europe in about 15 days, while shipping by sea takes two to two and a half times 
more time.  Deputy Chairman of the Board of Kazakh Invest said that Kazakh Invest supports new 
initiatives of Chinese investors.  
587.  Kiribati  stated that IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) have provided support in diversifying 
economic activities in the coconut sector  
588.  Papua New Guinea  highlighted the need to check through financing partners from all 
government agencies to provide the correct information.  
589.  Peru showcased a number of projects. Together with Brazil, Peru implemented the project 
aimed at strengthening the Peru vian cotton sector by improving the competitiveness of the 
production systems of family agriculture. The Ministry of Agriculture, the National Institute of 
Agrarian Innovation (INIA) and the Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation (APCI) are 
partners  in this initiative. The counterparts from Brazil include the Brazilian Cooperation Agency 
(ABC), the Brazilian Agricultural Research Company (Embrapa) and the Brazilian Association of 
Cotton Producers (Abrapa). Another project to showcase is the developme nt of competencies for the 
management of commercial forest plantation and protection projects and technical forestry 
instruments and wood technology for commercial forest plantations in Peru, between the National 
Forest and Wildlife Service (SERFOR) and th e Chilean Forest Institute (INFOR) and the Chilean 
Forestry Corporation (CONAF).  
590.  The response also mentioned the exchange of experiences and systematization of technology 
transfer services for community organization, constitution of community forest enter prises and 
implementation of technological innovation processes for the management, exploitation and 
transformation of forest resources. Another area worth noting is the exchange of experiences in 
forest management in jungles between Mexico and Peru, invol ving the National Forest and Wildlife 
Service (SERFOR) and the National Forestry Commission of Mexico (CONAFOR).  
591.  Senegal  stated that since 2000, Senegal has developed its economic relations with southern 
countries such as China, Iran, India, Turkey, among others. Economic cooperation with these 
countries focuses on construction, roads, industry and agriculture.  
592.  Tonga  stated  none of the South -South partners have invested significantly on the country's 
economic diversification shortfalls.  
593.  Zambia  stated that India offers capacity building trainings to government officials on trade 
related issues. China offers development financ e for infrastructure development.  
594.  One South -South provider, Singapore , stated that it partners with a number of South -South 
providers to offer financing for economic diversification, including with Argentina, Chile, Israel, 
Mexico, Qatar, Thailand, Turkey,  and Jordan.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  595.  A few responses gathered from the donor country questionnaire indicated a number of 
South -South providers  with which  donors partner to  offer financing in economic diversification.  
Top South -South partners with which donors provide Aid-for-Trade financing for 
economic diversification: donor's perspective  
Partner countries  Number of responses  percentage share  
Argentina  4 11% 
Brazil  4 11% 
Mexico  4 11% 
Chile 3 9% 
China  3 9% 
Indonesia  3 9% 
Malaysia  3 9% 
Singapore  3 9% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
596.  Canada  identified several South –South partners in delivering AfT projects in Africa, namely: 
the African Water Facility (a multi -donor trust fund of the AfDB), the NEPAD Infrastructure Project 
Preparation Facility, UN’s Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) - an apex African institution 
alongside the African Union Commission  and the AfDB. These three institutions coordinate activities 
in support of Africa’s eco nomic agenda through a Joint Secretariat, established in 2010, which is led 
by the heads of the three key organizations. ECA is recognized by AU member states, the AU 
Commission and the AfDB as an institution key to Africa’s development. The Permanent Inte r-State 
Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS) was created in 1974 by West African 
governments and development partners (including Canada) to assist with drought within the Sahel. 
Since then, CILSS’ mandate has evolved significantly and current ly concentrates on food crisis 
prevention and management, as well as agricultural markets. CILSS is currently in the process of 
becoming a specialized agency of ECOWAS. The two other consortium partners, the Borderless 
Alliance West Africa (regional privat e sector partnership platform based in Ghana) and Hub Rural 
(regional food security think tank) would respectively lead the advocacy and policy reforms 
dimensions of the programme .  
597.  The African Legal Support Facility, an international organization housed u nder the AfDB that 
is dedicated to providing legal advice and technical assistance to African countries in matters 
pertaining to creditor litigation and complex commercial contracts. The African Union Commission is 
the secretariat for the AU. The Commissio n is headed by a Chairperson, supported by a Deputy and 
eight Commissioners, all elected by African leaders.   
598.  Estonia  stated that the type of financing provided together with South -South partners is 
in-kind advisory work.  
599.  The European Union  selected a few South -South partners with triangular cooperation 
actions or under consideration. The partnership with Paraguay is being implemented. Other 
South -South partners that are currently considered include Malaysia and Thailand. The response 
also made a reference to the Cuban -Chilean project on contribution to the food security of the 
population of Cuba.  
600.  Germany  identified Costa Rica, Colombia, and Peru as important South -South partners for 
economic diversification.  
601.  The Republic of Korea  stated that in principle, the country's grant projects are open to all 
countries in the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) ODA recipient country list.  
602.  Norway  identified China as an important South -South partner in offering financing in 
economic divers ification, particularly through the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  603.  The EBRD  stated that the EBRD works with private and public entities in the countries it 
operates mainly by providing financing for investment projects, often alongside variou s public, 
private and development finance institution (DFI) partners.  
604.  The World Bank  stated that partnerships are essential to the optimal delivery of the World 
Bank's Aid for Trade  as many other international organizations and bilateral development partne rs 
provide assistance to developing countries in the area of trade. Working in partnership with other 
providers of trade support and in close cooperation with specialized trade organizations is important 
to avoid duplication of effort; prevent investments in areas where others are better placed to help; 
and to increase the effectiveness of our support. Examples of South -South partnerships on economic 
diversification include the Trade Costs Dataset, which was initiated in 2013. This is a joint initiative 
by the World Bank and UNESCAP. Trade costs are the price equivalent of the reduction of 
international trade compared with the potential implied by domestic production and consumption in 
the origin and destination markets. Higher bilateral trade costs result i n smaller bilateral trade flows. 
Trade costs have been made available since 1993 for approximately 170 economies. Updates are 
currently underway for 2018 and 2019.  
605.  Global Development Report II is a joint project with IDE -JETRO in Japan, the University of 
International and Business Economics in Beijing, OECD and WTO. Six papers were prepared and 
presented at a conference in Beijing in March 2018 on market dynamics in the market for Chinese 
cell phones; labour market outcomes related to GVCs; use of new "Sup ply 4.0" technologies in 
supply chains; patterns of FDI; the impact of "Made in China" and "Made in the World" on the 
production structures of third countries; and the development of firm capabilities and learning in 
GVCs. The World Bank Group (WBG) has lo ng been deeply engaged in countries along the Belt and 
Road, based on the respective country partnership frameworks, with commitments of about 
USD 80 billion for infrastructure in Belt and Road countries.  
606.  The WBG also has numerous projects addressing infr astructure, trade, and connectivity in its 
project pipeline. Furthermore, the WBG helps countries address trade and connectivity issues by 
providing advisory services and analytics (ASA). The WBG engages through various 
channels:  (i) convening; (ii) analyt ical and advisory services; (iii) project origination and 
preparation; (iv)  project financing; and (v) implementation support.  
607.  The WBG is currently analyzing the economics of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) through 
research involving a series of ongoin g and planned papers from the World Bank Group as well as 
partner organizations from BRI countries. The research is designed to help policymakers assess the 
effects of the BRI and to identify policies that will help maximize the benefits and mitigate the r isks. 
The research project focuses on three main areas of analysis: (i) an assessment of the connectivity 
gaps (e.g. transport, communications, trade, investment) in the broad BRI region; (ii) an 
assessment of the economic effects of proposed BRI infrastru cture improvements, including the 
impact on international trade, cross -border investment, allocation of economic activity, borrowing 
levels and inclusive and sustainable growth in the BRI countries; and (iii) identification of 
complementary policies and in stitutions that will support welfare maximization for all BRI countries, 
including, for example, trade, investment and procurement reforms, and social, environmental and 
governance safeguards.  
608.  The World Bank recently partnered with the Secretariat for Eco nomic Integration in Central 
America (SIECA) under the Trade Facilitation Support Programme  in developing a pilot capacity 
strengthening project aimed at trading across borders in Guatemala and Honduras in the context of 
the two countries’ customs union. T he project helped to simplify customs procedures, dramatically 
speed up border crossings at three major land borders between the two countries (trade times were 
reduced from 10 hours to just over 15 minutes), resulting in a significant reduction in trade c osts. 
Teaming up with the customs administrations and private sectors of both trading partners, the pilot 
project supplied training to 150 Honduran and Guatemalan companies, mostly SMEs.  
609.  The World Bank also hosts the Secretariat of the Global Infrastructu re Connectivity Alliance 
(GICA), a G20 initiative that was launched in 2016 to close the apparent gap in availability of current, 
relevant resources related to infrastructure connectivity. GICA was launched under China’s 
chairmanship of the G20 and has gro wn to include other governments such as Indonesia as well as 
private sector bodies working on connectivity issues in trade, transport, energy and communications. 
GICA promotes cooperation, knowledge exchange, and meaningful progress in global 
interconnecti vity. The GICA Secretariat is based in the Singapore Hub of the WBG. The WBG works WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  closely with the Singapore Government and taps into the development knowledge of the Singapore 
ecosystem on issues relating to, among others, trade, infrastructure developme nt, and fintech.  
Sectors requiring further Aid-for-Trade  support in economic diversification23 
610.  Seventy -nine out of the 88 respondents to the partner country questionnaire identified 
agriculture as the top sector in which future support will be required, fol lowed by services.  
Sectors requiring further Aid-for-Trade  support in economic diversification: partner 
country's perspective  
Sector  Partner countries  LDCs  LLDCs  UN SIDS  
Agriculture  79 (90%)  36 (95%)  20 (91%)  21 (86%)  
Industry  75 (85%)  32 (84%)  20 (91%)  17 (71%)  
Services  77 (88%)  33 (87%)  19 (86%)  22 (92%)  
Fisheries  56 (64%)  22 (58%)  4 (18%)  21 (88%)  
Forestry  16 (18%)  7 (18%)  3 (14%)  1 (4%)  
 
Sector  Africa  Asia Americas  Oceania  
Agriculture  32 (91%)  19 (83%)  16 (89%)  10 (100%)  
Industry  33 (94%)  20 (87%)  15 (83%)  5 (50%)  
Services  31 (89%)  19 (83%)  17 (94%)  8 (80%)  
Fisheries  24 (69%)  7 (30%)  15 (83%)  9 (90%)  
Forestry  9 (26%)  1 (4%)  5 (28%)  1 (10%)  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
611.  Angola  stated that the sectors in which there will be the greatest need for support for 
economic diversification are the education and agriculture sectors.  
612.  The Central African Republic  stated that the industrial fabric is still in its infancy and will 
require fu ture support, despite the many agricultural and forestry resources. These resources are 
sold or exported largely in their raw state.   
613.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that given that the country has enormous 
potential in its soil, special emphasis should be placed on industrialization in order to add value to 
Congolese products.  
614.  The Cook Islands  stated that future AfT support will be needed, particularly in orde r to meet 
SPS standards and increase exports.  
615.  The Dominican Republic  made a reference to an article citing the need to take advantage 
of trade in services.  
616.  Ecuador  stated that as the Undersecretariat for International Cooperation, the entity 
responsible fo r negotiations to raise international cooperation funds , is anchored in the priorities 
established in the National Development Plan and to the areas of expertise of the partners in matters 
of South -South cooperation. In addition, within the framework of Mu ltilateral Organizations such as 
the WTO, priority should be given to the pending issues of the Doha Development Agenda, such as 
negotiations on agriculture.  
617.  Equatorial Guinea  stated that training of human resources, petrochemicals, and wood 
industry are sectors which will require the most support for economic diversification.  
618.  Gabon  stated that cross -border network infrastructure and transport, services, agriculture, 
and indust ry are the sectors which will most require future support for economic diversification.  
 
23 Refer to index number 20 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  619.  Guinea  stated that the country is recognized as an agricultural country. This sector alone, 
while frankly well developed, is sufficient to ensure Guinea's economic dev elopment. Industry, 
fishing and forestry also have important roles to play. Guinea's industrialization, which is dependent 
on several factors, including the country's electrification, must be taken into account to a large 
extent among the sectors to be dev eloped to ensure Guinea's economic development.  
620.  Kazakhstan  identified industrialization as a central element of Kazakhstan 2050. The state 
programme  of forced innovative industrialization should focus on importing industrial capacity and 
exchanging technol ogy.  Infrastructure services are an important determinant of trade costs, 
particularly for landlocked countries. Development of information technologies is also mentioned. 
The country stated that it must ensure that by 2030, at least 2 -3% of global inform ation flows go 
through Kazakhstan. This figure must double by 2050. The development of farming and SME in 
agricultural processing and trade is part of the country’s 2050 strategy. The share of agriculture in 
GDP must increase five -fold by 2050.  
621.  Kenya  listed health, tourism, information technology, energy, mining, infrastructure, and 
education as areas requiring further AfT support for economic diversification.  
622.  Kiribati  stated that for services, the key priority areas that will require support include specif ic 
strategies related to the development of tourism and labour mobility in line with the Kiribati 20 -Year 
Vision (KV20) Development Plan.  
623.  Madagascar  stated that the following four sectors need enormous support in terms of 
economic diversification: agricult ural production, processing, and compliance with standards and 
quality; industry (rural industrialization and promotion of small industries with a high need for 
infrastructure such as logistics and energy); services (compliance with the schedules of 
commit ments); and fisheries (compliance with fisheries product standards and improvement of 
fisheries infrastructure including fleets).  
624.  Malawi  stated that further AfT support will be required in the mining sector.  
625.  Mali stated that the agricultural and agroforest ry sectors, mining, water, energy, information 
communication technology, and transport infrastructure are the sectors which will require the most 
support for economic diversification.  
626.  Nepal  stated that support in trade related to infrastructure development , production and 
productivity enhancement, value chain development, and export promotion among others would be 
the sectors which will require the most future support for economic diversification.  
627.  Papua New Guinea  stated that agriculture is the medium -term priority of the Government 
in growing its economy and supporting the extractive industry.  
628.  Peru stated that all sectors will require future support for economic diversification, particularly 
bio trade, aquaculture, forestry and services. There is also a sp ecial interest in advanced 
manufacturing, biotechnology, as well as information and communication technologies. It should be 
noted that in the Bio trade products sector, more support is required in researching the properties 
of the country’s native biodive rsity products and in generating innovation and value -added 
development.  
629.  Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  stated that further AfT support will be required in the 
financial and banking sector.  
630.  Samoa  stated that there is much potential to develop services.  
631.  Senegal  stated that agriculture, industry, services and fisheries are priority sectors for which 
major flagship projects have been identified and implemented in the first phase of the Plan for 
Emerging Senegal (PSE). Between 2014 -2018, investments were main ly directed towards 
agriculture, housing, roads, the renewal or development of certain industrial equipment (i.e. textiles, 
agro-food industries). These are also identified as priorities in the second phase of the Plan for 
Emerging Senegal (2019 -2023).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  632.  Tonga identified handcrafts as an area requiring further AfT support.  
633.  Tuvalu  stated that tourism, labour mobility, education, health, and trade are areas requiring 
further AfT support.  
634.  Zambia  stated that these sectors have a high potential in enhancing econom ic diversification 
which will ultimately increase job creation and GDP growth.  
635.  Zimbabwe  stated that Zimbabwe’s draft Export Strategy shortlists horticulture, the cotton to 
clothing value chain, arts and crafts, pharmaceuticals, leather and leather products , iron and steel 
as sectors that require support for economic diversification. In terms of trade in services, the priority 
sectors are transport, banking and finance, tourism, information communication technology, energy 
and construction services.  
636.  Services  was identified as a top sector in which future support will be required by all five RECs 
participating in the questionnaire. COMESA  identified gender and climate change as additional areas 
requiring further support for economic diversification.  
637.  Among the South -South providers, Indonesia identified agriculture, fisheries, and trade 
facilitation as the top sectors in which future support will be required. China stated that future 
support may be anticipated in the services sector.  
Sectors requiring further Aid-for-Trade  support in economic diversification: donor's 
perspective  
Sector  Donors  
Agriculture  29 (83%)  
Industry  25 (71%)  
Services  23 (66%)  
Fisheries  12 (34%)  
Forestry  11 (31%)  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
638.  Agriculture was identified as the top sector in which future support will be required by 29 out 
of the 35 donors participating in the questionnaire, followed by industry and services.  
639.  Canada  stated that green technologies and renewable energy will likely r equire future support 
for economic diversification.  
640.  The European Union  stated that needs for support in economic diversification vary from one 
country to another and the E uropean Union responds specifically to those needs. Therefore, all 
sectors are poten tially eligible for receiving further AfT support to promote economic diversification.  
641.  Hungary  stated digitalization as a sector which will likely require future support for economic 
diversification.  
642.  The Republic of Korea  stated that public administration  is an area where future AfT support 
will likely be required.  
643.  Latvia  identified e -commerce as an area where future AfT support will likely be required.  
644.  New Zealand  stated that the sectors in which Aid for Trade  will be required for economic 
diversificatio n largely depends on the development of partner countries in question. Some countries 
rely largely on a single sector to generate exports, and therefore these sectors are likely to require 
support in diversifying in the future. In the Pacific, there are a number of examples including oil 
extraction, tourism or fisheries.  
645.  Spain  stated that services are sectors with great heterogeneity and growth potential.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  646.  Sweden  stated that two considerations can be mentioned regarding the sectors which will 
mostly require support for economic diversification. Firstly, there are increasing demands on support 
for structural transformation in an age of automation, digitalization and GVCs . Secondly, most people 
living in poverty continue to be found in the agricultural sector a nd there is a pressing need for 
increased productivity in this sector, as a component of a strategy for poverty reduction as well as 
for structural transformation. Services are particularly important, directly and indirectly.  
647.  Switzerland  stated that the co untry’s strategy for Aid for Trade  for the period 2021 -2024 will 
be defined in the message on international cooperation 2021 -2014, which is currently under 
development.  
648.  The World Bank  stated mineral resources and mining are areas where future AfT support 
will likely be required.  
649.  The UNDP  stated that it anticipates efforts on economic diversification to continue across 
sectors, including on services as a result of the unfolding of the f ourth industrial revolution and 
further deepening of GVCs . Another area of potential development for support on economic 
diversification is on sustainable development and trading of natural resources including forestry and 
fisheries, inter alia.  
Categories  of Aid-for-Trade  financing required to support economic diversification24 
650.  Looking ahead, 73 partner country respondents (83%) considered trade facilitation an area 
requiring future  AfT support for economic diversification. This view is shared by four RECs 
participating in the exercise.  
 
24 Refer to index number 21 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing needed to promote economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Trade facilitation  31 89% 
Agriculture  30 86% 
Trade policy and regulations  26 74% 
Asia Trade policy and regulations  17 74% 
Trade facilitation  16 70% 
Industry  15 65% 
Americas  Trade facilitation  16 89% 
Trade education and training  13 72% 
Agriculture  12 67% 
Oceania  Fishing  9 90% 
Agriculture  9 90% 
Trade facilitation  9 90% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Trade facilitation  35 92% 
Industry  30 79% 
Agriculture  29 76% 
LLDC Trade facilitation  18 81% 
Agriculture  16 72% 
Industry  16 72% 
UN SIDS  Trade facilitation  22 92% 
Fishing  20 83% 
Trade education and training  19 79% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing needed to promote economic diversification: 
partner country's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
651.  Angola  stated that for services, the key priority areas that will require support include specific 
strategies related to the development of tourism and labour mobility in line with the Kiribati 20 -Year 
Vision (KV20) Development Plan.  
652.  The Democratic Republic of C ongo  stated that the country is lagging far behind in the 
areas of industrialization and basic infrastructure. Its National Strategic Plan for Development 
(PNSD) focuses on some priority projects whose realization will require more funding related to Aid 
for Trade . 
653.  Guinea  stated the priority sectors in which the country will need financing in the form of direct 
subsidies to producers and funds to ensure guaranteed access to financing. Financial support for the 
development of youth and women's employmen t will also have a significant impact on Guinea's 
economic diversification.  
654.  Kazakhstan  stated skills and training as a category of AfT financing for which the Government 
will require AfT support for economic diversification. Knowledge and professional skil ls are key 
landmarks of the modern education, training and retraining system as laid out in Kazakhstan 2050. 
Another category of AfT financing the country will require is infrastructure, especially transport and 
communication infrastructure. The country’s aim was to develop its infrastructure and it had the 
strength to do it. Over recent years , the country has launched a number of major infrastructure 
projects that include highways and railroads, pipelines, logistics centres, terminals, airports, train 
stations and ports. All of these projects have created jobs for many citizens of Kazakhstan and 
integrated the country into the regional and global economic system. Over the last 11 years, the 
highway development sector received over KZT 1,263 billion and has built and reconstructed over 
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80UnsureOther trade related needsForestryMineral resources and miningRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Trade related adjustmentCommunications infrastructureBanking and financial servicesBusiness support servicesMultilateral trade negotiationsTrade policy and administrative managementEnergy supply and generation infrastructureTrade developmentBuilding productive capacityTrade-related infrastructureTravel and tourismTrade education/trainingFishingTransport and storage infrastructureTrade policy and regulationsAgricultureIndustryTrade facilitation
1 (1%)10 (11%)15 (17%)23 (26%)32 (36%)34 (39%)35 (40%)38 (43%)39 (44%)40 (45%)43 (49%)44 (50%)44 (50%)45 (51%)48 (55%)48 (55%)50 (57%)50 (57%)54 (61%)61 (69%)63 (72%)65 (74%)73 (83%)Chart TitleWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  48,000 km of public highways, as well as 1100 km of railways. The country is reviving a New Silk 
Road by setting up a “Western Europe – Western China" transportation corridor.  
655.  Kiribati  stated that the Government's focus is on g etting higher returns from the fisheries 
sector through the implementation of the value -addition strategies.  
656.  Madagascar  stated that the category of AfT financing that the Government will require 
support for economic diversification includes the EIF Categor y II project, which will develop around 
the development of green value chains, especially legumes, dry grains, and honey.  
657.  Papua New Guinea  identified several priority categories requiring further AfT support, 
including trade education or training, transpor t and storage infrastructure, energy supply and 
generation infrastructure, banking and financial services, and agriculture.  
658.  Philippines  stated that the Government will require AfT support for economic diversification 
in trade policy and regulations as well  as trade facilitation.  
659.  Senegal  stated the key sectors that the country will require AfT support for economic 
diversification are identified in Priority Action Plan 2 of the Plan for Emerging Senegal.  
660.  Tonga  stated that certification into international qual ity requirements for market access is a 
category of AfT financing that the country will require support on.  
661.  Ukraine  stated that trade education for SMEs is still very important and will require AfT 
support for economic diversification.  
662.  Zambia  stated that the Seventh National Development Plan  identified several priority areas 
requiring further AfT financing.  
663.  Responses from the South -South questionnaire indicated five areas requiring future AfT 
support for economic diversification, namely trade policy and re gulations, trade facilitation, trade 
education and training, trade related infrastructure, and trade development.  
664.  Twenty -one respondents to the donor questionnaire (60%) considered trade policy and 
regulations an area requiring future  AfT support for econo mic diversification.  
665.  The European Union  stated that needs vary from one country to another and the E uropean 
Union responds to those needs. Therefore, all sectors are potentially eligible.  
666.  The Republic of Korea  stated that future AfT support in the form of  technical vocational 
education training (TVET) support will likely be required, including building productive capacity and 
industry.  
667.  Sweden  stated that the highlighted sectors also include all the sub -sectors, which are as 
relevant.  
668.  Switzerland  stated that its strategy for Aid for Trade  for the period 2021 -2024 will be defined 
in the message on international cooperation 2021 -2014. This is currently under development.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing needed to promote economic diversificatio n: 
donor's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
Aid-for-Trade  projects or programme s supporting economic diversification25 
669.  Angola  referenced the National Development Plan (NDP) 2018 -2022 since it provides for 
several related actions.  
670.  Benin  stated that the WTO's EIF Programme  is an AfT initiative which the country would like 
to showcase as an example of a best practice. It is the mechanism for mobilizing Aid for Trade  for 
LDCs. Throug h the various areas of intervention of the EIF, Benin has attracted resources from Aid 
for Trade  to strengthen its productive and trade capacities, which is an undeniable contribution to 
its economic diversification.  
671.  Burkina Faso  highlighted the project to  support the marketing of dried mango and processed 
cashew nuts as a great AfT initiative that the country would like to contribute to the list of best 
practices. The overall objective of the project is to contribute to increasing export earnings of dried 
mango and processed cashew nuts and to improve stakeholder's  income. The project aimed at 
strengthening the trade capacity of dried mango and processed cashew nuts is in line with the 
Government of Burkina Faso's objectives to diversify its economy and take advantage of the 
opportunities offered in the internationa l market. The project focused particularly on the processing 
and marketing links. Indeed, the processing of the two products provides nearly 6,000 permanent 
and seasonal jobs. By intervening on these two links, the project targets niche markets through an 
increase in export quantities and an improvement in product quality. The overall objective of the 
project is to contribute to increasing export earnings of dried mango and processed cashew nuts and 
to improving the income of the stakeholders. It has four c omponents as described below. The first 
component is aimed at strengthening the organizational and technical capacities of stakeholders. 
Component number two consists of improving the technical and technological capacities of 
 
