WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
2 May 2022 
(22-3447) Page: 1/354 
Committee on Trade and Development  
Aid for Trade    
 
EMPOWERING CONNECTED SUSTAINABLE TRADE  
JOINT OECD -WTO AID -FOR-TRADE MONITORING AND EVALUATION EXERCISE  
FOR THE GLOBAL REVIEW  20221 
Contents  
OVERVIEW  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................  2 
SECTION  1: AID -FOR-TRADE PRIORITIES  ................................ ................................ ....... 6 
SECTION 2: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND TRADE  ................................ .................  95 
SECTION 3: DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY, SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND TRADE  ....... 220  
SECTION 4: NATIONAL POLICIES FOR WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT  ............  261  
ANNEX  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  343  
 
  
 
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/92  
 
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  OVERVIEW  
1. This report documents the responses received to the 2022 Aid -for-Trade (AfT) Monitoring and 
Evaluation (M&E) exercise (WT/COMTD/AFT/W/88).  The document collates information from the 
self-assessment questionnaires that were submitted by partner countries (i.e. developing and least 
developed countries), regional economic communities and transport corridors (REC/TCs), donors 
(bilateral and multi lateral) and providers of South -South trade -related assistance. A list of questions 
addressed to respondents is included  in the Annex to this document. The figure below gives a 
breakdown of the 96 replies received from respondents.  
Overview of responses in  the Monitoring and Evaluation exercise  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
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Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
2. Fifty-three (53) developing countries, of which 2 8 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 35 donors participated: 25 bilateral and 10 multilateral donors. F our providers 
of South -South trade -related support (i.e.  China, Colombia, Indonesia, Turkey) also submitted 
self-assessments. Four regional organizations , i.e. Pacific Island States (PIFs), Secretaría de 
Integración Económica Centroamericana  (SIECA), TradeMark East Afri ca (TMEA) and the West 
African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) , participated in the 2022 AfT M&E exercise.2 
3. Twenty -eight (28) out of the 53 partner developing countries (5 4% of responses) to submit a 
partner country questionnaire were LDCs. Moreover, 12 out of 53  respondents ( 23%) were  
landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) , and a further 12 respondents (23%) were from the United 
Nations (UN) category of Small Island Develo ping States (SIDS ). By region, 25 responses are  from 
 
2 The total n umber of replies received at 1 March 2022 was 96. Submissions received after closing of 
the exercise are not reflected in the quantitative analysis to main tain consistency with the Aid for Trade at a 
Glance publication. The additional information  to the open -ended questions is, however, incorporated into the 
text. 
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  Africa  (47% ), 11 from Asia  (21%) , 10 from the Americas  (19%), 6 from Oceania  (11%) , and 1  (2%) 
is from Europe. A summary table of respondents is available below . 
Number of Replies as at 1 March 2022  
 2022  
Partner Countries  53 
(including LDCs)  28 
RECs/Transport Corridors  4 
Donors  
(including IGOs)  35 
South -South partners  4 
Overall Total  96 
Replies from Partner Countries (53)  
Regional grouping  2022  
Africa (25)  Angola; Benin; Burkina Faso; Central African Republic; Comoros; 
Côte d'Ivoire; Democratic Republic of Congo ; Equatorial Guinea; 
Ethiopia; Gabon;  The Gambia; Guinea; Guinea -Bissau; Lesotho; 
Madagascar; Mali; Mauritania; Mauritius; Mozambique; Niger; 
Sao Tome and Principe; Senegal; Togo; Uganda; Zambia  
Arab and Middle East (1)  Yemen  
Asia and the Pacific (16)  Bangladesh; Bhutan; Cambodia; Fiji; Indonesia;  Kiribati;  Myanmar; 
Nepal; Pakistan; Papua New Guinea; Philippines; Samoa; Sri  Lanka; 
Tuvalu; Vanuatu; Viet Nam  
Europe (1)  Moldova  
Latin America and the 
Caribbean (10)  Colombia; Dominican Republic; El  Salvador; Grenada; Guatemala; 
Mexico; Paraguay; Peru ; Saint Lucia; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  
(including LDCs) (28)  Angola; Benin; Bhutan; Burkina Faso; Cambodia; 
Central  African  Republic; Comoros;  Democratic Republic of Congo ; 
Ethiopia; The  Gambia; Guinea; Guinea -Bissau; Kiribati; Lesotho; 
Madagascar; Mali; Mauritania; Mozambique; Myanmar; Nepal; Niger; 
Sao Tome  and Principe; Senegal; Togo; Tuvalu; Uganda; Yemen; 
Zambia  
Replies from Regional Economic Communities/Transport Corridors (4)  
 2022  
Regional economic 
communities/transport 
corridors (4)  Pacific  Islands Forum; SIECA; TradeMark  East Africa; WAEMU  
 
Replies from Donors (35)  
 2022  
Bilateral donors (25)  Australia; Austria; Canada; Czech Republic; European Union; Finland; 
France; Germany; Hungary; Ireland; Italy; Japan; Korea; Lithuania; 
Netherlands; New  Zealand; Norway; Portugal; Russian  Federation; 
Slovenia; Sweden; Switzerland; Chinese  Taipei; United Kingdom; 
United States of America  
IGOs (10)  AfDB; AsDB; EBRD; IaDB; ITC; ITFC of IsDB; UNCTAD; U NDP; 
UNIDO; World Bank Group  
Replies from South -South Partners (4)  
 2022 
South -South partners (4)  Colombia; China; Indonesia; Turkey  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
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  4. The compilation of responses is organized into four sections following the structure of the 
2022 M&E questionnaire:  
• The first section examines changes to AfT priorities since 2019. It examines if, and why, 
AfT priorities have changed since 2019. 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 policy(ies) for sustainable development ; 
• The third section addresses digital conne ctivity and sustainable development ; and 
• The last section examines policy(ies) for women's economic empowerment.  
5. Please note that the document has been compiled on the basis of a "minimal editing" of the 
information received from Members. The text reproduced after each Member stated (in bold) is the 
text entered by the respondent. Only very light editing has been applied t o aid understanding or 
correct obvious errors.  
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  SECTION  1: AID -FOR-TRADE PRIORITIES  
Trade as a priority in development strategies  
Trade as a priority in national development strategies (partner country perspective)  
6. Fifty (50) of the 53 partner developing country governments that responded to the  joint 
OECD -WTO self-assessment questionnaire (94%) indicated that their national development strategy 
includes trade priorities (also referred to by partners as " Aid-for-Trade priorities").  
7. Across all regions, the Americas record the highest share with all nine respondents indicating 
that their national or regional development strategy includes trade priorities. Of the 27 least 
developed country (LDC)  respondents , (93%) indicated that they have trade priorities inco rporated 
in their national or regional development strategy.  This figure was 100% among land-locked 
developing country (LLDC)  respondents .  
Trade priorities are part of national development strategies  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
Region or Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  24 96% 
Asia 10 91% 
Americas (or LACs)  9 100%  
Oceania (or Pacific)  5 83% 
LDC 27 93% 
LLDC 12 100%  
UN SIDS  8 89% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
Additional information on trade as a priority in national development strategies (partner 
country perspective)  
8. As part of Angola 's 2017 -2022 National Development Plan (NDP), adopted in 2018, PRODESI , 
a program to support national production, import substitution and export diversification was 
launched. The results of the 2017 -2022 National Development Pla n having been less satisfactory, 
the government decided to include all the structuring projects in the short -term "Angola 2025" vision 
and in the long -term "Angola 2050" strategy by taking up all the strategies drawn up before, and 
drawing the lessons that  flow from them, to better target results.  
9. Bangladesh  highlighted three of its policy documents: 1. the 8th Five Year Plan , 2. Vision 
2021, and 3. the Perspective Plan (2021 -2041).  
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  10. Benin 's National Development Plan for 2018 - 2025 aims to make agro -industry, services and 
tourism the engine of strong, inclusive and sustainable economic growth within the framework of 
more effective national and local governance by focusing on the development of human capital and 
infrastructures. T his vision of the Plan is described  in three  important pillars, namely: 1.  the 
diversification of agricultural production with the support of the development of services; 
2. agro-industrial transformation and increased development of services; and 3.  the export of 
knowledge through innovations and biotechnologies.  
11. Bhutan 's Five -Year Plans (FYP) is a series of national economic development plans developed 
since 1961, with instalment number 12 in effect during the period 2018 -23. 
12. Burkina Faso  has four st rategies that the country sees as relevant to the theme of 
M&E exercise:  
• National strategy for the promotion of local products;  
• National strategy for the sustainable development of the shea butter sector;  
• National export strategy; and  
• National gender strat egy of the ministry in charge of trade.  
 
13. In the Central African Republic (CAR) the Plan for Recovery and Consolidation of Peace 
also emphasizes , inter alia : 
• the promotion of investment and trade;  
• business improvement;  
• the empowerment of women and young peo ple; and  
• strengthening the energy supply.  
 