25 Refer to index number 22 in the Annex.  
2 (6%)2 (6%)6 (17%)7 (20%)8 (23%)10 (29%)10 (29%)10 (29%)11 (31%)11 (31%)12 (34%)12 (34%)13 (37%)13 (37%)14 (40%)14 (40%)15 (43%)15 (43%)16 (46%)17 (49%)19 (54%)20 (57%)21 (60%)
0 5 10 15 20 25Other trade related needsUnsureMineral resources and miningTrade related adjustmentFishingMultilateral trade negotiationsForestryTravel and tourismTrade-related infrastructureIndustryEnergy supply and generation infrastructureBanking and financial servicesTransport and storage infrastructureCommunications infrastructureRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Trade education/trainingTrade policy and administrative managementBuilding productive capacityBusiness support servicesTrade facilitationTrade developmentAgricultureTrade policy and regulationsWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  processing units. Component th ree is aimed at increasing export volumes of dried mango and 
processed cashew nuts. Component four consists of improving access to financial services for 
stakeholders. With an overall cost of USD 3.5 million, it was implemented from 2014 to 2018 and 
its im pacts on exports and poverty reduction were cited as an example.  
672.  Burundi  listed the EIF as an AfT initiative for economic diversification that serves as an 
example of best practices.  
673.  Cabo Verde  referenced relevant ongoing projects including the Electricit y Transmission and 
Distribution Network Development Project financed by Japan (JICA). The response also highlighted 
programme s and projects funded by LuxDev, the World Bank and the European Union. Cabo Verde 
also showcased many ongoing projects aimed at en hancing public owned enterprises efficiency 
through public private partnerships like the privatization of the National Airline, for air -hub as well 
as a public private partnership agreement for inter -island maritime connectivity. In addition, the 
country h as many other projects related with Blue Economy and Agribusiness that could serve as a 
best practice, along with the construction of the Technological Park.  
674.  Cambodia  stated that the Cambodia Trade Integration Strategy 2014 -2018 and Trade Sector 
Wide Appro ach are examples of AfT programme s that the country would like to showcase as best 
practices.  
675.  The Central African Republic  stated that the solar field construction project that the Central 
African Government intends to carry out with the support of China and the World Bank is vital for 
the country's economic diversification.  
676.  Chad  stated that the Programme  for the Restructuring and Upgrading of Industries (PRMN) 
and the Central African Quality Infrastructure Programme  (PIQAC) are derived from the Programme  
to Support Trade and Economic Integration (PACIE) of the 10th European Development Fund (EDF). 
The PRMN aims to contribute to the strengthening of Central Africa's productive capacities, so that 
the sub -region can face, in a sustained manner, the dual chal lenge of regional and global integration. 
The upgrading has resulted in the following triple ambition for the Central African sub -region and its 
companies: become competitive in terms of price, quality, innovation; be able to follow and control 
the evoluti on of techniques and markets; create cross -border value chains.  
677.  The Quality Infrastructure Programme  for Central Africa (PIQAC) aims to strengthen the 
competitiveness and diversification of productive sectors through support for regional and national 
quality infrastructure institutions and their networking at the regional level. The programme  creates 
a favourable business environment while ensuring compliance with international trade and technical 
regulations. PIQAC's approach allows for the development an d adoption of policies at the regional 
and national levels that enable and promote intra -regional trade and exports; establishment and 
strengthening of quality infrastructure institutions that provide effective services to the private 
sector and consumers for priority regional products, leading to improved intra -regional and 
international trade; engagement of the private sector and consumers in applying quality principles 
and practices in their behaviour and operations/productions.   
678.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  would like to showcase the CIR Project which focuses 
on the revival of the oil palm sector and coffee -cocoa sectors; the project on the elaboration of the 
National Export Strategy; World Bank Project of Support to the Rehabilitation and Recovery o f the 
Agricultural Sector (PAARSA); the World Bank Project of Support to Agricultural Recovery in 
Equateur Province (PRAPE); and the World Bank Support Project for Agricultural Recovery in 
Orientale Province (PRAPO).  
679.  Costa Rica  stated the DISCOVER project as an exemplary AfT project. It is a collaborative 
project between the Ministry of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, and Foreign 
Trade Promoter of Costa Rica. Its mission is to revalue agriculture as a sustainable activity and to 
increa se the well -being of the population dedicated to it. It also seeks to improve the productivity of 
the country's agricultural sector.  
680.  Côte d'Ivoire  stated that the TRADE COM II Programme  to Support Improved Market Access 
and Trade Facilitation in the countr y serves as an example of best practices along with USAID's 
Leadership in Public Financial Management II Programme  to support trade facilitation.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  681.  El Salvador  stated that in 2009, the experience and work methodology that the Japanese 
communities implemented  to boost their territorial economies was known. In January 2010, the 
National Commission of Micro and Small Businesses decided to incorporate the methodology into its 
strategic projection of support to micro and small enterprises, considering it could be adapted to the 
reality of El Salvador. Fundamentally, because the endogenous development approach of the 
territories from existing abundant local resources, the possibility of transforming them, adding value, 
as well as the skills and knowledge of their in habitants and the identity of these resources is very 
similar and could develop this valuable experience called Movement One People One Product.   
682.  Equatorial Guinea  referenced the National Development Plan, which emphasizes the 
development of different sect ors. 
683.  Ethiopia  referenced the EIF as an AfT programme  for economic diversification that it would 
like to showcase as an example of a best practice.  
684.  Guatemala  stated that the Honey Project is an AfT project for economic diversification that 
the country would like to showcase. Guatemala presented a project to the STDF  and was chosen as 
a success story in the WTO in 2017. The Honey Chain Traceability Project in Guatemala, jointly 
implemented by the Min istry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food (MAGA) and OIRSA. This project 
will support the small honey producers in the country, in the elaboration of the product traceability 
system. This system is one of the requirements that the European Union requires i n order to export 
to that market. The Mission together with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food (MAGA) 
coordinated the shipment of honey from Guatemala and increased publicity of the project for the 
exhibition of the product. Once a year, the WTO holds a Public Forum with the objective that the 
general public and countries can participate in different seminars, workshops and panel discussions 
on different trade issues. STDF chose success stories. For the Latin American region, the Guatemala 
project was selected,  and honey samples were sent from Guatemala for the exhibition.  
685.  Guinea  stated there are initiatives that the country would like to showcase as an example of 
best practices in Aid for Trade , including the development of rural roads to ensu re the transportation 
of agricultural products  from production areas to markets . The following is one of the objectives to 
be achieved as a part of the project: the installation in the countryside of small agricultural 
processing units such as mango, orang e, among others; training and information for farmers on 
knowledge of export market requirements; and support to producers or exporters in the field of 
international certification. These are some of the priority sectors in which Guinea has received 
support  from the trade financing partners (TFPs) under Aid for Trade  and diversification of the 
country's economy.   
686.  Guinea Bissau  stated that the country would like to set up two projects in agriculture, 
horticulture, fisheries and artisanal fishing.  
687.  Kenya  mentio ned the Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System, One -Stop-Border -Post, 
Single Window System, and InfoTradeKe as initiatives for economic diversification that it would like 
to showcase as an example of best practices.  
688.  Kiribati  referenced AfT support thro ugh the Development of Quality Infrastructure. This has 
contributed to the establishment of the Fisheries Competent Authority (Seafood Verification 
Authority) which is helping in conformity assessment procedures. The development of National 
Quality Policy is providing guidance at the national level on how to strengthen the national quality 
infrastructure in the short to medium term. Some of the merging initiatives being considered as part 
of the Quality Policy implementation is the consideration to establis h a centralised Analytical 
Laboratory with funding support from the STDF. The Government of New Zealand is also providing 
long-term technical assistance to the Fisheries Competent Authority. These initiatives are broadly 
contributing to economic diversific ation by assisting the producers to meet the international 
standards. The Government requests continuous support in implementing the broader priorities in 
the National Quality Policy.  
689.  The EIF project has contributed to the formulation of the first -ever Na tional Trade Policy 
Framework which seeks to facilitate the transformation of Kiribati into a competitive economy and 
strengthen its participation in both domestic and international trade development with the ultimate 
objective of creating wealth and prosp erity. The policy is providing a government -wide integrated WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  approach towards implementing trade development priorities. It provides guidance to the 
Government and to their stakeholders on the key trade development priorities that need to be 
implemented in the short to medium term in order to achieve the broader vision of the KV20. The 
Policy has an Implementation Matrix to guide its implementation and it also enhances policy 
coherence and clear direction on The Kiribati Trade Development Agenda. The long -term Technical 
assistance contribution through the Commonwealth Hubs and Spoke Programme  has assisted in 
enhancing trade capacity in Kiribati through trade policy formulation, trade negotiations, 
implementation of trade agreements, trade capacity building . Trade has  also been mainstreamed 
into development strategies and sector plans and has improved the business environment  
690.  Lao PDR  stated that the Trade Development Facility Second Phase (TDF II) is an AfT initiative 
that it would like to add to the list of programme s showcased as best practices.  
691.  Lesotho  stated referenced the Private Sector Competitiveness and Economic Diversification 
Project, funded by the World Bank, as an example of a best practice example of an AfT project for 
economic diversification. Co mmercial deciduous tree production has been introduced to farmers who 
used mainly maize and sorghum cultivation in their field for subsistence. Through Private Sector 
Competitiveness and Export Diversification Project (PSCEDP), fruit production has been 
commercialised and value has been added to fruits introduced to farmers. Tourism establishments 
have been star graded to attract tourists and business registration has been automated to improve 
the ease of doing business.  
692.  Liberia  made a reference to the MSMEs  supported by grant s provided by Japan,  as well as  
trade fairs, data harmonization,  and the  EIF Tiers 1 and 2.  
693.  Madagascar  stated that the integration of the gender dimension (women and youth) into 
development strategies is a priority. Women's entrepre neurial groups are becoming more and more 
dynamic in Madagascar. In addition, the promotion of MSMEs and the development of rural 
industrialization are relevant economic empowerment strategies.  
694.  Malawi referenced the Malawi Trade Portal.  
695.  Mali stated that the following projects and programme s are important AfT initiatives for 
economic diversification: the EIF; the Regional Trade Facilitation Programme ; the MERCATOR 
Programme  of the World Customs Organization (WCO); the WAEMU Trade Competitivene ss and 
Regional Integration Support Project (PACCIR/ UEMOA); and the Trade Portal platform.  
696.  Mauritania  listed the EIF as an AfT programme  for economic diversification which is a good 
example of best practices.  
697.  Myanmar  stated that the International Labour Organization ( ILO) Skills for Trade and 
Economic Diversification programme  focused on the Tourist Guides Sector is a promising AfT project 
that Myanmar would like to showcase as an example of a best practice. In addition, the ADB 
Unlocking the Potential Initiative has also promoted a strategy for high, sustained and inclusive 
growth.  
698.  Niger  included the Hides and Skins Sector Development Project in Niger, which is funded 
under the EIF, as an AfT initiative for economic diversification that the country would like to showcase 
as an example of best practices.  
699.  Nigeria  referenced the Zero Reject Initiative for non -oil exports.  
700.  Papua New Guinea  referred to the following list of projects as AfT initiatives that contribute 
to economic diversification and can be showc ased as best practices. The European Development 
Fund-based (EDF) programme s include a trade -related assistance programme  and a rural economic 
development programme . The Asian Development Bank’s Productive partnership Agriculture 
Programme  is a good exampl e that can also be showcased as a best practice.  
701.  Peru stated that in 2018, Swiss cooperation initiated the second phase of the SeCompetitivo 
Programme  that seeks to support Peru in improving the competitiveness of the private sector, thus 
contributing to s ustainable economic development and poverty reduction. One of the strategic areas WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  of this second phase is the development of businesses and value chains, with the aim of contributing 
to higher productivity (mainly SMEs and small producer organizations) and  product diversification 
towards higher value added. Among the mechanisms to operationalize its implementation are the 
strengthening of prioritized value chains (cocoa, coffee, tourism and agro -industry) in the regions 
of Piura and San Martín.  
702.  Saint Kitts  and Nevis  would like to showcase the implementation of the United  
States -developed Small Business Development Centre, which was created to assist the micro and 
small business sector.  
703.  Samoa  highlighted the Revitalization of Banana Exports. Exports of bananas to New Zealand 
dominated Samoa’s balance of trade in the 1950s and ear ly 1960s. Banana exports ceased in the 
late 1960s when pests and diseases affected most of the banana plantations and supply was unable 
to meet market demand and biosecurity requirements. As part of the Government of Samoa’s 
programme  to revitalize banana exports, two improved varieties of the Cavendish cultivar were 
brought to Samoa in 2016 from South Africa to trial. The improved varieties were expected to be 
harvested earlier than eight months of the existing varieties in Samoa and believed to be free fr om 
diseases such as banana bunch top (laufeti’iti’i) and banana black leaf streak (lausului).  The first 
shipment arrived in Samoa in 2016 and was enabled by the World Bank Group through the Samoa 
Agriculture Competitiveness Enhancement Project (SACEP). Sub sequent shipments followed which 
included support from the Pacific Horticultural Agricultural Market Access (PHAMA) programme  by 
Australia and New Zealand.  
704.  The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF), through the Crops Division, transplanted the 
banan a seedlings and carefully monitored and nurtured the plants in the nursery unit to ensure 
freedom from pests and diseases. The plants were then distributed to banana growers in Savaii and 
Upolu with continuous monitoring and assistance from the Ministry of  Agriculture and Fisheries. The 
Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, through its Biosecurity and Crops Divisions negotiated the 
banana export pathway with the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries with success achieved 
in February 2018. The Samoa B anana Growers Association was established in September 2017 with 
the objective of sharing knowledge and experience in developing the Samoa’s banana industry and 
to ensure quality and sustainable produce for the domestic and export markets. The first export s of 
500 boxes of fresh green bananas were shipped to New Zealand in October 2018. To date, some 
2,550 boxes have been exported to New Zealand. As part of the New Zealand export pathway for 
bananas, all bananas to be exported are inspected and packed at th e certified packing facility, which 
is privately owned, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries’ supervision.  
705.  While the share of Samoa’s banana exports in the New Zealand market is very small relative 
to established major suppliers from Ecuador, t here remains opportunity to promote Samoan produce 
in New Zealand retail shelves. There is also export potential to other neighbouring countries such as 
Tonga, which received 24 boxes of bananas in November 2018. The challenge currently is to maintain 
pest and disease -free banana plantations, ensure production is consistent to meet market demand 
and managing risks associated with natural disasters.  
706.  Sao Tome and Principe  referenced priorities on the country's roadmap for trade facilitation.  
707.  Senegal  stated th e EIF category 1 project is a project the country would like to showcase 
because it has strengthened Senegal's institutional capacity for integration into national and sectoral 
development strategies. Thus, this project has made it possible to better integ rate trade into the 
Plan for Emerging Senegal. This project has also strengthened the capacities of many private and 
public agents in Senegal. In addition, the Senegalese Mango Competitiveness Improvement Project 
(PACMS) also serves as a good example, whic h has contributed to building the capacity of producers 
and processors. In addition, the PACMS has contributed to the increase in mango exports, which 
rose from 15,800 tonnes to 2,430 tonnes between 2016 and 2018, an increase of 35.6%.  
708.  Sri Lanka  referenced  the Sri Lanka Trade Information Portal.  
709.  Sudan  stated that the country is now implementing an EIF project for capacity building which 
stands out as an example of best practices.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  710.  Tajikistan  made a reference to Asian Development Bank’s Country Diagnostic Stu dy on 
promoting export diversification and growth in Tajikistan.  
711.  Tanzania  stated that the market value chain related to horticulture for responsible tourism, 
through the SECO UN Trade Cluster Project implementation phase (2014 -2016) and existing phase 
(2017-2019), serves as an exemplary AfT initiative that the country would like to showcase as a 
best practice.  
712.  Togo  stated that the EIF Programme  for Enhanced Growth and Poverty Reduction provides 
institutional support, capacity building for trade support inst itutions and the private sector. It also 
strengthens the productive and trade capacities of MSMEs and grassroots professional and peasant 
organizations and promotes the integration of trade into sectoral policies and the national 
development strategy. In a ddition, it ensures the implementation of the diagnostic study for trade 
integration and research/mobilization of resources to finance development.  
713.  Tuvalu  stated that so far, the country has only the EIF and that Tuvalu became part of it in 
2007.  
714.  Ukraine  included the following AfT initiatives for economic diversification as examples that it 
would like to showcase. The Fit for Partnership with Germany organized under the GIZ support 
provides support in organizing businesses . EU Research and Innovation progra mme Horizon 2020 is 
now very important for entering European markets. The Eu4Business initiative serves as a good 
example of an AfT initiative for economic diversification.  
715.  Vanuatu  referenced the construction of road facilities on the island of Tanna,  which is in its 
final phase. This should see increased economic activity, production of agriculture as well as tourism 
services to increase substantially. The possible link to have direct international flights to Tanna 
should see major renovations to the airpo rt services. Another good example is the construction of 
an additional wharf in Port Vila where, because of increased cruise ship arrivals, a separate wharf 
was constructed for cargo handling. The consequential developments to the seafront and 
accompanying  urban infrastructure roads are ongoing and will add complete new additional services. 
The coordinated donor support is well noted. A further example is the tourism services on the island 
of Malekula where small island bungalows are being established. Smal l investment with donor 
support has been made so those small businesses can be marketed online,  and the resulting business 
generated is making the local community realise that setting up tourism business is a worthwhile 
business. Also, as the Government is  making certain standards in tourism services, new knowledge 
has been passed on to local communities (e.g. production and provision of local foods to tourists) 
and has benefited the communities.  
716.  Zambia  stated that the country implemented the Trade and Inve stment Project for Enhanced 
Competitiveness of Zambia's Apiculture Sector (TIPEC -ZAS) from 2012 -2015. The project 
strengthened the relationships between producer groups and processors and supported the 
construction of bulking centres to provide easy access  to markets for honey and honey products.  
717.  COMESA made a reference to a EUR 1.2 million project to construct a trade hub for MSMEs 
in Eswatini with a view to improving the production, trading and investment environment for the 
private sector. This is part o f adjustment support being provided to the country. The response also 
referenced a project of building a state -of-the-art leather design studio in Malawi. The studio is being 
constructed through the Malawi Enterprise Productivity Enhancement (Mepe) project  under the 
Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism and the COMESA Regional Integration Support Mechanism 
initiative.  
718.  Transnamib  referenced the WALVIS bay corridor development programme , which it would 
like to showcase as an example of best practices . 
719.  WAEMU  referenced the following projects: project to interconnect the customs IT systems of 
Togo and Burkina Faso; trade facilitation project in the UEMOA region; joint initiative between the 
WAEMU Commission and Japanese Cooperation (JICA); project concerning t he 
LOME -Cinkansé -Borders corridor in Burkina Faso. Some of the results achieved include 
interconnection of the customs systems of Togo and Burkina Faso with the acceleration of transit at 
the borders of the two countries. Border -crossing time has been redu ced from 96 to 2 hours. The WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  factors driving the success of the projects include important coordination between partners 
(Commission, JICA, States), technical capacity building (training of customs officers by UNCTAD). 
Looking ahead, there is a need to mobi lize resources from trade financing partners for the extension 
of the project to all WAEMU countries and extend the project to other areas other than transit.  
720.  China  referenced the Chinese South -South Development Programme  as an example of best 
practices.  
721.  Turkey  stated that in order to diversify the income of Palestinians, TİKA has implemented 
various projects in Palestine. As the country owns fertile agricultural lands with a view to develop 
agriculture in Palestine, TİKA built the most modern olive oil fa cility in the country in Gaza. To boost 
production and employment, the Agency also provided various vehicles to the farmers. The vehicles 
included two four -wheel drives, ten tractors, five cultivators, two excavators, two harvesters, and 
various size plows . The olive oil plant built by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency 
(TİKA) helps further economic self -sufficiency for Palestinians. The plant that is run by the local 
municipality aims to improve olive oil processing in the region, which is a h ub of olive growers in the 
southern Gaza Strip.  
722.  An Olive Oil Extraction Plant within Abasan Municipality provides employment opportunity for 
up to 24 people in the olive oil season with the facility producing the highest quality olive oil in Gaza. 
The pla nt also saves farmers time in olive oil extraction as well as help s them to boost their income 
in olive oil sales. The Agency also built an egg poultry facility at Arroub Agricultural Vocational 
School, which is located in the Palestinian city of Al -Khalil  and is the only agricultural school in the 
region. Furthermore, 2,500 chickens as well as all necessary structures and equipment were supplied 
to allow the facility to start production. In order to help Palestinian students adopt modern production 
systems  and to set the stage to raise experienced and conscious producers for the economy through 
applied training, the project implemented by TİKA aims to be an exemplary model for the producers 
in the sector in addition to the students of the Agricultural Schoo l. In addition, TİKA established a 
sapling production facility in the 3,000 sq. meters area within Jenin Provincial Directorate of 
Agriculture with 1,500 sq. meters of greenhouse area. During the initial planting work, five people 
were employed at Jenin Sa pling Production Facility. When the production increases and varies, this 
number is expected to reach fifteen to twenty people. Furthermore, a 200 cubic meter water tank 
and the required irrigation system was installed to be used for production activities.  TİKA provided 
50,000 seeds and all required production materials for the facility to start its operations. These three 
examples aim to create the necessary infrastructure for the State of Palestine's forestation and 
agricultural production activities and to support the regional and national economy by diversification.  
723.  Australia  referenced that Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus Readiness 
Package . The PACER Plus is a regional development -centred trade agreement. PACER Plus opened 
for signat ure on 14 June 2017, and has been signed by Australia, New Zealand and nine Pacific 
island countries (i.e., Cook Islands, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu 
and Vanuatu). PACER Plus is an important part of Australia’s engagement i n the Pacific, helping to 
foster a secure, stable and prosperous region, including commercial opportunities for exporters, 
importers, and investors across a range of sectors. Dedicated development assistance is being 
provided as part of PACER Plus to assis t Pacific island signatories first ratify the Agreement and then 
fully implement it after it enters into force. AfT support provided under the PACER Plus will help 
address supply -side constraints and build Pacific island countries’ capacity to trade. This support will 
enable Pacific island countries to leverage regional integration and cooperation to accelerate 
economic diversification and increase their participation in global trade.  
724.  Customs modernization and harmonization, trade transparency and facilitation, and 
trade -related adjustment support are key aspects of the PACER Plus Readiness Package, which is 
being delivered by regional and/or global partners, including UNCTAD, the Oceania Customs 
Organization and the Pacific Financial and Technical Advisory Centre. Priority issues, such as the 
adoption of the latest harmonized system (HS) codes for the classification of products, capacity 
building on modernized rules of origin and flexible product specific rules, the development of regional 
value cha ins and trade portals, women’s economic empowerment and support for MSMEs, are being 
addressed through PACER Plus. Once in force, PACER Plus will also support demand -led economic 
diversification and trade -related empowerment, including trade in services. T he response also 
showcased Phase two of the Agricultural Value Chain Programme .  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  725.  The Cambodia Agricultural Value Chain Programme  (CAVAC) Phase 2 is delivering irrigation 
infrastructure and knowledge to smallholder farmers to improve productivity and encour age crop 
diversification with the aim of improving household incomes. In 2017 -18, 4,121 households gained 
access to irrigation, assisting farmers to produce up to three crops a year where they could only 
produce one crop under rain -fed methods. CAVAC II es timates that this resulted in an additional 
28,769 tonnes of paddy rice production - which is 99% of the annual performance benchmark. Case 
studies found that CAVAC II’s irrigation development also promoted positive social attitudes towards 
women as leader s in FWUCs (Farmer Water Users Communities) set up to operate and maintain 
irrigation schemes. CAVAC II is playing an important role to help address acute and growing labour 
shortage in rural areas. This is being done by stimulating markets for mechanized farming 
equipment, which in turn is supporting social stability and the viability of locally -owned smallholder 
plots. For example, CAVAC II is helping to create a market for Eli Seed Planters. This 
highly -innovative, Cambodia -invented technology saves labo ur, reduces the rice seeding rate from 
300 kg to 100 kg per hectare, and improves germination vigour and yield. CAVAC II’s promotion of 
this technology has contributed to the design, winning a prestigious Patents for Humanity award.  
726.  CAVAC II is playing a c ritical convening role to help Cambodia maintain access to the European 
Union rice market, which accounts for about 48% of total rice exports. The programme  is providing 
technical assistance and brokering high -level discussions to respond to a E uropean Union ban on a 
fungicide residue widely used in Cambodia — ensuring the economic resilience of the rice sector and 
the diversity of export markets for Cambodian farmers. CAVAC II also established 19 new 
partnership agreements to boost trade and smallholder fa rmer income through private sector 
engagement in agriculture, exceeding target s. For example, CAVAC II assisted Camfood (a local 
chilli sauce processor) to obtain a Hazard Analysis  and Critical Control Points certification, enabling 
the company to export i ts products overseas, especially to the E uropean Union market.  
727.  Australia also identified the Philippines Game Changers Programme  as an example of best 
practices. Through the programme , Australia in partnership with the World Bank have been 
supporting the Philippines Government in economic diversification and regulatory reform. The 
programme  focuses on “game changing” economic reforms that seek to address decades -long 
constraints to private sector growth, including upgrading the institutional capacity of th e customs 
bureau and conduct of customs diagnostics to assess their effectiveness and compliance with 
international standards and accepted good practice; supporting the Philippines Competition 
Commission to enforce, foster and advocate the newly establishe d competition law; strengthening 
support services to MSMEs  in rural and underserved areas in the Philippines through capacity 
building; and advisory and technical support to the finance department to draft reform policies and 
programme s. 
728.  Austria  referenced  the engagement of the Austrian Development Bank (OeEB). In 
November  2018, OeEB signed a credit line amounting to EUR 15 million in support of the Meghna 
Sugar Refinery Ltd. (MSRL), Bangladesh. OeEB is part of a consortium led by German financier 
Deutsche Investitions und Entwicklungsgesellschaft  and also including Dutch Development Bank 
FMO and the IsDB. By means of this loan, a new sugar refinery will be constructed with a capacity 
of 4.000 tonnes per day. MSRL is part of the Meghna Group of Industries in  Bangladesh. The new 
sugar refinery is needed, as the existing one operates at almost full capacity, at 90%. The investment 
will bring new technology to produce more resources more efficiently. In addition, the production of 
superior grade products like li quid and invert sugar will be possible in the future. To minimize 
negative environmental and social effects, a comprehensive action plan has been adopted.  
729.  Canada  referenced a Canadian project in Senegal titled Economic Development of 
Casamance .  Women mak e up more than two thirds of the agricultural workforce in Senegal and are 
responsible for over 80% of food production. However, they have limited access to land and to 
adapted technologies and are more affected by poverty and malnutrition. Women’s workloa ds at 
home limit their ability to pursue money -making activities like beekeeping. But in Saré Souma, a 
village in Casamance, a women’s advocacy organization has taken up this challenge. With Canada’s 
support, the women obtained innovative hives, specialize d equipment and a fully equipped well. 
They learned new honey harvesting and processing techniques. They were also trained in leadership 
and in administrative and financial management. Their hard work and tenacity have made their 
region a centre of honey p roduction in Senegal. The women have diversified production to include 
mangos, cashews and forest fruits. In all, 4,560 women have gained knowledge that lets them use 
better -performing, forest -friendly agricultural technologies, such as improved dryers and  alternative 
fuels.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  730.  Besides the greater financial autonomy their business success has given them, these women 
have acquired a more equal social position in their families and communities. They are now active 
within regional agri -food organizations and mun icipal politics. Results achieved up to March 2017 of 
the programme  include the fact that the project has supported 9,142 operators (5,473 women) in 
the following achievements: training of 2,916 operators, 1,580 of whom are women, enabling them 
to acquire better agricultural production practices and ensure the quality of their products; 
production and distribution of 61,700 cashew plants representing a surface area equivalent to 
285.7  hectares and 4,516 mango plants; increased access to production -related i nfrastructure and 
equipment; distribution and start -up of 3,171 hives with a population rate of 77%; support for the 
installation and operation of three cooperatives bringing together 801 producers (72% of whom are 
women) to sell their products (honey, cas hews, forest fruits); 2,729 beneficiaries, 1,581 of whom 
are women (58%), have had access to technological innovations allowing them to increase the 
productivity of their agricultural activities and to adapt to changing environmental conditions. These 
achievements have also contributed to the creation of 3,043 jobs (1,826 held by women). These 
results have helped to improve socioeconomic conditions for producers in Casamance as well as the 
production and sales of their agricultural products.  
731.  Czech Republic  stated in 2018, it provided technical assistance to Burma, Myanmar in raw 
materials for ceramic and glass industry assessment. The overall objective was to improve and 
optimize current utilization of raw materials needed in ceramic and glass indus tries for export.  
732.  Denmark  stated that in Ghana, Denmark has a thematic programme , Support to Private 
Sector Development (SPSD), under its bilateral country programme , Under the programme , a 
specific development engagement on business advocacy (Business Adv ocacy Challenge 
Fund - BUSAC) helps diversify trade and exports and integrate the economy into the multilateral 
trading system in efforts to boost trade liberalization and increased market access. BUSAC has 
supported a series of Aid -to-Trade and AfT-relate d advocacy initiatives such as business licensing 
and registration, tax on capital injection (foreign investments), reviewing the ECOWAS Common 
External Tariff (CET) for specific commodity sectors, reducing costs of doing business at the ports, 
reducing co unterfeit and illicit trade, ratifying the TFA, handling competition bill and insolvency bill. 
Another development engagement on vocational training supported by the Skills Development Fund 
(SDF) helps diversify domestic production. SDF is dedicated to sho rt-term skills training for workers 
in the formal sector, upgrading the skills of master craftsmen and workers in the informal sector, 
support new and innovative training, as well as support to training and coaching of management 
and supervisory staff.  
733.  Estonia stated that there are several major stakeholders which contribute to the country’s 
activities in the field of economic development and the related supportive aspects of it. For instance, 
the strengthening of the Government's administrative systems suc h as e -Residency; Centre of 
Registers and Information Systems; and the e -Governance Academy.  
734.  The European Union  referenced examples of E uropean Union AfT projects, which can be 
found in the E uropean Union Aid-for-Trade  Report 2018. In Armenia, E uropean Union funded the 
Support to Agriculture and Rural Development project titled ENPARD Armenia. In Georgia, the 
European Union implemented several projects including the Private Sector Development and 
Technical Vocational Education and Training, South Caucasus, the; EBRD and E uropean Union 
project in boosting Georgia’s agritourism potential: women in business support: promoting ICT 
Cluster: EU4Business in Georgia. EU4Business Georgia supports the government's ambitious plan to 
reform and improve the business envi ronment. Its programme s boost SME growth by improving 
their access to finance and new markets as well as targeting women entrepreneurs and projects in 
green energy. SMEs looking to make the most of Georgia’s Free Trade Agreement with the E uropean 
Union can also get financial and technical help to adapt to E uropean Union standards and to move 
into foreign markets. In the Republic of Moldova, the E uropean Union noted the Deep and 
Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) established and EBRD Credit Line in M oldova which 
help local SMEs invest in improvements of product quality and modernization of their services to 
meet E uropean Union standards. This project will support the integration of the Moldovan economy 
into European markets. Support to Quality Infrast ructure Framework within a DCFTA context in the 
Republic of Moldova will support diversification and creation of rural businesses, specifically MSMEs , 
increase employment generation, attraction of foreign investment, and decrease of migration flows 
from ru ral to urban areas or even abroad.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  735.  The E uropean Union also mentioned the Twinning Project which support the modernization of 
customs service of the Republic of Moldova in line with  Association Agreement  (AA) requirements . 
The overall objective of the project is to support the Republic of Moldova in the necessary preparation 
for implementing the Single Window (SW) and the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS), 
requirements foreseen in the chapter on the DCFTA of the AA. I n Eswatini, the E uropean Union 
supports the High Value Crop and Horticulture Project (HVCHP) which seeks to increase the 
contribution of the agricultural sector to poverty reduction by creating pro -poor growth, securing 
livelihoods of small holder farmers by providing them marketing opportunities and providing locally 
produced diversified food on the market.  
736.  In Nepal, the E uropean Union funds the trade and private sector development project which 
seeks to contribute to the efforts of the Government of Nepa l to reduce poverty and to stimulate 
trade -led economic growth by strengthening trade competitiveness. The E uropean Union also 
provides support to CARIFORUM in the regional cooperation and Economic Partnership Agreement 
(EPA) Implementation. The specific o bjectives are to support the policy and political dialogue as well 
as the development cooperation relationship between CARIFORUM and the E uropean Union and to 
support the implementation of the CARIFORUM/EU EPA. In Afghanistan, the E uropean Union 
showcased Advancing Afghan Trade (AAT). The project uses trade as a lever for economic growth 
by facilitating job creation, poverty reduction and enhanced regional cooperation.  
737.  In Angola, the E uropean Union showcased Trade Support Programme  (ACOM) on economic 
and trade Diversification The purpose of the project is to enhance the local capacity to diversify the 
economy, negotiate and implement multilateral and regional trade agreements, with a particular 
focus on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Trad e Protocol and the participation 
of Angola to the SADC Free Trade Free Trade Area (FTA), with the ultimate aim to increase non -oil 
export flows. In Mongolia, EU has provided trade related assistance for Mongolia (EU -TRAM) on 
diversification, trade and econ omic Growth. The overall objective is to enhance Mongolia's 
international trade and economic diversification and to contribute to sustainable economic growth 
and development of the country, with the ultimate goal of reducing poverty and external 
vulnerabil ities.  
738.  In Central America, the E uropean Union also mentioned PRAIAA Regional Project to support 
the adoption and consolidation of common instruments, procedures and mechanisms that are 
necessary to facilitate trade within the region and the implementation  of the EU -Central America 
trade agreement; to promote greater awareness and participation of interested parties in the Central 
American economic integration process; and to support national and regional institution coordination 
and strengthening, related with the Central American economic integration process. In Mauritius, 
the support focuses on improving the business and investment climate to enhance economic growth 
and job creation. The project value is EUR 12 million of which the E uropean Union is fundi ng the 
amount of EUR  10 million. The key expected outcomes of E uropean Union support include 
streamlined licensing process and eliminate discretionary powers through creation of rule -based 
system, Regulatory Impact Assessment as a means to improve policy f ormulation and ensure the 
implementation of better regulations for businesses, setting up of an E -Licencing platform.  
739.  In Côte d’Ivoire, the EUR 16 Million PACIR (Support programme  for Trade and Regional 
Integration) has aimed at improving the investment c limate through a series of interventions in 
support of the establishment of an arbitration court, of the adjustment of national regulations to the 
regional and multilateral legal contexts, of a fully owned trade policy with a clear identification of 
invest ment and trade priority sectors, of an early warning mechanism on trade obstacles and of 
simplification and transparency of customs procedures. As a result, Côte d’Ivoire’s ranking in the 
‘’Doing business’’ classification has moved up from 167 in 2010 to 1 42 in 2016. Exports have 
increased and also the share of Côte d’Ivoire in world exports, which has positively impacted on the 
ability of Côte d’Ivoire to take advantage of the new Economic Partnership Agreement and its 
preferences on the E uropean Union market. Import delays have improved from 864 hours in 2011  to 
125 hours in 2016. PACIR has been the first programme  of this size in favour of Ivorian 
competitiveness and a number of Ivorian companies have been able to expand their business and 
create jobs tha nks to its results. This approach has been complemented by a budget support 
programme  aimed at improving transparency in the judiciary system and in public procurement, 
which are two other key elements of the investment climate, and a regular dialogue with  both 
authorities and the private sector on impactful policy reforms.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  740.  France  stated that Haiti is the only country on the American continent to be classified in the 
LDCs group. The country has a great diversity of agro -ecosystems, however while less than 3 0% of 
the land can be valued by agriculture, nearly 44% of it is cultivated on mountain and forest lands. 
In this context, improving the cultivation of cocoa, which is often associated with other tree species 
and vetiver, whose harvest is very degrading fo r the land, are crucial issues for economic 
development and ecosystem conservation. Only an approach that combines the promotion of 
sustainable agronomic practices and the commercial valuation of products will enable farmers to be 
oriented towards environm entally sustainable agriculture. The project financed by France has the 
following three specific objectives: develop viable agricultural chains for the products of agroforestry 
systems, in particular cocoa, in order to promote the development of these syst ems in the catchment 
areas and generate sustainable incomes for producers; make the vetiver sector sustainable in order 
to fight against the degradation of catchment areas upstream of marine protected areas while 
contributing to increasing and diversifying  producers' incomes; strengthen the capacities of 
stakeholders in the fields of watershed management, the use of agro -ecological practices and soil 
and gully protection techniques, taking into account the economic interest and the local social 
context.  
741.  Germany  referenced Creating Employment through Export Promotion (CETEP) in Kosovo. In 
its efforts to support private sector development in Kosovo and to increase the competitiveness of 
MSMEs, Germany is also supporting the country’s young, but thriving start -up scene. With its 
start-up and entrepreneurship promotion measures, which consist of the provision of grants, 
business management trainings and mentoring programme s, 10 start -ups and 15 female 
entrepreneurs were supported between 2016 and 2017. At least 6 9 start -ups, including 
29 women -owned start -ups, shall benefit from the support of the current phase. In the meantime, 
some of these supported start -ups have matured enough to be able to benefit from the current 
project’s export promotion activities for MS MEs. These activities focus on connecting local businesses 
with export markets, mainly in Germany and the wider E uropean Union, and enable companies to 
participate in local and international trade fairs, business -to-business events, sales missions, and 
networking events. The young enterprise Purple Muse, for example, was founded by five female 
family members in 2017 and is producing high -quality handmade knitwear. It is a remarkable 
initiative given the low employability of middle -aged women in Kosovo. Than ks to a grant of 
EUR 3,000 and a mentoring programme , Purple Muse was able to hire additional female employees. 
The handmade products can be purchased online and are shipped internationally.  
742.  In addition, the Kosovo -based enterprise Formon LLC designs and produces cutting -edge 
desktop 3D -printers with the aim of making them affordable for SMEs . The company was founded 
in 2015 and is already exporting to Germany, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and the 
neighbouring region. Formon received several inter national awards for its CE -labelled product 
"Formon Core" (e.g. German Design Award, category "Excellent Product Design for 2019 "). The 
enterprise is ISO -standard 9001:2015 certified. Formon benefitted from both start -up support and 
trade promotion measures and has the potential to create further jobs for young people in the region. 
Lastly, Shkolla Digiitale is a promising start -up that aims to prepare young people for the challenges 
of a modern and digital labour market. The schools teach coding to children and young people that 
are between 7 and 18 years old. The children are already acquiring valuable skills in elementary 
school, which significantly increases their employability in the future. The successful start -up 
benefitted from a var iety of support measures of the CETEP project. Due to the big success in 
Kosovo, the company was able to expand and start franchises in North Macedonia, Slovenia and 
Bosnia -Herzegovina.  
743.  Ireland  highlighted The Africa Agri -Food Development Programme , which  is a joint initiative 
of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of Foreign Affairs and 
Trade in Ireland . The objective is to develop partnerships between the Irish Agri -Food Sector and 
African companies to support sustainabl e growth of the local food industry, build markets for local 
produce and support mutual trade between Ireland and Africa. The partnership involves new and 
additional resources to the Agri -Food sector and may include a combination of finance and technical 
assistance. Initiatives are based around the key themes of food safety; animal health or veterinary; 
business development; production systems; training or mentoring; technology transfer; research 
and development; and project management. Eligible countries a re Botswana, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, 
Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, 
Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. The initiative provides grant support for feasibility studies and/or 
commercial projects; and support  for grant recipients to establish in -country private and public WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  sector contacts through Irish Embassy networks. In 2017, EUR 602,000 was provided to the 
successful grant recipients.  
744.  Lithuania  stated that in 2018, the public institution Open Europe implem ented a project titled 
“Strengthening of international trade capacity of Ukrainian small and medium -sized enterprises," 
which conveyed the experience of Lithuanian businessmen and business associations to Ukrainian 
SMEs  in international trade.  
745.  Luxembourg  referenced the Forestry and Climate Change Fund (FCCF). The FCCF was 
launched in 2018. Based on an identification work of LuxDevelopment, funded by investors will have 
the opportunity to invest in environmentally friendly projects led by communities and whi ch benefit 
the small farmers in Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Guatemala. The aim is to restore secondary or 
degraded forest areas and to make them economically, ecologically and socially viable. It is therefore 
primarily a question of restoring the ecosystem o f these zones, while guaranteeing a long -term 
return for the investors of this fund, in particular through the responsible exploitation of wood .  
746.  The Netherlands  stated that the country would like to showcase increased attention for 
women and small -scale t raders in the Trade Facilitation West Africa programme ; the She -trades 
initiative ITC; the special facilities for female traders at border post Congo DRC -Rwanda.  
747.  The Russian Federation  referenced UNDP Project which assists the Government of the 
Republic of  Belarus in Accession to the WTO through Strengthening National Institutional Capacity 
and Expertise. The key project result is the accession of Belarus to WTO on favourable terms for the 
country and the Eurasian integration which will improve the trade an d economic cooperation of 
Belarus, strengthen export position through liberalization of the terms of domestic products’ access 
to foreign markets, help attract foreign investments and enhance Eur-Asian Economic Union  
positions in the region.  
748.  Sweden  referen ced the Moldova Competitiveness Project (MCP). The MCP (for the period 
2016-2020) is funded in equal shares by Sweden (USD  5 million) and USAID (USD 5 million). It 
supports the Republic of Moldova to take full advantage of the Comprehensive Free Trade Agre ement 
with the European Union. In 2018, the project helped Moldovan businesses to increase and diversify 
exports in ICT and innovation, fashion as well as the garment and tourism sectors with a 
USD 75 million of growth in sales, of which about two thirds w ere directed towards the E uropean 
Union market. These were sectors identified as having the highest growth potential. The MCP works 
with business organizations, creates innovation hubs and provides technical assistance to 600 SMEs 
to adopt new technologies , improve product quality, invest in workforce development, provide better 
working conditions, increase salaries and enhance marketing skills. One example of the results is in 
the fashion sector, where 48 textile factories (that received technical assistan ce from the MCP) took 
part in 33 trade shows (in France, the U nited Kingdom , Romania, Ukraine) which generated 
USD 3.9 million in signed contracts. Further, as a direct impact of the project, over 80 local fashion 
brands have emerged in recent years and sa les in the domestic market increased by 30% in 2017  (to 
USD 27 million from USD 21 million in 2016).  
749.  Another example is in the tourism sector, where the project contributed to an increase in 
tourism, mostly from E uropean Union countries, by 20% in 2017. I n ICT, MCP played a key role in 
the adoption of a national law on virtual IT -Parks, which after a year included 300 SMEs. In addition, 
the project (in collaboration with the Moldovan Government and the Association of IT Companies) 
launched the Moldova Virt ual IT Business Park in January 2018. Three hundred  IT companies are 
participating with a total of USD 40 million in sales turnover in 2018. The lessons learned from the 
project include that market development takes time and that in order to achieve sustai ned impact, 
there is a need for long -term strategic commitment. The MCP project has led to high impact over 
the past three years, but behind these achievements there are also more than ten years of strategic 
support to market development in these sectors t hrough previous initiatives by USAID and other 
donors.   
750.  Switzerland  referenced a project in Tanzania. The Trade Sector Development Programme  
focuses on Market Value Chains Relating to Horticultural Products for Responsible Tourism Market 
Access Project. T anzania has benefited from the second UN Trade Cluster country project, which has 
been financed by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs ( SECO ) since 2014. The overall objective 
of the country project in Tanzania is to improve the livelihoods (including income, competitiveness WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  and market integration) of Tanzanians through a greater adoption of market value chains for 
agro-products and Responsible Tourism Criteria based on the local context for Tourism markets. The 
project is active in the tourism sector, establishes backward linkages to local industries (mainly 
agrobusiness), promotes Responsible Tourism and private public dialogue, and is part of the 
Horticulture and Tourism Components of the Government’s Trade Sector Development Programme . 
With the UN Interagency Cluster on Trade and Productive Capacity (UN Trade Cluster), SECO 
responds to the political relevance of the AfT Initiative. The approac h integrates the various core 
competences of SECO's trade related technical assistance, which have been developed in cooperation 
with strategic multilateral partners of the UN system such as UNCTAD, ILO, UNIDO and ITC.  
751.  Chinese Taipei  showcased several exam ples, including the National Broadband Plan in Belize. 
The National Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Strategy presented by the 
Government of Belize (GOB) in 2011 indicates the vision of accelerating development and improving 
the quality of l ife for all Belizeans through universal access and widespread usage of ICT. This vision 
is also reflected  in several strategic priorities set forth in the GOB’s National Development 
Framework -Horizon 2030, including universal access to education and buildi ng economic resilience 
through investments in key economic infrastructure. The ICDF, as proposed by the GOB, provides a 
loan to the Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) to finance its National Broadband Plan (Project) for 
replacing its fixed internet infrastruct ure with fiber optic network, so as to increase the quality of 
and access to fixed internet service of BTL. The financing will help realize an important national 
policy of deploying internet broadband fiber to the home (FTTH) service throughout Belize. The  
overall Project comprises four major components, including the design of fiber optic network; 
construction of fiber optic feeder and distribution network; establishment of connection to users; 
and project management. Each of the above components will be p artially financed by the ICDF.  
752.  Another example to showcase is the Bamboo Cultivation and Handicraft Production Efficiency 
Enhancement Project in Nicaragua. This project introduces bamboo varieties of high commercial 
value to establish a bamboo seed bank. Seeds are promoted to businesses to increase the area of 
commercial bamboo plantations, and technicians and businesses are trained in bamboo crop 
management. The project introduces bamboo processing equipment and machinery to increase 
production effi ciency, thereby assisting the government of Nicaragua to promote the bamboo 
industry and its capacity to provide technical guidance (including small business crafts), adding value 
to bamboo products and raising the value of the bamboo industry. As of Septe mber 2018, the 
following activities have been completed: three internal training sessions on nursery management 
for nursery staff, seven seed instructor training sessions and one promotion meeting for 
211 technicians and farmers; promotion of 106 farmers a nd five experimental centers to plant 
93 hectares of bamboo; completion of manual on bamboo cultivation guidelines and survey report 
on a bamboo species in Nicaragua; completion of ceremony of Bamboo Promotion and Design 
Center; six bamboo handicraft train ing courses for 185 beneficiary craftsmen in a total of 48 days; 
two national bamboo craft exhibition and design competition.  
753.  The United Kingdom  stated that CDC is core to DFID’s wider Economic Development 
Strategy and is DFID’s principal mechanism to mobi lize private sector investment into poor countries 
to create jobs and support the structural transformation of economies in Africa and South Asia. In 
2017, CDC was invested in a total of 715 businesses in Africa and 338 in South Asia. CDC’s portfolio 
in these regions directly employed nearly three -quarters of a million people (734,000), of which 
63,000 were newly created jobs. Those businesses paid USD 3.5 billion in taxes to their local 
governments. The total value of new commitments made by CDC in 2017 wa s over GBP 1 billion. 
Over the last six years, CDC has achieved an average Annual Portfolio Return (APR) of 10.4%. CDC 
has also made strategic commitments to women’s economic empowerment and tackling climate 
change and will increase its accountability by l eading the way among its Development Finance 
Institution peers on transparency and tax.  
754.  DFID’s Invest Africa (IA) will work with African governments and international investors, 
including from the U nited Kingdom , to kickstart the African manufacturing sect or by building a 
pipeline of investments, and overcoming any associated binding constraints. Over the next decade, 
the programme  will help create an estimated 90,000 jobs, and generate at least GBP 400 million to 
GBP 1 billion of additional FDI, opening fr ontier markets in Africa. Initially running in Ethiopia, 
Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Mozambique, and Zambia, Invest Africa aims to increase FDI  into African 
manufacturing sectors such as light engineering, agricultural processing, textiles, and garments, 
suppor ting productivity spill -overs to the local economy, and sustaining it over the long -term through 
strengthening domestic capacity to attract FDI.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  755.  The United States  stated Southern Africa made a reference to the USAID Southern Africa 
Regional Economic Growt h programme s. The response also referenced various projects implemented 
in Afghanistan and Viet Nam . 
756.  The AfDB  stated that the 2018 Annual Report of the Africa Trade Fund shall be published. 
The report will feature a few case stories of AfT impacts.  
757.  The EBRD stated that it is involved in a variety of projects that ultimately contribute to 
transitioning economies from low value -added production to a more skills and knowledge -based 
production and improve the competitiveness of markets. To specifically address the constraints 
limiting cross -border trade financing, in 1999 the EBRD set up the Trade Facilitation Programme  
(TFP). Over the past two years the TFP has been involved in more than 3,500 foreign trade 
transactions with a total volume of EUR 3.7 billion. E xamples of trade facilitated by the programme  
in 2018 are the import of agricultural equipment from Austria, Denmark, Czech Republic, Germany 
and Italy into Ukraine or the export of construction services from Greece to Croatia, Finland, 
Lithuania, Morocco,  Nigeria, Spain, Uganda and the United Kingdom. Although the programme  is 
well established, it is constantly adapting to respond to changing market needs. In recent years, 
trade has declined in the wake of the financial crisis, also affecting trade finance . The risk aversion 
triggered then has been exacerbated by the implementation of Basel III capital requirements and 
the related bank resolution laws in many jurisdictions, coupled with stronger KYC/AML requirements 
that drive up the costs of doing interban k business.  
758.  Some markets have suffered systemic disruption, with traditional channels of financing 
severely distressed or withdrawn altogether, as seen in Ukraine, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey or Lebanon. 
EBRD's TFP is actively working with the WTO, IMF and the  Financial Stability Board on global and 
regional efforts to enhance the coordination of capacity development activities to address the 
de-risking and decline in correspondent banking due to the aforementioned enhanced compliance 
regulation. Going forward,  EBRD will continue to support banks in countries with lower country risk 
ratings which, as of yet, do not have sufficient trade finance facilities from foreign commercial banks. 
Partner Banks in the more advanced countries and the Southern and Eastern Med iterranean region 
(SEMED) predominantly used TFP for large -volume trade finance transactions where there was lower 
appetite from the foreign commercial banks and EBRD will seek to support large -volume and 
long-term trade finance. This will also include sup porting the growing 'South -South' trade finance, 
for example related to increased imports from Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries 
into Egypt and Morocco as well as intra -regional trade with Cyprus, Greece and Turkey.  
759.  The UNDP  referenced Pha se III of the Aid for Trade  in Central Asia and Phase II project 
evaluation. The response also made a reference to the Green Commodities Programme  in Costa  Rica. 
760.  The World Bank  stated that the World Bank Group provides client countries support in the 
area of trade facilitation, including support directed at helping WTO Members implement the WTO’s 
TFA. Thanks largely to the TFA, trade facilitation is today acknowledged as playing  a critical role in 
development by enhancing countries' competitiveness and allowing them to trade goods and services 
on time and with lower transaction costs. The Trade Facilitation Support Programme  (TFSP), 
managed by the World Bank Group's Macroeconomic s, Trade and Investment (MTI) Global Practice, 
provides support for countries seeking assistance in aligning their trade practices with the W orld 
Trade Organization  Trade Facilitation Agreement (WTO TFA), which entered into force in February 
2017.  
761.  The TFS P is designed to provide practical and demand -driven assistance. The Programme  
helps developing countries benefit from increased trade and foreign investments that result in 
increased private sector trade competitiveness. Over 45 countries have started imp lementation 
activities to date as follows: Albania, Bangladesh, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Botswana, Burundi, 
Cambodia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, 
Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Lesoth o, Liberia, North Macedonia, Madagascar, 
Malawi, the Republic of Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Nicaragua, Panama, 
Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Sao Tome & Principe, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, St. Lucia, 
Tajikistan, Timor -Leste, Togo, Vanu atu, Viet Nam , Zambia.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  SECTION 3: ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT  
Economic empowerment is a priority in the development strategy26 
762.  The 2019 AfT M&E  highlights how economic empowerment is being integrated into national 
and regional policy frameworks. Seventy -nine of th e 88 answers (90%) to the partner country 
questionnaire stated that economic empowerment is a priority in their national or regional 
development strategies. This share is higher among LDCs (95%) and LLDCs respondents (96%), 
who stated that economic empower ment is a policy priority. Africa records the highest share of 
respondents (94%) with 33 out of 35 confirming that economic empowerment is a priority.  
Economic empowerment is a priority in the national or regional development strategy: 
partner country's pe rspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  33 94% 
Asia 21 91% 
Americas  14 78% 
Oceania  9 90% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 36 95% 
LLDC 21 96% 
UN SIDS  20 83% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
763.  Barbados  stated that the National Development Strategy is being revised under the new 
administration.  
764.  Benin  stated through Axis 6 of Pillar 3 of the Government Action Plan (GAP), the Government 
of Benin is aiming for a significant im provement in the living conditions of the most vulnerable 
populations and the reduction of social inequalities as priorities for effective social inclusion. Thus, 
issues on youth employment and the economic empowerment of women remain major challenges. 
The objective of full employment and decent work, as classified in SDG 8, appears to be an 
imperative goal the Government intends to address in a holistic manner, both in terms of the quality 
of the human resources available and the enabling economic environm ent. 
765.  Bhutan  stated that the support for women entrepreneurs, youth, and small industry are 
included in  the AfT programme . 
766.  Burkina Faso  provided additional information on the prioritization of economic 
empowerment. The response listed several programme s and  projects including the National 
Development Plan, Integrated Women's Empowerment Project (PIAF), National Strategy for the 
Promotion of Women's Entrepreneurship (SNPEF), the National Gender Policy (PNG) and its 
Operational Action Plan (PAO) . The response also noted the role the Permanent Secretariat of the 
National Council for the Promotion of Gender (SP/CONAP Gender) plays. The Support Project for the 
Integrated Development of the Shea Sector for the Economic Empowerment of Women (PADIFK) 
has the overall objective of strengthening the capacities of the umbrella organization of the shea 
sector in Burkina Faso and supporting the development of 100 most functional organizations. 
Specifically, the project aims to strengthen the skills and better organization o f value chain actors 
and their networking, improve actors' access to credit for the collection and processing of shea 
kernels, and improve product quality and market access. It is financed by the AfDB through the 
Private Sector Support Fund (PSF) in its ro le as facilitator of EIF donors. The PADIFK is part of the 
implementation of the sustainable development strategy for the shea sector (2015 -2019), developed 
with the support of the ITC. There are four funds and two programme s for youth empowerment, 
includi ng the Employment Promotion Support Fund (EPF), the Youth Initiatives Support Fund (YISF), 
 
26 Refer to index number 23 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  the Informal Sector Support Fund (ISSF), the Vocational Training Support Fund (VETF), and the 
Entrepreneurship Training Programme  (ETP).  
767.  Cabo Verde  stated that the N ational Development Plan (PEDS) focuses on the empowerment 
of MSMEs, private sector, women and youth. Improving the business environment is a factor that 
has been taken into consideration to boost the country's competitiveness. Therefore, the 
Government cr eated an Action Plan for Competitiveness with a view to achieve the Doing Business 
goals and the SDGs.  
768.  Central African Republic  stated that economic empowerment is one of the pillars of the 
National Recovery and Peacebuilding Plan (RCPCA), which focuses on  inclusive trade and economic 
recovery.  
769.  Chad  stated that economic empowerment is reflected in Axis 4 of the 2017 -2021 National 
Development Plan (NDP), entitled "Improving the quality of life of the Chadian population", as well 
as in its Axis 3, the develop ment of a diversified and competitive economy.  
770.  Comoros  stated that economic empowerment targets vulnerable groups of the population, 
including women, youth and the disabled.   
771.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the National Strategic Plan for Deve lopment 
(PNSD) devotes a whole chapter to disadvantaged groups, including women and youth. The response 
also noted existing efforts to enable women and youth to participate in decision -making.  
772.  Cook Islands  identified the development of small to medium ente rprises as a priority.  
773.  Côte d'Ivoire  made a reference to See the National Development Plan Strategic Axis. 
774.  Ecuador  stated that the Under -secretariat of MSMEs and Handicrafts helps to promote the 
sustainable development of MSMEs and artisan productive units , through the generation of public 
policies and strategies that encourage the development of enterprises, their formalization, their 
productive capacities, the creation of networks and productive chains that facilitate their access to 
national and internat ional markets. The CIE Economic Inclusion Center promotes market access 
services, access to financing, property and assets, organizational strengthening, and social 
technology.  
775.  El Salvador  stated that the Quinquennial Development Plan 2014 -2019 recognizes the 
potential to empower people in their search for personal growth and collective improvement. The 
National Policy for the Development of Micro and Small Enterprises establishes the desig n and 
implementation of a vision and a support system for the creation of women entrepreneurship, which 
combines the business development and women's economic empowerment. In addition, it 
establishes a transverse axis of gender equality in efforts to corre ct inequality by promoting the 
participation of women in decision -making and creating tools that promote their autonomy, personal 
and business empowerment, increase in access and control of assets, productive and business 
benefits. In order to empower micr o-enterprises, especially those with high potential and strategic 
importance for the country's economy, the priorities focus on women, young people and innovative 
enterprises.  
776.  Equatorial Guinea  stated that the National Development Plan foresees economic 
empowerment as a priority.  
777.  The Gambia  stated that agriculture, agribusiness, fisheries, youth empowerment, human 
capital development, and private sector development are highlighted as strategic priorities in the 
National Development Plan (NDP). In addition, women empowerment and the strengthening of public 
institutions are captured as critical enablers in the implementation of the NDP.  
778.  Grenada  stated the Government has included economic empowerment in its 2030 SDGs. 
779.  Guinea  stated that empowerment, including t he economic empowerment of women and 
youth, is one of the priorities of the Government. In collaboration with its partners, Guinea has 
designed and implemented programme s in this field in recent years.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  780.  Honduras  stated that as part of the strategy of the Mi nistry of Economic Development, the 
Sub Secretary of Economic Integration and Foreign Trade (SSIECE) guarantees access to 
international markets and the foreign trade regime. Similarly, through the Under Secretariat of 
MSMES of the Ministry, the Government promotes the strengthening of economic groups in order to 
generate productive empowerment.  
781.  Iraq stated the importance of improving private sector market investment, opening up to 
foreign market, strengthening financial and banking system, and focusing on e conomic diversity.  
782.  Kazakhstan  stated that the strategy mentions the development of SME in agricultural 
processing and trade. With regard to the development of SMEs , the response also made a reference 
to Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy.  
783.  Kenya  mentioned the creatio n of Uwezo fund, the Access to Government Procurement 
Opportunities (AGPO), the Big Four Agenda Economic Pillar under Vision 2030, Women Enterprise 
Fund, Ministry of Gender, Youth, and Social Services, Women in Business under Kenya National 
Chamber of Comm erce and Industry, and Micro and Small Enterprise Authority established under 
Act 55 of 2012.  
784.  Kiribati  stated that the Kiribati Trade Policy Framework seeks to achieve inclusive trade 
through the implementation of women and youth economic empowerment progr amme s in sectors 
where Kiribati has comparative advantage (i.e. fisheries, tourism and coconut) in line with its 
20-Year Vision (KV20) Development Plan. The need to implement Youth empowerment programme s 
is strongly articulated in the National Youth Policy . 
785.  Lesotho  stated that economic empowerment is one of the priority areas in the current 
National Strategic Development Plan document.  
786.  Liberia  stated that Pillar 2 of the National Development Strategy (PAPD) outlines programme s 
for economic empowerment.  
787.  Madagascar  stated that the integration of the gender dimension, the economic empowerment 
of women and youth, into development strategies is a priority. Women entrepreneurial groups are 
becoming increasingly dynamic in Madagascar. In addition, the promotion  of MSMEs and the 
development of rural industrialization are relevant economic empowerment strategies.  
788.  Malawi  stated that economic empowerment is emphasized in the Ministry's Strategic Plan 
which include the promotion of women and youth to participate in n ational economic activities. There 
are also regional programme s in AU, COMESA and Southern African Development Community 
(SADC) aimed at empowering the marginalized groups which include women and youths.  
789.  Maldives  stated that the development of SMEs in one of the key priorities of the Government. 
In line with the pledges of the President, the Government is working to improve the regulatory 
framework and create conducive environment for SMEs. In order to address the challenges faced by 
MSMES in access to fina nce and requirement of high collateral, the Government has established an 
SME bank in February 2019 with a more focused approach for SME financing and development.  
790.  Mali highlighted the implementation of Mali's National Gender Policy and the Agri -food Secto r 
Development Strategy.  
791.  Mauritania  mentioned the important role the Ministry for Economic empowerment in 
Mauritius plays. The Government has recently introduced a number of measures, including on social 
housing and SME financing, to empower the lowest inco me group and eradicate poverty.  
792.  Mauritania  stated the reduction of inequalities and the promotion of gender equality, in 
particular through women's economic empowerment and the inclusion of groups with special needs, 
is among the country's economic and soc ial development objectives within the framework of the 
national Strategy for Accelerated Growth and Shared Prosperity (SCAAP). Mauritania noted several 
ongoing projects, namely Women's Political Participation Promotion Project from 2013 to 2017, 
Gender Ins titutionalization Project, Women's Empowerment and Demographic Dividend Project WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  2016-2019, AGR Financing Fund for Women's Groups Project, Social Net Support Project, National 
Social Transfer Programme  Tekavoul, Tadamoun Agency's AGR Programme . 
793.  Mexico  stated that in Mexico, the economic empowerment of women is promoted as part of 
the priorities of the National Policy on Equality between women and men, which is generated by the 
provisions of the General Law on Equality between women and men. This policy consi sts of the 
National System of Equality, the National Programme  for Equality between Women and Men 
(Proigualdad), and the enforcement, monitoring and evaluation mechanism, under the responsibility 
of the National Human Rights Commission. In addition, the na tional programme  for equal 
opportunities and non -discrimination against women was implemented, with six cross -cutting 
objectives, including the third objective, which sought to promote women's access to paid work, 
decent employment, and productive resource s. In addition, the current rules of operation of the 
national programme  for financing microentrepreneurs and rural women (PRONAFIM) were 
established within the specific objectives of promoting gender equality and the empowerment of 
microentrepreneurs thro ugh access to microfinance services. In addition, this programme  is aligned 
with the National Development Plan (PND) 2013 -2018 in the "Mexico Próspero" Axis, which guides 
the actions of the federal government to trigger the sustained growth of productivity  through the 
generation of equal opportunities. In terms of the promotion of SMEs, the national policy seeks to 
promote entrepreneurs and strengthen MSMEs . 
794.  Nepal  stated that the Constitution of Nepal, periodic plans, annual programme  and budget, 
sectoral policies and programme s have incorporated various provisions and programme s of 
economic empowerment.  
795.  Papua New Guinea  stated that the theme of the Medium -Term Dev elopment Plan (MTDP  III) 
is inclusive sustainable economic growth, including for women, youth and MSMEs. For example, 
access to finance for MSMEs, number of girls educated, and integrating youth into economic 
activities.  
796.  Paraguay  made a reference to Nation al Development Plan 2030.  
797.  Peru stated that the National Development Strategic Plan (PEDN) establishes some terms of 
economic empowerment, including the elimination of all forms of discrimination between women and 
men, ensuring women's access to educational  services at all levels, and ensuring women's access to 
public and private decision -making positions. In meeting the objective of reducing inequalities and 
poverty, the country seeks to build a competitive economy with high level of employment and 
producti vity following the policy guideline on employment, promote access to labour markets for 
women, young people, the elderly and the disabled, support the business competitiveness of MSMEs, 
and promote regulations that establish a legal and institutional frame work for these economic units 
to function as a third sector. In terms of productive structure, the country aims to promote the 
development of the third sector or solidarity economy (e.g. production chains, strategic alliances, 
subcontracting), to convert p oor agriculture into commercial agriculture and informal MSMEs into 
formal MSMEs. The response also noted the importance of stimulating competitive exportable 
production with high added value, encouraging the establishment of a logistics and information ch ain 
for competitive foreign trade, supporting the associative organization of SMEs in export consortia, 
and promoting public -private alliances for investment in foreign trade infrastructure. Another 
objective of the country is to increase in jobs suitable for inclusive modernization  
798.  The Philippines  stated  that one of the pillars of the strategic outcomes of the PDP 2017 -2022 
is the Inequality -Reducing Transformation. This pillar seeks to make it easier for the marginalized 
subsectors and people groups to pa rticipate in economic progress. This pillar is concretized through 
expanding economic opportunities in the following sectors: (1) agriculture, forestry, and fisheries; 
(2) industry and services; (3) accelerating human capital development; (4) reducing vuln erability of 
individual and families; and (5) building safe and secure communities.  
799.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  highlighted some examples of economic empowerment indicators 
listed in National Adaptation Strategy (NAS). In tourism, the country seeks to improve ac cess to 
credit for potential small entrepreneurs at the community level, establish a tourism small enterprise 
empowerment fund, provide incentives for small business development enterprises in the tourism 
sector. In agriculture, the country aims to train f armers in agronomic practices, work closely with 
private sector to facilitate the development of agro -processing enterprises, construction of shade WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  houses, train fishers in navigation, diving, primary processing of fish, and food safety, establishing 
an aq uaculture demonstration and training unit. In the area of ICT, the country seeks to provide 
undergraduate and graduate scholarships in ICT, promote certification in ICT, provide distance 
learning facilities to facilitate access to ICT, establish a business  incubator, implement projects to 
promote the use of ICT in all communities, such as the development of Community Access Points in 
community centres. In financial services, the country aims to increase collaboration between the 
authorities and service prov iders to enhance existing products and develop new products to respond 
to changes in the global financial services market. Economic Empowerment indicators and 
programme s are also referenced in the Country Poverty Assessment, National Poverty Reduction 
Strategy and National Social Protection Strategy.  
800.  Saint Vincent and Grenadines  made a reference to the National Economic and Social 
Development plan 2013 -2025.  
801.  Senegal  stated that in the first phase of the Plan for an Emerging Senegal (PES), youth and 
women's  employment and social inclusion were at the heart of the emergence strategy through the 
promotion of labour -intensive public investment (HIMO), the development of productive projects 
with high employment potential, the development of services, the promoti on of youth 
self-employment .  These projects and programme s identified and implemented under the PES issues 
related to the promotion of SMEs. Some of the projects and programme s include agricultural projects 
(agricultural sectors with high added value), fi sheries and livestock, the relaunch of mining projects 
(iron, zircon, etc.), the air recovery plan, the integrated electricity recovery plan, the integrated 
industrial platforms, the integrated logistics hub, the areas dedicated to export services "ready f or 
use", the integrated tourist areas, the pilot sectoral plan Artisanat d'art, the micro -tourism sectoral 
plan. In addition, for the success of all these projects and programme s as well as the promotion of 
SMEs, a financial support mechanism is establishe d, including Priority Investment Guarantee Fund 
(FONGIP), a Sovereign Wealth Fund for Strategic Investments (FONSIS), and a National Bank for 
Economic Development (BNDE).  
802.  Sudan  stated that the country adopted a programme  of small -scale finance aiming to su pport 
women and youth to encourage them to participate in the production process.  
803.  Tajikistan  stated that to improve the policy on gender equality, the country is focusing on 
the development of institutional mechanisms to incorporate national and internatio nal commitments 
on gender equality and women's empowerment in sectoral policies. In the area of promoting the 
creation of productive jobs, the country focuses on the provision of support to SMEs  in order to 
create employment in high -tech innovative industr ies, social sphere, taking into account the 
empowerment of the youth and women.  
804.  Tanzania  stated that strategic interventions for industrialization and human development are 
elaborated under the National Five -Year Development Plan 2016/17 -2020/21.  
805.  Togo  stated that in the National Development Plan (NDP), several programme s take into 
account economic empowerment, including the National Fund for Inclusive Finance (FNFI), 
multifunctional platforms, but NDP also aims to strengthen public -private dialogue to mobil ize more 
resources to support these initiatives, which in themselves provide a monitoring and evaluation 
mechanism with specific indicators.  
806.  Tuvalu  stated that women's economic empowerment, youth development, and private sector 
development are identified a s priorities.  
807.  Zambia  stated that the 7NDP recognizes that in order to attain a diversified and resilient 
economy and meet the aspirations of the Vision 2030, improvement in human development through 
economic empowerment initiatives is important.  
808.  Zimbabwe stated that the Zimbabwe National Trade Policy takes into account the important 
role of women in informal cross -border trade. The Government will ensure gender mainstreaming in 
the implementation of the country's National Trade Policy.  
809.  Four RECs participati ng in the exercise stated that economic empowerment is a priority in 
their national or regional development strategies.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  810.  COMESA  stated that economic empowerment is a priority within COMESA's agenda as 
described in the Industrial Policy and Gender Policy. Th e aim is to ensure that key productive actors 
of the economy like women, youth and SMEs are economically integrated within the business and 
economic processes to ensure their social and economic welfare are enhanced.  
811.  ECOWAS  listed a several initiatives and  strategies including the ECOWAS Private Sector 
Development Strategy, the MSME charter, ECOWAS/UEMOA white paper for energy access in 
rural/peri -urban areas, ECOWAS Policy for gender mainstreaming in energy access, Supplementary 
Act on Equality between wom en and men for Sustainable Development, ECOWAS Gender Policy 
(2005), ECOWAS Framework and Action Plan for Gender and Trade, ECOWAS Framework and Action 
Plan for gender and migration, ECOWAS Youth Policy, ECOWAS Common Industrial Policy and Action 
Plan, Wes t Africa Quality System Programme , ECOWAS Agricultural Policy (ECOWAP), and Regional 
Agricultural Investment Policy, ECOWAS Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) 
strategy, ECOWAS Youth Employment Action Plan (2018 – 2022). The ECOWAS Youth  Employment 
Action Plan (2018 – 2022) aims to facilitate the creation of a suitable environment for job creation 
and decent work in Member States of the region. The action plan identifies five key priority areas of 
intervention namely national action plann ing for youth employment; employability through technical 
vocational education and training; private sector engagement with youth development; Labour 
Market Information Systems (LMIS); and interregional mobility of young workers.  
812.  The National Action Plann ing for Youth Employment aims to support the development of 
national action plans on youth employment in those Member States where they do not yet exist. The 
country also promotes youth employability through Technical Vocational Education and Training, 
support in the development of professional training policies and action plans, linking private sector 
companies to develop market -oriented degrees and courses, promoting the extension of graduate 
volunteer and internship programme s to other Member States. In promoting youth engagement in 
private sector development, efforts focus on applying a "youth lens" to interventions in private sector 
development in the region, supporting the development of business incubation services in the region, 
supporting access to finance for young entrepreneurs, and exploring employment through 
labour -based methods on ECOWAS infrastructure projects and special legislations to promote youth 
innovations and inventions. To strengthen Labour Market Information Systems, efforts focus on  
supporting the implementation of a functional Labour Market Information Systems in the region, 
supporting career advice services for young people in member States, and establishing a regional 
employment information service. To promote intraregional mobili ty of young workers, focus is placed 
on supporting the implementation of the Protocol on free movement for cross - border traders, 
migrant workers and entrepreneurs, expanding the ECOWAS Volunteer Programme , and launching 
of the certificate equivalence fram ework in the region.  
813.  The Supplementary Act on Equality between women and men for Sustainable Development 
has the following objectives: to map out a binding legal document harnessing all synergies for the 
harmonization of national legislations with interna tional commitments to protect and promote 
women's rights in West Africa; to harmonize existing legislation and policies in the ECOWAS region 
into a single regional instrument that will provide a basis and a common reference for all member 
States; to establish, within the framework of the implementation of the commitments made in this 
Supplementary Act, an agenda and a mechanism for periodic evaluation at both national and regional 
levels; to strive to strengthen the economic activities of women, elimi nate discrimination and achieve 
gender equality and equity through the development and effective implementation of laws and 
policies; to improve the living conditions of vulnerable groups, mainly women, girls and boys, the 
elderly and people living with a handicap in line with the demands of sustainable development; to 
increase the rate of women’s participation at all levels of decision -making in the different sectors, 
particularly in the political sphere, notably the processes of conflict prevention and ma nagement and 
the restoration of peace and security; to ensure a greater role for women in early warning 
mechanisms within the ECOWAS region; consolidate regional integration and sustainable 
development through the effective participation of women in the re gional integration process.  
814.  The objectives of the Gender and Trade Plan of Action are to increase women’s productive 
capacity and export competitiveness, to promote gender -sensitive trade policy development and 
implementation among Member countries, to st rengthen synergy and coordination mechanism for 
different agencies involved in trade and border management, to increase investment in gender 
sensitive infrastructure to facilitate trade, to enhance research in gender and trade for 
evidence -based decision m aking, and to put in place a monitoring and evaluation system that 
ensures an effective and efficient management and implementation of the plan of action. Some of WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  the priorities include the training and capacity building for women traders on their rights, custom 
processes, and trade negotiations, the training and capacity building for custom officers and other 
border -management regulation officers, investment in Infrastructure to facilitate productive 
activities and for security for women traders, enhanced research and gender -disaggregated data 
collection for evidence -based decision -making, strengthening of synergy and coordination 
mechanisms for different governmental agencies involved in trade and border management, 
empowering women to boost their export c ompetitiveness, mainstreaming gender into trade policies 
and all aspects of the trade negotiation process.  
815.  The objectives of the Gender and Migration Plan of Action are to make available relevant data 
on Gender and Migration in ECOWAS Region, to enlighten , sensitize and communicate with the 
citizens of West Africa on issues concerning gender and  migration, to train and enhance the capacity 
of state and non -state actors and the ECOWAS Commission on the challenges of gender, migration 
and development, to put  in place mechanism to reverse the illegal migration of young women and 
men from  the ECOWAS region to other parts of the world, to ensure that women and children in the 
sub-region are safe from human trafficking, to put in place mechanisms that will elimin ate absolute 
poverty in the region, thereby creating an enabling environment for youth to develop their full 
potentials, to put in place mechanisms to address the challenges and constraints of women in 
cross-border trading, to put in place mechanisms to ad dress the needs of women migrants in conflict 
situations (refugees and internally displaced persons), to put in place a monitoring and evaluation 
system that ensures an effective and efficient management and implementation of the plan of action.  
816.  The objective of ECOWAS MSME Charter is to strengthen MSMEs and enhance competitive 
capacity through regional capacity -building programme s, building regional partnership platforms, 
regional entrepreneurship development, regional finance access facilitation, re gional business 
promotion. The specific objectives include harmonisation of the definition of MSMEs, determination 
of the institutional framework for the promotion and development of MSMEs, the roles of various 
stakeholders and the monitoring framework.  
817.  The TMEA   stated that in recognizing the importance of improving opportunities for women 
entrepreneurs, TMEA is working with organizations in the region to equip women in business with 
the skills and networks to grow their exports across East Africa and to a mplify the voice of women 
in national and regional policy debates. TMEA strives to achieve this goal by helping female traders 
better understand the governing regulations and procedures in the EAC through advisory services, 
business hubs, training support and market linkages, so that they can both exploit its open borders 
and be better equipped to influence the direction of policymaking.  
818.  The WAEMU  mentioned the Regional Programme  for Industrial Development, the Private 
Sector Regional Programme  for the Deve lopment of Crafts (PRDA), the Regional Programme  to 
support gender institutionalization and women's empowerment in the region.  
819.  All five South -South providers participating in the self -assessment questionnaire identified 
economic empowerment as a priority i n their AfT strategies with South -South partners.  
820.  China  stated that internship opportunities are offered every year for the LDCs.  
821.  Colombia  stated that APC -Colombia coordinates a project with the European Union, entitled 
"support and promotion to the develo pment of the regional strategy of entrepreneurship, innovation 
and business development in Mesoamerican countries".  
822.  Turkey  stated that the economic empowerment of the individuals has always been a priority 
for Turkey's development cooperation. Activities i n the areas of education, vocational training, 
capacity building directly or indirectly contribute to the economic empowerment of the 
disadvantaged populations in partner countries.  
823.  Thirty of the 35 respondents to the donor questionnaire stated that econom ic empowerment 
is a priority in the AfT and development strategy.  
824.  Australia  stated that women’s economic empowerment is explicitly included as a priority in 
the Strategy for Australia’s AfT investments. The strategy states that empowerment of women 
should be incorporated in every investment. Aid for Trade  can empower women by helping them to WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  participate fully and effectively in goods trades in sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, as well 
as in services. Women’s economic empowerment is also one of thre e priorities in Australia’s Gender 
Equality and Women’s Empowerment Strategy.  
825.  Private sector development is also a priority in the Strategy for Australia’s AfT Investments, 
with a specific focus on SMEs . The strategy states that Aid for Trade  that address es GVCs  needs to 
focus on SMEs, who face barriers ranging from inefficient customs procedures and inappropriate 
regulation to low industry standards, and from lack of understanding of foreign markets to lack of 
access to finance. In addressing agriculture,  the strategy states that investments focusing on market 
and infrastructure constraints can help small -scale farmers integrate into GVCs , providing access to 
higher commodity prices and improved technology.  
826.  Austria  stated that in 2017, the Austrian Develop ment Cooperation has launched a new policy 
paper on “Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women and Girls”. It is a strategy for 
implementing the EU Gender Action Plan II in Austria´s Development Cooperation. It is based on 
three pillars, including the e mpowerment of women and girls being one of them.  
827.  Canada  stated that the Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy focuses on gender 
equality and empowerment of women and girls. Economic empowerment, especially women’s 
economic empowerment, is part of the policy’s core action area, specifically in fostering growth that 
works for everyone. Canada contributed to a multitude of initiatives in 2017 -18 that increased 
women’s economic, social and political empowerment by fostering networks, partnerships, a nd 
market opportunities. In Colombia, for example, Canada’s investments in rural development 
supported the economic empowerment of more than 9,000 rural women in 2017 -2020, enabling 
their equal participation with men as decision makers in agricultural coop eratives and associations, 
as well as control over resources such as income, credit, infrastructure and land. In Ethiopia, 
Canadian funding to the Women Entrepreneurship Development Project supports female -owned 
businesses, providing them advanced business  skills and easier access to credit to expand their 
businesses. By the end of 2017, the project had provided loans to 2,583 women entrepreneurs and 
business training to 3,694 female entrepreneurs.  
828.  Canada's efforts to bolster women’s economic empowerment i ncluded enhancing the skills and 
capabilities of women to improve opportunities and quality of employment. Working with local 
partners, Canada helped establish partnerships between Canadian and African colleges and institutes 
to develop innovative professi onal programme s in Senegal. Women, particularly marginalized 
women unable to access traditional training programme s, were supported in gaining the required 
competencies to effectively compete in sectors with good job prospects, including male -dominated 
industries. Elsewhere, in South Sudan, the Fortifying Equality and Economic Diversity project 
implemented by Canadian partner NGOs increased women’s access to productive assets in target 
areas, increasing the number of women (46,859) in the target group from 43% to 77%. In 
Indonesia, for example, Canada supported eight women -led enterprises in the apparel, footwear and 
coffee sectors to increase their export opportunities in Canada and internationally. This initiative led 
to increased economic opportunities an d income for hundreds of micro -suppliers in their value chain, 
many of whom are home -based female workers .   
829.  Czech Republic  stated that economic empowerment is prioritized in a general way.  
830.  Estonia  stated that there are special qualifying markers for women and youth aspects in the 
country's development cooperation projects.  
831.  The European Union  made a reference to the sustainability section (4.3) of the Commission 
Communication COM (2017) 667 of 13 No vember 2017 and Council Conclusions 15573/17 of 
11 December 2017 and the new European Consensus on Development.  
832.  Finland  stated that the country supports women and youth's economic empowerment, 
including entrepreneurship. Moreover, the economic livelihood o f displaced persons is also a growing 
area. 
833.  Iceland  stated that AfT support is not a priority area in Iceland's international development 
cooperation. However, as part of Iceland's wider development assistance, capacity development WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  support is provided in t he fisheries sector and other natural resource related sectors to strengthen 
the respective sectors in Iceland's partner countries .  
834.  Ireland  stated that economic empowerment is prioritized through its support for 
organizations such as the ITC, the WTO STDF , and Proudly Made in Africa.  
835.  The Republic of Korea  stated that KOICA Mid -Term Sectoral Strategies have programme s 
targeting economic empowerment. The response mentioned Gender Equality Mid -Term Sectoral 
Strategy 2016 -2020, the Education Mid -Term Sectoral  Strategy 2016 -2020, Agriculture & Rural 
Development Mid -Term Sectoral Strategy 2016 -2020.  
836.  Norway  stated that gender is a cross -cutting objective in all Norwegian development efforts.  
837.  Portugal  stated that economic empowerment is indirectly prioritized in i ts development 
strategy.  
838.  Slovak Republic  stated that economic empowerment is prioritized only indirectly. The 
Medium -Term Strategy for development cooperation of the Slovak Republic for 2019 -2023 defines 
one of the six sectoral priorities as support of the  market environment - supporting MSMEs , 
introducing innovation, creating jobs.  
839.  Spain   stated that among the destination of the aid given by Spain there are several projects 
aimed at promoting economic empowerment through capacity building.  
840.  Sweden  stated th at economic empowerment, particularly of women, youth and MSMEs, is 
mainstreamed throughout the Swedish Policy Framework for Development Cooperation, specifically 
the importance of gender equality in trade policy and in ensuring that both men and women can  
benefit from trade is stated in the priority area trade in the Policy Framework. Further, gender is 
mainstreamed in all development cooperation strategies as well as in all projects and initiatives. 
Women’s economic empowerment is also stressed in the Glo bal Strategy for Gender Equality and 
Women’s and Girls’ Rights for the period 2018 -2022, adopted by the Government in 2018.  
841.  Switzerland stated that increasing the number and quality of jobs is essential if economic 
development is to benefit as many people  as possible.  
842.  The United Kingdom  stated that the economic development strategy prioritizes economic 
empowerment. The key message is focusing on the poorest and most marginalized people, the 
majority of whom work in the informal sector. The United Kingdom w ill place the economic 
empowerment of girls and women at the heart of the country's approach and help marginalized 
groups, including people with disabilities, to access productive employment .  
843.  The EBRD stated that the economic empowerment of women, youth, people living in remote 
or rural areas, and MSMEs is seen as an important contributor to well -functioning market economies 
and inclusive societies, which is a core component of sustainable and equitable transition. EBRD 
promotes a vision for equal opportun ity regardless of gender, age and socio -economic status, 
reflected in its Strategy for the Promotion of Gender Equality 2016 -2020. The Bank aims to provide 
support for economic development, where individuals have the same opportunities to access finance 
and assets, establish and lead business, access jobs and services, and participate in decision -making 
processes.  
844.  The UNDP  stated that in 1990 with the first Human Development Report, UNDP introduced a 
new approach towards human well -being centred on people. This approach understands 
development as a process of expanding people’s choices by increasing abilities and opportunities to 
use them. At the centre of the approach is the notion of individuals as development agents 
empowered to make their own choices and  lead lives their value. Therefore, empowerment in a 
broad sense, not only economic empowerment, is at the core of UNDP’s approach to development.  
845.  The UNIDO  stated that gender equality and the empowerment of women are priorities in its 
development strategy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Groups the development strategy aims to empower27 
846.  Seventy -five of the 88 respondents to the partner country questionnaire stated that their 
national or re gional development strategy seek to promote the economic empowerment of MSMEs, 
followed by women. MSME was identified as the number one target group for economic 
empowerment across all regions.  
Groups targeted for economic empowerment: partner country's p erspective  
Region  Women  MSME  Youth  
Africa  32 (91%)  34 (97%)  30 (86%)  
Asia 18 (78%)  22 (96%)  14 (61%)  
Americas  14 (78%)  18 (100%)  14 (78%)  
Oceania  9 (90%)  9 (90%)  8 (80%)  
Group  Women  MSME  Youth  
Donors  27 (84%)  27 (84%)  22 (69%)  
Partner countries  75 (85%)  85 (97%)  87 (76%)  
LDC 34 (89%)  36 (95%)  31 (82%)  
LLDC 18 (82%)  22 (100%)  15 (68%)  
UN SIDS  21 (88%)  23 (96%)  20 (83%)  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
847.  Benin  stated through Axis 6 of Pillar 3 of the Government Action Plan (GAP), the Government 
of Benin is aiming for a significant improvement in the living conditions of the most vulnerable 
populations and the reduction of social inequalities as priorities for e ffective social inclusion. Thus, 
issues on youth employment and the economic empowerment of women remain major challenges. 
The objective of full employment and decent work, as classified in SDG 8, appears to be an 
imperative goal the Government intends to address in a holistic manner, both in terms of the quality 
of the human resources available and the enabling economic environment.  
848.  Burkina Faso  mentioned the empowerment of people with disabilities.  
849.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the Constitution of the DRC in 
Article  14 recommends the elimination of inequalities and gender parity. To this end, the objectives 
pursued by the Government in the field of gender for the next five years as defined in the National 
Gender Poli cy are: to strengthen institutional capacities; reduce gender inequalities and combat 
gender -based violence in families and communities; strengthen the economic power and 
empowerment of women; promote the stability of the family and; promote the rights of the child. 
In fulfilling the Medium -term Flagship Actions and achieve these objectives, the Government intends 
to implement the flagship actions by programme .  
850.  The first objective is to improve human resource management, financial and material, 
strengthen planning and programmi ng, and strengthen the management of cooperation and 
partnership. The second objective is to reduce gender inequalities and combat gender -based violence 
in families and communities, promote the prevention of violence against women and  girls, establish 
integrated multi -sectoral care services for survivors; and empower adolescent girls to prevent early 
marriage and childbearing, abuse and sexual exploitation of children. The third objective is to 
strengthen the economic power and empower ment of women, and advocate for the implementation 
of women's laws. The fourth objective is to promote the stability of the family, popularize legal texts 
in favour of women and children, promote the protection of the family, popularize legal texts on the 
family, restore family, ethical and cultural values, strengthen responsible parenthood. The fifth 
objective is to promote the rights of the child, promote the protection of the child and his or her 
family well -being, promote gender and protect the rights o f the child, and against violence against 
children.   
 
27 Refer to index numb er 24 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  851.  Costa Rica  made a reference to the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Commerce.  
852.  Ecuador  stated that in the Undersecretariat of MSMEs and Handicrafts, support is given to 
MSMEs , artisans and organizations of the Popular and Solidarity Economy, without neglecting women 
and young entrepreneurs. In addition, the country's strategy is inclusive, which covers technical 
assistance for enterprises of people with disabilities. The country's main objective is to improve the 
productivity and competitiveness of MSMEs that produce goods or services with added value. In 
order to increase the quality of the  Ecuadorian national and exportable supply, the country 
intervenes in the following axes: productive capacities (productivity - innovation); formalization 
(productive inclusion); entrepreneurship; chaining and creation of networks; insertion into markets 
(local – international, EASY EXPORT programme ). The Economic Inclusion Centers (CIE) are 
accessed by the beneficiaries, largely women and youth. The CDH, a non -governmental organization 
dedicated to the promotion and defense of human rights, contributes in helping people in extreme 
poverty.  
853.  El Salvador  stated that microenterprises, especially those with high potential and strategic 
importance for the economy of the country, which are headed by women, young people and 
innovative ventures.  
854.  Equatorial Guinea  stated that within the national development plan (PNDES), there is no 
well-developed section on the empowerment of women and youth. The document has not been 
updated since 2007.  
855.  The Gambia  stated that both youth economic empowerment and private sector develo pment, 
mainly MSMEs, are strategic priorities of the National Development Plan.  
856.  Grenada  stated that the Government has prioritized activities and funding for women and 
youth empowerment and for the development of SMEs.  
857.  Guatemala  mentioned the empowerment o f indigenous population.  
858.  Guinea  stated that like many other countries today, the economic empowerment of youth 
and women is one of the priorities of the Government of Guinea. The entire programme s are being 
implemented in this direction. The contributions of technical and financial partners are very much in 
demand for the implementation of these programme s. 
859.  Guinea -Bissau  identified economic empowerment and gender as priorities, as stated in the 
National Master Plan to Support the Poor. The plan will help to  make the country a pioneer, one of 
the first countries to develop an integrated national strategy for solutions dedicated to the poor and 
women.  
860.  Kazakhstan  highlighted the comprehensive support of entrepreneurship and the 
development of SMEs . 
861.  Kenya  mentio ned persons living with disability. The Government has established a National 
Council for persons with disability.  
862.  Kiribati  stated that section 3.2 in the Trade Policy Framework highlights inclusive trade which 
seeks to spread benefits to all.  
863.  Mali stated the focus lies on capacity building for women and youth in the implementation of 
the National Gender Policy, the agri -food sector development strategy, and the Private Sector 
Orientation Act.  
864.  Mexico  stated its transversal third objective on women belonging  to the economically active 
population pertains to women in the labour market or actively looking for work. The National 
Microenterprise Financing Programme  aims to provide microfinance services to microentrepreneurs 
in order to promote the creation of eco nomic units and increase the productivity of existing ones.  
865.  Myanmar  mentioned a report on women and the economy in Myanmar, an assessment of 
DFAT private sector programme s. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  866.  Nepal  stated that other minorities and marginalized groups are also a priority of t he national 
development process such as shadow casts, ethnic groups, poor people, those living in remote areas, 
among others.  
867.  Papua New Guinea  stated that women, MSMEs, and youth access to financial support and 
participate in economic activities is mention ed in the Medium -Term Development Plan III.  
868.  Paraguay  made a reference to the National Development Plan 2030.  
869.  The Philippines  stated that the Philippine Development Plan 2017 -2022 promotes economic 
empowerment to the marginalized subsectors and people group s to participate in economic progress, 
including rural agriculture, forestry, and fisheries (AFF) stakeholders, MSMEs, overseas Filipino 
workers, and vulnerable groups (e.g. children, people with disabilities).  
870.  Senegal  stated that several projects have bee n initiated in favour of youth and women, 
including  the creation of community agricultural domains, the creation of agropoles to promote the 
processing of agricultural products, the programme  to support the promotion of youth and women's 
employment, the p romotion of entrepreneurship for youth and women. In addition, to promote the 
success of these projects and SMEs, a financial support mechanism has been established, including 
a Priority Investment Guarantee Fund (FONGIP), a Sovereign Wealth Fund for Strat egic Investments 
(FONSIS), a National Bank for Economic Development (BNDE).  
871.  Zambia  stated that the groups Zambia seeks to empower are actively involved in economic 
activities that have potential to create positive impacts such as, income generation, jobs a nd 
livelihood improvements. However, they also encounter demand and supply side constraints.  
872.  Zimbabwe  stated that specific strategies for women and youth should be developed by the 
Ministry of Trade.  
873.  The top two groups RECs seek to promote in their regiona l or TC development strategies are 
MSMEs and women.  
874.  WAEMU  stated that women and youth are also supported in the West African Trade 
Facilitation Programme  led by the WAEMU and ECOWAS Commissions.  
875.  MSMEs were identified as the top target group South -South pro viders seek to promote 
economic empowerment for, as indicated by four respondents to the South -South questionnaire.  
876.  Twenty -seven of the  35 respondents to the donor questionnaire identified MSMEs and women 
as the top two target groups for economic empowerme nt. 
877.  Australia  stated that consistent with SDG 2, Australia's aid in the agriculture sector primarily 
seeks to benefit small -scale farmers.  
878.  Canada  stated that the country is committed to providing international development 
assistance dedicated to advancing gender equality and improving womens ' and girls’ quality of life. 
Canada firmly believes that promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls is the best 
way to achieve positive economic and social outcomes and most effective approach to eradicate 
poverty. The Supporting women’s economic empowerment in the Philippines project assists women 
micro -entrepreneurs to successfully and sustainabl y grow their businesses. It employs two 
strategies: (i) assisting women micro entrepreneurs in 4 priority sectors through national 
government agencies working at the national and regional levels; and, (ii) building partnerships with 
the private sector, eng aging the latter to bring women micro entrepreneurs into their supply chains 
or providing them with critical business development services.  
879.  The project aims to : (i) increase competitiveness and sustainability of women’s 
micro -enterprises; and, (ii) streng then enabling environment. By project end, approximately 
11,500  women’s micro -enterprises in the food and woven cloth subsectors would benefit from 
increased sales and re -investment. In Burkina Faso, Plan Canada established a partnership between 
government , the private sector and NGOs to enable girls and boys aged 13 to 18 to develop skills 
aligned with local labour market needs. Since 2011, a total of 8,265 young people, including WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  3,517  girls, have enrolled in non -formal basic education centres and vocatio nal training centres 
supported by Plan Canada. Of these, 931 (including 239 girls) have found jobs .   
880.  Denmark  stated that the youth agenda is specifically prioritized in the work stream for 
Denmark's development assistance. A designated global youth advise r has been appointed within 
the Ministry. The youth delegate programme  enabling youth representation and participation in 
larger multilateral events and summits has been boosted. The entire Danish aid portfolio has been 
reviewed with a youth lens, and pres ently youth tools which can increase the youth focus in future 
programmi ng. This is currently being developed for roll -out and mainstreaming at a later stage.  
881.  Finland  stated that a small but growing area is the economic empowerment of displaced 
persons.  
882.  Germany  stated that Germany has set -up a new initiative in 2018 that will be highly relevant 
for Youth economic empowerment, the “Special initiative for Education and Employment in Africa ”. 
Due to its recent establishment, the initiative is not yet fully ref lected in the AfT strategy. The 
implementation of Aid for Trade  will, however, incorporate objectives of the initiative, and vice-versa .  
883.  Japan  also identified persons with disabilities, the elderly, refugees and internally -displaced 
persons, ethnic minori ties, and indigenous peoples as groups for which its AfT strategy seeks to 
promote economic empowerment.  
884.  The Republic of Korea  also identified rural population, people in agricultural sector, girls, 
women, and youth as groups for which its AfT strategy see ks to promote economic empowerment.  
885.  Portugal  stated that there is no AfT strategy specifically addressing the target groups.  
886.  Slovak Republic  stated that the country does not have a specific AfT Strategy. The promotion 
of economic empowerment is highlighted  in the Medium -Term Strategy for Development 
Cooperation of the Slovak Republic.  
887.  Spain stated that the country has financed a capacity -building project for women.  
888.  Sweden  stated that the Swedish Policy Framework for Development cooperation highlights 
severa l areas on economic empowerment, although not specifically in connection with trade.  
889.  Switzerland  stated that its development strategy aims to contribute to the reduction of 
poverty and global risks by supporting sustainable and inclusive growth - which ben efits all segments 
of the population and takes into account, in addition to the economic dimension, social and 
environmental aspects.  
890.  The United Kingdom  stated that the country is focusing on the poorest and most 
marginalized people, the majority of whom work in the informal sector. We will place the economic 
empowerment of girls and women at the heart of our approach and help marginalized groups, 
including people with disabilities, to access productive employment.  
891.  The EBRD   stated that the EBRD Strategy f or the Promotion of Gender Equality 2016 -2020 
supports building equitable and sustainable economies. The Bank contributes to women’s ability to 
trade through its investments and business advice (e.g. in the context of our highly successful 
Women in Busines s programme s), business and via its policy dialogue initiatives. The EBRD 
Economic Inclusion Strategy also focuses on economic empowerment with a primary focus on 
women, young people and individuals living in remote or rural areas of our countries of opera tions. 
In addition, the EBRD’s Small Business Initiative promotes the growth of MSMEs by providing finance 
and business advice (including through Trade Ready, the EBRD’s new trade support initiative), thus 
encouraging empowerment through entrepreneurial ac tivity and access to international markets.  
892.  The UNDP  stated that the UNDP places special emphasis  on vulnerable groups such as women 
and youth and has made a priority across its programme s to support efforts by partner countries 
and through its own interventions, to empower women and youth as key development agents .  UNDP 
Gender Equality Strategy 2018 -2020 recognizes gender equality as a precondition and accelerator 
for achieving the SGDs and reiterates the commitment to promoting and mainstreaming gender in WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  all UNDP does. UNDP takes a dual approach to gender mainstreaming by integrating gender in 
developing, planning, implementing and evaluating programme s and projects; and through 
gender -specific interventions. UNDP’s Signature Solution 6 focused on strengthening gender equality 
and the empowerment of women and girls, aims at tackling the structural b arriers to realizing gender 
equality, including barriers to women’s economic empowerment (for example, women’s 
disproportionate burden of unpaid work).  
893.  The UNDP’s Strategy on Youth 2014 -2017 seeks to achieve three outcomes including 
increased economic emp owerment of youth; enhanced youth civic engagement and participation in 
decision -making and political processes and institutions; and strengthened youth engagement in 
resilience building. To support the economic empowerment of youth, UNDP works with partne rs 
towards increasing the quantity and quality of jobs, including by facilitating their movement towards 
more productive sectors and increasing access to social protection. Many UNDP’s interventions to 
support employment creation and livelihoods work throu gh micro and SMEs of youth and women.  
Indicators or targets for economic empowerment28 
894.  Sixty of the 88 respondents (68%) stated that their national or regional development strategy 
includes indicators to track progress on economic empowerment. The share is higher among LDC 
respondents (79%). Across regions, Africa registers the highest share with 25  of the 35 (71%) 
respondents in the region confirming that there is an indicator or target for economic empowerment.  
The national or regional development strategy  proposes indicators or targets for 
economic empowerment: partner country's perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  33 94% 
Asia 21 91% 
Americas  14 78% 
Oceania  9 90% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 36 95% 
LLDC 21 96% 
UN SIDS  20 83% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
895.  Belize  stated that indicators or targets to economic empowerment are reflected on the growth 
and sustainable development strategy monitoring and evaluation matrix, which is work in progress.  
896.  Benin  made a reference to the indicators contained in the Millennium  Development Goals.  
897.  Bhutan  made a reference to the country's national planning framework.  
898.  Burkina Faso  stated that the progress or targets in economic empowerment may be indicated 
by the number of young people with access to funding, the number of young gradu ates trained in 
job search techniques, the number of jobs created for young people in promising and innovative 
sectors, the rate of access of young people to vocational training and skills development, the number 
of young people who have created their micr oenterprises through entrepreneurship, the number of 
young people whose entrepreneurial culture has been developed, the number of young people 
trained in entrepreneurship whose employability has been strengthened, the rate of young people 
trained who have obtained employment, the level of improvement of the system and financing 
mechanisms, the number of young graduates who have benefited from vocational training courses, 
the evolution of the index of women's participation in paid employment, the evolution o f the number 
of technical and vocational education institutions the number of jobs created, the number of young 
rural women who have created their activities thanks to the project to strengthen their skills, the 
number of rural young people trained in entr epreneurship and trades, the number of training grants 
 
28 Refer to index number 25 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  awarded to rural young people, the number of employment opportunities for socio -economic 
integration and empowerment of young people created.  
899.  Cabo Verde  made a reference to its Strategic Sustainable De velopment Plan (PEDS).  
900.  The Central African Republic  stated that there are indicators on the number of women or 
young people who have been able to benefit from capacity building actions as well as the type and 
number of initiatives in favour of women and yo ung people.  
901.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the objective relating to the representation 
of women at national and provincial bodies has two indicators, namely the proportion of women in 
the National Assembly and the proportion of women in Gove rnment. The indicators include the ratio 
of girls to boys in primary education and the ratio of girls to boys in secondary education. In 
accordance with the missions devolved to the youth sector and to remedy the shortcomings identified 
in the diagnosis, t he actions of the sector are undertaken with the ultimate aim of promoting the 
youth in view of a better future of the country. Thus, in relation to the SDGs and the National Youth 
Policy, the strategic objectives pursued are: strengthening institutional c apacities; strengthen the 
capacity of service offerings; and develop the empowerment of youth.  
902.  For the next five -year period, the youth sector aims to promote development -oriented policies 
that, on the one hand, promote institutional capacity -building; an d on the other hand, with regard 
to young people, technical and vocational training, introduction to the new citizenship and peace 
education, productive activities, the creation of decent jobs, micro -subsidies, business and SMEs , 
access to financial servic es, youth entrepreneurship, are all activities that sustain their integration 
in accordance with the spirit and letter of the SDGs.  
903.  Cook Islands  stated that indicators to track progress in economic empowerment need to be 
considered.  
904.  Côte d'Ivoire  mentioned  a number of indicators to track economic empowerment, including 
the number of jobs created, income, annual revenue generated, number of SMEs created, rates of 
trade intra -community. The response made a reference to the National Plan for Development 
2016-2020. 
905.  Ecuador  identified a number of relevant indicators including relative prices and gross value 
added.  
906.  El Salvador  stated that a system of indicators for measuring impact is established within the 
National Policy for the Development of Micro and Small En terprises.  
907.  The Gambia  stated that the National Development Plan has a target to reduce youth 
unemployment from 38% to 30% by 2021. It also has targets to increase MSMEs contribution to 
GDP from 20% to 30% and increase the proportion of MSMEs contribution t o employment from 
62% to 75% . Regarding women empowerment, the National Development Plan has a target that 
seeks to establish an enterprise development fund to support women in business and to access 
productive resources.  
908.  Grenada  stated that the Government  has developed a monitoring mechanic to trade the 
activities and the outcomes in the different areas.  
909.  Guatemala  made a reference to its National Development Policy.  
910.  Guinea  stated that the number of women or young people who have benefited from economic 
empowerment programme s, by age and gender, is generally well documented as a performance 
indicator used by decision makers. The management teams of the various projects in the field of 
trade as in other areas also use this indicator as a means of assessing th e level of achievement of 
objectives.  
911.  Honduras  stated that a national programme  of business development centres is promoted, 
which allows for the definition of indicators and goals aimed at developing the productivity and 
strengthening the competitiveness MSMEs.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  912.  Indonesia  made a reference to the implementation of the SDGs by the Government of 
Indonesia.  
913.  Iraq stated the importance of achieving economic reforms, increasing the real per capita 
income, and boosting sustainable development.  
914.  Kenya  stated that ind icators or targets on economic empowerment are integrated within the 
Access to Government Procurement Opportunities Programme  (Public Procurement and Asset 
Disposal Act, 2015) as well as the Medium -Term Plan III under vision 2030.  
915.  Kiribati  stated that the Trade Policy Framework has the several indicators on economic 
empowerment, including the percentage of youth in business, the percentage of women in business 
The Kiribati 20 -Year Vision (KV20) Development Plan has several indicators including the reduction  
of national unemployment rate, the increase in value of domestic trade, the increase in the value of 
exports, and improved GDP growth rate. The Kiribati Development Plan (KDP) 2016 -2019 has the 
number of relevant indicators, including the percentage incre ase in export growth and increased 
employment opportunities.  
916.  Madagascar  stated that one of the challenges of the National Emergence Plan (facilitating 
access to low -interest financing for youth and women entrepreneurs) is a key indicator for youth 
and wome n materialized by the creation of youth and women's businesses and the rate of funding 
received by these beneficiaries.  
917.  Malawi  stated the availability of indicators or targets for economic empowerment in the 
national development plans. The response indicat ed uncertainty in the availability of such indicators 
in the regional plans.  
918.  Mali stated that major actions on women's empowerment in the implementation of the 
National Gender Policy (PNG).  
919.  Mexico  stated that indicators are established in Proigualdad 2013 -2018 for the cross -cutting 
third objective. First, female participation rate in the labour market is targeted to reach 48% by 
2018. Second, in efforts to reduce the wage discrimination rate, inequality is set to be reduced by 
at least 20% by sector of activity. Third, the percentage of employed women who do not h ave access 
to childcare is set to reach 75% by 2018. For the period 2013 -2018, the National Microenterprise 
Financing Programme  (PRONAFIM) reported the sectoral indicator on women's participation in 
productive activities financed with National Microenterpr ise Financing Programme  (FINAFIM) 
resources, which shows the participation of women microentrepreneurs in economic activities 
financed with resources from the Trust Fund of the National Microenterprise Financing Programme  
(FINAFIM). This indicator is frame d in the actions for the fulfilment of the National Programme  of 
Innovative Development 2013 -2018. Under the fourth objective (Mexico Prospero) of the National 
Development Plan, there are relevant indicators including global competitiveness, domestic credi t to 
the private sector.  
920.  Nepal  stated that the Constitution of Nepal, periodic plans and sectoral strategies and 
programme s have indicated targets to some extent mainly in the areas of education, health, income, 
employment and participation in social and political activities including representation in state 
mechanism.  
921.  Papua New Guinea  stated that some of the indicators include the number of youth in SMEs, 
percentage of youth employed, the number of women with credit account, women engaged in the 
SMEs, the  proportion of MSMEs having access to financial credits, the number of registered MSMEs, 
and the employment in MSME sector. The country has government policies and visions such as vision 
2050 and government strategic implementation plan. The government pla ces measures and 
achievable targets. At times, the Government lacks accountability and means to assess if the set 
targets have been achieved.  
922.  Paraguay  made a reference to its National Development Plan.  
923.  Peru stated that the The National Development Strategi c Plan (PEDN) establishes several 
indicators and targets related to economic empowerment. They include the percentage of adequate WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  employment, measured by dividing the economically active population which is adequately employed 
by the total economically act ive population. The baseline stands at 51.6% and the target in 2021 is 
set at 75%. Peru noted gaps in terms of availability of information and indicators needed to measure 
women's economic empowerment, such as the number of companies led by women, the numb er of 
companies led by women who export.  
924.  The Philippines  stated that the Philippine Development Plan 2017 -2022 only focuses on 
strategic outcomes, strategies, plan implementation and monitoring. The Philippine Development 
Plan 2017 -2022 Results matrices, o n the other hand, contain the required statistics, indicators, and 
information gathering systems.  
925.  Saint Kitts  and Nevis  listed some examples of economic empowerment indicators and 
targets in its National Adaptation strategy. In tourism, the country aims to  improve access to credit 
for potential small entrepreneurs at the community level, establish a tourism small enterprise 
empowerment fund, provide incentives for small business development enterprises in the tourism 
sector. In agriculture, the country aims  to train farmers in agronomic practices, work closely with 
private sector to facilitate the development of agro -processing enterprises, construct shade houses, 
train fishers in navigation, diving, provide support in primary processing of fish, and food sa fety, 
establish an aquaculture demonstration and training unit.  
926.  In ICT, the country aims to provide undergraduate and graduate scholarships in ICT, promote 
certification in ICT, provide distance learning facilities to facilitate access to ICT, establish a  business 
incubator, implement projects to promote the use of ICT in all communities, such as the development 
of Community Access Points in community centres. In financial Services, the country aims to increase 
collaboration between the authorities and ser vice providers to enhance existing products and 
develop new products to respond to changes in the global financial services market. Economic 
Empowerment indicators and programme s are also referenced in the Country Poverty Assessment, 
the National Poverty R eduction Strategy and the National Social Protection Strategy.  
927.  Saint Vincent and Grenadines  made a reference to the National Economic and Social 
Development Plan 2013 -2025.  
928.  Sri Lanka  made a reference to Sri Lanka Vision 2025.  
929.  Sudan  stated that indicators m ay include increase in productivity and diversification of 
production.  
930.  Tanzania  made a reference to the National Five -Year Development Plan 2016/17 -2020/21.  
931.  Togo  stated that the youth unemployment rate must increase from 3.2% (2015) to 
2.5%  (2022). The pro portion of women with access to credit must increase from 44.4% (2015) to 
60% (2022).  
932.  Tonga  stated that indicators or targets on economic empowerment may be measured through 
the increase in youth and women in business engagements.  
933.  Uganda  stated that women' s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for 
leadership at all levels of decision making is measured by percentage of seats held by women and 
minorities in national parliament. Other relevant indicators include the increase in decent work  
coverage, the percentage of women accessing economic empowerment initiatives, the decrease in 
rate of discrimination and marginalization, the increase in community participation from 50% to 
70% in the development process.  
934.  Ukraine  stated that the Export St rategy of Ukraine goals include the promotion of women 
active participation in export as well as economic empowerment.  
935.  Vanuatu  made a reference to the Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan.  
936.  Zambia  stated that some of the targets in economic empower ment include mainstreaming 
youth employment in priority sectors, enhancing skills development, and improving labour market 
inter-mediation.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  937.  Three RECs, namely, indicated that there is an indicator or target for economic empowerment 
in their regional or TC development strategies.  
938.  COMESA  listed a few indicators to track economic empowerment, namely the percentage 
growth of start -ups, the existence of gender disaggregated data for decision -making, the number of 
women and youth participating in business platfor ms, business linkages established for women, the 
number of officials trained on gender -related tools and, the number of projects on youth 
empowerment, the number of youth participating in programme  interventions, the percentage of 
women and youth participa ting in economic activities, the percentage of women benefiting from 
access to finance under the Women Economic Empowerment Fund (WEEF).  
939.  WAEMU  stated that indicators to track economic empowerment are being defined as part of 
the programme s. 
940.  None of the Sou th-South providers participating in the questionnaire confirmed the availability 
of indicators to track progress or targets on economic empowerment.  
941.  Nineteen of the 35 respondents to donor questionnaire stated that their AfT development 
strategy includes i ndicators to track progress or targets on economic empowerment.  
942.  The AfDB  made a reference to Africa Regional Integration Index.  
943.  Australia  stated that 80% of all aid investments, including AfT investments, will effectively 
address gender in implementation.  
944.  Austria  stated that tracking progress in women 's economic empowerment will be done via 
national SDG monitoring. Statistics Austria has elaborated a national set of indicators including 
indicators for SDG 5 on gender equality.  
945.  Canada  stated that Canada’s k ey results -based management tools include the theory of 
change, logic model and a performance measurement framework. Currently, Canada is 
implementing a new Policy on Results and developing a Departmental Results Framework to increase 
focus on results usin g a series of improved performance indicators. At the same time, Canada is 
developing a results -based management approach specific to its international assistance titled 
Architecture for Results of International Assistance (ARIA), with the aim to roll -up strategically 
selected project and programme  results information into more meaningful evidence -based corporate 
level results. At project and country programme  level, Canada has a robust results -based 
management methodology and extensive guidance available.  
946.  The European Union  highlighted the importance of women's economic empowerment and 
the 2017 Annual Implementation Report of Gender Action Plan II. In terms of youth economic 
empowerment, the European Union mentioned that youth is a cross -cutting element wit hin the new 
European Consensus on Development. It recognizes young people as essential contributors to the 
implementation of the 2030 Agenda. It considers them as agents of development and change, 
including through their ability to innovate. Young people c an play a central role as active citizens for 
sustainable and prosperous societies if the y are not left behind and trapped into vulnerable 
situations. In the area of economic empowerment for MSMEs, the European Union made a reference 
to the European Commis sion Communication "A Stronger Role of the Private Sector in Achieving 
Inclusive and Sustainable Growth in Developing Countries" COM(2014) 263 final.  
947.  Finland  mentioned the several indicators including number of jobs maintained, and the 
number of enterprises supported.  
948.  Ireland  stated that the country monitors the indicators of its partners, including the ITC and 
the WTO STDF .  
949.  The Republic of Korea  stated that KOICA’s sectoral strategies propose a set of indicators 
per programme . 
950.  Latvia  highlighted the targets of improving standardization and certification systems to 
facilitate trade, SME capacity building, and private sector development.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  951.  The Netherlands  stated  that some of the indicators for women's economic empowerment 
may include the number of supported jobs for men and women, disaggregated data for youth, and 
the number of supported SMEs.  
952.  New Zealand  stated that while women’s, youth and marginalized groups’ economic 
empowerment have been identified in our development strategy, specific indicators have not yet 
been confirmed.  
953.  Norway  made a reference to multilateral partner organizations ' reports on gender including 
those produced by the ITC and the WTO. 
954.  Slovak  Republic  stated that the concrete indicators will be developed in the Country 
Strategic Papers for programme  countries in Kenya, the Republic of Moldova, Georgia. This will follow 
after the approval of the medium -term strategy.  
955.  Switzerland  mentioned the s everal indicators including number of jobs created, and number 
of jobs maintained .  
956.  Chinese Taipei  highlighted a few indicators including the numbers of registered SMEs 
counselling applications for diagnostics and technical assistance planning, or the numb er of training 
sessions conducted for trainees . Examples can be found in the projects conducted by International 
of Cooperation and Development Fund.  
957.  The United Kingdom  stated that there are indicators to track the number of women -owned 
business (businesses that are at least 30% women owned, managed and controlled) though exact 
value of sales currently challenging to measure. The SheTrades Programme  will also focus on wi der 
benefits e.g. jobs and percentage of creation (32% of these jobs to be held by women). The 
programme  also tracks the value of business and investment transacted in international value 
chains. The DFID Economic Development Strategy has emphasized on the  following as indicators 
and targets: job creation, increasing income, better use of technology, and increased productivity.  
958.  The EBRD  stated that the objective of the EBRD’s Gender Strategy is to increase women’s 
economic empowerment and equality of opport unities in the EBRD countries of operations. 
Specifically, this will be achieved by increasing the number of projects which support the promotion 
of gender equality and promoting through policy dialogue an enabling environment in its countries 
of operation s that is conducive to enhanced access to economic opportunities.  
959.  The UNDP  stated that the Integrated Results and Resources Framework of the UNDP’s 
Strategic Plan 2018 -2021 defines the impact, outcome, and output indicators by signature solution. 
There ar e indicators which allow tracking results in economic empowerment of women and youth, 
as part of the Poverty Signature Solution. One of the outputs aims to ensure that marginalized 
groups, particularly the poor, women, people with disabilities and displace d are empowered to gain 
universal access to basic services and financial and non -financial assets to build productive capacities 
and benefit from sustainable livelihoods and jobs. Indicators under this output include the number 
and proportion of people acc essing basic services disaggregated by target groups (poor people, 
women, people with disabilities, youth, displaced population, and other marginalized groups), the 
number and proportion of people accessing financial and non -financial assets, disaggregated  by 
target groups. Programme s and projects would use specific indicators on economic empowerment 
including for instance the number of jobs created and retained.  
960.  The UNIDO  mentioned the availability of gender -disaggregated data on manufacturing 
employment.   
961.  The World Bank  stated that in the World Bank, a systematic review for gender -related 
activities is conducted retrospectively by the Gender team for active projects across all Global 
Practices. An aggregated rating system is used which captures three dimen sions: Analysis , Actions, 
and Monitoring, all of which are assigned based on project design. The Analysis  flag is designed to 
indicate projects that identify and analyze gender issues, referring specifically to gender diagnostics 
or gender disaggregated as sessments, and/or reflect consultations with individuals or NGOs that 
deal with gender themes. The Actions flag is designed to capture projects that include specific actions 
that address the needs of individuals based on gender, propose gender -specific saf eguards in WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  social/environmental assessments or resettlement frameworks, or show how interventions are going 
to narrow existing gender disparities. The monitoring flag is intended to capture projects that include 
specific gender and sex -disaggregated indica tors in the results framework and/or propose an 
evaluation strategy that includes an analysis of the project’s specific gender impact.  
962.  Additionally, the World Bank system includes a binary indicator on whether at least one gender 
component is included, th us making the project gender -informed. A new gender tag is being 
designed under the auspices of the World Bank Group Gender Strategy which will shift the focus 
toward measuring the quality and results of Bank operations, especially sector -specific outcomes , in 
closing gender gaps. Teams will be prompted to think about project -relevant gender gaps and how 
they align with the country engagement framework. They will be asked to select specific indicators 
to track the activity’s outcomes or impacts. During impl ementation, teams will report against these 
indicators in the Implementation Status and Results Report. At project completion, the 
Implementation Completion and Results Report will rate the project’s performance in closing 
targeted gender gaps.  
Linking eco nomic empowerment and participation in international trade29 
963.  Sixty-five of the 88 respondents (74%) stated that their national or regional development 
strategy links economic empowerment to participation in international trade. The share is higher 
among LDC  respondents (79%).  
Economic empowerment is linked to participation in international trade: partner 
country's perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  25 71% 
Asia 15 65% 
Americas  12 67% 
Oceania  6 60% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 30 79% 
LLDC 14 64% 
UN SIDS  13 54% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
964.  Burkina Faso  mentioned the Chamber of Commerce and Industry -Burkina Faso (CCI -BF), 
Maison de l'entreprise du Burkina , Export Promotion Agency (APEX), EIF.  
965.  Cabo Verde  made a reference to its Strategic Sustainable Development Plan (PEDS).  
966.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that its National Development Strategy combines 
economic empowerment with the participation of women and  youth in international trade. The 
National Strategic Plan for Development include the following actions: broad access to major 
consumer markets; reinforcement of the partnership between the various actors of regional trade; 
increased wealth of vulnerable trade actors including women and youth; development of value chains 
and the consolidation of peace between the country and its partners.  
967.  Cook Islands  stated that its national strategy does not link economic empowerment with 
international trade, but its reg ional strategies do.  
968.  Côte d'Ivoire  stated that as part of the National Investment Programme  II (PNIA II), the 
country is planning to establish agropoles with the intensification of production, productivity, and 
processing of agricultural products. Focus wi ll be placed on access to productive resources, 
income -generating activities, extension services as well as information, credit, employment, and 
 