14. Colombia's  National Development Plan 2018 -2022 includes the topic of international trade in 
the "Pact for entrepreneurship, formalisation and productivity: a dynamic, inclusive and sustainable 
economy that enhances all our talents ", in a chapter entitled: "A world of possibilities: taking 
advantage of international markets and attracting productive investment ". It is also found in the 
sectoral strategic plan: "Environment and Sustainable Development Sector ". 
15. Democratic Republic of  Congo  (DRC3's) National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP) 
focuses on the consolidation of economic growth, diversification and transformation of the economy. 
This orientation prioritises sectoral inclusion combining sectors with high growth potential (mining, 
hydrocarbon s, metallurgy) and those with high employment potential (forestry, food and cash crops, 
agro-industry). Extractive industries and agriculture are thus considered to be the two categories of 
productive sectors which, together with in -depth value chains, sho uld form the basis of the 
Congolese economy in the first stage of its sequential evolution towards an economy with inclusive 
growth. These sectors will have a knock -on effect on other sectors such as industry, trade, tourism, 
etc. 
16. Côte d'Ivoire  included it s National Development Plan 2021 -2025.  
17. Ethiopia 's home -grown economic reform and ten year (2020 -2030) policies have 
Aid-for-Trade elements.  
18. El Salvador 's development plan provides more information and is available at : 
https://plancuscatlan.com . 
19. Equatorial Guinea 's National Development Strategy 2035 emphasizes the country's 
integration into the world economy, where trade is considered the engine to achieve such 
integration. The ne w National Development Strategy 2035's strategic axes are designed by sectors 
and subsectors, with all sectors oriented towards trade, in view of achieving a longed -after 
diversification in its sources of economic growth. Equatorial Guinea's Diagnostic Stu dy on Trade 
Integration (DTIS) is also a key document for the country, whose horizontal recommendations of its 
action matrix guide a lot on the development of trade; many of them are being implemented by the 
 
3 Also referred to as the Democratic Republic of Congo . WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  interested parties. The agricultural and fishing  sector are, inter alia , a priority in Equatorial Guinea's 
exports diversification strategy.  
20. Fiji's trade priorities are included in a Five-Year and 20 -Year National Development Plans.   
Priorities contained in the plans include:  
• Improving Transport and Di gital Connectivity which includes investment in road 
infrastructure, inter -island network, international and domestic airports, making our ports 
more efficient with the help of modern technology, efficient cargo handling machinery and 
adoption of internati onal best practices to enhance Fiji's position as the hub of the Pacific. 
Most importantly, boosting digital connectivity by promoting competition, expanding 
infrastructure, providing digital literacy to create a more conducive environment for 
commerce and  development, including attracting new sources of investment and growth.  
 
• Trade Policy Framework: Boosting productive capacity for exports is a high priority for the 
Fijian government. The National Trade Policy Framework provides the policy settings and 
institutional framework to address challenges such as market access, addressing our 
production capacity and supply -side constraints, trade facilitation and export growth, 
promotion of value addition and diversification. Undertake tariff policy reviews.  
 
• Continue to seek access to Aid for Trade from development partners to assist in building 
trade capacity and infrastructure.  
 
• Mainstream Climate Change and environmental policies and strategies.  
 
• Enhance regional and multilateral partnerships to promote tra de. 
 
• Improving the business environment to further reduce the cost of doing business and 
support private sector investments in the country.  
 
• Manufacturing and service sectors will be supported, and new growth sectors will be nurtured 
and harnessed.  
 
• Niche -product development and areas of comparative advantage will be incentivised and 
further developed. Resource -based sectors will be developed with a major focus on value 
addition, efficiency gains and raising overall production.  
 
• MSME development will be str engthened for job creation and income generation.  
 
• Expansion of berthing facilities and cargo storage with increasing trade flows and cargo 
movements.  
 
• The competition policy framework will be enhanced to promote greater self -regulation and 
compliance and reduce restrictive trade practices. Build capacity to administer restrictive 
trade practices.  
 
• Review and revise legal framework relating to Trade Standards and Metrology.  
21. Guatemala  has an integrated foreign trade policy in place, whose purp ose is to improve 
competitiveness; expand and diversify the exportable offer; and promote foreign trade and attract 
foreign direct investment.  
22. Relevant is  Guinea -Bissau 's 2025 Strategic Plan " Terra Ranka " and also the country's trade 
and export development strategy.  
23. Indonesia 's trade priorities are included in its 1st National Priority under National Medium 
Term Development Plan 2020 -2024: "Strengthening economic resilience for quality and equitable 
growth ". 
24. Lesotho 's National Strategic Development Plan II (NSDP II) has prioritized trade as key driver 
of sustainable ec onomic growth and job creation.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  25. Madagascar  has integrated trade into its national development plan which results from the 
Trade Development Diagnostic Study and the Medium -Term Trade Development Plan. Evidence from 
Trade Policy Reviews also contributed to trade mainstreaming.  
26. Mali highlighted five areas included in its trade policy documents . 
• Connecting to value chains: support for agro -pastoral sectors for their insertion into 
global value chains. These include cotton, hides and skins, meat, milk, mangoes,  etc.  
 
• Export Diversification: support for the implementation of the enhanced integrated 
framework (CIR) Mali for the development of the shea, mango, sesame, cashew, potato, 
shallot/onion, hides and skins, etc. sectors.  
 
• Network infrastructure (electricity, water, telecommunications): support for the 
development of renewable energies , support for access to electricity at lower cost for 
the population, support for the promotion of the extension and use of technologies 
information a nd communication for all sectors and actors, and support for the extension 
of the internet network, fixed and mobile telephony.  
 
• Transport infrastructure: the revitalization of the railway , the renewal of the car fleet, 
the construction of parking lots for  vehicles along the road corridors, the construction 
of rest areas for drivers, the improvement of the territorial network and the 
interconnection of transport infrastructure and equipment.  
 
• Trade facilitation: strengthening of the Single Window in the sense of dematerialization 
and interconnection of this window with all the structures involved (Customs, Taxes, 
Insurance, Banks, Departments of Agriculture, Industry, Veterinary Services), support 
for MERCATOR program at the level of Customs and the Trade  Portal platform.  
 
27. Mexico : In line with Mexico's  National Development Plan, the Sectoral Programme for the 
Economy 2019 -2024 includes as one of its objectives the promotion of economic diversification for 
greater equality between regions and sectors, for which it considers as a strategy to diversify the  
destination markets for Mexican exports in order to reduce vulnerability and take advantage of trade 
opportunities. Here, one of the actions required to achieve this is strengthening the network of trade 
and investment agreements and treaties. In this con text, foreign trade policy focuses on 
three  pillars: inclusion, diversification and innovation.  
28. Nepal 's trade priorities are included in the country's Trade Policy Review 2015, Nepal's Trade 
Integration Study 2016, International Development Cooperation Pol icy 2019 and 15th Periodic plan.  
29. Saint Lucia 's trade priorities are stated in the Medium -Term Development Strategy (MTDS).  
These include on agriculture: Expansion of production capacity (meats and poultry and food crop 
production), Increase exports (banana s and cocoa), Improved Legislative environment (enactment 
of relevant legislation that will improve production standards and other relevant SPS).  On 
infrastructure: Reconstruction and rehabilitation of road network to minimize domestic trade costs, 
Enhanc e capacity of seaports to allow increased cruise tourism up to 934,000, Enhance airport 
capacities to facilitate one million arrivals annually. On tourism: Improved climate for tourism 
investment that will increase quantity and quality of stayover tourist experience; enhance tourism 
products - rejuvenate iconic sites and improve immigration process time; diversify tourism product 
to allow for varied tourism experiences; Increase average spend of tourists through improved 
experiences. Trade Facilitation: Cre ation of a single window to reduce port related inefficiencies and 
costs. On diversification: i mplementation of Services Sector strategy that looks at increasing 
capacity in key service areas namely  Creative Industries, ICT, Professional Services and Spa & 
Wellness, MSME Growth and Development.  
30. In Pakistan , Aid for Trade has been prioritized in several trade plans:  
• E-commerce policy 2019;  
• Small and Medium Enterprises Policy 2021;  
• Compliance of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement;  
• Agricultural reforms and Research and Development in Agriculture;  and 
• WTO Compliance in general.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  31. Papua New Guinea , Aid-for-Trade priorities are new concepts, hence they need to be 
well-articulated and awareness should be raised so that the main departments and agenci es that 
play a part in trade facilitation can appreciate the importance of trade facilitation and how aid can 
be used to improve it s practice in the country. Papua New Guinea's Medium Term Development Plan 
III and the National Trade Policy 2017 - 2032 cove r the areas of trade facilitation and Aid-for-Trade 
priorities.  
32. Peru, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR) establishes the National Foreign 
Trade Policy of Peru through the National Export Strategic Plan (PENX 2025), which was approved 
by Ministerial Resolution No.  377 2015, the aforementioned plan has as its main objective the 
internationalization of companies. This is based on the following strategic objectives  and pillars :  
• deepen the internationalization of companies;  
• increase exports of value -added goods and services in a sustainable and diversified 
manner; and  
• improve the competitiveness of the export sector. To achieve the objectives, PENX 
2025 establishes 4 pillars ;  
 
 Pillar 1:  Internationalization of the company and market diversification: Its 
objective is to support the efforts of Peruvian companies to participate in the 
economies of other countries for the diversification of markets and products in order 
to take gre ater advantage of best offer conditions .  
 
 Pillar 2:  Diversified, competitive and sustainable exportable offer: It is established 
in order to consolidate Peruvian exports with emphasis on non -traditional exports of 
goods and services .  
 
 Pillar 3:  Facilitation of foreign trade and efficiency of the international logistics 
chain: It aims to reduce transaction costs associated with foreign trade operations, 
including not only regulatory and procedural aspects, but also logistical and financial 
ones. 
 
 Pillar 4:  Generation of capacities for internationalization and consolidation of an 
export culture: It seeks to strengthen export business capacities that consolidate new 
markets, products and/or diversified services, recognizing, as the PENX does, that t he 
critical intervention unit is the company. These pillars comprise fifteen (15) lines of 
action, which are organized into ninety -four (94) programs.  
 
33. Senegal  presented eight (8) trade  priority areas contains in its development policy 
documents:  
• consumpti on support;   
• support of exports ; 
• improving access to markets ; 
• improving access to financing ; 
• development of entrepreneurship ; 
• e-commerce development;  
• technical assistance to companies in difficulty ; 
• upgrading and restructuring of SMEs; and  
• strengthening of means of intervention of support and managements structure for 
SMEs.  
 
34. Vanuatu 's Trade Policy Framework lists Aid for Trade as an essential element. The Vanuatu 
Sustainable Development Policy Framework (the overall Vanuatu Policy plan), cov ers AfT in the 
various pillars. It places a high importance to advancing the need to ensure AfT in all the areas 
identified in AfT coverage.  
35. For Zambia, priorities identified in the National trade policy include:  
• Streamlining of tariff measures that are supportive of international trade;  
• Elimination of non -tariff measures;  
• Enhanced utilization of trade remedies;  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  • Export promotion;  
• Undertaking progressive business reforms;  
• Promoting e -commerce;  
• Enhancing trade facilitation;  and 
• Promoting intellectual proper ty rights . 
 
Trade as a priority in regional development strategies (regional economic communities 
and transport corridor perspective)  
36. All four  (4) respondents to the REC/TCs questionnaire stated that their regional or transport 
corridor development strategy included trade priorities.  
Additional information on trade as a priority in regional development strategies (regional 
economic community and tra nsport corridor perspective)  
37. Pacific Island Forum Secretariat (PIFS)  said that the current regional development 
strategy is the Framework for Pacific Regionalism (FPR) of 2014 . The FPR targets economic growth 
and sustainable development but does not specifically refer to trade as a means to achieving those 
objectives. However, the types of collective/regional actions mentioned in the FPR, such a s, regional 
economic integration, clearly signal that trade has a role to play.  
38. A new regional development strategy, the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, is 
currently being developed. The draft 2050 Strategy notes that "Pacific Regionalism to  date has 
focused less on economic and political integration and more on a convergence of Pacific values and 
shared geography. However, there is increasing urgency across the region to progress issues of 
significance, including … trade development, …".  
39. The priority thematic areas for regional development do not include trade, however, two of 
the six priority areas present strong linkages with trade as either an enabler (Thematic Area 2: 
Resources and Economic Development) or a beneficiary (Thematic Area 6:  Technology and 
Connectivity). Some of the thematic regional policy frameworks such as the 2012 Pacific Leaders 
Gender Equality Declaration, the Pacific Platform for Action and Women's Human Rights, the 
2018 Pacific Framework on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (PFRPD), and the NCDs Roadmap 
link trade and economics with social issues such as economic empowerment, taxation and non-
communicable diseases (NCDs) . 
40. SIECA  added more trade priorities that are now included on its development policy 
documents:  i.e. biosecurity guidelines for land transport of cargo, economic recovery, biosafety and 
guidelines for the tourism sector.  
41. TradeMark East Africa  (TMEA) mentioned 5 areas of Aid for Trade and support they had 
amounted to since mid -2017 in their target re gion):  
• Trade Policy, standards and digitalisation (USD 148 million);  
• Trade development (USD  49 million);  
• Trade related -infrastructure (USD  132.3 million);  
• Productive capacity (USD 0.7 million);  and 
• Trade -related adjustments (Safe Trade, our C OVID -Response programme: 
USD 32 million). 
 
42. The West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU ) had faced a context marked 
by a triple challenge (economic, security and health). In light of this, the WAEMU Commission had 
adopted a Framework of Priority Actions for the period 2021 -2025 (CAP  2025) which sets structuring 
priorities, strategic objectives and concrete results to be achieved by 2025, both with regard to the 
missions assigned by the amended Treaty, the orientations of the high authorities of WAEMU and in 
the light of the current or emerging issues and challenges facing the Commission and the 
Member  States of the Union. The key actions retained in the CAP  2025, in connection (direct or 
indirect) with trade are:  
• the establishment of the regime of free pra ctice within WAEMU;  
• promoting trade;  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  • strengthening the operational capacities of the structures for implementing 
competition  rules;  
• the development of efficient transport and transit infrastructure;  
• the promotion of multimodal transport;  
• support for secure  border management in the WAEMU area;  
• contribution to the establishment of industrial competitiveness clusters;  
• the development of energy poles;  
• the development of the digital services offer;  
• promotion of sustainable agriculture;  
• strengthening the resilien ce of populations in the face of hazards and climate change;  
• promotion of cross -border cooperation;  
• the operationalization of the mechanism for the promotion of cultural and creative 
enterprises and industries;  
• the establishment of an intervention mechanis m for the prevention and management 
of epidemics within the WAEMU space;  
• the establishment of a stabilization fund within the Union;  and 
• the production and promotion of regional statistics.  
Additional information on trade as a priority in South -South development strategies 
(South -South partner perspective)  
43. Of the four (4) South -South providers that participated in the exercise (China, Colombia, 
Indonesia, and Turkey) three  (3) out of four (4) respondents (i.e. China, Colombia, Indonesia) 
indicated  that their South -South development strategy, policy or plan included trade priorities.  
44. Most of Colombia 's initiatives focus on services such as digital economy and tourism; some 
focus in business productivity.  
45. Although Turkey 's development cooperation does not have specific trade priorities, it ha d 
been engaged with trade -related activities and capacity -building projects through the Turkish  
Cooperation and Coordination Agency in various ways. 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.  
46. In Indonesia 's National Medium -Term Development Plan for 2020 -2024, the 7th National 
Priority is "Strengthening the Stability Political, Law, Defense, and Security Affairs" as well a s the 
"Transformation of Public Services". One of the strategies used in strengthening international 
development cooperation is through the strengthening of the strategy to support trade and 
investment.  
Trade as a priority in Donor or Aid -for-Trade strateg ies (donor perspective)  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
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  47. Thirty -one (31) out of thirty -six (36) donors (86%) confirmed that their Aid  for Trade or 
development strategy, policy or plan included trade priorities (i.e. Aid-for-Trade priorities), two  (2) 
replied that it did not (5%) and three (3) were unsure (8%).  
Additional information on trade as a priority in donor or Aid -for-Trade strategies (donor 
perspective)  
48. The African Development Bank (AfDB)  presented the pillars of its strategy:  
• Infrastructure Development;  
• Regional Integration;  
• Private Sector Development;  
• Governance & Accountability; and  
• Skills & Technology.  
 
49. Austria  added to its affirmative response that following on the previous Aid-for-Trade 
questionnaire there had been a continuous intersection with some parts of the AfT agenda in a wider 
sense. There were mainly three fields of intervention which touched upon Aid for Trade:  
• Improving the business climate which by definition is part of " trade development"; 
was implemented  primarily  in cooperation with International Financial Institutions 
(IFIs) like IFC;  
• Renewable energy generation - part of trade -related infrastructure – which was a 
traditional field of intervention for both the Austrian Development Agency and the 
Austrian Development Bank; and finally  
• within the main instrument for working with the private sector (i.e. business 
partnership programmes) several projects aimed to set up supply chains, such as,  on 
fruits and herbs , or strengthen value chains.  
 
50. The Asian Development Bank (AsDB)' s said that its AfT agenda was included in both its 
corporate strategies and its support for co untries' and subregional programs strategies. AsDB's 
Strategy 2030 (adopted in 2018) included regional cooperation and integration (RCI) as a corporate 
strategic operational priority. In September  2019, ADB adopted an RCI operational plan for 2019 -
2024 to support the implementation of Strategy 2030.  
51. The operational plan had three  (3) main pillars: (1) grea ter and better connectivity ; 
(2) expanded global and regional trade and investment opportunities ; and (3) increased and 
diversified regional public goods. The priorities relevant to AfT included: transport and ICT 
connectivity; measures to improve the effi ciency and/or productivity of cross -border connectivity, 
develop existing and/or new cross -border economic corridors, or improve execution of provisions in 
existing or new trade or investment agreements; and support for regional or subregional 
mechanisms t o enhance coordination and cooperation among developing member countries (DMCs) 
in energy, transport, multisector economic corridors or ICT connectivity.  
52. The 2020 -2022 strategy, articulated prior to the COVID -19 pandemic, focused on the 
development of dig ital solutions to promote trade and sustainability. AsDB's Trade and Supply Chain 
Finance Program (TSCFP) also set priorities to support : 
• finance of export and import across ADB member countries;  
• innovation in Digital Trade;  
• promotion of Gender Initiative s in developing member countries banks;  
• promotion of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards across trade 
finance industry; and  
• anti-money laundering (AML) standards and initiatives.  
 
53. In addition, under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program, AsDB 
is supporting the implementation of the CAREC Integrated Trade Agenda (CITA) 2030 . The 
CITA 2030 aims to as sist CAREC members to integrate further into the global economy. It seeks to 
enhance the growth potential of CAREC members and improve the living standards of its people. 
CITA 2030 comprises three (3) pillars:  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  • Trade expansion from increased market access;   
• Greater diversification; and  
• Stronger institutions for trade.  
 