29 Refer to index number 26 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  technologies that empower youth and women. Support is needed to improve the participation of 
women in decision -making at the level of households.  
969.  Ecuador  made a reference to National Development Plan 2017 -2021 Foreign Policy Agenda 
2017-2021. 
970.  El Salvador  stated that the country envisages improvement of the competitiveness of MSMEs 
in national and international mark ets. Likewise, developing strategies in this regard is very 
important, particularly given that in most cases women are the recipients of this income. In this 
regard, the Law for the Promotion, Protection, and Development of Micro and Small Enterprises 
states that strategic alliances between the MSMEs and the Salvadoran population residing abroad 
will be promoted, with the purpose of creating an intermediation system and investments to take 
advantage of the potential offered in the relevant business sectors and international markets.  
971.  The Gambia  stated that in agriculture, the National Development Plan seeks to promote the 
transformation of agriculture and fisheries through enhanced commercial investments and value 
chain development. There is an emphasis to pr omote trade, investments and private sector 
development, and support the development of MSMEs and light manufacturing. The development of 
productive trade sectors will be complemented with the development of quality infrastructure to 
enhance compliance to standards and support producers in accessing international markets.  
972.  Grenada  stated that the Government has undertaken projects to develop women SME s to 
become export ready.  
973.  Guatemala  stated that the National Economic Policy includes export diversification,  linking to 
global and regional value chains and productivity, in particular for MSMEs.  
974.  Guinea  stated that projects in favour of the economic development of women and young 
people, for example, in the production of fresh and dried mango for international t rade, designed 
and implemented in collaboration with partners, especially those involved in this field.  
975.  Honduras  stated through the Undersecretariat of Economic Integration and Foreign Trade, 
there is a programme  to create a regional network of business de velopment centres that will allow 
the internationalization with MSMEs throughout the region.  
976.  Indonesia  mentioned the foreign buyer mission organized by Ministry of Maritime Affairs and 
Fisheries.  
977.  Iraq stated that the country encourages private sector marke t-oriented investment and 
integration into the foreign market.  
978.  Kazakhstan  stated that the development of farming and SMEs in agricultural processing and 
trade determine the types of products to produce in large quantities and send to major export 
markets .  
979.  Kenya  mentioned export promotion and development strategy, public private partnership, 
regional economic blocs such as East African Community (EAC) and Common Market for Eastern and 
Southern Africa (COMESA) strategies, the simplified custom procedures und er EAC for SMEs.  
980.  Kiribati  stated that economic empowerment is viewed as an enabler to international trade in 
the Trade Policy Framework as it contributes to the development of national and GVC. Women and 
youth economic empowerment are viewed as an opportunity to link the national value chain with 
the GVC  that supports international trade.  
981.  Madagascar  stated that many companies run by women in groups are already exporting 
internationally.  
982.  Malawi  stated that the Government gives special preference to women who are involved in 
cross-border trading. Youths are provided with training in various fields of businesses through 
vocational training centres established throughout the country.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  983.  Mali stated tha t women's participation in international trade can be enhanced through 
training, support for women at trade events (fairs, exhibitions, missions), support for women at 
international and sub regional meetings.  
984.  Mauritius  stated that according to the three -year strategic plan 2018 -2019-2020/21, the 
country's performance in social progress index should be improved from 39th in rank in 2017 to 
36th in 2020 and 20th in 2030. The Global Gender Gap Index should be improved from 112th in 2017 
to 109th in 2020 and 80th in 2030.  
985.  Myanmar  made a reference to the National Strategic Plan for the Advancement of Myanmar 
2013-2022.  
986.  Nepal stated that the support to women's economic empowerment, balanced development, 
and employment generation among others were also criteria fo r selection of priority export potentials 
while developing Nepal Trade Integration Strategy 2016.  
987.  Paraguay  made a reference to its National Development Plan.  
988.  Peru stated that the National Development Strategic Plan (PEDN) notes that inclusive 
economic mode rnization is an aspiration of all developing nations. This implies achieving a style of 
economic growth that generates well -being through the massive creation of decent jobs. The key 
factors associated with sustained GDP growth with high employment content  include investment, 
labour productivity, human capital (higher education, percentage of industrial employment), natural 
capital, the size of the domestic market and participation in international trade.  
989.  Philippines  stated the strategies to expand economic  opportunities in the industry and 
services sectors are linked to strengthening economic ties with other countries. The strategies, 
related to participation in international trade, are the following: to increase local and FDIs; to 
increase competitiveness,  innovativeness, and resilience of industry and services; to improve market 
access; to ensure consumer access to safe and quality goods and services; to improve access to 
production networks; to improve the stakeholders’ access to finance; and to improve t he 
stakeholders’ productivity, efficiency, and resilience.  
990.  Saint Vincent and Grenadines  made a reference to indicators highlighted in the National 
Social Development Plan 2013 -2025.  
991.  Senegal  stated that one of the challenges identified in the Plan of Emergi ng Senegal is to 
improve the quality of goods and services, the productivity of the agricultural sector, and to take full 
advantage of global trade expansion. Increased productivity will also help to revitalize cross -sectoral 
linkages between agriculture a nd industry, increase consumer purchasing power gains, create jobs, 
and increase tax revenues to strengthen the Government's investment capacity, particularly in 
infrastructure. Thus, the economic model adopted by the Plan of Emerging Senegal is based on b oth 
export driven projects and factors of job creation, social inclusion and attracting FDI. Thus, the trade 
policy strategy adopted aims to take better advantage of the opportunities expected from 
instruments such as African Growth and Opportunity Act (AG OA), the partnership agreements with 
the European Union, and Senegal's membership of regional economic organizations.  
992.  The development and diversification of production requires the implementation of a rigorous 
export promotion policy consistent with the growth objectives, with a view to accelerate sustainable 
integration into the world economy. For the trade component, CFAF 10.5 billion was mobilized for 
the implementation of several projects, including the project to build commercial platforms for 
agricultural products in rural areas, the construction of a commercial infrastructure complex in 
Diaobe, the creation of areas dedicated to ready -to-use export services, public and public private 
partnership components. Formalization of internal trade can be  achieved by creating wholesale 
markets for cereals and fruit and vegetables.  
993.  The strategy adopted has resulted in a fairly significant increase in exports with an annual 
average rate of 9% over the period 2014 -2018, compared with 7% growth over the perio d 
2009-2013. These exports represent 27% of GDP but are still low relative to other countries. During 
the implementation period of the Plan for Emerging Senegal, exports per capita increased from 
CFAF 111,749.91 to CFAF 142,888.6. They have, therefore, bee n multiplied by 1.27, with a target WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  of reaching 3 in 2023. However, the trade balance remains in deficit. Hence, there is a need to 
maintain efforts to promote exports.  
994.  Togo  stated that the national development strategy includes capacity -building for youth  and 
women to better participate in national, regional and international trade value chains which would 
increase the proportions of women and young exporters in promising sectors.  
995.  Tonga  mentioned the Pacific Region actions plan for entrepreneurship and wom en in business.  
996.  Uganda  stated that the strategy is gender sensitive with regard to economic empowerment, 
with the aim of increasing women participation in production and manufacturing, increasing women 
participation in negotiations, advocacy for women and marginalized groups to have access to finance 
to boost their participation in regional and international trade.  
997.  Zambia  stated that according to the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Policy, 
the Government shall through designated agencies and in collaboration with stakeholders facilitate 
SME access to local and international markets.  
998.  Zimbabwe  stated that more is expected to ensure women get preferential access to finance, 
trade support, trade information, business premises in the form of factor y shell, participation in local, 
regional and international exhibitions to create market linkages for women products and improve 
their networking chances. Funding is also required to strengthen implementation of the COMESA 
Simplified Trade Regime.  
999.  Four RECs indicated that their regional or TC development strategy link economic 
empowerment to participation in international trade.  
1000.  WAEMU  stated that small traders, especially women and young people, are supported in the 
trade facilitation programme  in West Afri ca led by the WAEMU and ECOWAS Commissions.  
1001.  Three South -South providers participating in the questionnaire stated that their regional or 
TC development strategy link economic empowerment to participation in international trade.  
1002.  Eighteen of the 35 responden ts (51%) to the donor questionnaire stated that their AfT 
development strategy includes indicators to track progress or targets on economic empowerment.  
1003.  Australia  stated that for women, SMEs and small -scale farmers, the link is explicit in the 
strategy tho ugh participation in GVCs . Participation in GVCs  can contribute to better working 
conditions and increased productivity, help improve standards of production, facilitate the take up 
of new technology and innovative processes, as well as increase demand for individuals with 
technical skills. Aid for Trade that addresses GVCs  should focus on SMEs . In addition to problems 
associated with scale, SMEs face barriers ranging from inefficient customs procedures and 
inappropriate regulation to low quality or industry standards, and from lack of understanding of 
foreign markets to lack of access to finance. Aid for Trade  that focuses on market and infrastructure 
constraints can help small -scale farmers integrate into GVCs , providing access to higher commodity 
prices and improved technology. Aid for Trade  can empowe r women by helping them participate in 
goods trades in sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, as well as in services.  
1004.  Canada  stated that Canadian market access and capacity building services, implemented by 
the Trade Facilitation Office Canada, for exa mple, provides services to small and medium exporters 
from OECD DAC listed countries, including access to web -based Canadian Market Information, 
match -making with Canadian importers and outreach and capacity building through webinars to 
Trade Support insti tutions and technical assistance for market access. Canada’s contributions to the 
African Trade Policy Centre supported the conclusion of initial negotiations of an AfCFTA  in 
March  2018, signed by 49 out of 55 AU member states as of July 2018.  
1005.  Support to the Policy Centre included technical assistance which, among other activities, 
helped advance the inclusion of specific objectives relating to the promotion and attainment of 
gender equality within the Agreement. The Agreement has the potential to cover a market of 
1.2 billion people, a GDP of USD 2.5 trillion across all 55 AU countries and boost intra -African trade 
by over 50% through tariff elimination.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1006.  Denmark  stated that bilateral programme s allow for support to interlocutor's participation in 
trade pro motion and trade fairs. Most thematic programme s on inclusive growth have development 
engagements on advocacy giving voice to and providing capacity building of national business 
membership organizations (employers' associations, trade associations and tra de unions). The 
objectives include Aid for Trade -related themes, such as regional trade integration, export 
promotion, right regulation, cross -border issues, investment promotion, and private -public 
dialogues.  
1007.  The European Union  made a reference to the EU Commission Communication COM (2017) 
667 of 13 November 2017 and Council Conclusions 15573/17 of 11 December 2017  
1008.  Finland  stated that in some interventions, the target is to help companies grow domestically. 
In some other interventions, the ultimate object ive is to encourage companies to trade across the 
borders and eventually internationally.  
1009.  Ireland  stated that Ireland's Policy for International Development One World, One Future 
outlines that international trade can play a major role in the promotion of e conomic development 
and the alleviation of poverty.  
1010.  Luxembourg  stated that the country aims to enhance the socio -economic integration of 
women and youth. Women and youth are disproportionately facing the consequences of poverty, 
often lacking access to nec essary skills and competencies to actively engage in sustainable and 
productive activities as a means to foster their socio -economic integration. Investing in women’s 
socio-economic integration is a key driver for overall economic growth and sustainable de velopment 
and reduces inequalities in access to quality education and training. Luxembourg will therefore focus 
on the strengthening of employability and promote equal access to decent employment opportunities 
and entrepreneurship, by particularly targetin g women and young people not engaged in education, 
employment or training (NEET).  
1011.  Luxembourg will support the development of initiatives for setting up an enabling employment 
environment for women and youth. This will notably be achieved through enhanced engagement 
with private sector actors to strengthen opportunities for the employment of the domestic workforce 
and to keep pace with the needs of growing and diversifying economies and automation. Luxembourg 
will support the strengthening of vocational tra ining systems and craftsmanship, specifically with 
regards to ICT and green jobs and their alignment with local labour market needs. In partner 
countries, Luxembourg will continue leveraging its expertise in the vocational training sector and 
applying sect or-wide approaches while taking a sectoral -lead whenever possible to contribute to the 
provision of new opportunities for women and young generations.  
1012.  Portugal  stated that as far as the Portuguese Cooperation main partner countries are 
concerned, there is a special care in mutually reinforcing economic diplomacy, external cultural 
action and development cooperation policy, strengthening capacities of countries and institutions, 
promoting good governance, democracy and the consolidation of rule of law, and s upporting local 
economies and the national entrepreneurial sector with a view to attract FDI and contribute to 
increased international integration of partner countries. Therefore, the economic empowerment 
provided for by the Portuguese Development Cooperat ion also contributes to partner countries’ 
integration in international trade.  
1013.  Spain  stated that the country takes economic empowerment into consideration when 
negotiating trade agreements, especially those aspects related to SMEs and gender.  
1014.  Sweden  stated  that women's economic empowerment is linked to trade.  
1015.  Switzerland  highlighted the importance of strengthening trade integration and international 
competitiveness of developing countries as a leveraging factor for the sustainable diversification of 
sources  of growth and job creation.  
1016.  Chinese Taipei made a reference to  projects conducted by International of Cooperation and 
Development Fund.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1017.  The United Kingdom  stated that its development strategy does not necessarily link economic 
empowerment to international trade. However, DFID's Economic Development Strategy links 
economic empowerment with productive employment.  
1018.  The World Bank  stated that the gender and inc lusion pillar of the World Bank Trade Strategy 
aims to deal with the impact of trade -related shocks and to allow greater participation in the benefits 
of trade. Adjustment costs associated with trade liberalization are a major issue. While trade 
provides i mportant opportunities for risk reduction through diversification, greater volatility and 
openness to shocks associated with integration into global markets can have significant adverse 
impacts for some groups. Trade integration may also contribute to skil ls- and gender -differentiated 
inequalities in labour market opportunities and outcomes. Similarly, the forces of economic 
geography imply that the benefits from trade are often concentrated in the largest metropolitan 
areas, so that greater trade may exace rbate inter -regional inequalities within countries.  
1019.  Making globalization more beneficial to the poorest households is critical for the sustainability 
of the gains that have been achieved by the world in recent decades. Informal trade also plays an 
important role in many developing countries, particularly in linking producers of food staples to 
regional markets, and the magnitude of such trade is highly sensitive to the conditions faced by 
traders. Supporting informal traders in growing their busines ses, through lowering trade costs 
including through improving conditions they face at borders and allowing them to grow to more 
formal modes of exchange, is also crucial if the potential for cross -border trade is to benefit the 
poor. 
Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing to support economic empowerment30 
1020.  Agriculture was identified was identified as the top category of AfT financing received for 
economic empowerment for partner developing countries, followed by trade education or training.  
Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing received for economic empowerment: partner 
country's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
30 Refer to index number 27 in the Annex.  
2 (2%)8 (9%)8 (9%)9 (10%)9 (10%)11 (13%)11 (13%)14 (16%)14 (16%)15 (17%)20 (23%)20 (23%)20 (23%)21 (24%)21 (24%)22 (25%)23 (26%)24 (27%)24 (27%)33 (38%)36 (41%)40 (45%)43 (49%)
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50Other trade related needsCommunications infrastructureForestryMineral resources and miningUnsureEnergy supply and generation infrastructureTrade related adjustmentTransport and storage infrastructureBanking and financial servicesTrade-related infrastructureRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Multilateral trade negotiationsTrade developmentBuilding productive capacityFishingTrade policy and administrative managementTravel and tourismBusiness support servicesIndustryTrade policy and regulationsTrade facilitationTrade education/trainingAgricultureWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing received for economic empowerment: partner 
country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Agriculture  20 57% 
Trade facilitation  16 46% 
Trade policy and regulations  16 46% 
Asia Trade policy and regulations  11 50% 
Trade facilitation  11 50% 
Industry  10 45% 
Americas  Trade facilitation  11 61% 
Trade education and training  10 56% 
Agriculture  9 50% 
Oceania  Trade education/training  3 30% 
Business support services  3 30% 
Agriculture  3 30% 
Travel and tourism  3 30% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Trade education/training  20 53% 
Agriculture  19 50% 
Trade policy and regulations  14 37% 
Trade policy and administrative management  14 37% 
Trade facilitation  14 37% 
LLDC Trade education/training  11 50% 
Agriculture  11 50% 
Trade policy and regulations  10 45% 
Trade facilitation  10 45% 
UN SIDS  Agriculture  10 45% 
Trade facilitation  9 41% 
Trade education/training  9 41% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1021.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that as part of the implementation of projects 
related to the revival of agricultural or mining sectors, the country receives trade aid to boost 
production and strengthen the capacity of institutional and human resources. This is the case with 
certain projects such as that of the CIR on the revival of the oil palm sector, project for the 
development of growth poles (PDPC), Programme  of support for the rehabilitation and recovery of 
the agricultural sector (PARRSA), Agricultural Revival Programme  in Equateur Province (PRAPE) and 
the Agricultural Rehabilitation Programme  in Orientale Province (PRAPO). The response also 
mentioned traini ng officials on regional and multilateral trade agreements.  
1022.  Ecuador stated that in banking and financial services, Ministry of Industry and Productivity 
directly articulates with financial institutions to support and obtain seed capital.  
1023.  Equatorial Guinea  stated one of the objectives of the EIF project is to promote trade and 
create productive and commercial capacities.  
1024.  The Gambia  stated that support provided in agriculture aims at strengthening the productive 
capacity development in the sector, value chain s, agribusiness, and agro -processing. Support from 
the EIF, World Bank, and the Youth Empowerment Project seek to promote MSMEs productive WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  capacity development, improve access to energy, development of trade -related infrastructure 
(i.e. roads, storage faci lities), promote youth entrepreneurship, and improve compliance of Gambian 
products to international standards and market requirements.  
1025.  Guinea  stated that the support of the Guinean State's trade financing partners to women's 
and youth cooperatives produci ng various goods to ensure their economic independence is supported 
by the Government. These cooperatives also sometimes pay their share of financing, sometimes in 
kind. This reflects a solid partnership driven by the efforts made by all parties involved.  
1026.  Kazakhstan  made a reference to SME Competitiveness Project. The objective of rendering 
these services is to increase the overall competitiveness of individual small and medium -sized 
enterprises in competitive sectors of Kazakhstan through the implementatio n of a focused and 
comprehensive Supplier Development Programme .  
1027.  Madagascar  stated that the funding categories for economic diversification also commonly 
address economic empowerment needs.  
1028.  Mali stated that EIF funding is used, among other things, to fina nce activities for economic 
empowerment.  
1029.  Papua New Guinea  stated the need to communicate with relevant government agencies to 
provide accurate feedback.  
1030.  Zambia  stated that facilitating market access for small scale cross -border traders through 
initiatives  such as the Simplified Trade Regime and the implementation of the TFA. 
1031.  Zimbabwe  stated that the country benefited from the SADC Regional Intergration. Support 
mechanism facility and funding was channelled towards the creation of a women's chapter FEMCOM. 
Under the SADC Trade Related facility, SMEs are assisted in improving their honey production.   
Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing provided for economic empowerment: donor's 
perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
0 (0%)3 (9%)5 (14%)5 (14%)6 (17%)6 (17%)7 (20%)10 (29%)10 (29%)10 (29%)10 (29%)11 (31%)11 (31%)12 (34%)14 (40%)15 (43%)15 (43%)16 (46%)17 (49%)19 (54%)20 (57%)24 (69%)24 (69%)
0 5 10 15 20 25 30UnsureOther trade related needsMineral resources and miningTrade related adjustmentEnergy supply and generation infrastructureFishingForestryRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Multilateral trade negotiationsTransport and storage infrastructureTravel and tourismCommunications infrastructureIndustryTrade policy and administrative managementTrade-related infrastructureTrade education/trainingBanking and financial servicesTrade facilitationBuilding productive capacityBusiness support servicesTrade policy and regulationsTrade developmentAgricultureWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1032.  Agriculture was identified as the top category of AfT financing provided for economic 
empowerment for partner developing countries, followed by trade development.  
1033.  Trade education or training was identified as the top category of AfT financing provided to 
South-South partners, as indicated by four South -South providers participating in the 
self-assessment questionnaire.  
1034.  Austria  stated that the Austrian Development Bank provides loans and equity to financial 
institutions in partner countries which are fully d edicated for female SMEs, such as the Development 
Bank of Austria's (OeEB) engagement with women's world banking capital partners.  
1035.  The European Union  stated that economic empowerment is mainstreamed across various 
AfT sectors.  
1036.  Finland  stated that women's entrepreneurship is featured especially in business support 
services and agriculture. Finland's support to banking and financial services is small. In Finland's 
perspective, trade and gender is an important topic to discuss in multilateral trade negotiatio ns. 
1037.  Slovak Republic  stated that the categories for AfT financing for economic empowerment are 
similar to the ones selected for economic diversification.  
1038.  Sweden  identified a few important categories of AfT financing for economic empowerment, 
which also inc lude relevant sub -categories.  
1039.  Switzerland  highlighted the importance of increasing the number and quality of jobs if 
economic development is to benefit as many people as possible. Therefore, SECO is not limited to 
projects that drive growth through product ivity gains. SECO also seeks to increase labour market 
participation as much as possible by creating an enabling business environment and promoting 
access to financial services.  
1040.  EBRD   stated that economic inclusion and support for MSMEs are integrated int o EBRD's 
operations across the full portfolio of sectors where EBRD provides financing.  
1041.  The World Bank  identified services including digital as an important category of AfT financing 
provided for economic empowerment for partner developing countries.  
Align ment of Aid-for-Trade  support with the priorities in the development strategy31 
1042.  Fifty-three of the 88 respondents (60%) stated that the AfT support they receive for economic 
empowerment align with the empowerment priorities established in the national or re gional trade 
and development strategies.  
Aid-for-Trade  support received is aligned with the priorities established in the national 
or regional development strategy: partner country's perspective  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  24 69% 
Asia 14 61% 
Americas  9 50% 
Oceania  5 50% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 24 63% 
LLDC 16 73% 
UN SIDS  11 46% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
 
31 Refer to index number 28 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1043.  Barbados  stated that the National Strategy is being revised under the new administration.  
1044.  Benin  stated that the support obtained under the EIF financing is based on the priorities well 
established in the Government Action Plan (GAP) and in the Growth Programme  for Sustainable 
Development (GP2D), which is the new Strategic Framework for Poverty Reduction and derives from 
Benin's National Development Plan.  
1045.  Burkina Faso  stated that the AfT support received for economic empowerment is aligned 
with the empowerment prior ities established in the national or regional trade development strategy. 
This includes the support provided through the EIF, women's income generating activities support 
fund (FAARF), women's empowerment and demographic dividends in the Sahel Project (SWE DD), 
and women's enterprise project. The Project to Support the Integrated Development of the shea 
sector for the economic empowerment of women (PADIFK) is part of the implementation of the 
sustainable development strategy for the shea sector (2015 -2019) d eveloped with the support of 
the ITC. 
1046.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the Asian Development Bank (ADB) funded 
project on youth employment is an example of support provisions to meet the priorities in the 
National Strategic Plan for Development  (PNSD) on the empowerment of women and youth.  
1047.  Ecuador  stated that the country has public -private partnerships that are strategic partnership 
agreements between the public and private sectors for the latter to provide public goods and services 
to citizens,  without disassociating the public sector from its obligations. Its objectives 
include:  encouraging private investor participation, attracting long -term investment and promoting 
economic development. In addition, they allow the State to increase its effici ency and 
competitiveness, as the private sector shares technical knowledge and specific skills with public 
institutions and enterprises. Under Goal 4 of the Lifetime Plan.  
1048.  The Gambia  stated that most of the projects and AfT support interventions are design ed 
based on the priorities of the national development plans.  
1049.  Grenada  stated that the AfT support aligns with the national export strategy and the priority 
sectors that were highlighted in the strategy.  
1050.  Guinea  stated that the country's actual needs in most projects in support of different sectors 
of Guinea are fully taken into account. Some partners have their own priorities, such as agriculture 
or health. However, more often than not, these priorities coincide  with Guinea's needs for Aid for 
Trade  for economic empowerment.  
1051.  Kazakhstan  made a reference to the Business Roadmap 2020.  
1052.  Kiribati  stated that the AfT support is aligned to the Trade Policy Framework which has a 
component on inclusive trade which seeks to  empower youth and women. It is also in line with the 
Kiribati 20 -Year Vision (KV20) Development Plan which promotes trade and private sector 
development.  
1053.  Liberia  stated that the Aid for Trade  received for economic empowerment aligned with 
Liberia’s empowe rment priorities in terms of product capacity development, institutional capacity 
development and sustainability, and increasing women participation.  
1054.  Madagascar  stated that the objectives and results of the EIF project specifically target the 
vulnerable po pulation, particularly women and youth. By way of illustration, one of the objectives of 
the CIR programme  is to create jobs and lift people out of poverty, especially women and young 
people.  
1055.  Mali stated that the support within the CREDD Priority Action Pl an, including the support 
within the framework of the implementation of the National Trade Development Policy, the Agri -Food 
Sector Development Strategy, the support within the framework of the National Gender Policy of 
Mali (PNG Mali), the support from th e AfDB within the framework of the implementation of the Project 
for the Economic Empowerment of Women in the Shea Sector (PAEFFK).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1056.  Mexico  stated that aid is limited to the training of civil servants.  
1057.  Papua New Guinea  stated the country's AfT priorities ma ybe changed from time to time and 
changes to schedules will be considered by annual development partnership dialogue.  
1058.  Peru stated that its general objective is to promote sustainable and inclusive growth and 
investment to improve levels of competitiveness at the regional level and, as a specific objective, to 
strengthen local development and innovation in at least five pilot regions. The intervention logic is 
one of capacity building of key actors involved in regional development and innovation, while shari ng 
the European Union's own experience in this field. Cooperation project for the exporting development 
of the Cusco Region include the KAMAQ Women Artisans in the towns of Ccatcca, Chinchero, Pisac 
and Lares with Inter -American Development Bank (IDB) supp ort.  
1059.  The programme  sought to develop the skills of textile artisan producers and entrepreneurs in 
Cusco, in terms of information, business management, technological innovation, and design, as well 
as to guide the implementation of associative models, to a rticulate with commercial operators in the 
national and international markets, fundamental activities for the achievement of sustainable 
competitive capacities. From 2016 to 2018, thirty -five (35) projects have been carried out with 
international cooperati on to promote economic empowerment. Among the activities developed are 
the support to companies for their participation in international fairs, capacity building programme s 
for internationalization and the promotion of the use of electronic platforms for t rade. 
1060.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  listed some examples of economic empowerment indicators and 
targets in its National Adaptation strategy. In tourism, the country aims to improve access to credit 
for potential small entrepreneurs at the community level, establis h a tourism small enterprise 
empowerment fund, provide incentives for small business development enterprises in the tourism 
sector. In agriculture, the country aims to train farmers in agronomic practices, work closely with 
private sector to facilitate the  development of agro -processing enterprises, construct shade  houses, 
train fishers  in navigation, diving, provide support in primary processing of fish, and food safety, 
establish an aquaculture demonstration and training unit.  
1061.  In ICT, the country aims to  provide undergraduate and graduate scholarships in ICT, promote 
certification in ICT, provide distance learning facilities to facilitate access to ICT, establish a business 
incubator, implement projects to promote the use of ICT in all communities, such a s the development 
of Community Access Points in community centres. In financial Services, the country aims to increase 
collaboration between the authorities and service providers to enhance existing products and 
develop new products to respond to changes i n the global financial services market. Economic 
Empowerment indicators and programme s are also referenced in the Country Poverty Assessment, 
the National Poverty Reduction Strategy and the National Social Protection Strategy.  
1062.  Saint Vincent and Grenadines  made a reference to its National Economic and Social 
Development Plan 2013 -2025.  
1063.  Senegal  stated that the support received under Aid for Trade  has enabled the implementation 
of a number of projects, including the project to support the implementation of the  EIF Programme  
(EIFP), project to improve the competitiveness of Senegalese mango (PACMS), project on metrology, 
project to develop a strategy for the development of trade in services, and a strategy for the 
development of electronic commerce. These projec ts are in line with the Ministry of Trade's sectoral 
policy and development letter (LPSD) and five strategic axes that structure the Ministry's sectoral 
policy, namely security and consumer protection and market regulation; effective integration of 
Senegal  into the sub -regional, regional and international trade;  private entrepreneurship, SMEs and 
the informal sector; promotion of local products; legal and institutional framework and governance 
of the Ministry.  
1064.  Togo  stated that this support should be direct ed more towards promoting access to finance 
and strengthening the country's productive and trade capacities.  
1065.  Two RECs stated that the AfT support they receive for economic empowerment align with the 
empowerment priorities established in the national or reg ional trade and development strategies.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1066.  Uganda  stated that most of the projects and programme s are gender sensitive, targeting 
inclusive growth.  
1067.  Zambia  stated that the AfT categories for economic empowerment are falling in sectors that 
have been prioritized in national strategies.  
1068.  Zimbabwe  stated that more is expected to ensure women get preferential access to finance, 
trade support, trade information, business premises in the form of factory shell, participation in local, 
regional and international exhibitions to create market linkages for women products and improve 
their networking chances. Funding is also required to strengthen implementation of the COMESA 
Simplified Trad e Regime.  
1069.  Four South -South providers participating in the questionnaire stated that the AfT support they 
receive for economic empowerment align with the empowerment priorities established in the national 
or regional trade and development strategies.  
1070.  Twenty -eight of the 35  respondents (80%) to the donor questionnaire stated that the AfT 
support they receive for economic empowerment align with the empowerment priorities established 
in the national or regional trade and development strategies.  
1071.  Australia  stated that AfT investments are developed in partnership with partner countries, 
on the basis of needs identified in their national development strategies. For example, in the 
Philippines, Australia delivers targeted advice and technical assistance that ai ms to enhance 
foundations for inclusive economic growth. These programme s aim to have a catalytic effect on the 
Philippine Government’s reform efforts and capacity development. Investments are targeted and 
leverage the Philippine Government’s own resources  and are based on the Philippines’ own 
commitments in the Philippine Development Plan (2017 -2022). For example, the Plan includes a 
commitment to implementing programme s that encourage women to participate in the labour 
market. In line with this objective,  Australia's Investing in Women Initiative works with the private 
sector to increase the number of businesses achieving gender equity in their workplaces, increase 
impact investment in women’s MSMEs, and remove barriers to women’s economic empowerment, 
through national policy and regulatory change, and positively influencing public attitudes.  
1072.  Canada  stated that in line with the aid effectiveness principles, Canada provides assistance 
in collaboration with host country governments and in support of national  poverty reduction 
strategies. The project on supporting women’s economic empowerment (WEE) in the Philippines 
supports the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) and several key institutions that have a 
mandate in enterprise development. Expert Deployment M echanism for Trade and Development 
(EDM) is a global facility that responds to request for technical assistance from developing countries 
to better negotiate, implement, adapt to and benefit from trade and investment agreements with 
Canada. This is an acti vity that is directly aligned and respond to trade priorities established in 
partner countries.  
1073.  Czech Republic  stated that the AfT support provided is in line with the strategy of partner 
countries.  
1074.  Denmark  stated that as part of the initial programmi ng of AfT support in bilateral contexts, 
Denmark performs scanning and identification of the partner country. This includes aligning as much 
as possible with the national country context including national plans for poverty alleviation, 
economic and sustainab le growth.  
1075.  The European Union  stated that the priorities may not always coincide in full, but the 
European Union systematically incorporates empowerment priorities in its policy dialogue with 
partner countries.  
1076.  Finland  stated that women and youth are prior itized in almost all national strategies.  
1077.  Iceland  stated that the development assistance provided by Iceland is aligned with partner 
countries' national strategies.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1078.  Ireland  stated that its partners (e.g. ITC and WTO STDF ) work to ensure that activities are  
aligned with partners' priorities in their national or regional trade and development strategies and 
the WTO Enhanced Integrated Framework Diagnostic Trade Integration Studies.  
1079.  The Republic of Korea stated that the proposals for the grant ODA projects are  submitted 
to its embassies after its partner country's deliberation on national priorities. Once submitted, the 
proposals are reviewed in view of the Republic of Korea Government's Country Partnership Strategy 
for core partner countries. The Country Partn ership Strategy in itself reflects the national priorities 
based on the national development strategy of the partner country, which has reconfirmed the 
Country Partnership Strategy through policy dialogue. With regard to proposals from non -core 
partner cou ntries support is still delivered with the considerations to the national priority stated 
either in the national development strategy or government policy.  
1080.  The Netherlands  stated that the AfT support provided is aligned with ECOWAS gender and 
trade action  plan.  
1081.  Spain   stated that the country tries to align the AfT support provided with the priorities 
established in partner countries' national or regional development strategy.  
1082.  Sweden  stated that the AfT support provided is always based on regional, country , or where 
relevant, local demand and needs.  
1083.  The EBRD   stated that the EBRD strategy for the empowerment of women, young people 
and small businesses is tailored to each of the countries according to their specific needs as identified 
in the diagnostics ass essments. The EBRD works closely with governments in each of the countries 
to be able to address the identified weaknesses through policy dialogue and the private sector 
financing it provides. A recent example of this is the technical assistance support th e EBRD provided 
to the Government of Tajikistan to identify the constraints women entrepreneurs face in the country. 
The priority areas include the promotion of gender -sensitive public procurement, the establishment 
of gender policy screening mechanism, th e reform of childcare service provision, all of which were 
integrated in the Medium -Term National Development Plan for 2019 -2020 by the Government of 
Tajikistan.  
1084.  The UNDP  stated that as is the case for economic diversification, the alignment of 
development support in economic empowerment with national development priorities, trade -related 
or otherwise, is a fundamental programma tic principle of UNDP.  
1085.  The World Bank  stated that its interventions seek to build upon and leverage national efforts 
at mainstreaming economic empowerment objectives into trade and investment policy project design 
and monitoring.  
Aid for Trade  contributes to women's economic empowerment32 
1086.  Providing ac cess to finance was identified as the best way Aid for Trade  can make a 
contribution to women's economic empowerment, as stated by 63 partner country respondents and 
25 donors participating in the self -assessment questionnaire. Partner country respondents also 
considered improving access to information as equally important for Aid for Trade  to make a 
contribution to women's economic empowerment.  
 