54. Australia 's Aid -for-Trade priorities are reflected in its new development policy, Partnerships 
for Recovery (PfR): Australia's COVID -19 Development Response  through its economic recovery 
pillar.  The PfR recognises trade as a key driver of economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic, 
identifying it as an essentia l mechanism for economic recovery. It prioriti zes support to partner 
governments on pathways to economic recovery, including revitali zing export markets, accessing 
finance for trade and investment, and helping re -establish markets and global value chains.  
55. Partnerships for Recovery  (PfR) is the Australian Government's overarching framework for 
delivering timely, responsive, and effective support on health security, stability, and economic 
recovery in our near neighbourhood, i.e. the Pacific, and Southeast A sia. 
56. PfR supports policy -making that promotes economic response and recovery efforts, private 
sector resilience, open markets and supply chains, improved livelihoods, and inclusive growth. 
Investing in gender equality and women's economic empowerment remains a cross -cutting priority, 
especially given women are shouldering much of the economic burden of the impacts of COVID -19. 
Australia's support under the PfR also helps partner governments to enhance human capital and job 
creation. Our sup port features initiatives that facilitate responsible business models, low carbon 
development, and greater value chain diversification. In order to do this, and as an essential partner 
in economic recovery, the PfR encourages engagement of the private sect or in aid investments, both 
in Australia and our region. Our work in each country under the PfR is guided by COVID -19 
Development Response Plans , which also reflect Aid -for-Trade priorities.  
57. These plans take into account the unique context and joint interests of PNG's partners. They 
reflect how existing programs are responding to COVID -19. For example, the Papua New Guinea 
COVID -19 Development Resp onse Plan and the Australia -Indonesia COVID -19 Response Plan (refer 
below). The Papua New Guinea (PNG) COVID -19 Development Response Plan  focuses  on supporting 
PNG's economic recovery, including improving productive capacity and infrastructure development 
through:  
• road maintenance to create jobs and ensure roads remain open to export markets;  
• supporting women business owners with skills training an d access to finance;  
• strengthening linkages between farmers and markets, to improve export 
opportunities;  
• assistance to improve the business enabling environment to encourage new 
investment, including in the resources sector;  
• concessional financing for ele ctrification projects, to reduce power costs for business;  
• enhanced technical vocational education and training, to better position PNG workers 
to find employment overseas (trade in services) including participating in the Seasonal 
Workers Program and the Pacific Labour Scheme (see separate contribution for these 
areas); and  
• providing subsidies to PNG's main airline, Air Niugini, to ensure essential travel 
corridors remain open for business and other travel, including the movement of goods.  
58. New bilateral or  regional trade and economic cooperation arrangements are also being used 
to support resilience and recovery and achieve Aid -for-Trade objectives. For example, the 
Indonesia -Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA -CEPA)  complements the 
Indonesia COVID -19 Development Response Plan  including Aid -for-Trade related provisions that 
support shared economic recovery through increased bilateral trade and investment.  
59. Increased Australian investment in Indonesia will help creat e jobs and generate local economic 
activity and government revenue for recovery. The IA -CEPA Economic Cooperation Program (Katalis) 
is providing technical advice and other assistance to enable Indonesia to fully realise the mutual 
benefits of the partnersh ip. The Australian Government also aligns its regional Aid -for-Trade 
programming with partner priorities.  
60. For example, Australia and PIF members endorsed the Pacific Islands Forum Secre tariat's 
Pacific Aid -for-Trade Strategy 2020 -25 (PAfTS) to improve coordination of resources and donors, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  and to ensure Pacific ownership of the strategy. PAfTS is built around four key priorities: the services 
sector; e -commerce; connectivity; and deepenin g markets.  
61. Aid for Trade is an important mechanism to support the delivery of this work. Refer also:  
Economic Recovery in Papua New G uinea , Papua New Guinea's Australia Comprehensive Strategic 
and Economic Partnership , Samoa COVID -19 Development Response Plan  Tonga COVID -19 
Development Response Plan  and Economic recovery in South Asia . 
62. Canada  does not currently have an exp licit Aid -for-Trade policy, but its general approach is 
grounded in its feminist foreign policy, which seeks to address systemic barriers that prevent all 
people, including women and girls in all their diversity, from enjoying the same human rights and 
having the same opportunities to succeed. Canada is exploring synergies between complimentary 
objectives outlined in key policy initiatives, including its Inclusive Trade Agenda, Trade Diversification 
Strategy, and Feminist International Assistance Policy, no tably the Action Area on Growth that Works 
for Everyone.  
63. Canada advances Aid - for-Trade -related priorities in the context of its Feminist International 
Assistance Policy (FIAP) and inclusive approach to trade. Through its FIAP, Canada focuses on the 
goal of poverty reduction and on the empowerment of women and girls and views the promotion of 
gender equality as the most effective approach to achieving this goal. To this end, Canada's 
international assistance is focused on six action areas : Human digni ty; Growth that works for 
everyone; Environment and climate action; Inclusive governance; Peace and security; and Gender 
equality and the empowerment of women and girls which is the core area of focus that crosscuts all 
other action areas.  
64. The Growth that  Works for Everyone action area (through which Canada advances women's 
economic rights and leadership; promotes inclusive markets and entrepreneurship; and promotes 
resilience and financial security) is the most directly relevant to Aid -for-Trade considera tions. 
Alongside the FIAP, 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 environm ental policy priorities. In this context, Canada's 
trade agreements include provisions on labour rights, the environment, SMEs, gender equality, and 
Indigenous peoples. Canada is also prioritizing the participation of different groups into the economy 
(groups such as women, Indigenous -owned businesses, and small and medium -sized enterprises 
(SMEs)) and helping them connect to global value chains and markets.  
65. The European Bank for Reconstruction Development  (EBRD) aims:  
• to promote and facilitate the development of trade finance in EBRD regions;  
• to build capacity at Partner Banks and enterprises to develop skills and disseminate 
good practice in the areas of cross -border trade;  
• export promotion and international expansion of operations of small and 
medium-sized enterprises; and  
• support trade that contributes to the green -economy transition.  
 
66. The European Union 's Aid -for-Trade priorities are set out  in the 2017 EU Joint (with Member 
States) AfT Strategy comprised in the documents: Commission Communicat ion COM (2017) 667 of 
13 November  2017: "Achieving Prosperity through Trade and Investment ". Updating the 2007 Joint 
EU Strategy on Aid for Trade and Council Conclusions 15573/17 of 11  December  2017: Achieving 
Inclusive and Sustainable Prosperity through T rade and Investment. Updating the 2007 Joint EU 
Strategy on Aid for Trade. These comprise the Joint EU and Member States Updated 2017 
Aid-for-Trade Strategy.  
67. The principles of the 2017 AfT Strategy include:  
• Reducing fragmentation, integrating development  tools, increasing leverage of AfT 
through better informed and coordinated delivery;  
• Scaling up impact, i.e. making the most of instruments across EU external policies, in 
particular: the External Investment Plan, trade agreements (Economic Partnership 
Agreements (EPAs), Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Deep and Comprehensive Free WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Trade Area (DCFTAs), etc.), trade schemes (Generalized Schemes of Preference 
(GSP), Everything but Arms (EBA));  
• A Stronger focus on social and environmental sustainability and incl usive economic 
growth;  
• Better, differentiated approach to countries, with increased focus on Least Developed 
countries (LDCs); and 
• Improved monitoring and reporting The AfT priorities of the EU are as well embedded 
in the EU Global Europe Instrument (the EU financial instrument defining the priorities 
of our cooperation for the period 2021 -2027).  
 
68. Some extracts of the regulation where AfT related issues are specifically mentioned  include :  
• Developing and strengthening markets and sectors in a way that would bolster 
inclusive, sustainable and climate - resilient growth and fair trade, as well as reduce 
the socio -economic marginalisation of vulnerable groups;  
• Supporting the regional integration agenda and optimal trade policies in support of 
inclusive and sustainable development, strengthening countries' capacity to trade, and 
supporting the consolidation and implementation of trade agreements between the 
Union and its partners, including holistic and asymmetrical agreements with 
developing country partners , in line with human rights standards;  
• Promoting and strengthening multilateralism, sustainable economic cooperation, as 
well as measures aimed at promoting and strengthening the rules of the World Trade 
Organization . 
69. The Commission has developed specific  programmes to address national, regional, and global 
issues. These Multi -Indicative Programmes (MIPs) include systematically sustainable economic 
growth as a priority, where Aid -for-Trade -related issues are normally included. As an example, at 
global leve l, the Commission is committed to:  
• Supporting the implementation of the Union Trade Policy and Trade Agreements, in 
line with sustainable development; strengthening partner countries' capacities to trade 
and improving access to partner country markets and  boosting fair trade, responsible 
and accountable investment and business opportunities for companies from the Union 
while eliminating barriers to market access and investment, as well as aiming at easing 
access to climate -friendly technologies, while ensu ring as much as possible added 
value sharing and human rights due diligence in supply chains, taking into account 
policy coherence for development;  
• Promoting an effective policy mix supportive of economic diversification, value 
addition, and regional integ ration and sustainable green and blue economy; and 
• Fostering access to digital technologies, including promoting access to finance and 
financial inclusion, as well as e -commerce.  
 
70. Finland  does not have an AFT or development policy strategy. The objectives and priorities 
are stated in the government program. One (1) of four  (4) priority areas of development policy is 
"economic development, job creation and wellbeing". Trade is an important vehicle to achieve this. 
Trade is explicitly mentioned in many relate d documents, including government programme.  
71. France  said that the French Aid -for-Trade strategy was defined in 2009 and targets two  (2) 
priority areas of intervention:  
• the development of regional trade policies on the one hand, through the definition and 
implementation of regional trade policies, the structuring of regional professional 
players, the implementation of a standardization and quality policy, and the 
management of market risks for strategic products;  
• and the development of a competitive offer on the local, regional and international 
markets on the other hand, through the reinforcement of production capacities, the 
development of sectors, the financing of infrastructures with a regional vocation, and 
the use financing tools adapted to the develo pment needs of the productive sectors. 
An evaluation of France's contribution to Aid for Trade 2009 -2019 is underway in order 
to revise the French Aid -for-Trade strategy by the end of 2022 and thus guarantee 
better consideration on emerging issues, particularly in terms of trade and sustainable 
development.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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72. Germany  added areas that are included in their development policy documents:  
• Regional economic integration, trade policy;  
• Quality infrastructure;  
• Trade facilitation;  
• Productive capacities;  
• Promotion of investment and competition; and  
• Economic infrastructure.  
 
73. The Inter -American Development Bank' s Vision 2025  in entitled "Reinvest in the 
Americas": A Decade of Opportunity". It outlines the priorities to respond to the challenges that 
Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) faces and a path to come out of the crisis with more 
sustainable growth and resilience. LAC is currently at a critical juncture as a result of the COVID -19 
pandemic, long -standing structural weaknesses, and recent  natural disasters, all of which further 
amplified pre -existing development gaps. In 2020, GDP declined by 7.4  % and total employment by 
10%, with 44  million people in the region expected to have fallen into poverty and 52  million to have 
exited the middle  class (Acevedo et al. 2020).  
74. Additionally, damage caused by climate change could cost the region USD  100 billion annually 
by 2050. The new Administration's approach to designing the IaDB Groups vision includes presenting 
its focus on achieving sustainabl e and inclusive economic growth, identifying a pathway to achieve 
those goals with an emphasis on five clear opportunities, and presenting a value proposition to 
strengthen the IaDB Group's ability to execute. This pathway includes focusing on immediate 
opportunities:  
• regional integration, by supporting the reconfiguration of global value chains and 
integration initiatives;  
• the digital economy, by facilitating access and creating the capacity to embrace digital 
technologies and foster innovation;  
• support  for small and mid -size enterprises (SMEs), by generating the conditions to 
maximize the private sector's contribution to the recovery;  
• climate change, by helping countries foster resilience, mitigation, and adaptation; and  
• gender equality and diversity,  by empowering women and vulnerable populations who 
bear most of the burden of the health and economic crisis.  
 