32 Refer to index number 29 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  The best ways Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to women's economic 
empowerment: partner country's perspectiv e 
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Providing access to finance  27 77% 
Supporting the economic development of women  25 71% 
Improving access to information  24 69% 
Asia Improving access to information  16 70% 
Supporting the economic development of women  15 65% 
Providing access to finance  14 61% 
Americas  Improving access to information  14 78% 
Providing access to finance  14 78% 
Supporting the economic development of women  11 61% 
Upgrading business skills  11 61% 
Oceania  Improving access to foreign markets  8 80% 
Improving access to information  7 70% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Providing access to finance  29 76% 
Improving access to information  27 71% 
Supporting the economic development of women  25 66% 
LLDC Improving access to information  17 77% 
Providing access to finance  16 73% 
Supporting the economic development of women  14 64% 
UN SIDS  Improving access to foreign markets  20 83% 
Improving access to information  18 75% 
Providing access to finance  17 71% 
Upgrading business skills  17 71% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Different ways Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to women's economic 
empowerment  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1087.  Burkina Faso  referenced that the following AfT initiatives can make a contribution to women’s 
economic empowerment: social nets project (burkid naog saya); programme  to support the 
transformation of the economy and job creation (PATECE) - Sahel Women's Empowerment and 
Demographic Dividend Project (SWEDD ) project; and the Special Programme  for the Creation of 
Employment for Young People and Women (PRCE), in its component 4.  
1088.  Cabo Verde  stated that Aid for Trade  can help improve women’s economic empowerment 
through the following: improving digital and ICT a wareness; improving import/export knowledge 
(terms, procedures, among others); improving foreign language skills oriented for global trade; and 
upgrading water supply infrastructure.  
1089.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that to date, it is recommended t hat the gender 
dimension be taken into account in all project activities. This is the case with projects such as the 
EIF, the Project of Development of Growth Poles (PDPC), Project to the rehabilitation of the 
Agricultural Sector (PARRSA) and others that h ave always planned activities for women. In the next 
five years, the PNSD expects to take steps towards strengthening women's empowerment capacities 
and to advocate for the implementation of women's rights laws.  
1090.  Equatorial Guinea  stated that businesses nee d accessible information that is reliable, clear, 
and transparent.  
1091.  Guinea  stated that on several occasions that the Government of Guinea has supported 
women's associations to participate in trade promotion activities such as fairs and exhibitions and 
2 (2%)20 (23%)26 (30%)28 (32%)32 (36%)33 (38%)34 (39%)34 (39%)37 (42%)45 (51%)49 (56%)50 (57%)52 (59%)59 (67%)63 (72%)63 (72%)
0 (0%)1 (3%)1 (3%)6 (17%)8 (23%)15 (43%)14 (40%)12 (34%)17 (49%)8 (23%)20 (57%)15 (43%)10 (29%)19 (54%)23 (66%)25 (71%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%Other (please specify)Upgrading the energy infrastructureUpgrading the transport infrastructureImproving the provision of servicesSupporting the growth and economic development of YouthImproving the flow of goods at borders (Trade Facilitation)Improving digital connectivityUpgrading ICT skillsSupporting the elaboration of gender-sensitive policiesSupporting rural tradeUpgrading business skillsImproving access to global value chainsImproving access to foreign marketsSupporting the growth and economic development of womenImproving access to informationProviding access to finance
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  study  tours, among others. Training and information activities for women on topics such as how to 
take advantage of trade benefits and access markets in the region (ECOWAS rules) and markets in 
European Union countries are also carried out.  
1092.  Honduras  stated that  Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to women’s economic 
empowerment through projects and programme s such as Credimujer and Ciudad Mujer, which 
coordinate the Economic Autonomy module and the Regional Programme  for Women Entrepreneurs.  
1093.  Iraq stated that i dentified several categories of aid and projects which will equip Iraqi women 
with a high level of skills. In addition, they empower women in different fields to help address the 
barriers that limit women's role and initiatives in society. Lastly, these ki nds of projects support 
women's capacities to make progress in the economy, which ultimately leads to growing business.  
1094.  Kazakhstan  stated that it has a long -standing policy of legislative support to women. It is 
the first Central Asian country to set up a national entity to promote gender equality. In 2016, 
Kazakhstan approved the Concept of Family and Gender Policy up to 2030, to prevent gender -based 
discrimination and imbalances. UN Women Kazakhstan supports Government efforts to develop and 
implement nat ional and sectoral programme s to engage socially vulnerable women in 
entrepreneurial activities and initiatives to improve the public and business environment for socially 
vulnerable women. The country’s effort to support entrepreneurship among its female population is 
evident with its support of the UNDP Country Development Programme  Document for 2016 -2020, 
which aimed, among many other things, to provide more specialized support to female 
entrepreneurs. This document was created with the help of Kazakhsta n’s Government.  
1095.  Kiribati  stated that Aid for Trade  can contribute to women’s economic empowerment by 
establishing an open integrated market to support women in business. In addition, AfT initiatives 
can help assist women to get storage facilities to reduc e post -harvest losses along the value chain 
as well as implement a project on value -addition targeting participation of women in key value chain 
products related to breadfruit, banana, pandanus, coconut. AfT programme s in the country can also 
help assist V irgin Coconut Oil (VCO) producers and coconut sap sugar producers to improve 
productive capacity and increase access to markets.  
1096.  Implementing programme s to assist women to access trade finance through grants or 
guarantee schemes targeting key productive s ectors can also contribute to women’s economic 
empowerment. Implementing programme s to assist women access modern processing technology 
to facilitate value addition in fisheries can also contribute as well as implementing a project on 
tourism and value -chain linkages targeting women in agriculture, fisheries, among other sectors. 
Lastly, Aid for Trade  can contribute to women’s economic empowerment by Implementing projects 
targeting women in business and digital marketing.  
1097.  Madagascar  stated that two  major groups of women entrepreneurs, GEFM (Group of Women 
Entrepreneurs of Madagascar) and EFOI (Business Women of Indian Ocean), develop business 
projects in favour of women.  
1098.  Mali stated that Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to women’s economic empo werment 
through the EIF's initiatives by supporting SMEs in agro -food processing, supporting the programme  
for the empowerment of women and development, and supporting the project for the economic 
empowerment of women in the shea sector (PAEFFK).  
1099.  Mauritius  stated that Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to women’s economic 
empowerment by providing the appropriate assistance such as mentoring and incubator 
programme s for MSME's at the international level. In addition, coherent frameworks to boost MSMEs’ 
productive capacity to untapped potential markets can make an important contribution to women’s 
economic empowerment.  
1100.  Mexico  referenced the Women's SME Programme . This programme  promotes the 
development of women entrepreneurs through financing with preferen tial characteristics. It is aimed 
at MSMEs  led by women, of any trade, industry or service, who need financial resources to grow. It 
is promoted by the National Women's Institute (INMUJERES), the National Financial Institute (Nafin) 
and the National Entrep reneur's Institute (Inadem). To participate, one needs to be a woman 
between 18 and 75 years old and own a business in the formal sector. The main benefits are: access WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  to financing with preferential interest rates and the elimination or reduction of guaran tees with 
respect to other products available in the market. No collateral or joint and several liability is 
requested for loans of up to 500 thousand pesos, and no mortgage guarantee is requested in 
amounts of up to MXN 2.5 million.  
1101.  The programme  reaches  the target population through commercial banking. In order to obtain 
financing, entrepreneurs must go directly to the banks that manage the programme , which will 
evaluate the financial situation of the business, that there is an adequate credit history, t hat the 
legal and financial information is up to date and will make a decision on the approval of the credit. 
Until August 2018, 11,240 loans for MXN 12,412 million have been granted for working capital and 
the acquisition of fixed assets.  
1102.  Since the creat ion of the National Institute of Entrepreneur (INADEM) in 2013, support has 
been given to the empowerment of women. Thus, in 2014, the Moving Women Mexico programme  
began operations, with the objective of providing women entrepreneurs with access to resour ces, 
networks, information, technical and administrative assistance so that they can prepare their 
negotiation plans and have all the elements to start or grow their business.  
1103.  Nigeria  stated that Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to women’s economic em powerment 
through the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development (FMWA&D) Micro -credit 
scheme, and; the Business Development Fund for Women (BUDFOW); Women Fund for Economic 
Empowerment (WOFEE); and ECOWAS Gender Development Center Micro -Credit. All three have 
aided women entrepreneurs to grow their business from micro -small scale businesses  
1104.  Papua New Guinea  referenced the Rural Economic Development Programme , the Industrial 
Centres Developed, and the Microfinance Expansion Programme . In the c ountry, where males are 
dominant in all activities, it is helpful for women to participate, be recognized, and stay competitive. 
After such initiatives, women will automatically realize that they have equal power to make decisions 
that benefit themselves, their families, communities and the nation. Safe City Programme  (mobile 
bill payment system) makes it safer for women to engage in markets and gives them the opportunity 
to pursue economic empowerment. Through the UNDP and aid organizations, and with the a ssistance 
of local women, women's empowerment in the country is finally taking shape.  
1105.  Peru stated that Aid for Trade  has made a contribution to women’s economic empowerment 
through the Cooperation Project for the Export Development of the Cusco Region. The  project aimed 
to help Kamaq Women Artisans in the localities of Ccatcca, Chinchero, Pisac and Lares with the 
support from Inter -American Development Bank (IDB). The Programme  sought to develop the skills 
of the producers and businesswomen textile artisans  of Cusco in information, business management, 
technological innovation and design, as well as to guide the implementation of associative models, 
to articulate with commercial operators in the national and international markets, all of which are 
fundamenta l activities for the achievement of sustainable competitive capacities.  
1106.  Senegal  stated the Plan for Emerging Senegal (PES) has always made the empowerment of 
women a priority. Thus, in the Priority Action Plan of the second phase of the Plan for Emerging 
Senegal, the following actions are planned: implement an incentive framework; strengthen women's 
empowerment; and integrate the gender approach in promising sectors. Thus, the financing of the 
Medium -Term Plan projects should contribute to the economic empo werment of women. Specifically, 
the financing of the projects identified in Axes 3 and 4. Private sector development and the 
development of growth sectors and value chains will enable women to achieve real economic 
empowerment.  
1107.  Ukraine  stated the following  three strategic goals for women’s economic empowerment: 
export -oriented companies implementing gender equality, especially in promotion and 
decision -making (equal gender opportunities in business); women and their businesses develop their 
capacity; women -led businesses having access to national and international business networks for 
business opportunities and export.  
1108.  Zambia  stated that the Agricultural Development and Value Chain Enhancement (ADVANCE) 
Project seeks to improve women’s and the youth’s livel ihoods by increasing agricultural production 
and enhancing value chain for agro -products. Zambia implemented the Trade and Investment 
Project for Enhanced Competitiveness of Zambia's Apiculture Sector (TIPEC -ZAS) from 2012 -2015. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  The project strengthened th e relationships between producer groups and processors and supported 
the construction of bulking centres to provide easy access to markets for honey and honey products. 
The TIPEC -ZAS project also integrated gender -inclusive elements by providing equipment which 
attracted women participation in the sector.  
1109.  Improving access to information, improving access to foreign markets, and improving the flow 
of goods at the borders were identified as the best ways Aid for Trade  can contribute to women's 
economic empowe rment by regional economic communities.  
1110.  TMEA  provided several examples to show how Aid for Trade  can contribute to women’s 
economic empowerment. Firstly, advocacy and policy reform can play a positive role. TMEA partners 
successfully lobbied for revision o f cross -border policies that inhibit women’s participation in trade. 
In Rwanda, TMEA successfully lobbied for removal of a permit requiring women traders to pay for 
infants to cross borders. Failure to acquire the permit meant women traders had to leave th eir 
children on one side of the border in order to trade on the other. TMEA also supported formal 
adoption of the Cross -Border Traders Charter (CBTC), publicising rights and responsibilities of 
traders and border officials to all border users. This has bee n implemented at the Mirama Hills and 
Mutukula borders and will be rolled out to others across East Africa.  
1111.  Increased transparency and predictability of the trading requirements provides an incentive 
for women to engage in formal trade from which they can increase the economic gains from trade 
Dialogue and Coordination. As a result of gender awareness training a nd in support of the transition 
of women traders from informal or illegal routes to formal channels, the East African Revenue 
Authorities decentralised issuing of simplified Certificates of Origin to women trader associations.  
1112.  These reforms at Katuna, Tav eta and Mirama Hills resulted in time savings and an increase in 
female traders using formal border crossings. Women are now represented in Joint Border 
Management Committees through which they present and resolve cases of harassment. TMEA 
supported inclus ion of 13 women trader representatives in committees at one -stop border posts at 
Mutukula, Katuna, Busia and Malaba and are able to effectively influence reforms on policy and 
practice in cross border trade.   
1113.  Access to information is also important. Women  traders are more vulnerable to abuse and 
harassment due to information asymmetry. TMEA established resource centres at seven border posts 
(Busia, Malaba, Mutukula, Taveta, Mirama Hills, Katuna and Namanga). Here, women traders access 
market and trading in formation, report cases of sexual harassment, or seek arbitration in cases of 
illegal confiscation of goods. On average, 300 traders (male and female) visit the resource centres 
every month. Through its partners, TMEA facilitates simplification and transla tion into local 
languages of information on the key trade policies and procedures. Thereby empowering even those 
traders with basic literacy to trade gainfully.  
1114.  South -South providers considered the improving access to information as the best way Aid for 
Trade can contribute to women's economic empowerment.  
1115.  Twenty -seven out of the 35 donors participating in the self -assessment questionnaire 
identified women's economic empowerment as a priority in their development or AfT strategy.  
1116.  Australia  stated that women’s economic empowerment is explicitly included as a priority in 
the strategy for Australia’s AfT investments. The strategy states that empowerment of women should 
be incorporated in every investment. Aid for Trade  can empower women by hel ping them to 
participate fully and effectively in goods trades in sectors such as agriculture and fisheries, as well 
as in services. Women’s economic empowerment is also one of three priorities in Australia’s Gender 
Equality and Women’s Empowerment Strateg y. 
1117.  Austria  stated that in 2017, the Austrian Development Cooperation has launched a new policy 
paper on "Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women and Girls ". It is a strategy for 
implementing the EU Gender Action Plan II in Austria´s Development Cooper ation. It is based on 
three pillars, including the empowerment of women and girls being one of them.  
1118.  Canada  stated that Canada supports women and girls to ensure they develop their skills, 
accede to decision -making positions and fully take part in the econ omic growth of their communities, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  including by supporting technical and vocational training and entrepreneurship. Canada also 
promotes social inclusion, labour rights, the right to own property and access to financing for women. 
Inclusive growth is growth that works for everyone, as stated in SDG 8 on decent work and economic 
growth. It cannot be achieved without the full and equal participation of women as economic actors. 
This means giving women more opportunities to succeed and greater control over house hold 
resources and decision making, as well as reducing their heavy burden of unpaid work, including 
child care. Empowering women to be full participants in the economic lives of their families and 
communities can lead to broader economic growth and lastin g change.  
1119.  Denmark  stated that the country works to create favourable framework conditions for the 
private sector, so that it may increase its contribution to the SDGs in developing countries. A 
conducive business climate stems from the respect for human r ights and most prominently, gender 
equality.  
1120.  Estonia  stated that there is a specific evaluation marker for women's economic empowerment 
in Estonian development cooperation activities.  
1121.  The European Union  made a reference to the Commission Communication COM (2017) 
667 of 13 November 2017 and Council Conclusions 15573/17 of 11 December 2017.  
1122.  Finland  stated that gender equality and the rights and status of women and girls is Finland's 
number one priority.  
1123.  Ireland  stated that the December 2017 Council Conclusio ns on updating the joint EU Strategy 
on Aid for Trade  notes that Aid for Trade  can be an effective driver for promoting women's economic 
empowerment among others .  
1124.  Japan  stated that in May 2016, Japan formulated the Development Strategy for Gender 
Equality  and women’s economic empowerment as one of thematic policies under the Development 
Cooperation Charter. The strategy focuses on promoting of women’s and girl’s rights, building the 
capacity of women and girls to reach their full potential, and the advance ment of women’s leadership 
in politics, economy and other public fields.  
1125.  The Republic of Korea stated that  women’s economic empowerment is included in several 
ODA projects’ priorities. However, it's not clear to say that all Republic of Korea's Aid for 
Trade-related policies put women's economic empowerment on their priority lists. For example, 
KOICA’s sectoral mid -term strategy is dedicated to the gender equality incorporated elements in 
direct linkages to women's economic empowerment. The strategic object ive of economic 
empowerment for gender equality covers three programme s, namely girl's vocational capacity 
building; comprehensive rural community development; and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). 
Two outcomes of the programme , are the establishment o f allocation system for economic and 
productive resources with gender equality and the enforcement of gender -equal training and 
education for acquiring decent jobs.  
1126.  Slovak Republic  stated that Medium -Term Strategy for Development Cooperation of the 
Slovak Republic includes the cross -cutting topic of equal opportunities. Support can be provided 
through projects empowering women's economic activities.  
1127.  Spain stated that the country has financed different projects focusing on women, in particular 
on women's ent repreneurship and capacity building.  
1128.  Sweden  stated that among the eight priority areas in the Swedish Policy Framework for 
Development Cooperation, women's economic empowerment features strongly in several of those 
priorities, including gender equality, pr oductive employment and trade.  
1129.  Switzerland stated that State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) projects systematically 
integrate the gender dimension, including social standards, legal requirements, gender -related risks.  
1130.  The United Kingdom  stated tha t the country is committed to increasing women’s role in 
trade, recognizing the importance of trade as a lever for equality. At the Commonwealth Heads of 
Government Meeting in April 2018, the United Kingdom Secretary of State for International Trade WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  announ ced that the United Kingdom would ensure a gender -responsive approach to trade and a 
future trade policy that upholds equality. The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom announced the 
SheTrades Commonwealth programme , a vital part of that ambition. SheTrade s Commonwealth 
aims to increase economic growth and job creation by enabling the increased participation of 
women -owned businesses in international trade. All economic development work will tackle gender 
discrimination and work to deliver safer, more secur e and higher -return work for women.  
1131.  The EBRD   stated that the EBRD Strategy for the Promotion of Gender Equality 2016 -2020 
supports building equitable and sustainable economies. EBRD contributes to women’s economic 
empowerment and ability to trade through its investments and policy dialogue initiatives. Openness 
to trade is a key factor for long -term economic growth. As such, the way in which the promotion of 
gender equality can augment and expand its impact is taken into consideration by the ERBD. 
Addressing underlying gender inequalities affecting women’s access to economic opportunities can 
support and extend the durability of economic performance.  
1132.  The UNDP  stated that empowerment, not only economic empowerment, is at the core of 
UNDP's approach to development.   
1133.  The World Bank  made a reference to its trade and competitiveness global practice gender 
practice note for fiscal year 2017 -2020.  
1134.  Responses from donors indicated providing access to finance as the best way Aid for Trade  
can contribute to wo men's economic empowerment.  
1135.  Australia  stated that in Myanmar, it supports the Livelihoods and Food Security Trust Fund 
(LIFT), which promotes resilient and inclusive growth by enabling poor women and men to "step up" 
into commercial value chains; "step out " of marginalized farming into more profitable off -farm jobs; 
and "hang in" by using agriculture as an affordable safety net. LIFT is supporting women who have 
migrated to Yangon from rural areas to find safe employment as skilled workers in the garment 
sector. LIFT's Industry Solutions for Safe Employment has established a garment skills training 
centre, formal accreditation standards, and links with private sector garment factories and job 
placement services. Employment of the women graduates as paid skil led workers in garment 
factories sees them earning around double the salaries they would have earned without training. 
Australia’s Women Trading Globally programme  is training women entrepreneurs in developing 
countries on how to make their businesses "exp ort ready".  
1136.  The programme  is a two -week intensive training course provided by the Export Council of 
Australia, which also includes networking events to link the women to Australian women 
counterparts, as well as ongoing mentoring. Australia also partners with the ILO's Better Work 
Programme  to improve conditions for workers in garment factories in South Asia and Southeast Asia. 
The programme  supports about 2 million workers across 1,400 factories, about 80% of whom are 
women. It improves workplace standard s, including wages, working hours, maternity leave and 
labour relations. The programme  has improved productivity in participating factories by up to 25%, 
and profitability by up to 22%.   
1137.  Canada  recognizes that in order to maximize the impact of our actions  and help eradicate 
poverty, it must defend the rights of women and girls so they can participate fully in society. And 
for Canada's  actions to be sustainable, it must ensure that they contribute to building local capacity. 
To achieve that, the country con siders applying the gender lens and gender equality criteria to AfT 
projects, where applicable.   
1138.  The European Union  referenced the EU Aid-for-Trade  Report 2018. The E uropean Union 
designed a Women Economic Empowerment blending project in support of the Wom en's Financial 
Inclusion Fund of Women's World Banking, with a contribution of EUR 10 million. Its aim is to boost 
financial and non -financial capacities to support women financial inclusion, economic empowerment, 
employment and capitalize on the opportuni ties of digitalization.   
1139.  In Afghanistan, the National Export Strategy (NES) developed under the EU -funded 
"Advancing Afghan Trade " (AAT) project, identifies sectors with high potential for exports and job 
creation, particularly for women and young people. For each of these sectors – carpets, dried fruits 
and nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables, saffron, marble and granite, precious stones and jewellery  -  it WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  proposes measures to overcome weaknesses currently weighing on international competitiveness. 
For inst ance, the strategy calls for organizing or strengthening farmers’ associations to overcome 
fragmentation and foster economies of scale.  
1140.  In Bolivia, the project implemented by European Partnership for Democracy will address 
constraints to socioeconomic rights of female workers along two value chains: chestnuts harvest 
and processing and mining. In Congo, all objectives in the EU -funded "Projet de Renfoncement des 
Capacités Commerciales et Entrepreneuriales II" (PRCCE II) are disaggregated b y gender in view of 
the importance of women's economic empowerment in private sector development and in particular 
their role in the agricultural sector and the informal economy.  
1141.  The Regional Integration Support Mechanism (RISM) Programme  in Eswatini is m ainly focused 
on empowering women entrepreneurs and minimizing cross -border barriers that women face when 
they trade with South African and Mozambican counterparts. The new trade -related 
technical -assistance programme  of Arise Plus for Laos, incorporated t he gender indicators of the 
National Socioeconomic Development Plan 2016 -2020 such as the number of women business 
owners, gender equality in employment, gender equality in training and education. Activities of the 
programme  will also build on the work of the Lao Women’s Union (LWU) in promoting laws on 
developing and protecting women such as the Convention on Eliminating All Forms of Discrimination 
Against Women (CEDAW) .  
1142.  In Nepal, gender disaggregated data are available for E uropean Union trade support pr ojects. 
In South Africa, a new Gender Equality Women Empowerment (GEWE) programme  has been 
developed.  
1143.  Finland  stated that all factors indicated in the questionnaire are key to women’s economic 
empowerment.  
1144.  Ireland  made a reference to the WTO STDF  Results Booklet and the ITC Impact Brochure 
2018.  
1145.  The Republic of Korea  stated that the above answer is based on the Aid for Trade -related 
programme s described in the Gender Equality Mid -Term Strategy (SO1). It expresses the main 
priority target for the Republic of Korea's  programme , but it doesn't in any way represents the Korea 
International Cooperation Agency's (KOICA)  view on the priority for Aid for Trade . 
1146.  The United Kingdom  referenced the SheTrades Commonwealth programme s. These 
programme s aim to provide direct support to 3,000 women -owned businesses through intensive 
training and mentoring as well as deliver an inno vative data gathering tool – "SheTrades 
Outlook" - on trade and gender to help governments access data required to understand the barriers 
women face to trading freely and equally; thereby promoting better policymaking for the benefit of 
women entrepreneur s across the Commonwealth.  
1147.  The World Bank  referenced the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We -Fi), which was 
announced at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in July 2017 and launched at the Bank -Fund Annual Meetings 
in October. It harnesses the public and priv ate sectors to open new doors for women entrepreneurs 
across the developing world. With funding of over USD 350 million from 14 governments, this 
collaborative  partnership among governments, multilateral development banks (MDBs), and other 
stakeholders has  been designed to unlock financing for women -led/owned businesses in developing 
countries, including in the most challenging environments.  
1148.  We-Fi will support women entrepreneurs by scaling up access to financial products and 
services, building capacity, e xpanding networks, offering mentors, and providing opportunities to 
link with domestic and global markets. It will also assist governments in creating enabling 
environments for women in business. The first round of We -Fi funding allocations were announced 
on 19 April 2018, with USD 120 million slated for three programme s designed to address the unique 
barriers facing women entrepreneurs in developing countries. This first round of allocated funding is 
expected to mobilize over USD 1.6 billion in additional funds from the private sector, donors, 
governments and other development partners, twice the amount originally targeted for We -Fi over 
its lifetime.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1149.  The first round includes funding for proposals from the IsDB to complement and expand 
successful initiativ es in Yemen, Mali and Nigeria; the Asian Development Bank to improve the 
business environment for women in Sri Lanka; and the World Bank Group for global, regional and 
country specific activities to increase public and private sector support for women in b usiness, with 
a focus on the poorest and most fragile environments.  
Forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can best support women's economic 
empowerment33 
1150.  Trade education or training was identified as the best form of AfT financing that can best 
support wome n's economic empowerment, as stated by 46 partner country respondents and 
17 donors participating in the self -assessment questionnaire.  
1151.  Burkina Faso  highlighted the importance of a gender mainstreaming project in private sector 
development in Burkina Faso,  financed by the gender common fund. The project amounts to 
CFAF 237,011,060. It was implemented from 1 to 31 January 2018, benefitting 1,614 women.  
1152.  Guinea  stated that AfT financing to support women’s economic empowerment can be directed 
towards trade facilitation. In addition, training and information for women in modern trade 
techniques, for example, in compliance with export standards and documentation requirements, 
greatly assist women in their empowerment.  
Areas of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support women's economic empowerment: 
partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Trade education/training  26 74% 
Agriculture  23 66% 
Trade facilitation  22 63% 
Asia Trade education/training  11 48% 
Business support services  11 48% 
Banking and financial services  11 48% 
Americas  Trade education/training  11 61% 
Trade facilitation  10 56% 
Banking and financial services  10 56% 
Oceania  Agriculture  7 70% 
Trade education/training  6 60% 
Communications infrastructure  6 60% 
Business support services  6 60% 
Travel and tourism  6 60% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Trade education/training  28 74% 
Agriculture  27 71% 
Business support services  23 61% 
 
33 Refer to index number 30 in t he Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LLDC Trade education/training  14 64% 
Business support services  11 50% 
Building productive capacity  11 50% 
UN SIDS  Agriculture  15 63% 
Trade education/training  13 54% 
Communications infrastructure  12 50% 
Business support services  12 50% 
Travel and tourism  12 50% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Areas of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support women's economic empowerment  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1153.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that various categories of AfT financing can 
contribute to the success of women's empowerment  
1154.  Honduras  stated that AfT financing to support women’s economic empowerment can focus 
on efforts to generate specific products aimed at women's entrepreneurship (e.g., Credimujer) and 
programme s supporting women's rural enterprises.  
1155.  Iraq stated that when women are given access to the opportunities available without barriers, 
they would have a greater role in decision making and great participation in political structure.  
4 (5%)6 (7%)8 (9%)8 (9%)15 (17%)17 (19%)17 (19%)19 (22%)21 (24%)22 (25%)26 (30%)28 (32%)28 (32%)32 (36%)32 (36%)32 (36%)34 (39%)38 (43%)40 (45%)43 (49%)45 (51%)46 (52%)55 (63%)
0 (0%)3 (9%)4 (11%)1 (3%)3 (9%)3 (9%)6 (17%)8 (23%)3 (9%)8 (23%)9 (26%)18 (51%)2 (6%)5 (14%)20 (57%)7 (20%)7 (20%)15 (43%)16 (46%)17 (49%)17 (49%)17 (49%)21 (60%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%DonorsOther trade related needsForestryMineral resources and miningMultilateral trade negotiationsRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Trade related adjustmentTrade-related infrastructureEnergy supply and generation infrastructureTrade policy and administrative managementCommunications infrastructureTrade developmentFishingTransport and storage infrastructureBuilding productive capacityTravel and tourismIndustryTrade facilitationTrade policy and regulationsBanking and financial servicesBusiness support servicesAgricultureTrade education/training
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1156.  Madagascar  stated that emphasis should be placed on women entrepreneurs' access to 
finance, at attractive rates and less rigid conditions in terms of requirement for guarantees and 
sureties.  
1157.  Maldives  stated that due to statistical records, it is difficult to identify the specific areas in 
which the country receives support. However, Maldives has identified several c ategories in which 
AfT support would be required.  
1158.  Mauritius stated that tailor -made and concessionary financing for MSMEs engaging in trade 
is a form of AfT financing that best support women’s economic empowerment.  
1159.  Nigeria  stated that AfT financing can foc us on strengthening policy framework, providing an 
enabling environment for trade and improving ICT infrastructure.  
1160.  Papua New Guinea  stated that most women in the country are engaged in agriculture 
activities and marketing of products. Hence, several forms  of AfT financing would be needed to 
contribute to women’s empowerment.  
1161.  Zambia  stated that the Government has set policies or interventions to promote women's 
economic empowerment as highlighted in its National Trade Policy.  
1162.  Trade facilitation and trade ed ucation or training were identified as the best forms of AfT 
financing to support women's economic empowerment, as stated by three RECs participating in the 
self-assessment questionnaire.  
1163.  TMEA  stated that the provision of grants to implementing partners is  key as it facilitates 
interventions more downstream (i.e. sub -national and local level) which delivers more sustainable 
impact. This also enhances both the operational and technical capacity of the implementing partners 
(e.g. private sector or civil socie ty organizations) and thus improves service delivery and effective 
representation. Providing technical assistance is also important in order to build institutional capacity 
for both implementing and collaborative partners across the region.  
1164.  One South -South  provider, Indonesia, highlighted the importance of human capital 
development.  
1165.  Trade education or training was identified as the best form of AfT financing to support women's 
economic empowerment, as stated by 21 donors.  
1166.  Canada  stated that to strengthen wo men’s economic empowerment, Canada promotes local 
procurement that fosters businesses run by women, and supports them by strengthening women’s 
skills, capacities, and influence in value chains. Other actions will include supporting SME 
development by stren gthening their competitiveness, diversity and resilience. Canada will also seek 
to fund responsible investment and transparent supply chain development and diversity initiatives 
in support of women’s economic empowerment.   
1167.  The European Union  stated that wo men’s economic empowerment can be addressed 
through all forms of AfT financing, from gender -sensitive trade policy formulation to empowering 
women in productive sectors.  
1168.  The Republic of Korea  stated that linking good education with training and providing q uality 
job for women are key. Moreover, establishing gender -equal allocation systems of economic and 
productive resources, such as land, capital, infrastructure, among others, and increasing women's 
participation in decision making are important factors to  promote women’s economic empowerment.  
1169.  New Zealand  identified the support to the informal private sector and women's cooperatives 
as an important form of AfT financing to support women’s economic empowerment.  
1170.  Sweden  stated that the selected categories of AfT financing in support of women’s economic 
empowerment also include all sub -categories, which are as relevant, but to a different extent 
dependant on the context. Women's economic empowerment also needs to be mainstreamed and 
supported through all  progra mmes and in all thematic areas.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1171.  The United Kingdom  stated that the country funds the ITC women and trade programme , 
which helps women entrepreneurs to access markets and join international supply chains. All of the 
programme s, including the trade programme s, must demonstrate that they have meaningfully 
considered gender issues in line with the Gender Equality Act, whi ch came into force in May 2014. 
The Act ensures that all programme s can demonstrate and have considered the impact of the 
intervention on gender issues before funding decisions are taken.  
1172.  The World Bank  stated that AfT financing in services can support wo men’s economic 
empowerment.  
Success factors of Aid-for-Trade  support for women's economic empowerment34 
1173.  Fifty-six of the 88 partner country respondents identified alignment of AfT support with 
national or regional priorities as the top factor contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting women's economic empowerment.  
Top factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women's economic 
empowerment: part ner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Alignment with national/regional priorities  27 77% 
Country ownership  21 60% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  21 60% 
Asia Alignment with national/regional priorities  16 73% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  16 70% 
Sufficient funding and implementation timelines  14 61% 
Americas  Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 10 56% 
Alignment with national/regional priorities  8 44% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  8 44% 
Oceania  Capacity to draft funding applications  6 60% 
Country ownership  6 60% 
Mobilization of domestic private investment  6 60% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Alignment with national/regional priorities  31 82% 
Country ownership  26 68% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  23 61% 
LLDC Alignment with national/regional priorities  17 77% 
Country ownership  13 59% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  13 59% 
UN SIDS  Alignment with national/regional priorities  14 58% 
National/regional coordination  13 54% 
Capacity to draft funding applications  12 50% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  12 50% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
 
34 Refer to index number 30 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women's economic 
empowerment  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1174.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that thanks to new communication techniques, 
women can increase their production and have easy access to markets.  
1175.  Guinea  stated that the gender issue is taken into account by the Government as a priority. 
This is reflected, for example, in the Government’s structure and among political actors. The factors 
cited here are the means that Guinea is using to achieve its ambition of promoting gender and 
economic empowerment, which is undoubtedly one of the keys to the success of government action.  
1176.  Hondura s stated the following factors, in order of priority: contribute to the success of 
Aid for Trade  in promoting women’s economic empowerment ; institutional capacity to implement 
the projects; sufficient funds and adequate execution periods; interest of donor s in certain projects 
or programme s; and good digital ICT connectivity.  
1177.  Iraq stated that the following factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting 
women’s economic empowerment: access to finance; role of the internet, especially social 
networking sites; and identification of constraints and barriers that challenge the women's 
empowerment.  
2 (2%)5 (6%)21 (24%)21 (24%)26 (30%)29 (33%)29 (33%)30 (34%)33 (38%)36 (41%)37 (42%)37 (42%)39 (44%)46 (52%)56 (64%)
2 (6%)0 (0%)14 (40%)2 (6%)9 (26%)13 (37%)4 (11%)9 (26%)11 (31%)4 (11%)5 (14%)10 (29%)24 (69%)18 (51%)21 (60%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%OtherUnsureGood digital and ICT connectivityLeveraging of foreign direct investmentServices capacityMobilization of domestic private investmentNational/regional coordinationCoordination among donorsGood trade-related infrastructureCapacity to draft funding applicationsDonor interest in specific projects/programmesSufficient funding and appropriate implementation timelinesCountry ownershipInstitutional capacity to implement projectsAlignment of aid-for-trade support with national/regional priorities
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1178.  Kiribati  stated that there are limited programme s supporting women 's economic 
empowerment. The Government, however, has put in place relevant policies  to guide the economic 
empowerment of women and there is a need for stronger collaboration with development partners 
to support women -oriented economic empowerment.  
1179.  Mauritius  stated that creating a sense of urgency in SMEs to be more risk -taking through 
capacity -building programme s. 
1180.  Nigeria  stated that promoting an enabling environment along with political will are factors 
that contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women’s economic empowerment.  
1181.  Panama  stated that improving access to foreign markets is an important factor t hat 
contributes to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women's economic empowerment.  
1182.  Papua New Guinea  stated that the participation of women in economic activities remains to 
be a challenge given the cultural status of women in the country. The response noted the importance 
of promoting all factors supporting women's economic empowerment.  
1183.  Zambia  stated th at the Government and donor community’s recognition of the importance of 
women's economic empowerment in improving the living standards of communities.  
1184.  Two RECs indicated national or regional coordination, funding, and appropriate 
implementation timelines as the top factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting 
women's economic empowerment.  
1185.  TMEA  stated that it is important that institutional capacity and coordination is supported at 
all levels of women's economic empowerment intervention  (i.e. at regional, national and local level, 
including border crossing). In order to have effective change management, it is important to 
institutionali ze gender responsive reforms and enable women in trade to transition from informal to 
formal trade. For  this, more long term and sustainable AfT investments are necessary.  
1186.  Trade education or training was identified as the top factor contributing to the success of 
Aid for Trade  in promoting women's economic empowerment by two South -South providers.  
1187.  Twenty -one of the 35 donors identified country ownership as the top factor contributing to the 
success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women's economic empowerment.  
1188.  Australia  stated that other factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting 
women’s economic empowerment include: integrating women's economic empowerment in 
Aid for Trade , economic diplomacy and trade efforts; advocating for women's economic 
empowerment in multilateral and regional fora, in multilateral development banks and economic 
policy fora; and ensuring trade work advances gender equality objectives.  
1189.  Canada  stated that women’s economic empowerment is essential to inclusive economic 
growth. However, barriers to women’s voice, influence and leadership undermine women’s access 
to econo mic opportunities. Roadblocks that prevent them from owning assets or accessing financial 
services, or that restrict them socially, are examples of the challenges . Canada has been working to 
address some of these barriers to help unlock women’s rights and their potential to contribute to 
social and economic development. These efforts endeavour to drive inclusive economic growth, 
reduce the gender gap and lessen inequality.  
1190.  In 2017 -2018, Canada supported several multilateral initiatives aimed at advancing w omen’s 
economic empowerment and leadership, including funding the International Finance Corporation’s 
Banking on Women Programme  with the Bank of Palestine. The corporation has piloted an innovative 
training programme  for women entrepreneurs in the region,  combining access to financial products 
with non -financial services such as financial management lessons and mentoring. This was done to 
boost the growth of women -owned SMEs . As a result of this Mini -MBA programme , women have 
doubled their revenues and pro fits, registered their businesses and created new jobs. Similarly, 
Canada's contributions have supported the International Development Association's efforts to 
address women’s economic rights. The association has tackled issues that prevent women from 
contributing equally to economic growth, such as financial inclusion. This USD  205 million regional WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  project permitted access to conditional cash transfers in order to prevent early marriages and school 
dropouts.  
1191.  Between 2015 and 2017, the association’s operat ions allowed 130,000 women to get direct 
access to their own financial products and services. Canada is also promoting the professional 
development of female supervisors and regulators from developing countries via the Toronto 
Centre’s Core Curriculum Cert ificate Course. This course welcomed female sector supervisors from 
banking, insurance, pensions, securities, deposit insurance, microfinance and cooperatives. In 2017, 
18 of 19 tuition scholarships for international programme s were awarded to female parti cipants. In 
2017-2018, Global Affairs Canada continued its important support to the Kashf Foundation, a 
micro -finance institution in Pakistan, for women's economic empowerment. Since the programme ’s 
inception, more than one million women have been trained in basic financial literacy and about half 
a million women have been trained in business finance.  
1192.  More than 25,000 women have received business development training; they later reported 
an average increase in sales of their products of 50%. On average, wo men supported by the project 
have increased their incomes by about 30% and increased their savings by 60%. Advocacy 
campaigns highlighted constraints that women face in social and economic spheres. Campaigns also 
raised awareness about a woman's right to p articipate in economic activities, and the detrimental 
effects of early marriage and child sexual abuse. These initiatives are great examples how Canada’s 
feminist approach to international development contribute to women’s economic empowerment.  
1193.  Denmark  stated that gender equality is associated with social gains on many levels. Studies 
show that if the world that oppress ed or left women's potential unexploited changed course, the 
economic gains would be massive. If women were to experience full gender equa lity in all countries 
in 2025, the world's economic added value could increase by an estimated 25%. To reap this benefit, 
girls and women must have the right to participate as active citizens in society, including in the 
economic life, and have the right t o inherit and own land.  
1194.  The European Union  stated that access to finance is one of the factors that contributes to 
the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women’s economic empowerment.  
1195.  New Zealand  stated that a sound analytical understanding of gender and the political 
economy analytical which informs the design and prioritization of activities is a factor that contributes 
to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women’s economic empowerment. T his includes 
recognition of the legislative and customary frameworks that dictate women’s rights to financial 
independence, as well as the societal norms that enable or constrain economic empowerment, 
meaningful participation of women in the prioritization , design, governance and management of 
economic opportunities; recognizing the lack of universality of women, with rural, disabled and 
ethnic minorities requiring context specific approaches; identifying female and male champions 
within political and priva te sector leadership to promote and support women’s empowerment; and 
strong advocacy as well as business networks across communities, islands and nations with clear 
shared objectives.  
1196.  Sweden  stated that the focus is on the factors determining the success of the specific support 
projects undertaken. However, if determining success in terms of a country’s efforts to advance 
women’s economic empowerment as a whole would, additional factors should be included, such as 
good trade related infrastructure, leverag ing of FDI and mobilization of domestic private investment.  
1197.  The UNDP  stated that confidence -building and networking opportunities are factors that 
contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting women’s economic empowerment.  
Aid for Trade  contribu tes to the economic empowerment of MSMEs35 
1198.  Providing access to finance was identified as the best way Aid for Trade  can make a 
contribution to women's economic empowerment, as stated by 63 partner country respondents and 
25 donors participating in the self -assessment questionnaire. Partner country respondents also 
 
35 Refer to index number 32 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  considered improving access to information as equally important for Aid for Trade  to make a 
contribution to women's economic empowerment.  
Different ways Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to the  economic empowerment of 
MSMEs  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
0 (0%)16 (18%)31 (35%)33 (38%)34 (39%)35 (40%)35 (40%)35 (40%)37 (42%)40 (45%)44 (50%)49 (56%)56 (64%)59 (67%)67 (76%)69 (78%)
1 (3%)1 (3%)7 (20%)9 (26%)5 (14%)7 (20%)9 (26%)6 (17%)12 (34%)18 (51%)14 (40%)17 (49%)21 (60%)23 (66%)13 (37%)24 (69%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%OtherSupporting the elaboration of gender-sensitive policiesSupporting the growth and economic development of YouthUpgrading ICT skillsUpgrading the transport infrastructureSupporting the growth and economic development of womenSupporting rural tradeUpgrading the energy infrastructureImproving the provision of servicesImproving digital connectivityImproving the flow of goods at borders (Trade Facilitation)Upgrading business skillsImproving access to informationImproving access to global value chainsImproving access to foreign marketsProviding access to finance
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  The best ways Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to the economic empowerment of 
MSMEs: partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Providing access to finance  30 86% 
Improving access to information  27 77% 
Improving access to foreign markets  24 69% 
Asia Improving access to foreign markets  20 87% 
Improving access to GVCs  19 83% 
Providing access to finance  18 78% 
Americas  Improving access to foreign markets  13 72% 
Providing access to finance  12 67% 
Improving access to GVCs  10 56% 
Oceania  Improving access to foreign markets  8 80% 
Upgrading business skills  8 80% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Providing access to finance  31 82% 
Improving access to foreign markets  29 76% 
Improving access to information  27 71% 
Improving access to GVCs  27 71% 
LLDC Improving access to foreign markets  18 82% 
Providing access to finance  17 77% 
Improving access to GVCs  16 73% 
UN SIDS  Providing access to finance  20 83% 
Improving access to foreign markets  18 75% 
Improving access to GVCs  16 67% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1199.  Cabo Verde  stated that improving digital and ICT awareness can help contribute to the 
economic empowerment of MSMEs. In addition, improving import/export knowledge (terms, 
procedures); improving foreign language skills oriented for global trade; and upgrading water supply 
infrastructure can make a contribution to the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1200.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the Aidcom Project of the European Union 
worked on the competitiveness of Congolese SMEs through the CDE project which worked on the 
revival of the coffee sector. The EIF and the Development Project of Growth Poles (PDPC) supported 
SMEs on the revival of the oil palm sector. The Agricultural Rehabilitation and Recovery Support 
Project (PARRSA) supported SMEs in rice production.  
1201.  Ecuador  stated that it is important to implement programme s, contests and challenges of 
research, development, and innovation (I+D+I). In addition, Aid for Trade  can make a contribution 
to the economic empowerment of MSMEs through the implementation of a na tional programme  of 
associativity for MSMEs, to generate clusters. At Ministry of Industries and Productivities (MIPRO), 
it has the following programme s/services that contribute to the economic empowerment of MSMEs: 
MIPROLAB, which is a business incubator with technological linkage and productive development; 
RUM and RUA are unique registers of MSMEs and Artisans, respectively, that allow access to a series 
of benefits such as technical assistance and capacity building (business plan, business models, 
training and training), packaging design, packaging and products, corporate image, sector 
catalogues, business rounds, showrooms, and fairs; easy exports include an e-commerce platform, 
which allows assistance for shipments of products of MSMEs and artisans int ernationally.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1202.  Guinea  stated the establishment of appropriate financing mechanisms for MSMEs, which 
Guinea has developed in recent years, has led to an increase in the number of these types of 
economic interest groupings (EIGs). However, it should be noted that Guinea's limited capacity in 
this area does not allow for sustained development of this sector.  
1203.  Kazakhstan  stated the availability of business financing is of great importance to help make 
a contribution to the economic development of MSMEs. The Business Road Map 2020 initiative, the 
productive Employment and Mass Entrepreneurship Development programme  and loa ns provided by 
international financial organizations are the key tools here, according to the Minister of National 
Economy.  
1204.  Kiribati  referred to projects indicated earlier, which are aimed at improving economic 
empowerment of both women and MSMEs.  
1205.  Madagasc ar stated that as well as promoting the economic empowerment of women, MSMEs 
(sometimes managed by women and/or young people) have strong needs across the board, 
including financing, energy access, skills, industrial protection, standards compliance and ac tion 
research.  
1206.  Mali referenced the EIF in Mali, which supports promoters of SMEs processing agrifood and 
cosmetic products.  
1207.  Nepal  stated that Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to the economic empowerment of 
MSMEs by integrating the country’s products i n the GVC programme ; through business and 
entrepreneurship skills development for MSME projects; and similar other projects could contribute.  
1208.  Papua New Guinea  referenced the following AfT initiatives that can make a contribution to 
the economic development  of MSMEs: Medium -Term Development Plan 3, the Rural Economic 
Development Programme ; Industrial Development Centre; Agriculture & SME funding; SME Credit 
facilitation; and the Credit Guarantee scheme. The country has women in micro bank, that is a 
governme nt-funded bank used to subsidize loans to help women actively participate in MSMEs and 
effectively level the playing field. This is normally called "Grassroots Loan" which means unemployed 
people with no hope are given second chances in life to pursue busi ness. For example, if a person 
has a trade store, markets which the bank will check through and identify if it will generate revenue 
so they fund the loan and monitor it and repayment is collected easily and the grassroots bank 
assists the business growth,  especially for women.  
1209.  Samoa  stated with the exception perhaps of the BAT cigarette and Samoa Breweries 
manufacturing company, Samoa's private sector is substantially made up of MSMEs. As such, 
interventions to support economic diversification and empowerm ent should be focused on what 
works for MSMEs in Samoa including cultural considerations. There's a shift from subsistence or 
communal living to business start -ups; from micro businesses to small entities and then 
consideration of expanding small and mediu m businesses to diversify into exports, among others.  
1210.  Senegal  stated SMEs represent 99.8% of the economic units in Senegal. This shows the 
importance that they must be given to developing Senegal. This is why Senegal has set up several 
youth integration programme s, such as the National Agency for the Promotion of Youth Employment 
(ANPEJ), the Support Project to Promote the Employment of Youth and Women (PAPEJF), the 
National Office of Vocational Training (ONFP). These projects are supported by numerous fin ancing 
funds including the General Delegation to Rapid Entrepreneurship of Youth and Women (DER), 
Agency for the Development and Supervision of Small and Medium Enterprises (ADEPME), The 
Guarantee Fund for Priority Investments (FONGIP), the National Bank f or Development (BNDE). 
However, there is a lack of consultation and harmoni zation of actions in certain phases of the 
integration process such as guidance, integration through paid employment, financing for project 
leaders, training and integration through self -employment.  
1211.  This is why, with financial support from the Implementation Unit of the Enhanced Integrated 
Framework Programme  (UNMOCIR), ADEPME has set up the Senegal SME Network, which brings 
together financial and non -financial su pport institutions to better harmonize interventions in favour 
of SMEs. To ensure the economic empowerment of MSMEs, the Plan for Emerging Senegal indicates 
that the industrialization process will have to be accelerated, focusing on the development of more  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  efficient SMEs; the promotion of national champions; the attraction of direct investment to capitalize 
on innovation opportunities; the development of agricultural, tourism and mining potential; and the 
development of an oil ecosystem and a more innovativ e digital economy.  
1212.  Vanuatu  provided the production of virgin coconut oil in Vanuatu as an example of how Aid 
for Trade  can make a contribution to the economic empowerment of MSMEs. There are coconuts in 
all islands but production of virgin coconut oil, whi ch is a higher value product,  and which can be 
produced by MSMEs and women, is badly coordinated and production potential is largely ignored. If 
there was a strategy of increased production and selling of coconut oil, there is a 100% chance that 
MSMEs and women will pick this up very quickly. There is current discussion of poor copra prices 
when in fact the conversation should be directed towards virgin coconut oil production and other 
coconut -based products.  
1213.  Zambia  referenced the Skills Development and Ent repreneurship Project (SDEP) which aims 
at improving the capabilities and competitiveness of MSMEs in light manufacturing industries and 
the cassava value chain. In addition, the country highlighted the Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise 
Development Project whi ch benefits women and youth by increasing the productivity of fish.  
1214.  Improving access to information, improving access to foreign markets, and improving the flow 
of goods at the borders were identified as the best way Aid for Trade  can contribute to the eco nomic 
empowerment of MSMEs by RECs. 
1215.  Four South -South providers considered improving access to information as the best way Aid 
for Trade  can contribute to the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1216.  Responses from donors indicated providing access to finance as the best way Aid for Trade  
can contribute to the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1217.  Australia  partners with the Asian Development Bank’s Trade Finance Programme  to improve 
the provision of finance to SMEs that are looking to engage in international trade. The programme  
improves the prudential and governance practices of banks, so that they can offer trade finance 
products with the support and backing of the ADB. In 2017, the programme  supported about 
USD 4.5 billion in transactions by more than 2,800 SMEs, without default or loss.  
1218.  Canada  stated that skills development and financing are two barriers faced by MSMEs around 
the world but are particularly challenging variables in developing environments. Access to education 
and training at any stage can make or break an  entrepreneurial venture, starting even at developing 
an entrepreneurial spirit. Financing poses another challenge for MSMEs. MSMEs, particularly at the 
micro -level, don’t always fit into traditional credit systems; they’re typically too small for traditio nal 
banking and financing needs are often too big for community - or family -shared loan systems. 
Microfinance systems can offer a transformational means for SMEs to acquire much -needing 
financing and serve women -led micro -enterprises.  
1219.  Canada does its part in providing much needed access to business financing in developing 
countries, including through Canada's development finance institution, FinDev Canada, and support 
for Convergence. Canada’s partnership with the International Development Desjardins Entrep reneur 
Financial Centre (EFC) project is another important example. The project provides credit and 
financial services to underserved populations in four countries: Tunisia, Zambia, Tanzania and 
Panama. Since the project’s inception, 25,922 client entrepre neurs —9,181 women and 
16,741  men—have received financial services in EFCs supported by the project. Through those EFCs, 
23,331 local jobs were created or maintained. One example is that of EFC Tunisia, which introduced 
small- and medium -sized business loan s, vehicle loans and loans for women entrepreneurs to more 
effectively meet the needs of its clients.  
1220.  In 2017, EFC Tunisia tripled its female clientele and nearly doubled the size of its workforce 
(128, or almost half the staff, were women). A range of in novative technology was developed that 
improved support for business decision -making, increased the EFC’s efficiency and improved access 
to financial services and payment solutions. A credit process automation solution went live in 2017  at 
EFC Tunisia, sup ported by a business intelligence software package from software manufacturer 
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  feasibility of a mobile payment service that allows users to easily pay with money i n their account 
and make payments to the EFC on a cell phone .  
1221.  The European Union  referenced examples of E uropean Union AfT projects which can be 
found in the E uropean Union Aid-for-Trade  Report 2018. In Zimbabwe, with a budget of 
EUR 10 million, one of th e programme s aims to support the reform of the policy and regulatory 
environment, as well as to strengthen the Government’s capacity to manage and implement trade 
agreements. Another objective is to support the competitiveness of MSMEs as well as to attend  the 
informal sector allowing its actors to earn meaningful livelihoods.  
1222.  In Latin America, EU AL -INVEST 5.0 programme  started operations in the first semester of 
2016. It is designed to contribute to productivity growth and the sustainable internationaliz ation 
process of SMEs in Latin America through organizations that represent the private sector and 
promote its development, such as Chambers of Commerce, Trade Associations and Export Promotion 
Agencies, inter alia . Within the framework of the programme , Latin American SMEs will continue to 
benefit from training and technical assistance to improve their productivity and competitiveness, 
participate in business meetings in relevant trade fairs, and have access to quality information as 
well as advice on mark et opportunities, potential clients or business partners and EU legislation and 
policies.  
1223.  More than 25,000 companies are expected to directly benefit from AL -INVEST 5.0. In 2018, 
the European Union contracted an investment/blending project to support MSME finance in Samoa, 
Tonga, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands (EUR 12 million) through the Asian Development Bank; 
and to promote renewable energy in various Pacific SIDS (EUR 8 million) through the FMO  (Dutch 
Development Bank) from the Netherlands. In Central America, E uropean Union AfT programme s are 
coordinated with the DINAMICA Initiative, a tripartite initiative executed by the Central American 
Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) with support from  the KfW Group and the European Union, 
through its Latin American Investment Facility (LAIF). The objective is to strengthen the business 
ecosystem for MSMEs, especially for new, young and/or innovative MSMEs, in addition to reinforcing 
the financial secto r in order to promote adequate access to financial services for these MSMEs at a 
regional level.  
1224.  At the regional level, in the Steering committee of the EU -funded programme  ADESEP, there 
is a member of DINAMICA, and vice versa. Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine have signed 
with the E uropean Union ambitious Association Agreements including the establishment of Deep and 
Comprehensive Free Trade areas (DCFTA). Jointly with EBRD, EIB and KfW Group, the E uropean 
Union has put in place the DCFTA Facil ity for SMEs in order to increase SMEs competitiveness, ease 
their access to finance, help them to seize new trade opportunities and comply with new food safety, 
technical and quality standards, as well as with environmental protection measures implied by the 
DCFTA implementation.  
1225.  The DCFTA Facility consists of a set of programme s to be implemented principally by EBRD 
and EIB. SMEs will benefit from the EU support through the following four types of instruments: risk 
sharing mechanisms; currency hedging; i nvestment incentives; and technical assistance. The grant 
element from the EU will be blended with European Fund for Investment (EFIs) loan to maximize 
the impact of the DCFTA Facility. The DCFTA Facility is an integral part of the EU4Business Initiative 
grouping together all the EU support for SMEs in the region of the Eastern Partnership. The DCFTA 
Facility will receive approximately EUR 200 million of grants from the EU budget to unlock at least 
EUR 2 billion of new investments by SMEs in the three count ries, to be financed largely by new loans 
supported by the Facility.  
1226.  The Republic of Korea  stated that in order to foster entrepreneurship for youth in APEC 
members, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) in the Republic of Korea and the APEC Secretariat 
hosted the APEC Global Networking Programme  for Young Entrepreneurs with a theme of “Startups, 
Globally Connected”, held in the Republic of Korea, 25 -27 October 2018.  
1227.  Sweden  stated that to most MSMEs, international trade is too distant to be an objective.  
Instead, focus often needs to be on strengthened local competitiveness. At the same time, 
participation in GVCs  and trade facilitation is especially difficult for MSMEs and improvements in 
these areas could significantly support the empowerment of MSMEs.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1228.  EBRD  referenced the EBRD Strategy for the Promotion of Gender Equality 2016 -2020, which 
supports building equitable and sustainable economies. EBRD contributes to women’s economic 
empowerment and ability to trade through its investments and policy dialogue  initiatives. Openness 
to trade is a key factor for long -term economic growth and as such the way in which the promotion 
of gender equality can augment and expand its impact is taken into consideration by the ERBD. 
Addressing underlying gender inequalities  which affect women’s access to economic opportunities 
can support and extend the durability of economic performance.  
Forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support the economic empowerment of MSMEs36 
1229.  Trade education or training was identified as the bes t form of AfT financing that can best 
support women's economic empowerment, as stated by 46 partner country respondents and 
17 donors participating in the self -assessment questionnaire.  
Areas of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support the economic empowerment of MSMEs  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Trade facilitation  23 66% 
Trade education/training  22 63% 
Business support services  21 60% 
Asia Trade facilitation  12 52% 
Trade education/training  12 52% 
Building productive capacity  12 52% 
Agriculture  12 52% 
Industry  12 52% 
Americas  Trade facilitation  13 72% 
Business support services  13 72% 
Trade education/training  12 67% 
Oceania  Trade education/training  6 60% 
Business support services  6 60% 
Agriculture  6 60% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Trade education/training  25 66% 
Business support services  25 66% 
Transport and storage infrastructure  24 63% 
LLDC Trade facilitation  15 68% 
Trade education/training  13 59% 
Business support services  13 59% 
UN SIDS  Business support services  16 67% 
Trade education/training  15 63% 
Banking and financial services  15 63% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
36 Refer to index number 33 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Areas of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support the economic empowerment of 
MSMEs: partner country's perspective  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1230.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  referenced the financing of the European Union through 
COMESA to develop the incubator for the leather sector in the country.  
1231.  Ecuador  stated that implementing co -financing programme s to obtain quality management 
system standards according to national and international market requirements is a form of AfT 
financing that best supports the economic empowerment of MSMEs. It is important to promote 
productive and commercial chains (e.g., local, national, regional and international), through 
financing for the im plementation and development of the Supplier Development Programme  (PDP) 
in the selected production chains. Another way to support the economic empower of MSMEs is to 
implement training and technical -assistance programme s for the improvement of MSMEs in bu siness 
management and production processes, through the co -financing of technical assistance for the 
analysis and optimization of the productive, administrative and financial processes of MSMEs. 
2 (2%)3 (3%)10 (11%)13 (15%)16 (18%)21 (24%)23 (26%)27 (31%)30 (34%)30 (34%)30 (34%)31 (35%)33 (38%)38 (43%)35 (40%)36 (41%)36 (41%)41 (47%)44 (50%)47 (53%)50 (57%)53 (60%)54 (61%)
1 (3%)1 (3%)3 (9%)2 (6%)6 (17%)5 (14%)8 (23%)1 (3%)10 (29%)14 (40%)11 (31%)6 (17%)6 (17%)20 (57%)5 (14%)23 (66%)21 (60%)14 (40%)17 (49%)13 (37%)16 (46%)18 (51%)17 (49%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%UnsureOther trade related needsForestryMineral resources and miningTrade related adjustmentMultilateral trade negotiationsRegional trade agreements (RTAs)FishingTrade policy and administrative managementTrade-related infrastructureCommunications infrastructureEnergy supply and generation infrastructureTravel and tourismTrade policy and regulationsIndustryTrade developmentBuilding productive capacityTransport and storage infrastructureBanking and financial servicesAgricultureTrade facilitationBusiness support servicesTrade education/training
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Ecuador highlighted the importance of implementing programme s, contests and addressing 
challenges of Research, Development, and Innovation (I+D+I).  
1232.  The improvement of existing laboratories and construction of new laboratories to research and 
develop potential products on demand in world markets also helps support t he economic 
empowerment of MSMEs. In addition, access to technology for the development of innovations of 
MSMEs in production processes, products and markets is important. AfT financing can also help 
support the economic empowerment of MSMEs by facilitatin g the access of MSMEs to national and 
international market structures. In addition, cofinancing for the participation of MSMEs in national 
and international fairs, missions and business rounds in order to carry out trade promotion 
contributes to supporting  the economic empowerment of MSMEs. In the same light, cofinancing for 
market studies and commercial opportunities for MSMEs products along with cofinancing for the 
design and structuring of programme s for new exporters, with benefits focused on simplifyin g 
procedures and processes in the destination countries supports the economic empowerment of 
MSMEs. It is also important to promote a national associativity programme  for MSMEs, with a focus 
on the generation of clusters, in accordance with territorial pro ductive vocations. This, coupled with 
international technical assistance to develop partnerships in MSMEs by productive sector and 
product, helps generate clusters for better levels of production and quality to access international 
markets .  
1233.  The use of cap ital funds must be promoted along with making financial contributions to 
increase the amount of seed capital in the programme , which finances projects with innovative 
products or processes. Lastly, AfT financing can support the economic empowerment of MSME s 
through financial contributions to venture capital programme s, which aim to financially support 
innovative companies in more advanced stages of productive maturity, consolidation and expansion.  
1234.  Guinea  stated that the economic empowerment of MSMEs, which is the basis for the 
development of a country, especially a LDC, necessarily requires the provision of equipment and 
operating resources for these units. Guinea is trying to give this very vulnerable social group the 
necessary support for their development . In the field of smallholder agriculture, MSMEs frequently 
continue to benefit from the support of the Government and its partners for their survival.   
1235.  Kazakhstan  stated that one of the main priorities of the ministry’s activities is focused on 
SMEs as th e main source of employment and investment attraction. The direction includes 
streamlining regulations, improving the business climate, increasing access to finance, improving 
support measures and removing barriers in industry. SME and entrepreneurship dev elopment 
programme s need strengthening as well as SME management skills development, SME innovation, 
SME internationalization, and financial literacy development .  
1236.  Madagascar  stated that MSMEs need support and coaching. In this sense, it is necessary to 
review contracts with large companies as part of the outsourcing of services.   
1237.  Maldives  stated that due to statistical records, it is difficult to state in which areas we are 
receiving support.  
1238.  Mali stated that the following forms of AfT financing best support the economic empowerment 
of MSMEs: support for the implementation of the quality management system; support for market 
development; support for certification standards; and implementation of appropriate financing 
instruments.  
1239.  Nigeria  stated that the forms of AfT financing that best support the economic empowerment 
of MSMEs include stre ngthening the policy framework; providing an enabling environment for trade; 
and improving on ICT infrastructure. Trade facilitation was identified as the best forms of AfT 
financing to support the economic empowerment of MSMEs, as stated by three RECs participating in 
the self -assessment questionnaire.  
1240.  Papua New Guinea  stated that most MSMEs are currently facing difficulties in accessing 
financial support from banks and other financial institutions. Further, MSMEs lack capacity in 
developing their business es. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1241.  Zambia  stated that the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Policy, which is 
being revised, outlines strategies or policy interventions on economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1242.  Three South -South providers identified trade facilitation and trade educ ation or training as the 
best forms of AfT financing that can best support the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1243.  Trade development was identified as the best form of AfT financing to support the economic 
empowerment of MSMEs, as stated by 23 donors. In additi on, 21 donors indicated building 
productive capacity as the best form of AfT financing that can best support economic empowerment 
of MSMEs.  
1244.  Canada  stated that individuals and enterprises in developing countries, particularly those led 
by women, often need help to become more competitive and innovative, and to crack market 
opportunities. What they need are targeted efforts to promote inclusive markets and support 
entrepreneurship. This requires expanding access to capital, including for vulnerable people, 
smallholder cooperatives and associations. It also requires rural transformation, renewable 
technologies, value addition in the natural resource sector and investments in quality infrastructure. 
In 2017 -2018, Canada pursued a range of initiatives in line wit h these objectives, such as support 
for: entrepreneurship and skills training; access to new technologies and resources; access to 
markets and value chains; and infrastructure and equipment that can help unlock economic 
opportunities.  
1245.  In Egypt, Canada par tnered with the Aga Khan Foundation Canada on a USD 10.9 million 
project to improve the livelihoods of women, men and youth. In 2017 -2018, 1,169 students 
benefited from technical and soft skills training such as management, computer skills, and English 
language courses. High -potential enterprises that adopted a gender -sensitive mentoring programme  
received business development services and coaching. As a result, a number of Egypt’s women, men 
and youth have improved their employability and entrepreneurship skills and opportunities. Canada 
continues to join forces with the Aga Khan Foundation Canada on the Aswan Skills Development 
Programme . This USD 10 million initiative aims to improve the employment and employability of 
young women and men in the Aswan Go vernorate, one of the three poorest regions in Egypt. With 
support from Canada ’s Seneca College and an international institution, Aga Khan University, the 
project was able to change mindsets. It developed market -driven courses to meet the demands of 
the fo llowing four key sectors: electrical, solar energy, nursing and agribusiness. Employment 
opportunities improved for 3,000 youth, thanks to this programme . 
1246.  The European Union  stated that it provides Aid for Trade  through bilateral, regional and 
thematic int erventions in more than 100 partner countries. The constraints identified to economic 
empowerment of MSMEs therefore vary widely across partner countries. Various forms of AfT 
financing might need to be mobilized accordingly.   
1247.  Finland  stated that the key a reas include economic infrastructure, business support services 
and financial services.  
1248.  New Zealand  stated that support of the ICT sector is a form of AfT financing that best 
supports the economic environment of MSMEs. Particularly, harnessing digital tech nology to simplify 
and lower the cost of cross -border certification and documentation processes for MSMEs.  
1249.  The Russian Federation  stated that trade development (business support services, banking 
and financial services) and legal support of MSMEs are the most important supporters of the 
economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1250.  Sweden  stated that all areas highlighted should also include the s ub-categories, which are as 
relevant.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Success factors of Aid-for-Trade  support for the economic empowerment of MSMEs37 
1251.  Fifty-six of the 88 partner country respondents identified alignment of AfT support with 
national or regional priorities as the top factor contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting women's economic empowerment.  
Factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting the economic 
empowerment of MSMEs  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
 