75. Ireland 's Policy for International Development A Better World  includes a commitment to 
promote inclusive economic growth and trade and support initiatives that seek to foster trade and 
investment.  
76. Italy  does not have a dedicated AfT Strategy even if some of the Italian Cooperation projects 
and programmes aimed at promoting the Private Sector contain AfT activities.  
77. For Japan , in order to effectively address the current development challenges, the 
Governmen t of Japan revised its Official Development Assistance (ODA) Charter in February  2015 
and established the Development Cooperation Charter. The Development Cooperation Charter is the 
foundation of Japan's ODA policy and is based on the notion of quality gro wth, that is inclusive, 
sustainable and resilient. On the basis of the Charter, Japan provides necessary 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 (ICT) and high technology; promotion of science, 
technology and innovation; research and development; economic policy; vocational training and 
industrial huma n 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 c ooperation 
projects are determined based on such factors as the socio -economic needs of each country and 
Japan's foreign policy.  
78. The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (part of  the Islamic 
Development Bank (IsDB) group) has promotion an d enhancement of intra -trade and trade 
cooperation among Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member Countries (MCs) as one WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  of the main objectives its establishment in 1975; this in order to support economic development and 
integration of its fifty-seven ( 57) Member Countries (MCs).  
79. This led to the recent establishment of an autonomous international trade finance and 
development entity within IsDB Group in 2008 in order to effectively deal with trade and to 
supplement the efforts in this regard of  the IsDB Group. This specialized entity is called: The 
International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).  
80. The ITFC delivers these objectives through two parallel lines of approach: trade finance 
operations and trade development. It supports economic  development of its fifty-seven ( 57) MCs 
through promoting and enhancing intra trade and trade cooperation among OIC MCs. In this regard, 
it should be noted, that the IsDB 10 Year Strategy 2016 2025 has as a strategic objective promoting 
connectivity and a s a pillar cooperation among member countries. The IsDB's Regional Cooperation 
and Integration Strategy/Policy relies on four  (4) Pillars:  
• enhancing cross border connectivity;  
• improving investment climate and trade competitiveness;  
• mainstreaming trade and Islamic finance; and  
• facilitating cooperation to provide Regional Public Goods (RPGs).  
 
81. In addition to ITFC & IsDB, the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Privat e Sector 
(ICD), member of the IsDB Group, where trade development is not at in centre core mandate, the 
Board approved 3 -year business plan of the organization includes several financing, investment and 
technical assistance programs that directly and indir ectly contributes to Aid -for-Trade priorities. For 
example, ICD envisions to finance infrastructure projects (such as ports, transportation, energy etc.) 
to foster the private sector development, which also helps in reducing the trade costs.  
82. Similarly, IC D organizes investment forums/events to connect the private sector entities in 
different member countries. Along with ITFC and ICD, the mission of the Islamic Corporation for the 
Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (member of IsDB Group), is to incre ase trade and 
investment security between MCs and the world through Shariah compliant risk mitigation tools. Its 
vision is to be recognized as the preferred enabler of trade and investment for sustainable economic 
development in MCs. Supporting trade is pa rt and parcel of the ICIEC development strategy. ICIEC 
assigns a sizeable portion of its yearly Business Insured target in the Annual Business Plan to 
reinforce the trade and export in ICIEC Member States. ICIEC supports trade and investment flows 
in the M Cs spanning across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, South America, and Africa.  
83. For Portugal  informed of the absence of a formal strategy on AfT, instead the Strategic 
Concept of Portuguese Cooperation 2014 -2020 aims to strengthen synergies with the private s ector, 
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 "Rural development  and the sea", within the scope of Portuguese 
cooperation support for integrated and sustainable development models, aimed at strengthening 
local institutions and communities (including, for example, support for increased production in a 
sustainable way an d promotion 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 approach ed. In national 
commitments on PCD (Council of Ministers Resolution no. 82/2010, of 4  November), Portugal has 
identified as particularly relevant sectoral policies on trade, finance, climate change, sea, food 
security, rural development, migrations and sec urity, all of which are directly and/or indirectly 
addressed by EU member states' commitments. The document clearly states that close coordination 
between the various public policies, such as the trade policy, supports development objectives. The 
new Devel opment Cooperation Strategy though is under preparation and scheduled to be released 
this year.  
84. New Zealand 's International Cooperation for Effective Sustainable Development ( ICESD) 
policy  states that we advance sustainable development through our integrated approach, which 
includes trade, security, environment an d diplomatic cooperation. Alongside this policy, New Zealand 
has a non -binding commitment under the Pacific Agreement on Closer  Economic Relations (PACER) 
Plus to channel 20% of our International Development Cooperation (IDC) funding to Aid  for Trade 
in the Pacific. This is reported to New Zealand's Parliament by the Annual Estimates Process. Many 
of New Zealand's development plan s for specific partner countries or regions also reference WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  trade -related outcomes. These plans can be found on the " Our planned aid expenditure " section of 
the ministry of foreign affair and trade's website.  
85. The Netherlands  provided referenced to some of its policy documents:  
• Investing in Global Prospects : The policy document 'Investing in global prospects' of 
Minister Sigrid Kaag (Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation) s hows how the 
government is responding to international challenges and opportunities in the 
interests of the Netherlands; and  
 
• Digital Agenda for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation.  
 
86. According to the Russian Federation , currently, the key policy docu ment on the 
development assistance in Russia is the Russian State Concept on International Development 
Assistance of April  20, 2014 (hereinafter "the Concept"). Article 10 of the Concept envisages the 
following priority areas which also include trade -related ones:  
• improving the performance of governance systems ;  
• improving conditions for trade and investment in recipient countries, including through 
trade and investment facilitation ;  
• building industrial and innovation capacities in recipient countries ;  
• boosting economic activity in recipient countries, and establishing the prerequisites 
for enhanced involvement of the poorest groups in it ;  
• establishing and strengthening national systems for combating organised crime and 
terrorism ;  
• supportin g efforts on post -conflict peacebuilding ;  
• promoting regional economic integration, as well as developing public institutions, 
establishing and developing transport infrastructure, promoting rational use of natural 
resources, implementing socio -economic pr ojects realization, involving the poorest 
groups in the manufacturing processes ; 
• ensuring access of the population to the basic human needs, first of all water and 
electric energy ;  
• providing technological sovereignty in information, communication technolo gies and 
addressing information imbalance between developed and developing countries,  
• food security and development in agriculture ;  
• enhancement of national health and social protection systems, including aimed at 
combating the spread of infectious diseas es;  
• educational quality enhancement, above all elementary and professional level, and 
ensuring ;  
• accessibility ;  
• environment protection and solution of cross -border environmental issues ; and 
• development of the democracy institutes, including human rights protection.  
 
87. According to Slovenia , Aid for Trade is mentioned among the Development Cooperation 
priorities in the Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Strategy of the Republic of Slovenia 
until 2030, specifically mentioning SDG target 8.a (Increas e Aid-for-Trade support for developing 
countries, particularly least -developed countries, including through the Enhanced Integrated 
Framework for Trade -Related Technical Assistance to Least Developed Countries) and with the 
following justification: "Decent  work for decent pay is the basis for eliminating poverty and 
inequality. Favourable conditions for business development in partner countries, which is 
environmentally friendly and offers equal opportunities to both genders, facilitate better adaptability 
of the economy of the partner country to the situation in the domestic and international market and 
foster innovation. Poverty can also be reduced or eliminated by fostering trade and participating in 
the global economy. As a result, attaining EU standards  and thereby cooperation in the European 
single market is particularly important to partner countries which have a European perspective and 
an association agreement with the EU. As to countries of sub -Saharan Africa, it is vital that they 
receive support f or entering the global economy on the basis of economic partnership agreements 
with the EU.  
88. In 2016,  Sweden 's Policy Framework for Swedish Development Cooperation and 
Humanitarian Assistance was adopted, setting out the goals, priorities and direction of S weden's 
development cooperation. It provides a hierarchy of policies and steering documents and indicates WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  how the goals of the Swedish development cooperation and humanitarian 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 w hich 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.  
89. The m ain strategy guiding 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 for instance also part of the regional strategy for Sub -Saharan Africa, adopted 
in 2016 and with an updated one underway, and the strategy for the Middle East and Northern 
Africa, adopted in 2021 and cov ering the period of 2021 -2025. Trade is also part of several bilateral 
country strategies, where Zambia and Uganda are two examples, both adopted in 2018.  
90. Switzerland  referenced the:  
• Dispatch on Switzerland 's Strategy on International Cooperation 2021 -2024 (in 
French): (pages 2550 -2552); and  
• Brochure Switzerland's International Cooperation Strategy 2021 -24.  
 
91. All the work programs under the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development 
(UNCTAD) Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC) address trade priorities when 
supporting developing countries' formulation of sustainable development strategies. Another area 
included in the institutions' development strateg y is trade facilitation . 
92. UNDP 's policy direction is defined by its Strategic Plan for a period of four years. In 
September  2021, UNDP's Executive Board adopted the Strategic Plan for the period 2022 -2025 
aiming at accelerating and scaling development resul ts significantly to bringing the global goals back 
within reach following the set back of the COVID -19 pandemic on development and poverty 
reduction. The Plan envisions UNDP to support change in three (3) directions:  
• Structural transformation, particularly  green, inclusive, and digital transitions;  
• Leaving no one behind, a rights -based approach centred on human agency and human 
development; and  
• Building resilience to respond to systemic uncertainty and risk.  
 