37 Refer to index number 34 in the Annex.  
0 (0%)1 (1%)25 (28%)29 (33%)29 (33%)30 (34%)30 (34%)33 (38%)35 (40%)40 (45%)41 (47%)41 (47%)48 (55%)48 (55%)60 (68%)
1 (3%)1 (3%)8 (23%)18 (51%)17 (49%)10 (29%)9 (26%)7 (20%)3 (9%)2 (6%)23 (66%)9 (26%)14 (40%)16 (46%)17 (49%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%OtherUnsureCoordination among donorsGood digital and ICT connectivityMobilization of domestic private investmentLeveraging of foreign direct investmentServices capacityNational/regional coordinationDonor interest in specific projects/programmesCapacity to draft funding applicationsCountry ownershipSufficient funding and appropriate implementation timelinesGood trade-related infrastructureInstitutional capacity to implement projectsAlignment of aid-for-trade support with national/regional priorities
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in the economic empowerment 
of MSMEs: partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Alignment with national/regional priorities  30 86% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  25 71% 
Capacity to draft funding applications  20 57% 
Country ownership  20 57% 
Asia Alignment of AfT support with national/regional priorities  16 70% 
Country ownership  11 48% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  11 48% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  11 48% 
Sufficient funding and implementation timelines  11 48% 
Americas  Institutional capacity to implement projects  10 56% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 9 50% 
Services capacity  8 44% 
Oceania  Good trade -related infrastructure  7 70% 
Mobilization of domestic private investment  7 70% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  7 70% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Alignment with national/regional priorities  32 84% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  27 71% 
Country ownership  23 61% 
LLDC Alignment with national/regional priorities  18 82% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  16 73% 
Capacity to draft funding applications  12 55% 
Country ownership  12 55% 
UN SIDS  Alignment with national/regional priorities  16 67% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  14 58% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 13 54% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1252.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the combination of factors can help SMEs 
to make progress in their work.  
1253.  Côte d'Ivoire  referenced Decree No. 2016 -1102 of 7 December 2016 on Attributions, 
Organization and Functioning of the Agency in charge of the Promotion of Small and Mediu m 
Companies, named "Agence Côte d'Ivoire PME". The Côte d'Ivoire SME Agency's mission is to 
promote Ivorian SMEs and contribute to the implementation of the strategy for the development of 
SMEs following 04 axes and 03 measures, which include: improve acce ss of SMEs to finance and 
public and private markets; improve the business environment; strengthen technical and managerial 
capacities of SMEs; contribute to the development of the entrepreneurial culture and innovation for 
both young people and women. The  first measure pertains to strengthening organizations and 
federations. The second measure consists of the signing of partnerships with the public and private 
actors of excellence. The last measure pertains to the operationalization of the Côte d'Ivoire SM E 
Agency.  
1254.  Guinea  stated that in the country, the Government's choice for the development of MSMEs is 
based on the adequacy of support for these structures, which takes into account the mobilization of 
internal and external resources to finance these units.  Thus, if funding for support to MSMEs is WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  available, the government will play its role in ensuring that national ownership by Guineans promotes 
the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1255.  Kazakhstan  stated that EBRD supported 177 SMEs and 62 female entrepreneurs in  
Kazakhstan in 2017. The Government of Kazakhstan and EBRD reaffirmed support for SMEs in the 
country.  
1256.  Madagascar  stated that there is a need for better coordination of support for MSMEs.  
1257.  Mali stated that support for SMEs processing agri -food, cosmetics a nd craft products is a 
factor that contributes to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting the economic empowerment of 
MSMEs.  
1258.  Papua New Guinea  stated that one of the factors that contributes to the success of Aid for 
Trade  in promoting the economic empow erment of MSMEs is the difficulty in accessing financial 
support and lack of capacity and know -how in managing and running a business.  
1259.  Two RECs indicated the alignment of AfT support with national or regional priorities, good 
trade -related infrastructure, leveraging of FDI, sufficient funding, and appropriate implementation 
timelines as the top factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting the economic 
empowerment of MSMEs.  
1260.  Two South -South providers identified national or regional coordi nation and the alignment of 
AfT support with national or regional priorities as the top factor contributing to the success of Aid 
for Trade  in promoting the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1261.  Twenty -three of the 35  donors identified country ownership as the to p factor contributing to 
the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
1262.  Australia  stated that factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting 
economic empowerment of MSMEs include integrating MSME empowerment in Aid for Trade , 
economic diplomacy and trade efforts; advocate for MSMEs in multilateral and regional fora, in 
multilateral development banks and economic policy fora; and e nsuring trade work advances MSME 
objectives.  
1263.  Canada  stated that one example of reaching out to new partners is the Small and Medium 
Organizations for Impact and Innovation initiative. Announced in May 2017, it dedicates 
USD 100 million over a five -year per iod to support Canadian small and medium organizations in 
international assistance in areas consistent with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy. 
This initiative is a direct response to feedback received during the 2016 International Assistanc e 
Review consultations to provide Canadian organizations with more predictable and accessible 
opportunities to apply for funding.  
1264.  The European Union  indicated the capacity to link MSMEs to domestic or international 
value -chains.  
1265.  Russian Federation  stated that alignment of AfT support with national/regional priorities is 
important for promoting the economic empowerment of MSMEs  
1266.  Sweden  stated that focus is on the factors determining the success of the specific support 
projects undertaken. However, if determi ning success in terms of a country’s efforts to promote the 
empowerment of MSMEs as a whole, additional factors should be included, such as “Good trade 
related infrastructure”, “Leveraging of foreign direct investment” and “Mobilization of domestic 
private  investment”.  
Aid for Trade  contributes to the economic empowerment of youth38 
1267.  Providing access to finance was identified as the best way Aid for Trade  can make a 
contribution to women's economic empowerment, as stated by 63 partner country respondents and 
 
38 Refer to index number 36 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  25 donors participating in the self -assessment questionnaire. Partner country respondents also 
considered improving access to information as equally important for Aid for Trade  to make a 
contribution to women's economic empowerment.  
Different ways Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to the economic empowerment of 
youth  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1 (1%)16 (18%)18 (20%)22 (25%)22 (25%)23 (26%)30 (34%)31 (35%)34 (39%)41 (47%)41 (47%)43 (49%)50 (57%)61 (69%)64 (73%)68 (77%)
1 (3%)2 (6%)1 (3%)5 (14%)7 (20%)1 (3%)9 (26%)1 (3%)18 (51%)4 (11%)20 (57%)14 (40%)25 (71%)22 (63%)22 (63%)20 (57%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%Other (please specify)Supporting the elaboration of gender-sensitive policiesUpgrading the energy infrastructureImproving the flow of goods at borders (Trade Facilitation)Supporting the growth and economic development of womenUpgrading the transport infrastructureImproving the provision of servicesSupporting rural tradeSupporting the growth and economic development of YouthImproving access to foreign marketsUpgrading ICT skillsImproving access to global value chainsImproving digital connectivityUpgrading business skillsImproving access to informationProviding access to finance
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  The best ways Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to the economic empowerment of 
MSMEs: partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Providing access to finance  31 89% 
Improving access to information  28 80% 
Upgrading business skills  24 69% 
Asia Upgrading business skills  17 74% 
Improving access to information  15 65% 
Providing access to finance  13 57% 
Americas  Improving access to information  13 72% 
Providing access to finance  13 72% 
Upgrading business skills  11 61% 
Oceania  Providing access to finance  9 90% 
Improving access to foreign markets  8 80% 
Supporting the economic development of Youth  7 70% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Providing access to finance  32 84% 
Improving access to information  29 76% 
Upgrading business skills  29 76% 
LLDC Improving access to information  14 64% 
Providing access to finance  14 64% 
Upgrading business skills  14 64% 
UN SIDS  Providing access to finance  22 92% 
Improving access to information  18 75% 
Improving access to foreign markets  16 67% 
Upgrading business skills  16 67% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1268.  Cabo Verde  stated that the following factors can help make a contribution to youth economic 
empowerment: improving digital and ICT awareness; improving import/export knowledge (terms, 
procedures); improving foreign language skills oriented for global trade; upgradin g water supply 
infrastructure; improving access to training in specific fields nationally and internationally; improving 
access to more international programme s; and improving mobility regionally and internationally.  
1269.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that youth capacity needs to be strengthened 
and credit facilities must be provided to them.  
1270.  Guinea  stated that the economic empowerment of young people is achieved through several 
means and methods. Vocational training can, among other things, increase the employability of 
young people and guarantee them a decent income. In Guinea, the INTEGRA programme  is 
developing in the area of youth employment support. The establishment and operation of structures 
such as incubators to support young people with proj ects or project ideas can also make a 
contribution to youth economic empowerment.  
1271.  Iraq stated that the following AfT factors can make a contribution to youth economic 
empowerment: build the capacity of youth on how to establish and manage a project; enable  young 
people who are uneducated, unemployed, or untrained in getting adequate opportunities for 
training; provide better jobs and integration into the labour market.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1272.  Kazakhstan  stated referenced the Youth Corps programme , which aims to promote young 
peopl e's community engagement and life skills through a community -based service -learning  
programme , especially for vulnerable youth.  
1273.  Kiribati  stated that aid can contribute to youth economic empowerment the same way it 
contributes to women’s economic empowerme nt. 
1274.  Madagascar  stated that in 2015, Madagascar updated the law governing National Youth 
Policy. This law highlights that young people are the first victims of the employment crisis. In 
addition, according to this law, the strategies to be implemented for t he socio -economic integration 
of young people include the promotion of entrepreneurship for young people.  
1275.  Mali stated that Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to youth economic empowerment by 
supporting the supervision of young people in the implementation of income -generating activities as 
well as providing support for young traders and exporters.  
1276.  Mexico  stated that Aid for Trade  can ma ke a contribution to youth economic empowerment 
by encouraging the participation of entrepreneurs in national and international events.  
1277.  Papua New Guinea  referenced the Medium -Term Development Plan 3, National Youth 
Development Programme , and Urban Youth Em ployment Programme . 
1278.  Peru stated that Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to youth economic empowerment 
through the improvement of service delivery, including programme s focused on Millennials  that are 
led by experts specifically prepared to meet this gen eration as well as the further development of 
start-ups. 
1279.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  stated that Aid for Trade  can make a contribution to youth economic 
empowerment through entrepreneurship programme s aimed at assisting the youth develop their 
skills as entrepre neurs.  
1280.  Senegal stated that in the Plan for Emerging Senegal (PES) Priority Action Plan (PAP) 2, youth 
employment was identified as a priority across labour -intensive sectors such as agriculture. Indeed, 
an envelope of CFAF 986.3 billion is planned for the agriculture sector, i.e. 7%, mainly with 
agricultural diversification projects in the groundnut basin, cereal corridors, eco -sustainable 
intensification of agriculture in the Niayes, improvement of agricultural productivity, development of 
agricultural ent repreneurship in Senegal (PRODAC), and irrigated rice production project on the 
Senegal River.  
1281.  Concerning the industry sector, the following projects are planned: creation of an industrial 
pole for seafood processing; infrastructure and basic services pro ject for three agropoles; industrial 
pole for seafood processing; integrated industrial gamble project; project to strengthen local 
groundnut oil production; project for a second industrial park; and commercial infrastructure project. 
The implementation of  these labour -intensive projects will make it possible to reduce the high 
unemployment rate. Aid for Trade  should therefore accompany PES trade -related initiatives.  
1282.  Zambia  stated that the Zambia Aquaculture Enterprise Development Project is benefiting the 
youth by increasing productivity of fish, thereby promoting market access for fish exports. In 
addition, Zambia referenced the Cassava value chain project, which will inco rporate about 38% of 
youth participation in the value chain.  
1283.  Upgrading business skills and improving access to information were identified as the best way 
Aid for Trade  can contribute to youth's economic empowerment by four RECs. 
1284.  Two South -South providers considered improving access to information as the best way Aid 
for Trade  can contribute to youth's economic empowerment.  
1285.  Responses from donors indicated improving digital connectivity as the best way Aid for Trade  
can contribute to youth's economic empower ment.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1286.  Denmark  stated that the Danish development strategy "The World 2030" has a strong focus 
on the role of youth. Reviews show that youth entrepreneurship programme s have a positive effect 
on increasing the earnings of youth. Youth displays the highest e ntrepreneurial activity compared to 
other age groups though often struggling with lack of access to finance, or limited skills and 
knowledge. The Danish Country Programme  in Mali supports youth in technical, vocational or higher 
education, which in turn, s upports their quest for starting their own businesses. The response also 
mentioned the Danish Country Programme  in Ethiopia which supports Agri -Tech Incubators. The aim 
of the programme  is to transform agriculture and related agri -business by enhancing inn ovation 
reach and the ability to apply a digital lens to all incubated start -ups in the programme . 
1287.  The European Union  referenced several projects. Co -funded by the European Union, the 
Youth Inclusion project was implemented by the Development Centre of the  Organization for 
Economic Co -operation and Development (OECD) to analyze policies for youth in nine developing 
and emerging economies. The project took a multisectoral approach to help countries better respond 
to the aspirations of young people and streng then their involvement in national development 
processes. It shed light on what determines youth vulnerabilities, as well as successful transitions 
towards evidence -based policies that promote youth inclusion and well -being. The project focused 
on the foll owing four areas of youth well -being: employment, education, health, and civic 
participation. The project produced three global reports, nine country studies and one 
methodological toolkit to guide policies for youth well -being.  
1288.  The EUR 11 million Gambia Youth Empowerment Scheme was adopted in the framework of 
the EU Trust Fund for Africa and launched in February 2017. This project aims to contribute to the 
economic development of The Gambia and to improve employability. The initiative takes a 
market -led a pproach to create employment opportunities and will simultaneously upskill the 
workforce according to the demand of the marketplace. This programme  directly supports the 
development of the local economy by enhancing employability and self -employment opport unities 
for youth, with a focus on vocational training and the creation of micro and small -sized enterprises; 
and creating and improving employment opportunities in selected sectors through value addition 
and internationalization. The programme  offers poss ibilities for those young people that might be 
interested to move into the commercial agriculture, service business or tourism sectors.  
1289.  Finland  stated that the youth tend to be less interested in rural trade.  
1290.  Japan  indicated in its response that it is unsu re how aid can contribute to youth economic 
empowerment.  
1291.  Sweden  stated that many of the constraints in support youth economic empowerment mirror 
those for MSMEs. There are barriers preventing youth from starting a business, which are highlighted 
in the que stionnaire. However, the objective should go beyond supporting youth entrepreneurship, 
to include the expansion of formal jobs in large firms through structural transformation .  
Forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support the economic empowerment of youth39 
1292.  Trade education or training was identified as the best form of AfT financing that can best 
support youth's economic empowerment, as stated by 46 partner country respondents and 
17 donors participating in the self -assessment questionnaire.  
 
39 Refer to index number 36 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Areas of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support the economic empowerment of youth  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
4 (5%)5 (6%)11 (13%)12 (14%)15 (17%)16 (18%)19 (22%)21 (24%)22 (25%)27 (31%)28 (32%)29 (33%)31 (35%)31 (35%)32 (36%)34 (39%)34 (39%)34 (39%)39 (44%)39 (44%)42 (48%)44 (50%)55 (63%)
0 (0%)1 (3%)5 (14%)1 (3%)4 (11%)2 (6%)3 (9%)5 (14%)7 (20%)7 (20%)3 (9%)20 (57%)5 (14%)11 (31%)8 (23%)15 (43%)22 (63%)7 (20%)10 (29%)15 (43%)9 (26%)17 (49%)18 (51%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%UnsureOther trade related needsForestryMineral resources and miningTrade related adjustment (Including supporting developing countries to put in place
accompanying measures that assist them to benefit from liberalized trade.)Multilateral trade negotiationsRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Energy supply and generation infrastructureTrade-related infrastructure (Including physical infrastructure)Trade policy and administrative managementFishingTrade development (Including investment promotion, analysis and institutional support for
trade in services, business support services and institutions, public-private sector…Transport and storage infrastructureCommunications infrastructureTravel and tourismTrade policy and regulations (Including training of trade officials, analysis of proposals and
positions and their impact, support for national stakeholders to articulate commercial…Building productive capacityIndustryTrade facilitationBanking and financial servicesAgricultureBusiness support servicesTrade education/training
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Areas of Aid-for-Trade  financing that can support the economic empowerment of youth: 
partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Trade education/training  25 71% 
Business support services  19 54% 
Agriculture  19 54% 
Asia Trade education/training  12 52% 
Trade policy and regulations  10 43% 
Trade development  10 43% 
Building productive capacity  10 43% 
Agriculture  10 43% 
Americas  Trade education/training  12 67% 
Business support services  11 61% 
Banking and financial services  9 50% 
Oceania  Trade policy and administrative management  5 50% 
Trade facilitation  5 50% 
Communications infrastructure  5 50% 
Agriculture  5 50% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Trade education/training  24 63% 
Business support services  23 61% 
Agriculture  22 58% 
LLDC Business support services  12 55% 
Building productive capacity  12 55% 
Trade education/training  10 45% 
Agriculture  10 45% 
UN SIDS  Trade education/training  15 63% 
Trade facilitation  12 50% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1293.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that Aid for Trade  must help young people to 
materialize their projects through incubators.  
1294.  Guinea  stated that the needs of young people in the field of their economic empowerment 
are many and specific. These needs include: capacity building in several areas, including voca tional 
and technical training; equipment in terms of labour and financial resources; market research.  
1295.  Iraq stated that enhancing civil society organization capacities related to the youth field will 
support the economic empowerment of youth since it will p romote and empower youth capacities. 
In addition, adopting policies and regulations that specify urgent needs of youth and to guarantee 
their rights and social protection are important.  
1296.  Madagascar  stated that young people do not yet have any experience or  start-up funds. They 
will therefore need more support and guidance.  
1297.  Mali stated that the following forms of AfT financing best support the economic empowerment 
of youth: implementation of financing instruments (guarantee fund); and training programme s on 
trade negotiations, business plan development techniques, contract negotiations, project 
development, and product quality.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1298.  Maldives  stated that due to statistical records, it is difficult to state in which areas the country 
is receiving support. However, the selected areas in the questionnaire are those that the country 
believes support is required.  
1299.  Papua New Guinea  stated that most youths who graduate from grades eight, ten and twelve 
find themselves without jobs. Hence, youths need to be equipped with s kills in agriculture (as the 
priority of government) and given the financial backing with an enabling environment to contribute 
meaningfully in society.  
1300.  Zambia  stated that the Government has put in place the Youth Empowerment and 
Employment strategy with p olicy interventions addressing challenges on youth empowerment.  
1301.  Trade education and training were identified as the best forms of AfT financing to support 
youth's economic empowerment, as stated by three RECs participating in the self -assessment 
questionna ire. 
1302.  Two South -South providers identified trade facilitation and trade education or training as the 
best form of AfT financing that can best support youth's economic empowerment.  
1303.  Building productive capacity was identified as the best form of AfT financing  to support youth's 
economic empowerment, as stated by 22 donors. Trade development was identified as the second 
top category of AfT financing to promote youth's economic empowerment, as indicated by 20 donors.  
1304.  Canada  stated that more responsive internatio nal assistance also requires more efficient and 
effective funding mechanisms and approaches. To this end, Canada is expanding its range of tools 
to enable joint programme  assistance with other donors, multi -stakeholder partnerships and 
innovative financing  mechanisms, including “blended” finance. The country is streamlining its 
funding application processes and modernizing its results -based management and risk management 
procedures to better respond to specific country and partner contexts and support timel ier funding 
decisions. This will help improve the predictability and transparency of Canada’s funding decisions.  
1305.  As an example, CAD 10 million Support for the Nationwide Rollout of JOBSTART in the 
Philippines aims to establish a nationwide JobStart Progra mme (JSP). In the Philippines, one in four 
young people are neither employed, nor enrolled in education, nor training, with even higher rates 
amongst young women and those coming from low -income families. The JSP works with the 
Department of Labour and Emp loyment to assist youth to become job -ready. JSP will also support 
the private sector to hire these job -ready youth for up to six months. Providing youth with decent 
jobs is vital to reducing gender inequalities and poverty.  
1306.  By helping youth become produc tive members of society through the JSP, combined with other 
national programme s to lower the country's fertility rate, the Philippines has the opportunity to reap 
the benefits of its young population. JSP aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Develo pment 
(SDG 8), Canada's priorities of growth that works for everyone and gender equality, and the 
Government of the Philippines' (GoP) goal to reduce poverty. This initiative will transition to a fully 
funded GoP programme  by 2020. This second support to J SP builds on the successful GAC -supported 
pilot of the JSP Programme  (2014 -2016), which was also administered by the Asian Development 
Bank (ADB). The intermediate outcome is the establishment of a nationwide gender -sensitive JSP 
programme  that provides an  integrated set of employment support services that will increase young 
Filipino men’s and women’s chances of finding decent wage employment.  
1307.  As a result of Canada’s support, by December 2021, 24 local government units will have signed 
a Memorandum of Und erstanding with the Philippines’ Department of Labour and Employment to 
implement the JSP programme ; at least 24,000 at -risk youth (60% women) will have accessed JSP 
services; and, at least 5,000 at -risk youth (60% women) in 12 local government units will have 
completed their training and six -month work terms. As of end -December 2017, 32 local government 
units implemented JSP in 2017, which is up from 14 in 2016. In addition, 13,500 young women and 
men utilized JSP services, of which 58% were women. Three t housand one hundred thirty -seven  
young women and men completed the JSP full cycle, of which 54% were women, 10,009 completed 
life skills training, with a graduation rate of 89%.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1308.  The European Union  stated that the European Union provides Aid for Trade  throu gh bilateral, 
regional and thematic interventions in more than 100 partner countries. The constraints identified 
to youth economic empowerment therefore vary widely across partner countries. Various forms of 
AfT financing might need to be mobilized accordingly.  
1309.  New Zealand  stated that Aid for Trade  focused on the ICT sector will best support the 
economic empowerment of youth.  
1310.  Sweden  stated that the selected areas of AfT financing in the questionnaire also includ e all 
sub-categories, which are as relevant.  
Success factors of Aid-for-Trade  support for the economic empowerment of youth40 
1311.  Fifty-five of the 88 partner country respondents identified alignment of AfT support with 
national or regional priorities as the to p factor contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting the economic empowerment of youth.  
1312.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that young people must take ownership of the 
Government's priority project, which in turn is expected to provide t hem with the commercial 
infrastructure and substantial funding.  
1313.  Guinea  stated that programme s implemented for the economic empowerment of young 
people must take into account national circumstances in each country. In all cases, these 
programme s are based o n the level of political commitment of the country's authorities that gives 
donors the courage to direct all or part of their support towards economic empowerment. Hence the 
need for national ownership of the issue and the support of TFPs.  
1314.  Iraq stated that  the following factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting 
the economic empowerment of youth: focus on some sectors which are interesting to youth; promote 
development approaches that support creativity and innovations; and increase soc ial dialogue.  
1315.  Kiribati  highlighted the need for stronger collaboration with development partners to support 
the economic empowerment of not only women but also youth.  
1316.  Mali noted the importance of taking into account the needs of young people in the 
impleme ntation of development projects, which are currently being implemented.  
1317.  Papua New Guinea  stated that youths have not been given sufficient support in all areas to 
ensure they are employed and participate meaningfully in economic activities.  
1318.  Two RECS  indicated capacity to draft funding applications, sufficient funding and appropriate 
implement ation timelines as the top factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting 
youth's economic empowerment.  
1319.  Two South -South providers selected a few factors contributing to youth economic 
empowerment, including the alignment of AfT support w ith national or regional priorities, 
coordination among donors, country ownership, good digital and ICT connectivity, good 
trade -related infrastructure, leveraging of FDI, and institutional capacity to implement projects.  
1320.  Twenty -three of the 35 donors iden tified country ownership as the top factor contributing to 
the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting economic empowerment of youth. Good digital and ICT 
connectivity was identified as the second top success factor contributing to youth's economic 
empowerme nt, as stated by 19 donors.  
 
40 Refer to index number 37 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting the economic 
empowerment of youth  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
0 (0%)3 (3%)18 (20%)22 (25%)28 (32%)31 (35%)31 (35%)36 (41%)36 (41%)37 (42%)37 (42%)39 (44%)42 (48%)49 (56%)55 (63%)
2 (6%)1 (3%)6 (17%)8 (23%)13 (37%)10 (29%)6 (17%)19 (54%)10 (29%)4 (11%)2 (6%)7 (20%)23 (66%)15 (43%)17 (49%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%Other (please specify):UnsureLeveraging of foreign direct investmentServices capacityMobilization of domestic private investmentCoordination among donorsNational/regional coordinationGood digital and ICT connectivitySufficient funding and appropriate implementation timelinesCapacity to draft funding applicationsDonor interest in specific projects/programmesGood trade-related infrastructureCountry ownershipInstitutional capacity to implement projectsAlignment of aid-for-trade support with national/regional priorities
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting the economic 
empowerment of youth: partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Alignment with national/regional priorities  28 80% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  22 63% 
Country ownership  20 57% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  20 57% 
Asia Alignment with national/regional priorities  12 52% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 10 43% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  10 43% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  10 43% 
Americas  Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 10 56% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  10 56% 
National/regional coordination  8 44% 
Oceania  Alignment of AfT support with national/regional priorities  6 60% 
Capacity to draft funding applications  6 60% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  6 60% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  6 60% 
Sufficient funding and implementation timelines  6 60% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Alignment with national/regional priorities  30 79% 
Country ownership  27 71% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  24 63% 
LLDC Alignment with national/regional priorities  16 73% 
Country ownership  13 59% 
Good trade -related infrastructure  12 55% 
UN SIDS  Alignment with national/regional priorities  15 63% 
Capacity to draft funding applications  13 54% 
Donor interest in specific projects/ programme s 13 54% 
Institutional capacity to implement projects  13 54% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1321.  Australia  stated that factors contributing to the success of Aid for Trade  in promoting 
economic empowerment of youth include integrating youth empowerment in Aid for Trade , economic 
diplomacy and trade efforts; advocate for youth empowerment in multilateral and regional fora, in 
multilateral development banks and economic policy fora; and ensuring trade work advances youth 
empowerment objectives.  
1322.  Canada  stated that education is a powerful empowerment tool for girls and boys. Global 
Affairs Canada  will continue to build on Canada’s history as a leader in education and to collaborate 
on initiatives to support quality education and skills training programme s that help break the cycle 
of poverty for girls and boys and inequality around the world. As p art of its Feminist International 
Assistance Policy, Canada is committed to investing in education, especially for girls. When young 
people complete a quality education, they have the knowledge and skills they need to reach their 
full potential, find decen t work and contribute to society. To this end, Canada has been a 
longstanding supporter of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE)’s development assistance, 
which helps children – especially the poorest, most vulnerable, and those living in fragile or 
conflict -affected countries – receive a quality basic education. Canada’s investments help establish WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  strong education systems that provide children and youth, particularly girls, with ten years of quality 
basic education to secure a job and realize their fu ll potential .   
1323.  For the 2011 -2014 and 2015 -2018 periods, Canada’s contribution to the GPE was 
USD 57.6 million and USD 120 million, respectively . Canada was a founding member of the GPE’s 
predecessor, the Education for All - Fast Track Initiative, which bu ilt support among G7 donors during 
Canada’s 2002 Kananaskis Presidency. Multilaterally, Canada is the 10th largest bilateral donor to 
the GPE. Sixty -four percent of the GPE’s partner countries had as many girls as boys completing 
primary school in 2015. Wi th the pledges received during the 2018 -2020 period, the GPE aims to 
help 19 million additional children to complete primary school, including 9.4 million girls and over 
10.8 million children in countries affected by fragility or conflict; and, help 6.6 mi llion additional 
children to complete lower secondary school, including 3.9 million girls and 3.9 million children in 
countries affected by fragility and conflict.  
1324.  The European Union  stated that access to finance is a factor that contributes to the success  
of Aid for Trade  in promoting the economic empowerment of youth.  
1325.  Sweden  stated that the focus is on the factors determining the success of the particular 
support projects undertaken. However, if determining success in terms of a country’s efforts to 
promote economic empowerment of youth as a whole, additional factors should be included, such 
as good trade related infrastructure, leveraging of FDI and mobilization of domestic private 
investment.  
1326.  Switzerland  stated that the proposed answers do not correspon d to the orientation of the 
question. These are answers for causes of failure, not success. The English version does not 
correspond to the French version.  
Sources of Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic empowerment: development partners41 
1327.  The World Bank and  the European Union were identified as the top development partners that 
are the most important sources of AfT financing for economic empowerment.  
Top sources of Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic empowerment: partner country's 
perspective  
Development P artners  Number of responses  percentage share  
World Bank  59 67% 
European Union  48 55% 
United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  45 51% 
World Trade Organization (WTO)  41 47% 
United States  34 39% 
Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF)  34 39% 
Japan  33 38% 
Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN (FAO)  27 31% 
International Trade Centre (ITC)  27 31% 
Germany  24 27% 
African Development Bank (AfDB)  24 27% 
International Monetary Fund (IMF)  23 26% 
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)  21 24% 
UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  20 23% 
Asian Development Bank (AsDB)  18 20% 
United Kingdom  17 19% 
France  16 18% 
The Republic of Korea  14 16% 
 
41 Refer to index number 40 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Development P artners  Number of responses  percentage share  
The Netherlands  13 15% 
Inter-America Development Bank (IDB)  13 15% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
Additional information on donors which are the most important source of Aid-for-Trade  
financing  
Barbados  [mentioned] UNCTAD and Organization of American States (OAS)  
 
Saint Kitts and Nevis  [mentioned] Chinese Taipei  
 
Transnamib  [mentioned] UNECA  
 
Yemen  [mentioned] UN Women  
 
1328.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the World Bank is involved in the financing 
of development projects of the Western Growth Poles (PDPC), Support Project for the Rehabilitation 
and Revival of the Agricultural Sector (PARRSA), the Lake Tanganyika Authority Project (ALT). The 
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) financed the Integrated Programme  for the 
Rehabilitation of Agriculture in the Province of Maniema. The response also made a reference to 
PAPAKIN project, PASA NK, The ADB -financed Support Project for th e Rehabilitation of Fishery 
Resources of Lakes Edouard and Albert, Agricultural Development and Disruption Programme  of 
Kwilu and Kwango supported by Belgium, Agricultural Development Programme  of Kasaï Oriental, 
and Agricultural Development Programme  of Tshopo.  
1329.  Guinea  stated that Guinea's traditional partners in terms of budget support and ODA are also 
the largest donors to economic empowerment. Admittedly, the EIF projects have provided an 
opportunity for some donors to intervene for the first time in fin ancing development activities in 
LDCs. This initiative should be encouraged in order to ensure greater economic empowerment of 
LDCs.  
1330.  Madagascar  stated that the  EIF, the European Union, the Support Programme  for Export 
Development and Regional Integration ( PADEIR), Trade Support Programme  (PROCOM), The French 
Development Agency Group (AFD), the United States are dynamic donors.  
1331.  Papua New Guinea  stated that the country is now looking at opening up its trade to 
traditional and non -traditional partners.  
1332.  Zambia  stated that the AfDB is offering financial support for the Cassava Value Chain Project. 
The USAID is funding the Agriculture Development Value Chain Enhancement (ADVANCE) Project.  
1333.  Four RECs identified the E uropean Union and the United States as the top dev elopment 
partners that are the most important source of AfT financing for economic empowerment.  
1334.  TMEA stated that the selection of donors in the questionnaire are made based on current 
TMEA investors.  
1335.  Responses gathered from donor countries identified Viet  Nam as the top partner countr y to 
which the donors provide AfT financing for economic empowerment. The AfT financing is provided 
mostly through bilateral programme s, as stated by 30 donors.  
Top partner countries to which donors provide Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic 
empowerment: donor's perspective  
Partner countries  Number of responses  percentage share  
Viet Nam  15 43% 
Ethiopia  12 34% 
Kenya  11 31% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Partner countries  Number of responses  percentage share  
Uganda  11 31% 
Afghanistan  10 29% 
Bangladesh  9 26% 
Burkina Faso  9 26% 
Cambodia  9 26% 
Indonesia  9 26% 
Lao People's Democratic Republic  9 26% 
Mali 9 26% 
Myanmar  9 26% 
Ukraine  9 26% 
Egypt  9 26% 
Ghana  8 23% 
Republic of Moldova  8 23% 
Mozambique  8 23% 
Colombia  8 23% 
Rwanda  7 20% 
Senegal  7 20% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1336.  South -South providers identified a few partner countries to which they provide AfT financing 
for economic empowerment, including Djibouti, Egypt, Mauritania, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, 
Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, and Tunisia. The AfT financing is provided mostly through 
multilateral institutions, followed by bilateral programme s. 
Additional information on partner countries to which donors provide Aid-for-Trade  
financing for economic empowerment  
AfDB  [mentioned] all African countries  
 
New Zealand  [mentioned] Tuvalu  
 
Norway  [mentioned] Sub -Saharan Africa and LDCs  
 
1337.  Australia  stated that the primary geographical focus of the Australian aid programme  is the 
Indo-Pacific region.  
1338.  Canada  stated that Canada will work to improve the economic well -being of the poorest and 
most vulnerable and reduce poverty, particularly amo ng women and girls, to ensure that economic 
growth works for everyone. This will be done by working through bilateral channels as well as 
multilateral organizations, including the multilateral and regional development banks and new 
partners, to create inno vative solutions and opportunities to improve the economic well -being of 
those in need. To advance women’s economic empowerment, Canada supports the G20 Women 
Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative, which aims to achieve results for women -owned and women -led 
small and medium -sized enterprises in developing countries.  
1339.  In 2017, at the Eleventh WTO Ministerial Conference in Argentina, Canada led the charge on 
the Joint Declaration on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment, which aims to level the 
playing field and advance women’s economic empowerment around the globe, affirming its 
commitment expressed in the Feminist International Assistance Policy. Canada will continue to lead 
discussions at the WTO on transparency, dispute settlement and the development of tr ade rules for 
the 21st century. Canada draws on its membership in key multilateral organizations and regional 
groups —including the United Nations, multilateral and regional banks, the G7, the G20, the 
Commonwealth, La Francophonie, APEC, Pacific Alliance a nd others —to champion gender equality 
and the empowerment of women and girls. The Government also benefits from a robust ecosystem 
of civil society partners. These partners deliver international assistance programmi ng, contribute to WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  ongoing policy dialogue  on global issues and engage Canadians in support of international 
development, the 2030 Agenda and Canada’s international assistance priorities.  
1340.  In addition to current efforts, new partnerships and initiatives that can leverage additional 
financing and i nvestment are essential to meet our commitments and achieve SDGs until 2030. To 
this end, Canada is increasing and diversifying the range of mechanisms for working with the private 
sector to support sustainable development. This means transforming the priv ate sector’s current 
service -provider role into that of a partner investing in the achievement of development results. New 
instruments such as repayable contributions will be introduced that will better enable Canada to 
mobilize new streams of financing fo r underserved private sector partners in developing countries, 
including woman -led businesses. Canada will work closely with other donors, including in developing 
countries, and support selected new funding mechanisms to encourage more innovative and 
cost-effective private - and voluntary -sector solutions to sustainable development challenges.  
1341.  One of such mechanism is the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, a collaboration of 
international organizations, governments and businesses as equal partners in s hared responsibilities 
for trade facilitation reform among public and private sectors in developing and LDCs. It leverages 
private sector expertise and resources, making delivery more efficient and cost -effective and allows 
the strengthening of local capac ity and engagement in public -private dialogue. In its fourth year of 
existence, the Alliance is making great strides in supporting developing countries implement the 
Agreement for Trade Facilitation. Canada is one of the founding donors of the Alliance .  Canada’s 
new, Development Finance Institute (FinDev), a subsidiary of Export Development Canada, provides 
financial services to the private sector in developing countries with the aim of combating poverty 
through economic empowerment.  
1342.  Areas of focus includ e green growth, agribusiness, and support for SMEs through local financial 
institutions with specific goals to generate economic development by job creation, climate change 
mitigation and poverty reduction, with a focus on gender equality and economic empo werment of 
women. The FinDev Institute has been capitalized with USD  300 million over five years, which will 
enable it to attract funds from other partners and support private investments in developing 
countries through the use of loans, loan guarantees or  equity stakes.  
1343.  Additionally, Canada has provided trade and development assistance through its partner the 
Trade Facilitation Office Canada (TFO Canada). TFO Canada has over 37 years of experience 
confronting the challenge of global poverty by promoting s ustainable economic development through 
export information, advice and contact. TFO Canada facilitates access to the Canadian marketplace 
and shares Canadian trade expertise for the benefit of smaller women -led and men -led exporters in 
developing countries  throughout the world and for the women and men they employ. Furthermore, 
Canada provided an institutional support grant (2016 -2019) to the ITC, whose mandate is to enable 
businesses in developing countries to increase exports, and help developing countrie s and economies 
in transition to improve the use of trade as a tool for development .   
1344.  The European Union  stated that economic empowerment is a horizontal dimension of every 
European Union AfT project and therefore cannot be dissociated. In that regard, E uropean Union Aid 
for Trade  concerns all partner countries.  
1345.  Estonia  stated that there is a variety of Estonian international activities supporting economic 
empowerment.  
1346.  Finland  identified Afghanistan, Kyrgyz, Nepal, Tajikistan, Zambia as partner countries 
receiving support in women's economic empowerment. The response identified Afghanistan and 
Zambia as the top two partner countries receiving support in youth's economic empowerment. In 
terms of economic empowerment of MSMEs, the response identified Kenya, K yrgyz, Tajikistan, 
Tanzania, Viet Nam , and Zambia.  
1347.  Finland  stated that multilateral institutions operate in many countries, some not specified in 
the questionnaire.  
1348.  Germany  indicated that the selected partner countries are the top five recipients. The 
response made a reference to the 2018 edition of German Aid for Trade  under the magnifying glass 
for more details.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1349.  Ireland  stated that Ireland's key partner countries are Ethio pia, Malawi, Mozambique, 
Sierra  Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Viet Nam  and Zambia. However, Ireland supports a broad range of 
developing countries through its multilateral AfT support, for example to the ITC and the WTO STDF . 
1350.  The Republic of Korea  mentioned Cre ative Technology Solution (CTS) programme , Inclusive 
Business Solution (IBS) programme , the Development Innovation Programme  (DIP) with 
collaboration with the private sector.  
1351.  Spain stated that the countries selected in the questionnaire are the main recipi ents, but not 
the only ones.  
1352.  Spain   stated that the country contributes to economic empowerment through its projects, 
European Union projects and by participating in different international institutions, including the 
development banks. These actions compl ement one another.  
1353.  Switzerland  stated that the list of partner countries selected is not exhaustive, but it 
corresponds to the list of priority countries for State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). SECO 
focuses its interventions in advanced developi ng countries (middle -income countries), where a large 
proportion of the population lives in extreme poverty and whose impact extends over entire regions. 
Global disparities and risks such as economic and financial crises or climate change have increased 
particularly in middle -income countries. However, SECO is also active in less developed countries 
such as Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nepal and others through regional or global projects.  
1354.  The EBRD  stated that the EBRD works with enterprises on a project by proje ct basis by 
providing access to finance and expertise to facilitate the economic empowerment of women, young 
people and MSMEs.  The EBRD  stated that there are 38 economies in which the EBRD operates with 
general investment operations. In addition, the Bank has more targeted programme s, such as the 
Women in Business Programme , in selected countries.  
1355.  The UNDP  stated that it provides programme  support through country, regional and global 
programme s. UNDP is a development organization with activities at the global, regional and country 
level and a physical presence in close to 170 countries and territories. The countries highlighted 
represent a sample of projects which support economic empowerment.   
1356.  The World Bank  stated that the World Bank has key engagement s in Pakistan, Viet Nam , 
DR Congo, Rwanda, Zambia, Burundi, Uganda, Malawi, Brazil, Indonesia, South Africa and Syria. 
The World Bank's support is provided through three major instruments: (i) lending; (ii) technical 
assistance and knowledge to support str ategic priorities; and (iii) partnerships including with 
development partners at the country, regional and global levels often with their support through 
trust funds. Which instruments are used and which areas are given the greatest focus at 
country/region al level is driven by the client needs.  
Sources of Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic empowerment: South -South partners42 
1357.  Forty-four out of the 88 partner country respondents identified China as the top South -South 
partner and the most important source of  financing for their economic empowerment, followed by 
India.  
 
42 Refer to index number 40 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Top South -South partners which are the most important source of Aid-for-Trade  
financing for economic empowerment: partner country's perspective  
Development Partners  Number of responses  percentage share  
China  44 50% 
India 23 26% 
Republic of Korea*  18 20% 
Turkey  13 15% 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  11 13% 
United Arab Emirates  11 13% 
Kuwait  8 9% 
Qatar  8 9% 
Brazil  7 8% 
Mexico  7 8% 
Chinese Taipei  7 8% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
NB.  This list is sourced from the United Nations for Development Cooperation. Various of those 
South -South partners listed with an asterisk  are OECD member States, appear on the OECD DAC list 
and/or report to the OECD CRS . 
 