93. Building on the previous Strategic Plan, suppo rt to change will be provided through 
six signature solutions on poverty and inequality, governance, resilience, environment, energy, and 
gender equality; enhanced by three enablers: strategic innovation ; digitalization ; and development 
financing. UNDP wil l continue the transition towards integrated approaches better tailored to support 
transformational change. While delivering projects, efforts will continue to be made to plan, align 
and manage them as portfolios comprising a mix of short -, medium - and lon g-term interventions 
supported by research, advocacy, and investment. The Strategic Plan reiterates the importance of 
partnerships with different groups of stakeholders from the UN, academia, civil society, private 
sector, among others.  
94. In this context, th e Strategic Plan seeks to nurture existing and establish new partnerships 
with the private sector guided by UNDP Private Sector Development and Partnerships Strategy 
(2018 -2022): Making markets work for the SDGs.  The strategy seeks to enhance the private sector 
role as a key actor in realizing the SDGs and to promote the alignment of all business strategies and 
operations with the SDGs.  
95. More concretely, the Strategy identifies three  (3) 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.  
96. These priorities will be implemented through programmes at the global, regional, and country 
level through a combination of service offers that best respond to the country context. Trade -related WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  support priorities by UNDP are best articulated at this level where a number of service offers 
contribute to trade -related outcomes.  
97. These in clude for instance, Policies and productive 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 busi ness and shape sustainable 
business and investment practices; and Improving livelihoods at the bottom of the pyramid through 
inclusive business.  
98. UNDP's Regional Programme for Africa (2022 -2025) for example, put regional integration 
through trade as one of  the key drivers of inclusive growth in Africa if enabling conditions are created 
for small businesses to increase their linkages and participate in regional value chains and markets 
through regional trade agreements, especially the landmark AfCFTA.  
99. UNDP Strategic offer for Africa (2018 -2021) places regional integration including through 
trade as key driver of structural transformation of African economies and their development 
ambition. Support to the realization of the AfCFTA is key in this regard.  
100.  UNDP 's Regional Programme Document for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent 
States (2022 -2025) seeks to support programme countries and partners in the socio -economic 
recovery from the pandemic, and in addressing new and pre -existing multi -dimensional fo rms of 
poverty, inequalities and exclusion.  
101.  To that end, the regional programme aims to build productive capacities and green value 
chains, aimed at high value -added and competitive products, create decent jobs and promote 
sustainable and circular product ion patterns for cross -border trade in goods and services in 
partnership with the International Trade Centre (ITC); and provide regional support to national and 
subnational institutions to design and implement sustainable local development solutions, and t o 
deliver innovative, gender -responsive public services.  
 
102.  Under the regional programme, UNDP implements Aid for Trade in Central Asia (Phase IV) 
project funded by the Government of Finland to support Central Asian countries (Kyrgyzstan, 
Tajikistan and Uzbekistan) in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth patt erns in rural areas and 
within green productive sectors.  
103.  The project supports building productive capacities that are forward looking (future proof) and 
that address rapidly changing global market demands. The strategy is to provide support to 
governments  and private sector in building productive capacities for green niche products and value 
chains, identified in the agricultural, agro -industrial, and other employment -rich sectors, to 
contribute to more economically, socially, and environmentally sustainab le growth patterns. The 
emphasis is on green marketable products, the production of which can lead to an increase in decent 
employment (particularly for women in rural areas) and competitiveness, with a shift from vertically 
specialized value chains toward s green value chains with greater added value via measures to raise 
productivity and resource efficiency, while simultaneously improving export market access and 
reducing trading costs (implementation began in June  2018 and will continue through 2022).  
104.  Building the capacity to trade, in a socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable manner 
is an essential part of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization 's (UNIDO)  
inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) mandate and therefore its cooperation and 
partnership strategies with countries. UNIDO's Medium Term Programme Framework 2022 -2025 
identifies three interconnected areas of expertise, namely : (i) stru ctural transformation and sectoral 
expertise ; (ii) climate -neutral industry and circular economy ; and (iii) digital transformation and 
innovation and is supported by a mainstreamed approach to ensure that no one is left behind, in 
addition to englobing the  full range of UNIDO services in an integrated and focused manner. These 
areas address most of the current Aid -for-Trade priorities . 
105.  The United Kingdom 's upcoming International Development Strategy (which will be launched 
in Spring 2022) will include a spe cific Trade for Development and Aid -for-Trade set of objectives. 
Aid-for-Trade programmes help break down barriers to trade internationally and allow developing 
countries to properly harness the market access we provide through our EPAs and preferences WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  scheme. The forthcoming International Development Strategy will be consolidating this 
programming offer through our new UK Trade Expertise, which will be a more streamlined . One of 
Her Majesty's Government's offer is to provide tailored -demand -led technical a ssistance to 
developing countries. The International Development Strategy will make the case for continued 
UK development leadership and set out the links between development and deliver on the priorities 
of the Integrated Review.  
106.  The United States  referen ced its USAID Policy for Trade Capacity Building .. 
107.  The World Bank Group  detailed the four ( 4) pillars underpinning its strategy :  
Pillar 1:  Promoting inclusiveness, building resilience to shocks, and fostering environmental 
and social sustainability;  
 
Pillar 2:  Supporting trade competitiveness, trade diversification, and Global Value Chain 
(GVC) participation;  
 
Pillar 3:  Deepening trade cooperation in g oods and services at multilateral, plurilateral, 
regional, and bilateral levels;  and 
 
Pillar 4:  Boosting trade facilitation and connectivity, support for trade finance, and digital 
automation.  
 
Priorities identified in national development strategies (part ner country perspective)  
 
Note:  Survey respondents were requested to select and rank 5 out of the 20 priority areas available. The 
score takes into account the rank given for each selected category.  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Top three priorities identified in national development strategies (partner country 
perspective)  
Region/Group  Priority 1  Priority 2  Priority 3  
Africa  - Export Diversification  
- Trade Facilitation  
(tie)  - Building productive capacity  
- Connecting to value chains  
- Women's economic 
empowerment  
(tie) 
Asia - Export diversification  
- MSMEs growth and 
development  
(tie)  - Connecting to value chains  
- Trade facilitation  
(tie) 
Americas  - Trade facilitation  - Environmentally 
sustainable (or green) 
growth, including circular 
economy  
- Export diversification  
- MSMEs growth and 
development  
(tie)  
Oceania     
LDC International 
competitiveness  Building productive capacity  Connecting to value chains  
LLDC International 
competitiveness  Building productive capacity  Export diversification  
UN SIDS  Women's economic 
empowerment  WTO accession  Connecting to value chains  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on priorities identified in national development strategies  
108.  Benin  added a second priority "Network infrastructure" (electricity, water, 
telecommunications, etc.) and drew attention to the Benin National Development Plan Document 
2018–2025.  
109.  Bangladesh  referenced its Export Policy 2018 -21; 8th Five Year Plan ; and Perspective Plan 
(2021 -2014).  
110.  Burkina Faso referenced some of its Aid-for-Trade related documentation:  
• https://www.apexb.bf    
• http://www.mcia.gov.bf   
• www.action -sociale.g ov.bf  
• https://cir -burkina.org   
 
111.  Comoros  ranked [mitigating] the impacts of COViD -19 as a number one priority.  
112.  Congo DR  said that national trade priorities were not only contained in the DRC's DTIS but 
also carried by the National Sustainable Development Plan.  
113.  As a fourth priority, Côte d'Ivoire  added the [mitigating the] impact of COVID -19 and 
referenced its National Development Plan, National Agricultural Investment Program and National 
Export Strategy . 
114.  The Dominican Republic  offered a link to their National Development Strategy 2030 
https://mepyd.gob.do/mepyd/wp -content/uploads/arch ivos/end/marco -legal/ley -programa -nacion
al-de-desarrollo.pdf  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  115.  Equatorial Guinea  added industrialization in the list of its development priorities. In addition, 
it referenced the following documents:  
• Equatorial Guinea's DTIS ; 
• Equatorial Guinea National Plan for Sustainable Development 2035 ; 
• Five-Year Plan 2020 -2025; 
• Economic Diversification Strategy ; and 
• National Program for Food Security  2012 (but constantly updated) . 
 
116.  May of the areas mentioned in the questionnaire constitute priorities for Equatorial Guinea in 
the current context. Choosing the top five  (5) does not imply that they are the only ones, simply 
because that is what the online survey allows. There are other priorities such as:  
• Economic empowerment of women (rural women, women -owned businesses, 
women -led businesses, women workers);  
• Connecting to value chains;  
• Economic empowerment of young people;  
• Regional integration;  
• International competitiveness;  and 
• Development of services, etc.  
 
117.  Fiji's priorities also included connecting to value chains, e -commerce, environmentally 
sustainable (or green) growth, including circular economy, building of trade capacity and 
infrastructure.  
118.  Gabon  added [the mitigation of] the impact of COVID.  
119.  Guatemala 's strategic areas seek to improve its level o f competitiveness, favour the 
expansion and diversification of the Guatemalan exportable supply, consolidate openness and access 
to international markets, and efficiently implement and manage existing trade instruments, and 
systematically and sustainably f oreign trade opportunities in investments that Guatemala needs.  
120.  Indonesia 's women's economic empowerment drive currently focused on women living in the 
rural areas, women of vulnerable groups which include those who are victims of violence, victims of 
disasters and those who are head of family, and women SMEs.  
121.  As first priority,  Madagascar sees industrialization – an objective supported by UNIDO's 
country programme: "Support for the Industrial Emergence of Madagascar 2019 -2023". 
122.  Mali's other priorities are in the development of network infrastructure (electricity, water, 
telecommunications, etc.) as referenced in:  
• Strategic Framework for Economic Growth and Sustainable Development 
2019-2023;  
• National Trade Development Policy Document and its 2 018-2023 Action Plan;  
• Mali Trade Policy Review Report 2017;  
• Mali Report on WAEMU Trade Surveillance 2020;  
• Diagnostic Study on Trade Integration (DTIS) and its matrix of actions updated in 
2015; and  
• Industrial Development Policy.  
123.  Mexico  focussed the additional information provided on the impact of COVID -19. In the face 
of the crisis caused by the COVID 19 pandemic, the world accelerated its digitization process, so 
that in the face of the new normality, Information and Communication Tech nologies are even more 
important than they have been; their social value increases due to the power they have to contribute 
to economic and social recovery throughout the world, since they have allowed a large percentage 
of the population and companies to continue working, complying with a healthy distance. Information 
Technologies and the Internet, as well as the use of digital platforms and smart devices, have allowed 
us to continue with our activities, through:  
 WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  • Teleworking, which has become the new mean s to attend to commitments workplaces, 
and an effective solution to avoid proximity and physical interaction;  
• Distance education, which allows online education and training, through the use of 
digital platforms;  
• Digital health, with technologies that allow  patient monitoring, electronic medical files, 
telemedicine, and the use of Artificial Intelligence and big data analysis to have more 
precise diagnoses;  
• Electronic commerce, which has made it possible to continue with economic activity, 
increase the compe titiveness of MSMEs and their entry into new markets.  
 