1358.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  highlighted the importance of training, technical 
assistance, and the development of communication infrastructure.  
1359.  Guinea  stated that most of the countries of the South that are involved in financing the 
economic empowerment of  Guinea are countries that typically have good political relations with 
Guinea.  
1360.  Kazakhstan  made a reference to the Kazakh -Chinese cooperation under One Belt, One Road 
initiative discussed in Astana.  
1361.  Papua New Guinea  stated that the country is looking to op en up its trade to traditional and 
non-traditional partners.  
1362.  Peru made a reference to Project VUCE 2.0 with cooperation from the Republic of Korea, 
which aims to create a system for companies. A software will be developed for free use by SMEs, 
allowing the m, in addition to accessing and conducting their transactions in the VUCE 2.0, have 
access to value -added services related to their operations related to foreign trade.  
1363.  Senegal  stated that since the early 2000s, Senegal has diversified its partnership by o pening 
up to more countries of the South. Economic cooperation has become more diversified with countries 
such as China, India, Iran, Turkey, which invest in agriculture, industry, and construction.  
1364.  Zambia  stated that China has funded infrastructure develo pment projects such as roads.  
Additional information on donors which are the most important source of Aid-for-Trade  
financing  
Panama [mentioned] the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF)  
 
Côte d'Ivoire [mentioned] African Development Fund and the Indust rial Infrastructure 
Development Fund (FODI)  
 
Mali [mentioned] Morocco as an important South -South provider for economic empowerment.  
 
1365.  One REC, TMEA , identified China and India as important South -South providers which offer 
financing for economic empowerment.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1366.  One South -South provider, Singapore , stated that it partners with a number of South -South 
providers to offer financing for economic empowerment, including with Argentina, Israel, Qatar, 
Thailand, and Turkey.  
1367.  A few responses gathered from the d onor country questionnaire indicated a number of 
South -South providers with which donors  partner s offer financing in economic diversification.  
Top South -South partners with which donors provide Aid-for-Trade  financing for 
economic empowerment: donor's perspective  
Partner countries  Number of responses  percentage share  
Argentina  4 11% 
Brazil  4 11% 
Chile 3 9% 
Indonesia  3 9% 
Malaysia  3 9% 
Mexico  3 9% 
Singapore  3 9% 
Thailand  3 11% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1368.  Canada  identified several South –South partners in delivering AfT projects in Africa, 
namely:  the African Water Facility (a multi -donor trust fund of the  AfDB), the NEPAD Infrastructure 
Project Preparation Facility, UN’s E CA - an apex African institution alongside the AUC and the  AfDB. 
These three institutions coordinate activities in support of Africa’s economic agenda through a Joint 
Secretariat, established in 2010, which is led by the heads of the three key organization s. ECA is 
recognized by AU member states, the AU Commission and the AfDB as an institution key to Africa’s 
development. The Permanent Inter -State Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS) was 
created in 1974 by West African Governments and develop ment partners (including Canada) to 
assist with drought within the Sahel. Since then, CILSS’ mandate has evolved significantly and 
currently concentrates on food crisis prevention and management, as well as agricultural markets. 
CILSS is currently in the p rocess of becoming a specialized agency of ECOWAS. The two other 
consortium partners, the Borderless Alliance West Africa (regional private sector partnership 
platform based in Ghana) and Hub Rural (regional food security think tank) would respectively lea d 
the advocacy and policy reforms dimensions of the programme .  
1369.  The African Legal Support Facility, an international organization housed under the AfDB that 
is dedicated to providing legal advice and technical assistance to African countries in matters 
pertaining to creditor litigation and complex commercial contracts. The African Union Commission is 
the secretariat for the AU. The Commission is headed by a Chairperson, supported by a Deputy and 
eight Commissioners, all elected by African leaders . 
1370.  Estonia  stated that Estonia supports various international activities on economic 
empowerment under.   
1371.  The European Union  stated the selected South -South partners include partners in ongoing 
initiatives and initiatives are under consideration.  
1372.  Germany  identified Costa Rica, Colombia, and Peru as South -South partners with which 
Germany provides AfT financing within support of economic empowerment . 
1373.  The Republic of Korea  stated that in principle, the grant projects are open to all countries 
in the Develop ment Assistance Committee (DAC) ODA recipient country list.  
1374.  The EBRD   stated that the EBRD works with private and public entities in the countries it 
operates mainly by providing financing for investment projects, often alongside various public, 
private an d development finance institution (DFI) partners.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1375.  The UNDP  stated that it promotes and leverages South -South cooperation modalities to 
support sustainable development around the world across programma tic areas. For example, UNDP 
works with Rwanda to suppor t the expansion of the Youth Connekt programme  in Africa.  
1376.  The World Bank  provided examples of collaboration including the joint work with COMESA 
on the Great Lakes Trade Facilitation Project and with ECOWAS on the West Africa Trade Facilitation 
Programme . 
Categories of financing further required to support economic empowerment43 
1377.  Looking ahead, 67) partner country respondents (76%) considered trade facilitation an area 
requiring future  AfT support for economic empowerment.  
1378.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that support for trade and production -related 
infrastructure is highly needed by the DRC, as well as capacity building.  
1379.  Guinea  that the ever -increasing financing needs of developing countries for their economic 
development programme s must be regularly and steadily addressed by local authorities and trade 
financing partners (TFPs). Aid for Trade  has been identified as one of the solutions to the trade 
financing gap. The sustainability of these solutions should in any case gradually lead to the economic 
empowerment of developing countries.  
1380.  Kazakhstan  referenced Kazakhstan 2050, which focuses on industrialization, modernization 
of agriculture, strengthening infrastructure, development of IT, improving education, and energy 
resources.   
1381.  Liberia  is in the process of developing a special economic zone (SEZ) on 900 acres of land to 
attract investments in agro -processing gearing toward economic diversification and industrialization . 
1382.  Mali included crafts; livestock; sustainable development; and climate change as AfT financing 
categories that will require further support for economic empowerment.   
1383.  Papua New Guinea  highlighted the categories selected in the questionnaire as priority areas 
of the government.  
1384.  Tanzania  stated that it strongly needs AfT support in the following priority areas: support for 
capacity building in the public sector ; negotiations and implemen tation of trade agreements; policy 
formulation; and supply -side bottlenecks. Negotiations trainings and implementation of the Trade 
Agreements includes simulation skills on international trade -related issues; developing skills on 
application of SPS to priv ate sector; technical competency in Trade Policy development and 
negotiations through short -term internships; commercial diplomacy (trade attaché); capacity 
building on application of standards to SMEs; capacity building on use of The Agreement on 
Trade -Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) and General Agreement on Trade in 
Services (GATS) flexibilities for further enhancing social welfare; and capacity building on value 
chain to SMEs in global trade.  
1385.  Policy formulation constraints relate d to tariff reform, trade facilitation and customs reform, 
and competition policy include the following; trainings on policy research analysis; short -term 
professional attachment of officers to renown policy research institutions for mentoring and 
coaching ; establish and maintain publication of trade policy research paper series in order to 
inculcate interest of researchers on trade policy research; and supply -side bottlenecks.  
1386.  Capacity building on productivity in the private sector is required in the foll owing areas: 
Enhancing the capacity for undertaking market intelligence; improving standards and quality 
infrastructure; enhancing the capacity of producers to meet required standards; build frameworks 
that will enhance producers'  access to efficient techn ologies; and enhance connectivity between 
producers and getaway to the export market; and integration of trade into the overall development 
strategy.  
 
43 Refer to index number 42 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1387.  The existing challenge for Tanzania is translating National Development Priorities into local 
economic de velopment strategies. Therefore, Aid for Trade  a priority in this area should be 
strengthening the capacity of Local Government Authorities (LGAs) to mainstream trade into their 
strategies and programme s. Areas of particular focus should be: strengthen lin kage between LGAs 
and Central Government in the area of trade policy and trade development programme s; build the 
understanding of LGAs trade related officers on trade policies and the role of trade in development; 
strengthening the capacity of LGAs to main stream trade into their strategic plans and annual plans; 
and build the capacity of trade related officers in the LGAs to be Trainer of Trainees (ToT) and 
mentors of SMEs.  
1388.  Zambia  stated that building productive capacity in non -traditional export sectors wi ll 
contribute to the economic diversification, industrialization and job creation agenda of the country.  
Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing further required to support economic 
empowerment: partner country's perspective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Trade facilitation  29 83% 
Trade education/training  23 66% 
Agriculture  23 66% 
Industry  23 66% 
Asia Trade development  15 65% 
Trade facilitation  14 61% 
Trade policy and regulations  13 57% 
Trade education/training  13 57% 
Industry  13 57% 
Americas  Trade facilitation  14 78% 
Business support services  14 78% 
Trade education/training  12 67% 
Banking and financial services  12 67% 
Oceania  Trade facilitation  8 80% 
Trade education/training  8 80% 
Agriculture  8 80% 
Travel and tourism  8 80% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
LDC Trade facilitation  31 82% 
Trade education/training  29 76% 
Agriculture  27 71% 
LLDC Building productive capacity  16 73% 
Trade education/training  15 68% 
Industry  15 68% 
UN SIDS  Trade facilitation  21 88% 
Fishing  17 71% 
Travel and tourism  17 71% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Categories of Aid-for-Trade  financing further required to support economic 
empowerment  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
1389.  Four RECs identified trade development as an area requiring future AfT support for economic 
empowerment.  
1390.  Four South -South providers identified trade education and training as an area requiring future 
AfT support for economic empowerment.  
1391.  Twenty  respondents to the donor questionnaire (57%) considered business support services, 
trade policy and regulations, and trade deve lopment as areas requiring future  AfT support for 
economic empowerment.  
1392.  Austria  stated that in economic empowerment of women, a lot will be done in the context of 
secondary and higher education. Even though these sectors are not part of AfT definition.  
1393.  The European Union  stated that economic empowerment is mainstreamed across AfT 
sectors.  
2 (2%)12 (14%)15 (17%)21 (24%)25 (28%)28 (32%)30 (34%)34 (39%)37 (42%)39 (44%)41 (47%)42 (48%)43 (49%)43 (49%)44 (50%)44 (50%)48 (55%)48 (55%)50 (57%)53 (60%)53 (60%)57 (65%)67 (76%)
3 (9%)4 (11%)8 (23%)6 (17%)9 (26%)10 (29%)9 (26%)10 (29%)11 (31%)12 (34%)8 (23%)19 (54%)15 (43%)7 (20%)20 (57%)9 (26%)20 (57%)11 (31%)9 (26%)20 (57%)19 (54%)19 (54%)17 (49%)
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%UnsureOther trade related needsForestryMineral resources and miningTrade related adjustmentRegional trade agreements (RTAs)Multilateral trade negotiationsCommunications infrastructureTrade-related infrastructureTrade policy and administrative managementEnergy supply and generation infrastructureBuilding productive capacityBanking and financial servicesFishingTrade developmentTravel and tourismTrade policy and regulationsTransport and storage infrastructureIndustryBusiness support servicesAgricultureTrade education/trainingTrade facilitation
Donors Partner countriesWT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1394.  The Republic of Korea  identified Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as 
an area that can use AfT financing for economic empowerment if the grant ODA pro jects for TVET 
programme  could be considered Aid for Trade  (building productive capacity -industry).  
1395.  New Zealand  stated that support of the ICT sector is a category of AfT financing which will 
require further support for economic empowerment.   
1396.  Sweden  stated  that the highlighted areas are all important and include also the 
sub-categories, which are as relevant.  
1397.  Switzerland  stated that its strategy for Aid for Trade for the period 2021 -2024 will be defined 
in the message on international cooperation 2021 -2024,  which is under development.  
Aid for Trade  contributes to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda44 
1398.  Eighty -seven of the 88  answers (99%) to the partner country questionnaire stated that Aid 
for Trade  can make a contribution to the achievement of the 2030 Su stainable Development Agenda. 
This view was shared by all five RECs, all five South -South providers, and all 35 donors.  
1399.  There is clear appreciation of the role that Aid for Trade  can play in making a contribution to 
the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable  Development Agenda, notably to SDG 8 (decent work and 
economic growth) and SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure).  
Sustainable Development Goals Aid for Trade  contributes to: partner country's and 
donor's perspectives  
  
  Partner countries  Donors  
Number of 
responses  percentage 
share  Number of 
responses  percentage 
share  
1. No poverty  60 68% 31 89% 
2. Zero hunger  50 57% 18 51% 
3. Good health and well -being  38 43% 4 11% 
4. Quality education  44 50% 7 20% 
5. Gender equality  55 63% 29 83% 
6. Clean water and sanitation  29 33% 5 14% 
7. Affordable and clean energy  44 50% 14 40% 
8. Decent work and economic growth  73 83% 31 89% 
9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure  80 91% 30 86% 
10. Reduce inequalities  53 60% 26 74% 
11. Sustainable cities and communities  22 25% 7 20% 
12. Responsible consumption and production  49 56% 16 46% 
13. Climate action  27 31% 12 34% 
14. Life below water  26 30% 7 20% 
15. Life on land  22 25% 6 17% 
16. Peace, justice and strong institutions  36 41% 6 17% 
17. Partnership for the goals  43 49% 25 71% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2019) . 
 
 
44 Refer to index number 38 and 39 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Relevant national strategy or policy document in which SDGs are referred to  
Barbados  stated that the national strategy is being revised  
Benin  [mentioned] the Government Action Programme  (GAP), National Development Plan (NDP), 
the Growth Programme  for Sustainable Development (PC2D), Medium Term Programme  on Trade 
(PMTC)  
Bhutan  [mentioned] Bhutan government website and UNDP's work in Bhutan  
Burkina Faso  [mentioned] the National Plan for Economic and Social Development (PNDES)  
Burundi  [mentioned] National Development Plan 2018 -2027. One of the objectives to be pursued 
is the strengthening of food self -sufficiency and the diversification of exports through the 
promotion of agro -industrial, commercial and extractive enterprises  
Cabo Verde  [mentioned] the National Directorate of Planning  
The Central African Republic  stated that Aid for Trade  contributes to the achievement of 
objective 17  
Chad  [mentioned] the Head of State's Vision 2030, the National Development Plan 2017 -2021, 
the National Trade Strategy  
Cook Islands  [mentioned] National Sustainable Development Plan 2016 -2020 
Costa Rica  [mentioned ] National Development and Public Investment Plan  
Côte d'Ivoire  [mentioned] the National Development Plan 2016 -2020, website of the Advisory 
Group, webpage on the realization of the SDGs in C ôte d'Ivoire  
Dominican Republic  [mentioned] an article on the Government's website indicating that the 
country has made significant progress to the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda  
Ecuador  [mentioned] National Plan of Good Living (PNBV)  
Equatorial Guinea  [mentioned] the EIF at the national level with the category 1 project, t he 
National Development Plan Horizon 2020, the World Bank report on the business climate  
The Gambia  [mentioned] the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs  
Grenada  [mentioned] the government's website  
Honduras [mentioned] the National Agenda 2030 for SDGs   
Indonesia  [mentioned] Medium -Term Development Plan (RPJMN)  
Iraq [mentioned] Iraq's country profile on the Arab Development Portal  
Kenya  [mentioned] Kenya Vision 2030, Medium -Term Plan III, and the website of the President 
in the Republic of Kenya  
Kiriba ti [mentioned] the Kiribati Development Plan 2016 -2019, Trade Policy Framework  
Malawi  [mentioned] the Malawi National Development Strategy III  
Mali [mentioned] Strategic Framework for Economic Recovery and Sustainable Development 
(CREDD 2016 -2018). This document is currently being revised to give the CREDD 2019 -2023.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Mauritania  [mentioned] the Ministry of Economy and Industry, as well as SDG s 1, 3, 4 , 5, 6, 7, 
8, 10, 12, 15, 16  
Mauritius  [mentioned] Vision 2030  
Mexico  [mentioned] the National Development Plan  
Panama  [mentioned] National Strategic Plan with State Vision, Panama 2030  
Papua New Guinea  stated that the Medium -Term Development Plan (MTDP3) integrates the 
SDGs  
Paraguay  [mentioned] National Development Plan  
Peru stated that the National Strategic Planning Center of Peru has prepared the document Image 
from Peru to 2030, which incorporates the SDGs into the national development strategy. The 
response referenced the National Voluntary Report on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for 
Sustainable Development  
Saint Vincent and Grenadines  [mentioned] the National Economic and Social Development 
2013-2025 
Samoa  stated that the Strategy for the Development of Samoa 16/17 - 19/20 is aligned with the 
SDGs, SAMOA Pathway, and other international conventions  
Tonga  stated that the Tonga Strategic Development Framework (TSDF) is the national policy that 
links the count ry's national priorities to SDGs commitment  
Uganda  [mentioned] the National Planning Authority  
Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela  [mentioned] Programme a Patria and Strategic Lines  
Viet Nam  [mentioned] the National Action Plan for implementing the 2030 Agenda  for sustainable 
development  
Zambia  [mentioned] Seventh National Development Plan (7NDP)  
WAEMU  [mentioned] The WAEMU Commission's Strategic Plan 2011/2020  
Turkey  [mentioned] the Report on Turkey's initial steps towards the implementation of the 2030 
Agend a for Sustainable Development  
Colombia  [mentioned] the Strategy for the Implementation of the Objectives of Sustainable 
Development in Colombia, National Council of Economic and Social Policy (CONPES)  
Singapore  [mentioned] the Voluntary National Review 201 8 
Australia  [mentioned] the Report on the Implementation of the SDGs  
Austria  [mentioned] the Austrian SDG portal hosted by the Federal Chancellery   
Canada  [mentioned] Canada’s International Assistance Policy, Development Finance Institute 
(DFI), Canada’s  commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Canada’s Official 
Development Assistance Accountability Act, Diversifying Canada’s Trade and Development 
Opportunities, FinDev Canada, Asian Centre for Excellence, Canada -Asia Trade and Investment  
for Growth (TRIGR), Partnership for Gender Equality, Mennonite Economic Development 
Associates (MEDA) Sarona Asset Management, Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, Trade 
Facilitation Office Canada, Trade Mark East Africa  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Canada  [mentioned] Canada's int ernational assistance priorities on the 2030 Agenda for 
Sustainable Development, Canada's Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable 
Development, Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy   
The Czech Republic  [mentioned] the Strategic Framew ork Czech Republic 2030  
Estonia  [mentioned] the Strategy for Estonian Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid 
2016–2020 
The European Union  [mentioned] the new European Consensus on Development  
Finland  [mentioned] Finland's development policy  
Germany  [mentioned] BMZ Strategy on Free and Fair Trader as a Driver for Development – the 
German Strategy for Aid for Trade , the 2018 edition of German Aid for Trade  under the magnifying 
glass 
Ireland  stated that the December 2017 Council Conclusions on updating the joint EU Strategy 
on Aid for Trade  note that ' Aid-for-Trade  is an essential means of implementation for the 2030 
Agenda on Sustainable Development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goal s' 
Japan  [mentioned] Japan SDGs Action Platform and SDGs Promotion Headquarters  
The Republic of Korea  [mentioned] with regard to the link between SDGs and Aid for Trade , 
the Republic of Korea has indicated in the questionnaire the different goals to which AfT 
programme s contribute  
Latvia  [mentioned] the Development Cooperation Policy Guidelines for 2016 -2020 
Luxembourg  [mentioned] Luxembourg's General Development Cooperation Strategy - the Road 
to 2030  
Norway  [mentioned] Common Responsibility for Common Fut ure and the SDGs and Norway's 
Development Policy  
The Russian Federation  [mentioned] an Interagency Working Group on climate change and 
sustainable development at the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation 
functions in Russia . The indicators of SDGs achievement are included in the Federal plan of 
statistical works (Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation N 2033 -p dated 23 
September 2017): Section 2.8 “Indicators of SDGs in RF”.  
The Slovak Republic  [mentioned] Voluntar y National Review of the Slovak Republic on the 
Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development  
The United Kingdom  [mentioned] DFID Economic Development Strategy. It also highlighted 
SDG 1. No poverty, 2. Zero hunger, 3. Good health and well -being, 8. Decent work and economic 
growth, 9. Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 10. Reduce inequalities, 12. Responsible 
consumption and production, 14. Life below water, 15. Life on land, 17. Partnership for the goals. 
The United Kingdom remains co mmitted to achieving the UN’s Global Goals and ending extreme 
poverty by 2030 and believe that trade can be an effective way of growing economies and 
reducing poverty internationally.  
The World Bank  [mentioned] the World Bank Programme s on SDG and the 2030  Agenda, a 
report on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda 2018 Update, IDEAS for Action 2018, the World 
Bank (trade) webpage  
The UNDP [mentioned] the Youth Connekt Africa, Gender Equality Seal for Public and Private 
Organizations, and Gender Equality Seal  for UNDP Entities  
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  1400.  Cabo Verde  stated every goal is relevant because the country believes fair trade is a 
sustainable way to take people out of poverty. Everything is connected.  
1401.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that SDGs  for Aid for Trade  can help diversify 
and transform the economy. Regarding the diversification and transformation of the economy, the 
National Strategic Development Plan has identified several priorities in relation to the SDGs. The aim 
is to improve macroeconomic policies with refer ence in line with Goal 8, to foster the growth of 
economic growth sectors, diversification of the economy in line with Goal 2, to promote the private 
sector, promoting investments in line with Goal s 9 and 12, accelerating regional and global 
integration, a nd competitiveness in line with Goal 17.  
1402.  Ecuador  supports the achievement of Goal 14.6 of the SDGs , which calls for the prohibition 
of certain forms of fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing; the elimination 
of subsidies that c ontribute to Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing; and the refraining 
from introducing new subsidies of this nature, recognizing that WTO negotiations should include 
appropriate and effective Special and Differential Treatment (SDT) for develo ping countries (DPCs) 
and LDCs.  
1403.  Guinea  stated that Aid for Trade , which is the part of ODA intended for the trade sector. It 
should be well -structured and based on a country's essential and priority needs. It may well 
contribute to achieving one or more SDGs. The evidence is that in many LDCs, the EIF project has 
helped people to improve their living conditions.  
1404.  Kazakhstan  referenced the Education Modernization Project funded by the World Bank, UN 
Women in Action in Kazakhstan, and EBRD projects in power sources and infrastructure.  
1405.  Kiribati  stated that the Trade Policy Framework sees Aid for Trade  in supporting trade 
develo pment. Trade development contributes to achieving the SDGs  through its direct contribution 
to economic growth, incomes and livelihood. The impact of trade also contributes to improving 
outcomes in the area of health, education and communication related to SDGs . 
1406.  Madagascar  stated that Aid for Trade  can contribute to SDG number s 13, 14 and 
15 concerning the environmentally friendly production system and the application of SPS measures 
that will be taken into account in the Category II project. Madagascar Aid for Trade  contributes to 
the achievement of the Sustainable Development Agenda by 2030. The Medium -Term trade 
development plan of Madagascar takes into account many of the MDGs to a large extent.  
1407.  The Maldives  stated that as an island developing country, the environment is a very 
important aspect of its development. Hence, climate action and life below water and life on land are 
areas that are as important as other SDGs  ticked.  
1408.  Mali referenced specific objectiv e number 18 of the CREDD, which is to promote internal and 
external trade. The implementation of this specific objective of the CREDD will make it possible to 
pursue more specifically SDGs 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 12.  
1409.  Nepal  stated that the Constitution of Nep al, current development plan (14th periodic plan), 
annual budget and programme s have focused on issues reflected in the SDGs. Aid for Trade  would 
contribute to achieve mostly all of the SDGs in general and Goal s 1, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 17 in 
particular.  
1410.  Papua New Guinea  referenced the Medium -Term Development Plan III, which has integrated 
the SDGs . 
1411.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  stated that the inter -ministerial process to monitor the progress of the 
SDGs has begun. The plan is to mainstream SDGs in the new National  Development Strategy. The 
Country Poverty Assessment, National Poverty Reduction Strategy and National Social Protection 
Strategy can also be referenced for achievements in contributing to the SDGs.  
1412.  Samoa  stated that Aid for Trade  can help make a contribu tion to all of the SDGs , some more 
so than others.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1413.  Senegal  stated that Aid for Trade  aims to help underdeveloped countries strengthen their 
supply capacities to better integrate the multilateral trading system. This objective is perfectly in 
line with the SDGs  and the Plan for Emerging Senegal. The Plan which aims to bring about the 
country's emergence by 2035, is inspired by the sustainable development objectives set out in the 
Paris Declaration.  
1414.  Sri Lanka  stated that in general, Aid for Trade  helps develo ping countries to increase trade 
with the world which will lead to overall economic growth. The SDGs  are interlinked with each other 
and the economic growth will support to achieve all the goals by underpinning them.  
1415.  Togo  stated that trade is a tool for ac hieving the SDGs. The Sustainable Development 
Programme  to 2030 is an essential pillar in the country's development vision, which is now based 
on the National Development Plan (NDP, 2018 -2022). Nearly all the Millennium Development Goals 
(MDGs) are include d in the National Development Plan, including MDGs 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 14 and 
17 on trade and Aid for Trade . 
1416.  Zambia  stated that AfT programme s help to unlock existing barriers to trade. Trade as an 
enabler of industrial development facilitates the achiev ement of SDGs . 
1417.  COMESA referenced the COMESA Strategy.  
1418.  TMEA  underscored that reducing barriers to trade, in particular reducing the time and cost of 
trade, should translate into better market prices for consumer goods, which has an end effect on 
household income and poverty reduction. Increasing opportunities for women traders will also 
promote gender equality and raise women's incomes, which many studies have shown that women 
invest back into their families and communities for things like health and education. Modernizing 
infrastructure for trade will also have a long term positive environmental effect.  
1419.  Canada  stated that through its Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada will play an 
important role in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. SDG 5—achieving 
gender equality and empowering  all women and girls is the entry point for Canada’s approach to 
implementing the 2030 Agenda and will drive progress in other SDGs. Canada is committed to 
helping achieve the SDGs in Canada and in developing countries. To better support equal educational 
opportunities for women and girls in developing countries and achieve SDG 4 (Quality Education), 
Canada supports programme s and advocacy efforts that help women and girls get the skills, training 
and education they need to succeed; works to ensure that sch ool facilities are welcoming spaces 
that respond to the specific needs of girls; and support programme s and partners that help those 
who have missed out on the opportunity to complete a quality education. Inclusive growth is growth 
that works for everyone (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth). It cannot be achieved without 
the full and equal participation of women as economic actors. This means giving women more 
opportunities to succeed and greater control over household resources and decision making, as  well 
as reducing their heavy burden of unpaid work, including childcare.  
1420.  To better support SDG 13 on Climate action, Canada is committed to combating climate 
change and its impacts, providing USD 2.65 billion in climate finance. Canada’s international cl imate 
finance supports a wide range of programme s and initiatives that help developing countries manage 
risks and build resilience to the impacts of climate change, develop and deploy clean energy 
technology, and manage natural resources to achieve sustain ability. Given that innovation will play 
a role in achieving Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, the department will continue to 
support innovative finance, climate -smart agriculture and innovative, evidence -based approaches in 
the area of health, and  leverage best practices for scaling up and measuring impact while taking into 
account gender equality. In line with the focus of its Feminist International Assistance Policy on 
innovation, Canada will continue to engage with Canadian and international inn ovation actors and 
build on knowledge, good practice and tools to support women and girls’ economic empowerment 
and foster innovative policies, programme s and partnerships for sustainable growth .   
1421.  Denmark referenced the strategy for Danish development coo peration . 
1422.  Estonia  stated that AfT supports to achieve all the SDGs , directly or indirectly.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1423.  The European Union  stated that trade is a means of implementation of the SDGs and can, 
as such, potentially help achieve all SDGs. The SDGs highlighted above indic ate those where trade, 
and therefore Aid for Trade , may have the strongest impact.  
1424.  The Republic of Korea  stated that Aid for Trade  can contribute to education (SDG s 1, 4, 8), 
governance (SDG s 8, 10, 16, 17), agricultural and rural development (SDG s 2, 9, 1 0, 12, 13), 
transportation (SDG 3, 7, 9, 11, 12), energy (SDG s 2, 7, 9, 13, 17), gender equality (SDG s 1, 3, 4, 
8, 16).  
1425.  Sweden  stated that the Swedish Development Policy Framework takes as point of departure 
the current global development landscape and rel ates to the 2030 Agenda and the Addis Agenda. 
The global development agenda and the SDGs  are thus a basis for Swedish development 
cooperation. In the Policy Framework, the SDGs most relevant for each priority area are indicated, 
including in the section on  trade. All new development cooperation strategies also refer to the most 
relevant SDGs. A Strategy for Capacity Development, Partnership and Methods supporting Agenda 
2030 for Sustainable Development, covering the period 2018 -2022, was adopted by the Swed ish 
Government in 2018. The aim is to strengthen institutional capacity in partner countries for 
sustainable development and poverty reduction, as well as to implement, follow -up and participate 
in the global dialogue on Agenda 2030. The aim is also to pro mote stronger partnerships, increased 
knowledge and engagement of many actors for their contribution to the global implementation of 
Agenda 2030.  
1426.  Trade is one of the areas mentioned in the strategy. It can also be noted that the Global 
Strategy for Sustai nable Economic Development, the most important strategy for global AfT 
Initiatives, is part of a package of strategies covering different aspects of sustainability adopted by 
the Swedish Government in 2018, also including the Global Strategy for Sustainabl e Environment, 
Climate and Sea and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources and the Global Strategy for Sustainable 
Social Development. Synergies will be sought between the different strategies in order to better 
promote a sustainable development. Also mention ed in this context should be the Global Strategy 
for Gender Equality and women’s and girls’ rights, adopted in 2018 .  
1427.  The EBRD  stated that AfT activities may directly or indirectly impact almost all SDGs. Given 
EBRD's operations as well as the AfT objectiv es and scope of activities, the EBRD's contribution 
would most directly work through the channels indicated above.  
Additional information on how Aid for Trade  contributes to economic empowerment45 
1428.  Barbados  stated that the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) Plan is 
the Government of Barbados' plan that has been accepted under the IMF Programme . Under the IMF 
programme , the Barbados Government has certain obligations to fulfil. This plan is expected to place 
the country on a growth path.  
1429.  Benin  stated that Aid for Trade  can contribute to economic empowerment through the support 
provided by the Office of Public Policy Evaluation and Analysis of Government Actions, Economic and 
Financial Policy Monitoring Unit, and the National Secretariat for the implementation of the EIF 
Programme . 
1430.  Burkina Faso  listed a project to strengthen the productive and commercial capacities of the 
sesame sector in Burkina Faso with the overall objective of contributing to the increase in sesame 
export revenues and the improvement of the income of the stakeholders. It was implemented from 
2013 to 2017. The final evaluation of the project was carried out in 2017. The final evaluation report 
was issued in December 2017. In addition, Burkina Faso included a project to support the marketing 
of dried mango and processed cashew nuts, which has the overall objective of contributing to 
increasing export revenues for dried mango and processed cashew nuts and improving the incomes 
of stakeholders. It was implemented from 2014 to 2018. The final evaluation of the project was 
carried out in 2018. The final evaluation report was issued in December 2018. Various ministries 
were consulted in the elaboration of this questionnaire, includin g the Ministry of Economy, Finance 
and Development; Ministry of Transport, Urban Mobility and Road Safety; Ministry of Health; Ministry 
of Agriculture and Water Development; Ministry of Energy; Ministry of Animal and Water Resources; 
 
45 Refer to index number 43 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Ministry of Youth, Tra ining and Employment; Ministry of Women, National Solidarity and Family; and 
Ministry of Environment, Green Economy and Climate Change.  
1431.  Cabo Verde referenced the Strategic Plan for Sustainable Development and United Nations 
Development Programme  (UNDP) Multi -Partner Trust Fund Office.  
1432.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the National Strategic Plan for Development 
(PNSD) would be the best lin k for all this but the document is still pending.  
1433.  Guinea  stated that the fundamental purpose and essence of Aid for Trade  is to contribute to 
the fight against poverty in all its forms in developing countries in general and LDCs in particular. 
The right t o growth and economic development of LDCs is the foundation of any cooperation between 
developed and developing countries. Therefore, LDCs have the right to expect, for example, that the 
EIF will meet their needs well. Given that global progress in economi c development, as well as the 
overall progress of developing countries, has largely ignored LDCs struggling to overcome poverty, 
but that they are severely lacking the productive capacities required to overcome the poverty trap 
of a combination of low inco me, low investment and low growth, LDC governments must make trade 
one of the most appropriate ways to combat poverty.  
1434.  It is clear that today, the economic stagnation and decline of many LDCs is linked to 
insufficient attention being given to the developm ent of trade activities in these countries in favour 
of other types of cooperation programme s, most of which have not produced the expected results. 
Without increasing the role of trade, it will be difficult to achieve sustainable economic development 
in LDCs. Thus, a well -structured and dynamic trade sector is as much, if not more than any other 
sector, a powerful factor driving economic growth, providing a favourable ground for 
entrepreneurship, promoting technological dynamism and productivity growth, cr eating skilled jobs 
and, through links between the various economic sectors, laying the foundations for the expansion 
of agriculture and services, thereby combating poverty.  
1435.  While LDCs will be able to benefit from liberalized trade flows, they can only be  integrated into 
the world economy if they succeed in increasing their participation in international trade and if 
existing constraints on the development of trade activities, including exports, are removed, as well 
as if competitive productive capacities are developed. Macroeconomic stability and institutional 
reforms are essential, and these reforms have been carried out by LDCs. The latter, however, are 
not in themselves sufficient to trigger a process of economic growth unless they are followed by the 
creation of productive capacities to equip trade to participate effectively in economic competition in 
international markets. Therefore, the development of business activities is essential in order to 
reduce poverty in a country. Trade is an engine of econo mic growth in the development process and 
is essential to increasing the type of productivity that stimulates growth in the economy as a whole, 
particularly through exports.  
1436.  Iraq made a reference to the Ministry of Planning.  
1437.  Kiribati  stated that the Govern ment has developed new policies to guide its trade 
development agenda that should contribute to achieving SDGs , if effectively implemented. Kiribati 
therefore seeks collaboration with development partners in implementing the following key policies 
to suppo rt its trade development agenda; trade Policy Framework; National Quality Policy; Fisheries 
Policy; and ICT Policy.  
1438.  Lesotho  stated that the financial and technical support provided through EIF and ITC to 
small-scale farmers to adopt greenhouse technology t o produce vegetables for commercial purposes  
has been a huge success in support of economic empowerment, particularly for women. In addition, 
training in financial management and marketing skills were helpful.  
1439.  Madagascar  provided information on the EIF Category I project and Fac Mair Project 5th and 
7th Call. These are one -year projects per call. The 5th Project was closed last year. the project to 
implement the Interim Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA); The Programme  of Support for 
Employment and Regional Integration (PROCOM). Other projects are under appraisal. The country 
does not yet have any eval uation documents available for this project.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1440.  Mali provided the reports on the Trade Policy Review as additional information. It also 
provided its report on WAEMU trade monitoring; the DTIS, which was updated in 2015.  
1441.  Myanmar  made a reference to the Nationa l Strategy for Trade Policy in Myanmar, the 
Medium -Term Programme  (MTP) for Coordinated Aid-for-Trade  Resource Mobilization and Delivery, 
and the Trade Policy Reform in Myanmar.  
1442.  Nepal  stated that Aid for Trade  could be an important means for enhancing expo rt 
competitiveness of Nepal if it could be fully mobilized as per the spirit of global commitment. 
Furthermore, AfT focus on issues such as trade related infrastructure development, GVC integration, 
production and productivity enhancement, export promotion , strengthening quality infrastructure, 
and service sector strengthening would be highly appreciated.  
1443.  Niue highlighted the importance of focusing on practical things happening on the ground. 
There is a need to reduce the various types of assessment and str ategy type of activities. The ratio 
of activities focusing on producing reports to real trading activities should be 20 to 80. Real trading 
activities can focus, for example, on roads and ports improvement. The response suggested the 
creation of an app wit h five indicators to monitor real progress over the year by country, namely 
total exports, total imports, commodities, services trade value, and economic growth. This list can 
change over time depending on priorities, and no written text just photos.  
1444.  Palau  stated that it is a non -WTO member. The country would like to receive more AfT 
support, but it has few resources and industries capacity for trade at this time. Palau does, however, 
need assistance in diversification of its economic base.  
1445.  Papua New Guinea  stated that foreign aid flows in the country accounted for 60% of the 
government budget and 24% of G DP. Papua New Guinea has large amounts of fertile agricultural 
land, dense forestry and fishing resources, substantial natural oil and gas, gold, copper, n ickel and 
other mineral resource deposits. However, despite its natural resource endowments and receiving 
large amounts of foreign aid, Papua New Guinea has been steadily progressing. Currently PNG's 
economy is gaining its momentum which is the result of g ood governance policies and 
macroeconomic management. Papua New Guinea's economy depends entirely on the renewable 
sectors. To have that economic activities take place there must be good infrastructure which makes 
it more conducive for the flow of goods an d services to get to rural areas and in return raw cash 
crops from rural areas to reach the markets in main centres. Such activities will instigate millions of 
revenues to the country which will have a fair benefit to the rural communities and government.  
1446.  Paraguay  made a reference to the National Development Plan Paraguay 2030.  
1447.  Peru made a reference to the agreement between the European Union and the Republic of 
Peru on "Sustainable Economic Development and Promotion of SMEs at the Subnational Level". Its 
general objective is to promote sustainable and inclusive growth and investment to improve levels 
of competitiveness at the regional level, and as a specific objective, to strengthen local development 
and innovation in at least five pilot regions. The inter vention logic is to build the capacities of key 
actors involved in regional development and innovation, while sharing the EU's own experience in 
this area.  
1448.  The "Volunteer Programme  for fashion development in the Gamarra textile and clothing 
conglomerate" was implemented with the support of Australia. The project is scheduled to be 
executed from December 2018 to February 2020 and aims to strengthen the capacities of Peruvian 
SMEs in the Conglomerate of Gamarra Textiles and Clothing led by women, providing t hem with 
knowledge on design and management techniques that enable them to compete in international 
markets and increase the likelihood of business success; as well as allowing young people with an 
average age between 20 and 25 years, who are in the last c ycles or graduates of higher institutes 
of fashion design, textile clothing and/ or related and can implement their knowledge with training 
and practical activities in SMEs, promoting the development of their skills through practice, for a 
later easier ins ertion into the labour market.  
1449.  In this regard, it should be pointed out that the activities to be carried out within the 
framework of this programme  are specialized training on textiles and clothing for SMEs and young 
volunteers, as well as the developmen t of clothing design to be carried out by the young volunteers WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  together with the SMEs. Project Single Window of Foreign Trade (VUCE) 2.0 with cooperation from 
Korea System for companies aims to develop a software for free use by SMEs, allowing them, in 
addition to access transactions in the Single Window of Foreign Trade (VUCE) 2.0, have access to 
value -added services related to their operations related to foreign trade.  
1450.  Saint Kitts and Nevis  made a reference to the National Adaptation Strategy 2006 -2017, 
Ministry of Finance's website, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis website, the country poverty 
assessment, the National Poverty Reduction Strategy, and the National Social Protection Strategy.  
1451.  Sri Lanka  made a reference to Vision 2025.  
1452.  Tajikistan  made a reference to the ADB report on promoting export diversification and growth 
in Tajikistan as well as the National Development Strategy of the republic of Tajikistan.  
1453.  Tonga  stated that its new democratic government is focusing on empowering the poor, 
creating new jobs and developing new industries to eliminate and eradicate poverty.  
1454.  Zambia  stated that AfT support on economic empowerment should target sectors that have 
been prioritized in the 7NDP as having high growth potential, comparative and competitive 
advantages (e.g., agriculture, mining and tourism). AfT support should also focus on infrastructure 
development such as industrial clusters that can contribute to economic empowerment.  
1455.  Zimbabwe  stated that it is yet to develop an AfT strategy and support i n line with this will be 
appreciated.  
Aid-for-Trade  projects or programme s supporting economic empowerment46 
1456.  Benin  referenced the EIF Programme  in Benin. The response also mentioned the various 
interventions of the ITC in favour of the development of trade inclusiveness in Benin.  
1457.  Burkina Faso  stated that the overall objective of the project to support the integrated 
development of the Shea Sector for the Economic Empowerment of Women (PADIFK) is to 
strengthen the capacities of the umbrella organization of the shea sector in Burkina Faso and to  
support the development of 100 of the most functional organizations. Specifically, the project aims 
to strengthen the skills and better organize and network value chain actors; to improve actors' 
access to credit for the collection and processing of shea kernels; and to improve product quality 
and market access. With a total cost of USD 1.7 million, the project was launched in September  2016 
and will end in June 2019.  
1458.  Burundi  referenced the EIF UNDP.  
1459.  Cabo Verde referenced the EIF, Institute of Business Sup port and Promotion (Proempresa). 
Relevant ongoing projects include the Electricity Transmission and Distribution Network 
Development Project financed by Japan (JICA). The response also highlighted programme s and 
projects funded by LuxDev and the European U nion. It also made a reference to the Project on Local 
Networks for Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism in Santo Antão, UNDP Project on building adaptive 
capacity and resilience to climate change in the water sector, projects supported by the FAO, and 
activi ties carried out by the Millennium  Challenge Account Cabo Verde. The government project to 
diversify tourism in rural areas, already approved by the Ministers Council, and it will be launched 
in 2019 - "one tourist, one family".   
1460.  Cambodia  made a reference to the Trade Sector Wide Approach (SWAp) and Cambodia Trade 
Integration Strategy 2014 -2018.  
1461.  The Central African Republic  included the World Bank -funded LONDO project, whose main 
beneficiaries are women and youth in conflict -affected areas. In addition, it would like to showcase 
the EU -funded BEKOU project, which is in favour of women's and youth cooperative organizations.  
 
46 Refer to index number 44 in the Annex.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1462.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the EIF is the premier AfT programme  for 
economic empowerment that can be put forward as a g ood practice. This is thanks to these projects 
coming from the DTIS Action Matrix, which has identified the economic growth pathways on which 
most of the EIF's work is concerned. This matrix is related to the National Strategic Plan for 
Development (PNSD ).  
1463.  Costa Rica  made a reference to PROCOMER, an institution in charge of promoting the 
exportation.  
1464.  El Salvador  stated that in 2009, the experience and work methodology that Japanese 
communities implemented to boost their territorial economies was known. I n January 2010, the 
National Commission of Micro and Small Company (CONAMYPE) decided to incorporate the 
methodology into its strategic projection of support to micro and small enterprises, considering it 
could be adapted to the reality of El Salvador. Thi s was considered because the endogenous 
development approach of the territories with existing abundance local resources was very similar, 
including the possibility of transforming them, adding value, the skills and knowledge of their 
inhabitants as well as  the identity of these resources. This experience was developed and is called 
Movement One People One Product.  
1465.  Guinea  stated that the integrated development of communes and grassroots production 
communities in Guinea is part of the Aid for Trade  that benef its the country. Thus, the creation of 
rural roads, for example to facilitate the drainage of goods produced in landlocked areas to the 
markets that flow from these goods would be of great benefit to the Guinean economy. This also 
applies to the provision to young people and women in villages of small processing units for local 
products (dried mangoes, dried vegetable leaves, pre -cooked fonio, inter alia ) that are highly 
sought -after in local, sub -regional and international markets. This will help to reduce  the rural 
exodus.  
1466.  Iraq highlighted the importance of poverty strategy, sustainable development, and rural 
development.  
1467.  Kenya  referenced the Kenya Youth Employment Opportunities Project (KYEOP), Single 
Window System, InfoTradeKe, and One Stop Border Post.  
1468.  Lesotho  stated that the Horticultural Productivity and Trade Development (HPTD) project, 
through which greenhouses were given to smallholder agricultural farmers to improve productivity 
of vegetables, is a case in point. Increased productivity helped them to supply the local supermarkets 
and hotels with fresh produce.  
1469.  Liberia  stated that the most important ongoing AfT programme s currently ongoing in Liberia 
are: EIF Tier1 and Tier 2 project s; ADB Programme  of Assistance to Trade Support Institutions in 
Liberia (PATSIL) programme ; Japanese grant; and The Netherlands ITC programme  and Centre for 
Promotion of Imports from developing countries (CBI) cocoa programme . 
1470.  Madagascar  would like to showcase the EIF project (category I and category II). However, 
it has only been two years since the Category I project was implemented, and the country does not 
have enough results yet.  
1471.  Malawi  made a reference to the Malawi Trade Portal.  
1472.  Mali mentioned the EIF Mali; the Euro pean Union Hub and Spokes Programme ; National Trade 
Facilitation Programme ; Projects financed by the Standards Compliance Fund for Trade 
Development; and International organization of Francophonie's (OIF's) Young Women's Programme . 
1473.  Mexico  stated that from 2015 to 2018, the Youth Credit and SME Women programme s were 
well accepted. However, the lack of budgetary resources allocated in 2017 and 2018 limited their 
impacts. The Women Moving Mexico programme  operated by the National Institute of Entrepreneur 
(INADEM) was subject to an impact evaluation by the World Bank, showing great results for the 
participants. It is important to ensure continuous operation of such programme s. 
1474.  Nigeria  referenced the Zero Reject Initiative on non -oil export.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1475.  Niue suggested creat ing a portal sharing success stories and the various activities done in 
addressing the needs of different countries.  
1476.  Papua New Guinea  made a reference to the trade -related technical assistance received from 
the European Union.  
1477.  Peru highlighted the Second P hase of the SeCompetitive Programme . The SeCompetitivo 
programme  is an initiative promoted by State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) in alliance 
with the National Council for Competitiveness and Formalization (CNCF), whose National Facilitator 
is HELVETAS. The general objective of the project is to improve the competitiveness of the private 
sector, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development and poverty reduction. Its specific 
objectives include: contributing to increased productivity; f acilitating access to international 
markets; and promote capacity development. The thematic axes are business development and 
value chains; foreign trade facilitation; and strengthening human capital. Some of the prioritized 
projects to promote business de velopment and value chain include the optimization of investment 
by National Universities and Regional Governments of the Determined Resources (Canon) to 
strengthen the link between academy and industry in order to achieve greater competitiveness of 
region al ecosystems (CONCYTEC).  
1478.  Another project is the generation of instruments for the multisectoral and multilevel 
articulation oriented to the productive development and the internationalization of the Peruvian 
company coordinated by the Ministry of Foreign  Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) and the Ministry of 
Production (PRODUCE). In the area of trade facilitation, there is a project aimed at improving the 
efficiency of health management within the framework of the implementation of the TFA in Peru 
coordinated b y the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR). In efforts to strengthen 
human capita, a project is undertaken to strengthen decentralized and articulated management of 
technological higher education coordinated by the Ministry of Education (MINEDU ). Another project 
focuses on the strengthening of professional competencies and careers, coordinated by the Ministry 
of Labour and Employment Promotion (MTPE).  
1479.  Samoa  stated that about 49% of Samoan adults are not included in the formal financial sector. 
In 2009, the Pacific Island Forum Economic Ministers adopted four goals to give direction to improve 
the financial competencies of financial inclusion among Pacific Islanders. Following the adoption of 
the 2020 Money PACIFIC Goals and the G20 principles for  Innovative Financial Inclusion, Samoa 
also made a commitment to the Maya declaration to unlock the economic and social potential of the 
poor through greater financial inclusion. From the regional and global initiatives towards financial 
inclusion, the Gov ernment of Samoa mandated the Central Bank of Samoa (CBS) with the goal to 
promote financial inclusion and literacy across the country in 2010.  
1480.  This was reinforced in the CBS Act 2015 which established the National Financial Inclusion 
Taskforce (NFIT) con sisting of representatives from both the public and private sector. The NFIT 
Members are Central Bank of Samoa (CBS), South Pacific Business Development (SPBD), Samoa 
National Provident Fund, Development Bank of Samoa, Ministry of Finance (MOF), Ministry o f 
Education, Sports, and Culture (MESC), Ministry of Women Community and Social Development 
(MWCSD), Australia, New Zealand Bank Samoa Ltd, National Bank of Samoa, Samoa life Assurance 
Corporation, Samoa Commercial Bank, Digicel, Pacific Financial Inclusio n Programme  (PFIP), Bank 
of the South Pacific, UN Capital Development Fund, Australian Aid, European Union, New Zealand 
Aid and UNDP.  
1481.  This task force endorsed the National Financial Inclusion Strategy 2017 -2020 (NFIS) which 
sets out the overarching approa ch to drive financial inclusion in Samoa to be implemented through 
various programme s. These include Samoa National Provident Fund's (SNPF’s) USD 8.9 million 
microfinance assistance towards the South Pacific Business Development; ANZ Bank’s financial 
educa tion programme s such as the MoneyMinded Adult Financial Programme  for Samoan adults 
(2011 - 2014) and the launch of the ANZ Pacific App for its users; the Ezibank digital product under 
the National Bank of Samoa and Digicel Samoa co -funded through a grant f rom the United Nations 
PFIP; and the recent launch of the M Tala mobile wallet by Bluesky Samoa which enables Bluesky 
users to transfer funds between customers using mobile phones.  
1482.  In addition, the CBS hosts "be money wise" competitions and awareness progr amme s to 
improve financial literacy and inclusion for all schools during its annual Global Money Week. The WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  Central Bank is also advocating to integrate financial inclusion in the curriculum system to help 
students become financially literate through the su pport of Pacific Islands Regional Initiative, Alliance 
of Financial Inclusion and PFIP.  
1483.  Senegal  referenced the Senegalese mango competitiveness improvement project (PACMS).  
1484.  Tajikistan  made a reference to ADB Country Partnership Strategy for Tajikistan.  
1485.  Tanzania  referenced the Capacity Building for Trade Development and Integration in 
Tanzania.  
1486.  Ukraine  referenced the EU Research and Innovation programme  Horizon 2020 and Fit for 
Partnership with Germany.  
1487.  Zambia  stated that the country implemented the Trad e and Investment Project for Enhanced 
Competitiveness of Zambia's Apiculture Sector (TIPEC -ZAS) from 2012 -2015. The project 
strengthened the relationships between producer groups and processors and supported the 
construction of bulking centres to provide e asy access to markets for honey and honey products. 
Honey producers were also trained to improve productivity and quality. TIPEC -ZAS project also 
integrated gender -inclusive elements. The provision of modern beehives and protective clothing 
attracted more women participation in the sector. Women now account for 30% of beekeepers. 
Building on the EIF investment, additional resources were leveraged from the AfDB for Sanitary and 
phytosanitary (SPS) support in apiculture. The project resulted in improving the capacity of traders, 
processors and producers of honey and bee products to comply with SPS measures and allowed 
them to upgrade within the honey GVC. 
1488.  COMESA  mentioned the Malawi and Eswatini support being provided to enhance capacities of 
women and youth i n leather products developments. The support is being provided under the 
COMESA Adjustment Facility programme  that provides adjustment support to member states.  
1489.  TMEA  stated that its work on women and trade has empowered over 27,000 women traders 
in East Africa through select, high -impact interventions including: training in value addition, access 
to export markets and how to navigate the rules and regulations that gov ern intra -regional (East 
African Community) trade; ensuring market and trading information is accessible through SMS 
platforms, women trader associations and resource centres at border -crossing points; various 
advocacy and sensiti zation initiatives such as  campaigns, posters, dialogue, and cross -border 
charter. TMEA plans to scale up these programme s to reach 300,000 women and expand 
geographical coverage.  
1490.  Transnamib  referenced the WALVIS bay corridor group.  
1491.  Turkey  stated that on 1-2 November 2017, key Turk ish political leaders met with successful 
women political and business leaders from Panama, Jordan, Bosnia Herzegovina and 
North  Macedonia to discuss ways to increase women’s participation in decision making and eliminate 
barriers to leadership in politics  and the private and public sectors. This took place in Ankara and 
was organized by the Committee on Equality of Opportunity for Women and men of the Turkish 
Parliament (EOC) of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TGNA), in partnership with UN Women.  
1492.  The symposium Women in Decision Making Mechanisms: Politics, Public and Private Sector 
drew more than 500 participants, many of them high -level Turkish executives, legislative, political, 
academic and civil society representatives. Also, in the region, Turk ey also supports many 
programme s to help improve the lives of women and youth under refugee status.  
1493.  Australia  stated that Investing in Women (IW) is a multi -country Australian Government 
initiative in Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Philippines, Viet Nam , Myanm ar) that works with the private 
sector to improve women’s economic participation as employees by supporting Business Coalitions 
for women’s empowerment and as entrepreneurs through encouraging increased impact investment 
into Women owned and led Wmall and Medium Enterprises (WSMEs), and influence the enabling 
environment to promote Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1494.  Since it began in 2016, IW has made significant progress using innovative approaches to aid 
delivery driven by the private sector. Business C oalitions (BC) encompass 29 companies across the 
four countries, together employing almost 500,000 people. Seventy percent of the BC companies 
have achieved the internationally -recognized Economic Dividends for Gender Equality (EDGE) 
certification. In two years, the country’s impact investing partners have closed 14 deals into WSMEs, 
worth a total of AUD 5.3 million and leveraged additional private sector capital worth AUD 5.7 million. 
This compares to the eight deals into WSMEs in the IW target countries b etween 2007 -17 reported 
in the 2018 GIIN report The Landscape for Impact Investing in Southeast Asia. With regard to Pacific 
labour mobility, the Pacific Labour Scheme commenced on 1 July 2018 following a successful pilot 
programme  in northern Australia an d building on the success of Australia's Seasonal Worker 
Programme . Workers from Kiribati, Nauru, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu and Vanuatu are 
currently able to apply for low and semi -skilled employment in Australia under the Scheme. 
Uncapping the scheme  and expanding it to more Pacific island countries is helping to provide 
economic empowerment to more Pacific workers as well as fill shortages in rural and regional 
Australia.  
1495.  For example, Retati Tekaai is working in Australia to achieve her dreams in he r home country 
of Kiribati. Retati is the eldest of six children. As the main source of income for her family, she is 
responsible for caring for her parents and ensuring her younger siblings are able to access education. 
To achieve this, she has sought out  opportunities to improve her own education and skills. Retati 
studied hospitality at the Australia -Pacific Technical College in Fiji, and has continued to develop her 
skills by participating in the Australian Government's Pacific labour mobility programme . Through 
the programme , Retati is working on Hayman Island to restore the resort after it was devastated by 
Cyclone Debbie in 2017. In the short time that she has been on the island, her employers have 
recognized her skills and potential, promoting her to  front-of-the-house in the workers' 
accommodation. Retati is also using her enthusiasm to encourage other Pacific workers on the island 
to be more confident in their roles. Retati is most proud of the impact her work in Australia is having 
on her family an d community back in Kiribati.  
1496.  Thanks to pastoral support in Australia, Retati developed a seven -point plan for her future. 
Not only is she supporting her family, she is also contributing to her community. When she returns 
home, she mentors her old boss in  best practices for managing a hotel and passes on her Australian 
hospitality training to the hotel staff. To ensure financial security, Retati has used her budget 
planning training provided by the Programme  to embark on a savings programme , in addition to  the 
remittances she regularly sends home. She has recently bought a car in Kiribati and is renting it out 
through the hotel. She continues to work towards her ultimate goal of running an event planning 
business in Kiribati. Retati dreams of improving her family's circumstances. By working hard in 
Australia to learn new skills and financially plan for the future, she is able to take steps to making a 
real difference to their lives.  
1497.  Austria  referenced the Women’s Economic Empowerment in the South Caucasus, 
implemented from 2018 to 2021 in partnership with UNDP Armenia and UNDP Azerbaijan. The 
overarching goal or impact of the project is to ensure that women, particularly the poor and socially 
excluded, in Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia are economically empow ered and participate in 
relevant decision -making. Several outcomes are envisaged by the project. The first envisaged 
outcome is for women, particularly the poor and socially excluded, use skills, economic opportunities 
and relevant information to be self -employed and/or to join the formal labour sector in Armenia, 
Azerbaijan and Georgia. The second outcome is for Armenia and Georgia to implement adequate 
legislative and policy frameworks to enable women’s economic empowerment. The last outcome is 
for the go vernment and public institutions develop and deliver gender -responsive programme s, 
public services, strategies and plans for women’s economic empowerment in Armenia and Georgia.  
1498.  Canada  stated that the TMEA is a multi -donor funded not -for profit organizatio n established 
in 2010 to support the growth of trade - both regional and international - in East Africa. It is 
registered and headquartered in Nairobi and has separate offices in Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, 
Burundi and South Sudan. TMEA is focused on ensurin g that gains from trade result in tangible 
pro-poor gains for East Africans (especially for women), in line with the EAC’s vision statement and 
its Development Strategy. TMEA is funded by eight donors, namely: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, 
Finland, Netherlands , Sweden, United Kingdom and the United States with contributions totalling  
USD 560 million from 2010 – 2017.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1499.  The TradeMark East Africa – Integrated Border Management (TMEA -IBM) project supports the 
reduction in trade costs and border delays across East A frica through modernizing and improving 
customs clearance procedures at 15 One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) within and between East African 
Community Partner States, including the latest entrant, South Sudan, and providing technical 
assistance to the East Afr ican Community (EAC) secretariat to improve the coordination of customs 
revenue management under the Single Customs Territory (SCT). Countries of operation include: 
Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan. Given the current political situa tion, 
no further funds are currently being channelled  towards Burundi/South Sudanese Governments. The 
project has supported operationalization of integrated border management at 13 One Stop Border 
Posts (OSBPs) in the EAC region, thus contributing to the r eduction in the overall turnaround time 
from 21 days to 4 days along the northern corridor (Mombasa port to Kigali) and from 25 days to 
5 days along the central corridor (Dar as Salaam to Bujumbura). The project has supported the 
operationalization of the single -customs territory and 100% of the member states’ selected goods 
are now cleared at the first port of entry.  
1500.  The OSBP and SCT projects have contributed to 15.6% overall time reduction in the 
importation and exportation of containers and more than 30 % reduction in border crossing times at 
several locations thus reducing trading costs. The project has supported the drafting, reviewing and 
automation of several business processes and procedures manuals, including the regional OSBP Act 
which has been fin alized and assented to by the E AC Heads of State.  
1501.  The Czech Republic  stated that in the Philippines, expert assistance has been provided to 
analyze supply chains of the Philippine dairy industry. This project helps key players (i.e. farmers, 
processors, di stributors, and government institutions) to be prepared and know how to use as well 
as optimize inputs such as materials, money, machines, and manpower.  
1502.  Denmark  stated that in Tanzania, Denmark country programme  includes the Business Sector 
Programme  Suppo rt (BSPS). BSPS improves employment and income opportunities for farmers and 
MSMEs through green inclusive growth. The Agricultural Market Development Component (AMDT) 
boosts agricultural value chains (sunflower, maize and pulses). Value chain intervention s will create 
around 100,000 jobs. The Local Investment Climate (LIC) Component sets up One Stop Business 
Centres providing services to MSMEs. The BEST -Dialogue Component supports advocacy for 
business membership organizations and helps establish national and regional public private dialogue 
platforms.  
1503.  The engagement has secured private sector engagement in the preparation of the Blueprint 
for Business Environment Regulatory Licensing Reform, helped push approval of ten business 
reforms including waivers o n VAT on a number of agricultural inputs, and improved business 
registrations. Support to the Financial Sector Deepening Trust (FSDT) helps change how the financial 
markets help poor people and thereby contribute to increased financial inclusion. FSDT also  helps in 
respect of issuance of national ID cards, access to mobile banking and other innovative financial 
inclusion initiatives. Private Agriculture Sector Support (PASS) boosts business plan preparation and 
provision of loan guarantees for agribusinesse s. So far about 732,000 agribusinesses have benefitted 
from Private Agricultural Support Sector (PASS) loans and other input.  
1504.  Estonia  stated that there are several major stakeholders that contribute to the Estonian 
activities in the field of economic development and the related supportive aspects of it such as 
economic empowerment and strengthening the government's administrative systems. Th is includes 
e-Residency; Centre of Registers and Information Systems; and e -Governance Academy.  
1505.  France  stated that it has been supporting the Organization for the Harmonisation of Business 
Law in Africa (OHADA) since its creation (i.e., since 2006) by financing its activities and making 
French internatio nal technical experts available. France's aid is intended to support modernization 
programme s (i.e. making economic, legal and financial information on economic operators more 
reliable; making information accessible; facilitating the creation and developme nt of businesses 
through the simplification of procedures and dematerialisation) and to assist certain countries in 
facilitating the application of OHADA law at the national level, including in the dissemination of legal 
documentation and practical trainin g. 
1506.  Germany  referenced the support to the EAC Integration Process. The IIDEA platform 
(Incubator for Integration and Development in East Africa) was set up as part of Germany’s support WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  to the EAC integration process. IIDEA provides cross -border projects wit h financial and technical 
support to implement the mobility of goods, services and people in the EAC. Through these projects, 
citizens are able to experience the possibilities and achievements of regional integration. At the 
same time, IIDEA offers opportu nities to bring these experiences and possible recommendations 
back into the decision -making processes of the E AC. IIDEA serves as a platform for dialogue and 
exchange to give citizens and businesses a voice in this process. In 2018, the platform was used 
more than 23,000 times and more than 12,000 citizens have benefited from the various projects so 
far. South Africa, for example, offers informal cross -border traders and female -led SMEs a platform, 
application and USSD portal to obtain real -time informatio n on market prices of various products, 
exchange rates and trade procedures. This IIDEA project encourages and empowers women in East 
Africa to engage in legal, secure and profitable trade across regional borders (more than 3,000 users 
so far).  
1507.  Germany al so referenced the Trade for Employment Programme  (T4E) in Jordan. The Trade 
for Employment (T4E) project works with and for trade -oriented companies, but also directly 
empowers Syrian and Jordanian job seekers from marginalized groups by providing innovati ve 
employment and capacity development services. The job quality measures and new HR practices 
developed with partners include interventions such as the introduction of a fair incentive system, 
supervisory skills trainings or the development of an innovati ve transportation system for workers. 
The overall objective is to promote sustainable employment and decent working conditions, to upskill 
staff and to increase the productivity of Jordanian trade -oriented companies through better 
recruitment and retention . In terms of results, 547 persons have been employed so far, of whom 
126 completed three months or more.  
1508.  Lithuania  stated that in 2018, Lithuania financed the project on promotion of women's 
economic rights and social and economic development of the Kvemo  Kartli region. It also 
implemented by the Inter -Ethnic Union of Kvemo Kartli. The project aimed to promote women's 
entrepreneurship, among others.  
1509.  The Netherlands  stated that it would like to showcase the following: increased attention for 
women and small  scale traders in the Trade Facilitation West Africa programme ; She -trades initiative 
at ITC; special facilities for female traders at border post in Congo DRC -Rwanda; Approach for the 
Agricultural Market (ACMA) project on the local government approach to the agricultural market in 
Benin, funded by the Netherlands Embassy in Benin to help local farmers gain access to lucrative 
markets in Nigeria. Special attention is given to women’s economic empowerment, gender equality 
strategy, and youth engagement.  
1510.  Swed en made a reference to UNCTAD Gender Tool Box. Sweden has worked with UNCTAD 
to produce a toolbox containing methods for ex -ante assessing the effects of trade policy initiatives 
on women and gender equality. The trade and gender toolbox is the first attem pt to provide a 
systematic framework to evaluate the impact of trade reforms on women and gender inequalities 
prior to their implementation. The toolbox has the following four main components: descriptive 
analysis of gender inequalities and the economic co ntext of the country at stake; quantitative 
analysis of the expected consequences of the trade reform on the economy (e.g., exports, GDP, 
sectoral labour demand) and on women’s participation in the economy in particular; a checklist for 
gender -sensitive ac companying measures and monitoring indicators; and a Trade and Gender Index. 
The methodology has been applied to date to a specific trade agreement, namely the Economic 
Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the East African Community and is used to 
assess the likely impact of the Economic Partnership Agreement, mainly through employment, on 
gender equality and the well -being of women in Kenya, a partner country in the E AC. The 
methodology can be used to assess the gender -related impacts of an y other trade agreement or 
trade reform.  
1511.  Switzerland  mentioned the Swiss Investment Fund for Emerging Markets (SIFEM SA). SIFEM 
SA is the development finance institution of the Swiss Confederation. As part of the Confederation's 
international cooperation, this company is the main tool for financing companies and maintaining as 
well as creating jobs in partner countries. SIFEM SA, together with other public or private investors, 
makes capital available to selected companies to promote their growth. It invest s in the form of 
loans and repayable equity, with priority given to areas of particular importance for the economic 
development of target countries, such as the manufacturing industry, infrastructure, training or 
health. Companies considered worthy of inve stment must demonstrate sustainable financial WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  management, commit to decent working conditions, apply international social, environmental and 
governance standards and encourage private sector development in their respective communities.  
1512.  Chinese Taipei  showcased its SME Development Project in Guatemala. The purpose of this 
project is to assist the Guatemalan Government in improving its capacities of providing guidance to 
small and -medium -sized enterprises (SMEs). This includes assisting the Government in tra cing SMEs’ 
circumstances, drawing up holistic SMEs’ counselling policies, and strengthening the capacities of 
external counselling institutes, all of which aim to further develop the SME sector in Guatemala. The 
contents of the project include: facilitatin g the integration of resources between Guatemala’s Ministry 
of Economy (MINECO) with external collaborating partners, including resources from the 
government, academic institutions and from the industrial sectors; convening steering group 
meetings based on  the national economic development policy and the outcome results from the 
current SMEs’ circumstances research analysis; developing counselling initiatives and measures 
based on focus industries needs and regional development status; implementing SME coun selling 
and support. The related entities will examine the adequacy of counselling prospects (qualified 
SMEs), infuse technical assistance and operational management enhancements, improve the quality 
and image of its products, and consequently increases th e revenues of the selected enterprises 
under the counselling assistance.  
1513.  The number of qualified enterprises receiving counselling assistance is aimed to increase year 
by year, which is supported by the increased capacity of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. The 
outcomes of the project also aim to promote the development of regional economies or industries, 
and the creation of more job opportunities. As of the end of September 2018, the following activities 
have been completed: assisting the Ministry of Economy SMEA office to execute consultation services 
so as to enhance the Ministry of Economy officials' project execution capability; inviting seven 
short-term experts from Chinese Taipei  and executed 111 Seminars to enhance corresponding 
capability attended by 2,263 persons; holding six courses of SMEs counselling strategic planning for 
officials of the Ministry of Economy with 137 participants; holding 12 courses and seminars of project 
management for officials of the Ministry of Economy with  267 participants; in accordance with the 
Ministry of Economy's rural economic development policies, holding the status survey of SMEs in 
each village and town; updating sector development information of handicraft, furniture, garment 
and food processing i ndustries; conducting handcraft and furniture market trend analysis. In 
addition, 13 consultant training courses were held with the Ministry of Economy, Landivar and Galileo 
universities for 315 participants, including business management, design, project management, 
entrepreneurial innovation and financing consultants.  
1514.  The project management and information platform in Galileo University has been established, 
and it will continue to be updated. The project has also completed the following: registered 265 SME 
counselling applications and started to do diagnostics and technical assistance planning; established 
two SME counselling centers in Rafael Landivar University and Galileo University which provided 
counselling and technical assistance services to 165 S MEs; in accordance with the policy of the new 
government in Guatemala, updated the contents of the SME Technical Assistance Strategy of the 
Ministry of Economic Affairs and assisted in promoting institutional capacity building. Chinese Taipei 
also showcase d Technical and Vocational Education and Training Enhancement Project in Eswatini. 
The aim of the project is to assist Eswatini in enhancing two areas: ICT and electronics engineering 
in Eswatini College of Technology (ECOT) and the Automobile Repair and E lectricity and Air -condition 
of Gwamile Vocational and Commercial Training Institute in Mastapha (VOCTIM), so as to provide 
the technical skills needed for the country to develop. The project will provide medium to advanced 
level ICT training, and advanced  training in electrical engineering in support of the development of 
such industries. The project will also introduce short -term intensive vocational training courses 
designed to develop qualified high -voltage and low -voltage technicians and automobile mec hanics.  
1515.  Providing technical education in close combination with vocational training can ensure that 
Eswatini meets the country’s development goal of raising technical skills while also improving 
citizens’ livelihoods. The major tasks of the project includ e: conducting research into the technical 
labour force required in industry; upgrading the teaching syllabi and course content of specified 
faculties; upgrading specialist lecturers’ training capacity; establishing a management system for 
workshops and lab oratories; establishing a training quality assurance system; assisting the 
establishment of a system for the operation of continuing education centres; strengthening career 
guidance systems.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  1516.  As of the end of September 2018, the following activities have b een implemented: Industry 
Labour Force Skills Requirement Investigation Report; Arranged ten lecturers from VOCTIM 
automotive repair department and electrical control department, ECOT ICT department and electrical 
engineering department to have short -term training in Chinese Taipei; established Programmable 
Logic Controller (PLC) lab, Industrial Wiring lab, electronic lab and renewed a computer lab and 
ensured the Arduino training boxes were purchased at ECOT; renewed an Automotive Repair 
workshop and an In dustrial Automation Control workshop at VOCTIM; organized Quality Assurance 
Committee Regulation meetings regularly; finished the first and second year’s Lecturer’s Teaching 
Assessment Report for both SCOT and VOCTIM; established  ECOT’s four -year credit sc hedule of the 
department of Electrical Engineering and ICT, and VOCTIM’s course guideline for Automotive Repair 
department and Electrical Control department; conducted ECOT and VOCTIM lecturers’ short -term 
on-the-job training along with the new equipment a nd course guideline for 130 people; and drafted 
the operation plan and financial management regulation of the Upskilling and Lifelong Training 
Centre; and conducted the first on -job training course of 17 trainees.  
1517.  The United States  made a reference to the USAID Southern Africa Trade and Investment 
Hub and the USAID East Africa Trade and Investment Hub.  
1518.  The EBRD  stated that its Women in Business programme  helps women start -up and manage 
their businesses by providing dedicated credit lines and offering them t ailored advice and training to 
increase their know -how and networking opportunities. The programme  also helps partner financial 
institutions reach out to more potential borrowers among women entrepreneurs through improved 
marketing and product development and by introducing a risk -mitigation scheme for credit line 
beneficiaries. Given the success of the Women in Business Programme , the EBRD is currently setting 
up a similar venture with the focus on young entrepreneurs. The programme  will target young 
individuals (aged 35 or below) in Egypt and Morocco by providing novel financing opportunities and 
capacity development for business improvement and expansion.  
1519.  To help further MSMEs trade potential, EBRD has recently launched Trade Ready, a new trade 
support in itiative to help MSMEs access trade finance and business advice in Georgia and Serbia. 
Through Trade Ready, the EBRD provides MSMEs with trade -related advice to make them more 
competitive at home and abroad, as well as offers training in trade finance and networking 
opportunities to help them better engage in trade activities. Amongst the numerous MSMEs 
supported through this programme , there is Standard Furniture Serbia, one of Serbia's oldest wood 
processing companies. Through Trade Ready the company not only developed a new strategic plan 
and better financial management but was also given access to cash advances via a local bank to 
finance their increased production and exports, all of which contributed to further integrating them 
in IKEA's GVC and also a llowed them to diversify their buyers and explore other opportunities for 
exports.   
1520.  The UNDP  referenced the Youth Connekt for the economic empowerment of youth in Africa 
and the Gender Equality Seal. Youth Connekt is an innovative platform first launched i n Rwanda in 
2013, which brings together young people looking for employment, skills or resources to develop 
their own business with various partners including UNDP, private sector and government. The 
programme  supports young people through technical and en trepreneurship training, networking, 
access to finance through business competition, and other interventions to enlarge their economic 
opportunities and be agents of change. The programme  won the UNDP Africa Innovation Award in 
2013 and has not expanded to  other countries in Africa.  
1521.  The Gender Equality Seal is a programme  designed to facilitate private companies to embrace 
gender equality and enhance women’s social and economic empowerment. Starting in Latin America, 
the programme  is now expanding at a global scale. It is also applied within UNDP, providing 
opportunities for UNDP’s country offices to better integrate gender equality in all aspects of their 
work. Building on its own experience, UNDP is now sharing its methodology an d approach with other 
UN entities interested in applying the Gender Equality Seal for its own operations.  
1522.  The UNIDO  referenced a project aimed at promoting women’s empowerment for inclusive 
and sustainable industrial development in the Middle East and Nor th Africa (MENA) Region.  
1523.  The World Bank  stated that the Great Lakes Trade Facilitation Project (GLTFP) is a regional 
operation that facilitates cross -border trade by increasing the capacity for commerce and reducing WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  the costs and risks faced by traders, es pecially small -scale and women traders, at key border 
crossings and port locations in the fragile environment of the Great Lakes Region. Small -scale 
cross-border trade plays a major role in the region in providing goods, services, jobs and incomes 
and trad e is a key mechanism for improved resilience and social cohesion of neighbouring 
communities. Cross -border trade has strong backward and forward linkages to local producers and 
distribution markets, respectively. As a result, increased local cross -border t rade coincides with 
poverty reduction in the border areas.  
1524.  Currently, the potential of small -scale cross -border trade to drive income and job growth and 
reduce poverty is not being fully realized as a result of: dilapidated infrastructure at the border an d 
at lake ports resulting in an inefficient and unsafe environment for handling and processing of goods 
and people (border posts often lack basic amenities such as water, sanitation and electricity as well 
as essential facilities such as warehousing); hara ssment and violence against traders, especially 
women; lack of transparency and poor knowledge of trade regimes and procedures; very weak 
control over cross -border movements and trade; and limited capacity of the various actors involved 
in cross -border tra de, and especially traders and border officials. These constraints raise costs for 
traders and make for an unpredictable and insecure trading environment.  
1525.  Small -scale cross -border traders in the Great Lakes region are often women, and women are 
heavily in volved in activities related to trade. Women are among the most vulnerable groups in the 
region, and so there is a need to support and enhance the livelihoods that provide women with 
income, ensuring that they have access to new economic opportunities. Wea k governance, including 
lack of transparency and weak controls for monitoring and preventing abuse and corruption means 
that these traders are often subject to extortion, physical harassment and other forms of abuse or 
alternatively, may result in traders avoiding formal border -crossing points which exposes them to 
different types of security risks. Using support from the Umbrella Facility for Trade – the largest 
trust fund at the World Bank supporting the analytical trade agenda - the Africa Trade team of the 
World Bank conducted extensive analytical work on small -scale cross -border trade in Sub -Saharan 
Africa.  
1526.  The evidence showed that such trade plays a critical role in eradicating poverty and promoting 
shared prosperity: it supports livelihoods, often be ing the sole source of income in the 
household  - and it contributes to food security, since agricultural/food items are the most commonly 
traded commodities. Women are key actors in this business. World Bank research shows that they 
represent up to 70 -80% of the total population of small traders in the region. These women are 
often breadwinners in their households, yet they also tend to be the primary victims of harassment 
and other behavioural issues observed at African borders e.g. including gender -based violence and 
corruption.  
1527.  Building on the analytical research conducted in the region, the Africa Trade Team worked on 
innovative approaches to tackle some of the obstacles faced by women small traders. Among others, 
these included the “Charter for Cross -Border Trade in Goods and Services” – an initiative that aims 
at facilitating small -scale trade and at promoting behavioural changes at selected borders, by 
introducing a framework of mutual rights and obligations for traders and officials. The Charter 
supports capacity building and awareness -raising in the border areas, promotes mutual trust 
between traders and officials, and ultimately encourages formalization of small -scale informal trade. 
The project also produced evidence that small -scale cross -border t rade can be pivotal to promoting 
peace and security. The analysis also underscored the importance of complementary interventions 
covering policy, regulatory simplification, capacity building and infrastructure development in order 
to holistically address c hallenges at the borders by small -scale traders.  
1528.  The work led to the preparation of a large -scale World Bank lending project in the Great Lakes 
Region aimed at promoting stability and development by facilitating small -scale trade and by building 
the capac ity of key trade actors e.g. , Government/border agencies, Traders Associations, Civil 
Society, traders and officials. The project supports coordinated infrastructure improvements in 
component (i) ; policy and procedural reforms and capacity building and awa reness -raising for 
project beneficiaries in component (ii) ; and implementation of performance -based management 
systems in agencies operating at the border in component (iii) . It also places greater emphasis on 
monitoring and evaluation to measure tangible results and impacts. Measures implemented under 
the project are designed specifically to ease challenges faced by female traders and, as such, it has 
a strong gender focus.  
_______________   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  ANNEX  
INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
SECTION 1: AID-FOR-TRADE  PRIORITIES  
1 Partner  Does your national development strategy include trade 
priorities? (i.e. Aid ‑for‑Trade priorities)  
REC Does your regional or transport corridor development strategy 
include trade priorities? (i.e. Aid ‑for‑Trade priorities)  
South -South  Do you have an Aid-for-Trade  strategy with South -South 
partners?  
Donor  Do you have an Aid-for-Trade  strategy?  
2 Partner  If yes, please indicate your Aid-for-Trade  priorities . 
REC If yes, please indicate your Aid-for-Trade  priorities . 
South -South  If yes, please indicate your Aid-for-Trade  priorities . 
 
If no or unsure, does your development policy with South -South 
partners include trade priorities? If yes, please indicate the 
trade priorities in your development policy.  
Donor  If yes, please indicate your Aid-for-Trade  priorities . 
 
If no or unsure, does your development policy include trade 
priorities? If yes, please indicate the trade priorities in your 
development policy.  
3 Partner  Have your Aid-for-Trade  priorities changed since 2016?  
REC Have your Aid-for-Trade  priorities changed since 2016?  
South -South  Has your Aid-for-Trade  strategy, or the trade priorities in your 
development policy with South -South partners, changed since 
2016?  
Donor  Has your Aid-for-Trade  strategy, or trade priorities in your 
development policy, changed since 2016?  
4 Partner  If yes, please rank the top 3 drivers of these changes . 
REC If yes, please rank the top 3 drivers of these changes . 
South -South  If yes, please rank the top 3 drivers of these changes . 
Donor  If yes, please rank the top 3 drivers of these changes . 
5 Partner  Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with 
development partners?  
REC Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with 
development partners?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 218 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with 
South -South partner countries and development institutions?  
Donor  Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with partner 
countries and development institutions?  
6 Partner  Please provide names, titles, references or weblinks to policy 
documents relevant to Aid for Trade  in your country.  
REC Please provide names, titles, references or weblinks to policy 
documents relevant to Aid for Trade  in your region or transport 
corridor.  
South -South  Please provide names, titles, references or weblinks to policy 
documents relevant to Aid for Trade  in you r country.  
Donor  Please provide names, titles, references or weblinks to policy 
documents relevant to Aid for Trade  in your country  
SECTION 2: AID FOR TRADE  IN SUPPORT OF ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION  
7 Partner  Is economic diversification a priority in your national or regional 
development strategy?  
REC Is economic diversification a priority in your regional or 
transport corridor development strategy?  
South -South  Is economic diversification a priority in your development or 
Aid-for-Trade  strategy with South -South partners?  
Donor  Is economic diversification a priority in your development or 
Aid-for-Trade  strategy?  
8 Partner  What are the main constraints to econom ic diversification 
identified in your national or regional development strategy?  
REC What are the main constraints to economic diversification 
identified in your regional or transport corridor development 
strategy?  
South -South  What are the main constraints to economic diversification that 
your development or Aid-for-Trade  strategy with South -South 
partners seeks to address?  
Donor  What are the main constraints to economic diversification 
identified that your development or Aid-for-Trade  strategy seek 
to address?  
9 Partner  Please indicate in which of category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  
financing you receive Aid-for-Trade  support for econ omic 
diversification.  
REC Please indicate in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
your region or transport corridor receives support for economic 
diversification.  
South -South  Please indicate in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
you provide South -South Aid-for-Trade support for economic 
diversification.  
Donor  Please indicate in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
you provide Aid- for-Trade support for economic diversification.  
10 Partner  Does the Aid-for-Trade  support you receive for economic 
diversification align with the priorities established in your 
national or regional trade and development strategy(ies)?  
REC Does the Aid-for-Trade  support your region or transport corridor 
receives for economic diversifi cation align with the priorities 
established in your national or regional or transport  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
corridor development strategy(ies)?  
South -South  Does the Aid-for-Trade  support you provide for economic 
diversification align with South -South partners' priorities as 
established in their national or regional trade and development  
strategy(ies)?  
Donor  Does the Aid-for-Trade  support you provide for economic 
diversification align with partners' priorities as established in 
their national or regional trade and development strategy(ies)?  
11 Partner  Has your government recorded progress in economic 
diversification since the laun ch of the Aid-for-Trade  Initiative in 
2006?  
REC Has your region or transport corridor recorded progress in 
economic diversification since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade  
Initiative in 2006?  
South -South  Has the South -South Aid-for-Trade  support you provide for 
economic diversification recorded progress in partner countries 
since the launch of the Aid-for-Trade  Initiative in 2006?  
Donor  Has the Aid-for-Trade  support you provide in economic 
diversification recorded progress in partner countries since the 
launch of the Aid-for-Trade  Initiative in 2006?  
12 Partner  If yes, please specify in which area(s) . 
REC If yes, please specify in which area(s) . 
South -South  If yes, please specify in which area(s) . 
Donor  If yes, please specify in which area(s .) 
13 Partner  If yes, please also indicate in which sector(s) . 
REC If yes, please also indicate in which sector(s) . 
South -South  If yes, please also indicate in which sector(s) . 
Donor  If yes, please also indicate in which sector(s) . 
14 Partner  In which category(ies) of Aid for Trade  is the support you 
receive impactful for economic diversification?  
REC In which category(ies) of Aid for Trade  is the support your 
region or transport corridor receives impactful for economic 
diversification?  
South -South  In which category(ies) of Aid for Trade  is the South -South 
support you provide impactful for  economic diversification?  
Donor  In which category(ies) of Aid for Trade  is the support you 
provide impactful for economic diversification?  
15 Partner  What factors contribute to the success of the Aid-for-Trade  
support you receive for economic diversification?  
REC What factors contribute to the success of the Aid-for-Trade  
support your region or transport corridor receives for economic 
diversification?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 220 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  What factors contribute to the success of the Aid-for-Trade  
support you provide South -South partners for economic 
diversification?  
Donor  What factors contribute to the success of the Aid-for-Trade  
support you provide for economic diversification?  
16 Partner  What factors may limit the success of the Aid-for-Trade  support 
you receive for economic diversification?  
REC What factors may limit the success of the Aid-for-Trade  support 
that your region or transport corridor receives for economic 
diversification?  
South -South  What factors may limit the success of the Aid-for-Trade  support 
that you provide to South -South partners for economic 
diversification?  
Donor  What factors may limit the success of the Aid-for-Trade  support 
that you provide for economic diversification?  
17 Partner  Does the Aid for Trade  you receive help mobilize other forms of 
development finance for economic diversification 
(i.e. non-concessional financing, foreign direct investment, 
remittances, trade finance, etc.)?  
REC Does the Aid for Trade  you receive help mobilize other forms of 
development finance for economic diversification 
(i.e. non-concessional financing, foreign direct investment, 
remittances,  trade finance, etc.)?  
South -South  Does the Aid for Trade  you provide help mobilize other forms of 
development finance for economic diversification in South -South 
partner countries (i.e. non -concessional financing, foreign direct 
investment, remittances, trade finance, etc.)?  
Donor  Does the Aid for Trade  you p rovide help mobilize other forms of 
development finance for economic diversification in partner 
countries (i.e. non -concessional financing, foreign direct  
investment, remittances, trade finance, etc.).  
18 Partner  Which development partner(s) are the most important source of 
Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic diversification?  
REC Which development partner(s) are the most important source of 
Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic diversification in your 
region or transport corridor?  
South -South  To which to South -South partner country(ies) or territory(ies) 
do you provide Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic 
diversification?  
 
Through which channels do you provide South -South partners 
with Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic diversification?  
Donor  To which partner country(ies) or territory(ies) do you provide 
Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic diversification?  
 
Through which channels do you provide Aid-for-Trade  financing 
for economic diversification?  
19 Partner  Which South -South partner(s) are the most important source of 
financing for your economic diversification?  
REC Which South -South partner(s) are the most important source of 
financing for your economic diversification in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  With which South -South partner(s) do you partner to offer 
financing for economic diversification?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 221 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
Donor  With which South -South partner(s) do you partner to offer 
financing for economic diversification?  
20 Partner  Looking ahead, in which sector(s) will future support for 
economic diversification be most required?  
REC Looking ahead, in which sector(s) will future support for 
economic diversification be most required in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  Looking ahead, in which sectors do you anticipate future 
support for economic diversification to be required?  
Donor  Looking ahead, in which sectors do you anticipate future 
support for economic diversification to be required?  
21 Partner  Looking ahead, in which category of Aid-for-Trade  financing do 
you think that your government will require Aid-for-Trade  
support for economic diversification ? 
REC Looking ahead, in which category of Aid-for-Trade  financing do 
you think your region or transport corridor will require 
Aid-for-Trade  support for economic diversification ? 
South -South  Looking ahead, in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
do yo u anticipate that you will continue to provide to 
South -South Aid-for-Trade  support for economic diversification ? 
Donor  Looking ahead, in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
do you anticipate that you will continue to provide Aid-for-Trade  
support for economic diversification ? 
22 Partner  Is there any Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  for economic 
diversification that you would like to showcase as an example of 
best practice?  
REC Is there any Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  for economic 
diversification that you would like to showcase as an example of 
best practice?  
South -South  Is there any Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  for economic 
diversification that you would like to showcase as a South -South 
example of best practice?  
Donor  Is there any Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  for economic 
diversification that you would like to showcase as an example of 
best practice?  
SECTION 3: AID -FOR-TRAD E SUPPORT OF ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT  
23 Partner  Is economic empowerment a priority in your national or regional 
development strategy?  
REC Is economic empowerment a priority in your regional or 
transport corridor development strategy?  
South -South  Is economic empowerment a priority in your Aid-for-Trade  or 
development strategy with South -South partners?  
Donor  Is economic empowerment a priority in your Aid-for-Trade  and 
development strategy?  
24 Partner  For which groups does your national or regional development 
strategy seek to promote economic empowerment?  
REC For which groups does your regional or transport corridor 
development strategy seek to promote economic 
empowerment?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 222 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  For which groups does your Aid-for-Trade  strategy with 
South -South partners seek to promote economic 
empowerment?  
Donor  For which groups does your Aid-for-Trade  strategy seek to 
promote economic empowerment?  
25 Partner  Does the national or regional development strategy propose any 
indicators to track economic empowerment or include any 
targets to achieve?  
REC Does your regional or transport corridor development strategy 
propose any indicators to track economic empowerment or 
include any targets to achieve?  
South -South  Does your Aid  for Trade , or do the trade priorities in your 
development strategy, propose any in dicators to track economic 
empowerment or include any targets to achieve?  
Donor  Does your Aid-for-Trade  or development strategy propose any 
indicators to track economic empowerment or include any 
targets to achieve?  
26 Partner  Does the national or regio nal development strategy link 
economic empowerment to participation in international trade?  
REC Does your regional or transport corridor development strategy 
link economic empowerment to participation in international 
trade?  
South -South  Does your Aid-for-Trade  or development strategy link economic 
empowerment in South -South partner countries to their 
participation in international trade?  
Donor  Does your Aid-for-Trade  or development strategy link economic 
empowerment in partner countries to their participation in 
international trade?  
27 Partner  Please indicate in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
you receive Aid-for-Trade  support for economic empowerment.  
REC Please indicate in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
your region or transport corridor receives Aid for Trade  for 
economic empowerment support  
South -South  Please indicate in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
you provide South -South partners with support for economic 
empowerment.  
Donor  Please indicate in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
you provide support for Aid for Trade  for economic 
empowerment.  
28 Partner  Does the Aid-for-Trade  support you receive for economic 
empowerment align with the empowerment priorities 
established in your national or regional trade and development 
strategy(ies)?  
REC Does the Aid-for-Trade  support you receive for economic 
empowerment align with the empow erment priorities 
established in your transport corridor or regional trade and 
development strategy(ies)?  
South -South  Does the South -South Aid-for-Trade  support you provide for 
economic empowerment align with the empowerment priorities 
established in partner countries ' national or regional trade and  
development strategy(ies)?  
Donor  Does the Aid-for-Trade  support you provide for economic 
empowerment alig n with the empowerment priorities 
established in partner countries ' national or regional trade and 
development strategy(ies)?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 223 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
29 Partner  How best can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to women's 
economic empowerment?  
REC How best can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to women's 
economic empowerment in your region or transport corridor?  
South -South  Is women's economic empowerment a priority in your 
development or Aid-for-Trade  strategy with South -South 
partners?  
 
In your view, how best can South -South Aid for Trade  make a 
contribution to women's economic empowerment?  
 
Donor  Is women's economic empowerment a priority in your 
development or Aid-for-Trade  strategy?  
 
In your view, how best can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to 
women's economic  
empowerment?  
 
30 Partner  What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support women's economic empowerment?  
REC What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support women's economic empowerment in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  What forms of South -South Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your 
view, best support women's economic empowerment?  
Donor  What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support women's economic empowerment?  
31 Partner  What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting wo men's economic empowerment?  
REC What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade in 
promoting women's economic empowerment in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  What factors contribute to the success of South -South Aid for 
Trade  in promoting women's economic empowerment?  
Donor  What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting women's economic empowerment?  
32 Partner  How best can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to the economic 
empowerment of MSMEs?  
REC How best can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to the economic 
empowerment of MSMEs in your region or transport corridor?  
South -South  In your view, how best can South -South Aid for Trade  make a 
contribution to the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
Donor  In your view, how best can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to 
the economic empowerment of MSMEs.  
33 Partner  What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support the economic empowerment of MSMEs?  
REC What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support the economic empowerment of MSMEs in your region or 
transport corridor?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 224 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  What forms of South -South Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your 
view, best support the economic empowerment of MSMEs?  
Donor  What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support the economic empowerment of MSMEs?  
34 Partner  What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting the economic empowerment of MSMEs?  
REC What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting the economic empowerment of MSMEs in your region 
or transport corridor?  
South -South  What factors contribute to the success of South -South Aid for 
Trade  in promoting the economic empowerment of MSMEs?  
Donor  What factors contribute to the s uccess of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting the economic empowerment of MSMEs?  
35 Partner  How best can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to youth 
economic empowerment?  
REC How best can Aid for Trade  contribute to youth economic 
empowerment in your region or transport corridor?  
South -South  In your view, how best can South -South Aid for Trade  
contribute to youth economic empowerment?  
Donor  In your view, how best can Aid for Trade  contribute to youth 
economic empowerment?  
36 Partner  What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support youth economic empowerment?  
REC What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support youth economic empowerment in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  What forms of South -South Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your 
view, best support youth economic empowerment?  
Donor  What forms of Aid-for-Trade  financing, in your view, best 
support youth economic empowerment?  
37 Partner  What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting youth economic empowerment?  
REC What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting youth economic empowerment in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  What factors contribute to the success of South -South Aid for 
Trade  in promoting youth economic empowerment?  
Donor  What factors contribute to the success of Aid for Trade  in 
promoting youth economic empowerment?  
38 Partner  In your view, can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to the 
achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda?  
REC In your view, can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to the 
achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda?  
South -South  In your view, can South -South Aid for Trade  make a 
contribution to the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable 
Development Agenda?  
Donor  In your view, can Aid for Trade  make a contribution to the 
achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 225 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
39 Partner  If yes, please specify which Sustainable Development Goal or 
Goals Aid for Trade  can help to achieve.  
REC If yes, please specify which Sustainable Development Goal or 
Goals Aid for Trade  can help to achieve.  
South -South  If yes, please specify the Sustainable Development Goal or 
Goals that South -South Aid for Trade  can help to achieve.  
Donor  If yes, please specify which Sustainable Development Goal or 
Goals Aid for Trade  can help to achieve.  
40 Partner  Which donor(s) are now the most important source of 
Aid-for-Trade  financing for your economic empowerment?  
REC Which donor(s) are the most important source of Aid-for-Trade  
financing for economic empowerment in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  Which South -South partner country(ies) or custom territory(ies) 
are the main recipients of the Aid-for-Trade  financing you 
provide for economic empowerment?  
 
Through which channels do you provide South -South 
Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic empowerment?  
Donor  Which partner country(ies) or custom territory(ies) are the main 
recipients of the Aid-for-Trade  financing you provide for 
economic empowerment?  
 
Through which channels do you provide Aid-for-Trade  financing 
for economic empowerment?  
41 Partner  Which South -South partner(s) are the most important source of 
financing for your economic empowerment?  
REC Which South -South partners are the most important source of 
financing for economic empowerment in your region or 
transport corridor?  
South -South  With which South -South partner(s) do you partner with to 
provide Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic empowerment?  
Donor  With which South -South partner(s) do you partner with to 
provide Aid-for-Trade  financing for economic empowerment?  
42 Partner  Looking ahead, in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
do you think that further support for economic empowerment 
will be required ? 
REC Looking ahead, in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
do you think that further support for economic empowerment 
will be required in your region or transport corridor ? 
South -South  Looking ahead, in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
do you anticipate that you will continue to provide South -South 
Aid-for-Trade  support for economic empowerment ? 
Donor  Looking ahead, in which category(ies) of Aid-for-Trade  financing 
do you anticipate that you will continue to provide Aid-for-Trade  
support for economic empowerment ? 
43 Partner  Please provide any additional information that you think may be 
relevant . 
REC Please provide any additional information that you think may be 
relevant . 
South -South  Please provide any additional information . WT/COMTD/AFT/W/83  
 
- 226 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
Donor  Please provide any additional information.  
44 Partner  Is there any Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  for economic 
empowerment you would like to showcase as particularly 
important for your country or as an example of best practice?  
REC Is there any Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  for economic 
empowerment you would like to showcase as particularly 
important for your region or transport corridor or as an example 
of best practice?  
South -South  Is there any South -South Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  
for economic empowerment you w ould like to showcase as 
particularly important or as an example of best practice?  
Donor  Is there any Aid-for-Trade  project or programme  for economic 
empowerment you would like to showcase as particularly 
important or as an example of best practice?  
Note:  Each question includes a comment box for the provision of additional information . 
 
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