124.  From the Mexican government, through the Secretary of Economy, it was recognized that one 
of the strategies to achieve economic reactivation is to support MSMEs, whom the pandemic has 
forced to acceler ate their digitization process and increase their digital presence in online, through 
social media, search engines, their own websites or online platforms, in order to promote and sell 
their products and connect with their customers and suppliers.  
125.  For thi s reason, the Ministry of Economy has developed various platforms to facilitate the 
digitization of MSMEs, such as: MIPYMES.MX, Mercado Solidario, Comercia.MX, EXPORTA.MX and 
DATA MEXICO, through which we support the adoption of digital tools that It opens  up opportunities 
for them to increase their overall efficiency and reduce costs in the long run.  
126.  The foregoing, under a public policy framework based on three (3) pillars:  
• Innovation: Element and central point that It will allow to develop and transform the 
activities and the human being.  
• Diversification: That the actions are offered in a heterogeneous way, reaching the 
entire population and all regions.  
• Inclusion: Take into account all communities, particularly the most unprotected, as 
well as the most vulnerable sectors of the population, such as the native peoples and 
women. We look for the economic empowerment of women, directing our strategies 
and initiatives with an approach that prioritizes social and inclusive innovation, 
empowering and " literating" more women to integrate into the digital economy, and 
in activities with high added value.  
 
127.  In this regard, Mexico was working on the development of training programs in digital skills, 
through the initiative "Digital Skills for Mexican Women o f the 21st Century", focused on Mexican 
women, which allows them to have the necessary tools and knowledge to enter and develop in the 
digital world.  
128.  As part of its development policies, the  Digital Strategy of Moldova  supports the development 
of e-commerce.  
129.  Nepal referenced  the: 
• 5th national plan;  
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) framework ;  
• Constitution of Nepal;  
• Trade policy 2015;  
• NTIS 2016;  
• National strategy for use and development of E -commerce 2019 ; 
• Industrial  Policy 2011;  
• International Development Cooperation Policy 2019 ; 
• Custom reform and modernization plan 2021 -2026;  and 
• National Climate Change Policy 2019.  
 
130.  Niger  added the area of industrialization.  
131.  Papua New Guinea referenced its national trade policy for 2017 -2032. 
132.  For Paraguay , the economic empowerment of women and youth are considered priority 
areas.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  133.  Peru linked its related documentation:  
• Strategic Plan for National Development ; 
• General Government Policy 2021 -2026  
• National Export Strategic Plan (PENX) 2025 ; 
• Guidelines for the Second Agrarian Reform ; 
• Digital Government Law ; 
• National Digital Transformation System ; and 
• Digital Trust Framework . 
134.  Philippines  include industrialisation and economic recovery from the pandemic as additional 
priorities.  
135.  Samoa  referenced its Samoa 2040 . 
136.  St Lucia  offered links to its documentation:  
• Medium Term Development Strategy ; 
• National Trade/Export Strategy ; and 
• Services Policy and Strategy . 
 
137.  Other important areas for Senegal 's development are e -commerce, access to trade finance, 
transport infrastructure (airport, roads rail and port).  
138.  In St Vincent and the Grenadines ' transport infrastructure (airport, roads, ports) was 
adjusted in light of the commissioning of the new airport (Argyle International Airport). In addition, 
the Government had secured funding for the development of a new seaport.  
139.  Togo  referenced its national develop ment plan . 
140.  Uganda detailed its priorities:  
• Industrialisation/value addition: high cost of doing business, sustainability of 
industrialisation productivity, developing value chains, inadequate infrastructure and 
finance ( www.mtic.go.ug ); 
• Export Diversification: huge infrastructure deficit, huge skills gap ( www.npa.ug ); 
• International Competitiveness: issues of compliance with international standards, low 
productivity, poor quality of products and services, high cost of doing business;  
 (www.finance.go.ug) ; 
• Regional Integration: production of similar/like products and services, non -tariff 
barriers ( www.trademarkea.com ; www.eac.int ); and  
• Trade Facilitation: budgetary constraints, capacity building, logistical arrangements.  
(www.unctad.org  and www.trademarkea.com ). 
141.  Zambia 's trade strategy was included in:  
• National Trade Policy ; 
• Industrial Policy ; 
• National Export Strategy ; and 
• National Development P lan 
 
Priorities identified in regional development strategies (regional economic community 
and transport corridor perspective)  
Top priorities identified in regional development strategies  
REC Priority 1  Priority 2  Priority 3  Priority 4  Priority 5  
PIFS Regional 
integration  Environmentally 
sustainable (or 
green) growth, 
including  
circular economy  Network and/or 
transport 
infrastructure of 
a cross border  
nature  Connecting to 
value chains  E-commerce  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  REC Priority 1  Priority 2  Priority 3  Priority 4  Priority 5  
Trademark East 
Africa  Trade 
facilitation  Transport 
infrastructure 
(airport, roads, 
rail, port)  Trade policy 
analysis, 
negotiations 
and 
implementation  Regional 
integration  Women's 
economic 
empowerment  
SIECA  Women's 
economic 
empowerment  Adjustment costs     
WAEMU  Regional 
integration  Trade facilitation  Transport 
infrastructure 
(airport, roads, 
rail, port)  E-Commerce  Export 
diversification  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on priorities identified in regional development strateg ies 
142.  The representative of  PIFS answered based on a subjective interpretation of the draft 
2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent Beyond the 2050 Strategy. He added that the issue of 
women economic empowerment was important  (as can be seen in the Pacific Leaders Gender 
Equality Declaration ). Economic empowerment was also a priority under the Pacific Framework for 
the Rights of Persons with Disabil ities (PFRPD), and Regional Youth Strategy.  
143.  TradeMark  East Africa referenced their website www.trademarkea.com . 
144.  WAEMU referenced their website www.uemoa.int . 
Priorities identified in South -South development strategies (South -South partner 
perspective)  
Top priorities identified in South -South strategies  
South -South 
partner  Priorities  
China  Priority 1  
E-commerce  
 Network and/or 
transport 
infrastructure of 
a cross border  
nature  Network 
infrastructure 
(power, water, 
telecommunications,  
etc.) Trade 
facilitation  Transport 
infrastructure 
(airport, roads, 
rail, port, etc.) 1  
WTO 
 Priority 1  Priority 2  Priority 3  Priority 4  Priority 5  
Colombia  E-commerce  Industrialization  Services 
development  MSMEs growth 
and 
development  Building 
productive 
capacity  
Indonesia  Impacts of 
COVID -19 Regional 
integration  MSMEs growth and 
development  Women's 
economic 
empowerment  International 
competitiveness  
Turkey       
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on priorities identified in South -South strategies  
145.  Women's economic empowerment currently focuses on women living in the rural areas, 
women of vulnerable groups which include those who are victims of violence, victims of disasters 
and those who are head of family; and women SMEs.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Priorities identified in donor or Aid -for-Trade strategies  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information identified in donor or Aid -for-Trade strategies  
146.  For AsDB , priorities cannot be singled out as many bear equal importance.  AsDB's Strategy 
2030 (adopted in 2018) includes RCI as a corporate strategic operational priority. In 
September  2019, ADB adopted an RCI operational plan for 2019 -2024 to support the 
implementation of Strategy 2030. The operational plan has three main pillars: greater and better 
connectivity, expanded global and regional trade and investment opportunities, an d increased and 
diversified regional public goods .  
147.  In January  2022, AsDB published a Guidance Note on Fostering Regional Cooperation and 
Integration for Recovery and Resilience. The publication identifies opportunities for RCI to 
complement national effor ts in fostering an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient recovery. Section  2 
of the Guidance Note provides an overview of RCI responses to the COVID -19 emergency . 
148.  AsDB is also preparing Guidance Notes that are specifically focused on trade facilitation, 
namely: (i) a Guidance Note on Facilitating Trade of Vaccines and Essential Medical Supplies; and 
(ii) a Guidance Note  on National Single Windows. Other publications that are being prepared include 
a Compendium of Technical Notes on Trade Facilitation and an SME Tool Kit. These knowledge 
products are slated for publication in 2022.  
149.  Under the CAREC program, CITA 2030 is implemented through a phased and pragmatic 
approach taking into consideration the capacities and varying levels of progress among the countries. 
A three -year Rolling Strategic Action Plan (RSAP) translates CITA into practical and implementable 
periodic phases, while being reviewed annually to maintain its relevance. RSAP serves as a platform 
to build a pipeline of projects, mobilize funds, and coordinate seamlessly with countries and 
development partners for CITA implementation. The RSAP contains priority investment projects, 
policy dialogue and cooperation, and knowledge products and services.  
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  150.  In the case of Australia , the priority areas ranked reflect wh ere funding has been directed in 
our programs . Specific country and regional approaches to delivering our development assistance, 
including Aid  for Trade, are captured in tailored response plans to support economic resilience and 
recovery in the context of the challenges presented by COVID -19. 
151.  Austria referenced its trade development policies:  
• Three Year Programme 2019 -2021; 
• Gender Policy ; and  
• Energy for sustainable development . 
 
152.  For Cana da, Aid-for-Trade priorities  embedded in inclusive growth foster 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.  
153.  The Growth that Works for Everyone action area of  Canada's international assistance policy 
seeks to:  
• increase economic leadership and empowerment of women at all levels;  
• help improve economic opportunities for and the resilience of rural women;  
• promote greater financial inclusion for women ; 
• and equal acc ess 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.  
 
154.  Canada also recognizes that women's and youth entrepreneurship is critical to support 
sustainable prosperity. 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 a nd most vulnerable, especially 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 particular 
emphasis on rural transformation, 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 infrastructur e.  
155.  Germany  added other priorities to the ones it listed in the form: i.e. quality infrastructure 
(metrology, accreditation, standardization, conformity assessment etc.); and free and fair trade as 
a driver for development.  
156.  IaDB  referenced the short and long versions of its Vision 2025 "Reinvest in the Americas".  
157.  For the ITFC,  since 2005, the Aid -for-Trade (AfT) Initiative has taken off in most of the world's 
developing regions, with a phenomenal increase in Aid-for-Trade flows, technical assistance and 
capacity support, as reported by OECD. However, the Arab region (22 states) has remained on the 
side-lines. Nonetheless, these countries share the same challenges as many developing countries 
from other regions in the world. To address this situation, ITFC, on behalf of the IsDB Group, has 
offered its full support to prepare and launch the Aid -for-Trade Program in the Arab Region, where 
the level of the intra -Arab trade is the lowest in the world.  
158.  The 1st Phase of the Aid -for-Trade Initiative for the A rab States (AfTIAS) Program was 
designed and implemented between 2014 and 2018 by implementing 28 projects in 19 Arab 
countries.  
159.  At the end of this phase in 2018, ITFC has commissioned an independent evaluation to assess 
the effectiveness of the program a nd to draw lessons learned from its implementation. In this WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  context, the last AfTIAS Board meeting held in January 2019, expressed its satisfaction on the 
outcomes of the Program's evaluation and also welcomed the decision of the Arab Economic Summit 
held in Beirut (20/01/2019), calling upon ITFC to prepare the 2nd Phase of AfTIAS in cooperation 
with the League of Arab States (LAS) and all the Arab countries (22).  
160.  Based on this decision, the design for AfTIAS 2.0 Program was undertaken from July 2019 to 
February 2020 and then updated in March 2020 to take into account the new requirements arising 
from the COVID 19 pandemic impact on the economies of the region.  
161.  AfTIAS 2.0 is designed as a five -year program. It was launched officially on 26 October 2022. 
Its development objective is to enhance the environment for international trade in the Arab region 
by making it more efficient and inclusive, thereby creating opportunities for employment and 
contributing to sustainable development .  
162.  More specifically, AfTIAS 2.0 Program aims at (1) increasing intra -regional trade through the 
removal of market access barriers, (2) increasing the role of Arab states in global value chains, and 
(3) ensuring that th e benefits of trade are shared more inclusively across all population groups, 
including, in particular, vulnerable groups, such as women, youth, and others. In this regard, it is 
also important to highlight that ICIEC's strategy is aligned with the IsDB Gr oup 10 years strategy. 
One of the core pillars of the IsDB is to contribute to greater connectivity among its member 
countries (Mcs). ICIEC has a major contribution in increasing intra -regional trade and foreign direct 
investment (FDI) for its member count ries.  
 -   Weblinks:  
• IsDB 10 Year Strategy  
• The Regional Cooperation and Integration Strategy  
• The Women's Empowerment Policy  
• The Youth Development Strategy  
• The OIC 10 year Action Plan  
 
163.  Lithuania 's Aid-for-Trade priorities are derived from the Resolution of the Government of the 
Republic of Lithuania (dated 21  September  2016 No 937) on Approval of the Interinstitutional Action 
Plan on Development Cooperation.  
164.  The Russian  State Concept on International Development Assistance does not have any 
ranking of priority areas of international development assistance. The areas mentioned in the answer 
to Question 3 are considered equally important. Find out more at: Decree of the President of the 
Russian Federation On approval of the Russian State Concept of International Development 
Assistance  (as amended by the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation N 248, dated 
24 May 2016).  
165.  These areas mainly cover all the areas mentioned in the list in Question 4. In addition, 
numerous assistance projects are being implemented through relevant international organi zations 
and platforms, including the Russia -UNDP Trust Fund for Devel opment, United Nations Economic 
Commission for Europe (UNECE), and United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and 
the Pacific (UNESCAP). Trade -related projects implemented in the recent years also covered all the 
areas mentioned in the list abo ve. 
166.  Chinese Taipei  referenced the ICDF Annual Report  and the International Development and 
Cooperation . 
167.  Sweden  added items to the list of areas: Connecting to value chains; E -commerce;  
Environmentally sustainable (or green) growth, including circular economy; MSMEs growth and 
development; Regional  integration; Trade facilitation; Trade policy analysis, negotiations and 
implementation; and Women's economic empowerment.  
168.  All the areas added considered to be prioritized (i.e. one for all). Whereas Sweden does not 
have an overarching Aid -for-Trade strat egy, they highlighted the main prioritized categories from WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 31 - 
 
  their perspective. However, these were not exclusive and could be complemented/altered depending 
on the context. The Swedish Policy Framework for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian 
Assistance  was central guiding document in which more information could be found.  
169.  Switzerland  referenced the Dispatch on Switzerland's Strategy on International Cooperation  
2021-2024 and the Brochure on Switzerland's International Cooperation Strategy 2021 -24. 
170.  As previously mentioned, the United Kingdom 's International Develo pment Strategy would 
be launched in the Spring of 2022 and be circulated to the WTO membership once published.  
171.  UNCTAD  sees implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement as another important 
priority.  
172.  Considering the Aid-for-Trade priorities mentio ned, it is worth mentioning UNDP 's Gender 
Equality Strategy 2018 -2021 which outlines UNDP's contribution to gender equality throughout its 
programmatic work in alignment with the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs. The Strategy supports gender 
equality through gende r specific interventions and through mainstreaming gender across 
programme areas. The strategy foresees action to enhance women's economic empowerment such 
as improving access to and control of land, property, and finance; and expanding women's 
opportuniti es to decent work, including by creating opportunities for micro -and SMEs led by women, 
etc. A new strategy will be published in 2022 adapted to the New Strategic Plan.  
173.  UNIDO  provided references to some of its guiding material:  
• https://www.unido.org/api/opentext/documents/download/21331415/unido -file-21331415  
• https://www.unido.org/programme -country -partnership  
• https://www.unido.org/our -focus/safeguarding -environment  
• https://www.unido.org/our -focus/advancing -economic -competitiveness  
• https://www.unido.org/our -focus/creating -shared -prosperity/agribusiness -and-rural-entrepren
eurship -development  
• https://www.unido.org/our -focus-cross-cutting -services/gender -equality -and-empowerment -w
omen  
• https://www.unido.org/news/unido -wto-2021-aid-trade -stocktaking -event  
• https://www.unido.org/api/opentext/documents/download/20989988/unido -file-20989988  
174.  The United States  referenced the USAID Polic y for Trade Capacity Building . 
175.  The World Bank Group  strategic priorities in Aid for Trade were underpinned by four pillars.  
Pillar 1: Promoting inclusiveness, building resilience to shocks, and fostering environmental and 
social sustainability, promoting the inclusiveness of trade and gender, building resilience to 
economic shocks, the greening of trade and transport logistics, trade and jobs .  
Pillar 2: Supporting trade competitiveness, trade diversification, and GVC participation, boosting 
trade competitiveness, trade diversification and increasing the sophistication of exports, 
digitization, upgrading and increased participation in the GVC Pillar.  
Pillar 3: Deepening trade cooperation in goods and services at multila teral, plurilateral, regional, 
and bilateral levels, support for the multilateral trading system and efforts for reform, regional 
integration of markets.  
Pillar 4: Boosting trade facilitation and connectivity, support for trade finance, and digital 
automat ion, trade facilitation. lowering trade costs and improving transit systems, improving 
markets for logistics services, trade connectivity and economic geography, trade finance.  
Changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019  
Changes in Aid -for-Trade priori ties since 2019 (partner country perspective)  
176.  Twenty -six (26) of the fifty-three ( 53) partner developing country governments that replied 
to the self -assessment questionnaire (49%) indicated that trade their priorities (i.e.  AfT priorities) 
had changed sin ce 2019, twenty -nine ( 29) said they had not changed (36%) and eight ( 8) said they 
were unsure as to whether any changes had taken place (15%).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 32 - 
 
  The majority of partner country respondents report changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities 
since 2019  
 
Source:  OECD/ WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (partner country 
perspective)  
177.  Bangladesh  declared coping up with post -graduation trade -related challenges.  
178.  For Benin, these priorities are reinforced in the new strategic programs for poverty reduction 
in the country.  
179.  Since Cambodia  has already formulated Cambodia Trade Integration Strategy 2019 -2023, 
E-commerce Strategy, Cambodia Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021 -2035, and 
Strategic Framework and Programs for Economic Recovery in the Context of Living with COVID -19 
in New Normal 2021 -2023.  
180.  Colombia  saw a greater emphasis on sustainability and compliance with environmental 
commitments. New needs in terms of capacity to adapt to  changes in the global context. Persistent 
need to diversify exports, coupled with new challenges in the value chain.  
181.  Congo DR  can cite e -commerce, which is enshrined in the creation of a new ministry that will 
be able to better assist with payments at the  one-stop shop level. The economic empowerment of 
women is another new priority of the government, which is in the process of placing women in major 
companies (Central Bank of Congo, Customs, Ministry of Finance, etc.).  
182.  El Salvador  referenced its new gover nment plan available at https://plancuscatlan.com . 
183.  Fiji saw changes on account of:  
• Digital transformation and Electronic commerce services ;  
• Building resilience from external economic shocks such as the COVID -19 pa ndemic by 
improving institutional and productive capacities ; 
• Build synergies between Aid for Trade and climate financing to assist small island 
developing states from the impacts of climate change ; and 
• Encouraging trade of environmental good and services and promoting circular 
economy. More information is available here : 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  • https://www.forumsec.org/wp -content/uploads/2020/04/Pacific -Aid-for-Trade -Strate
gy-2020-2025.pdf  
 
184.  The Gambia 's new priorities are building productive capacities and export diversification. 
MSME growth and development is now part of the government top Aid-for-Trade priorities as most 
of the youth and women -owned businesses are in the MSMEs sectors.  
185.  Guatemala 's priorities have not changed; however, if some have been added, such as the 
environmental sustainability of trade and the economy, within a framework of a possible circular 
economy; changes in the economy, du e to the COVID -19 pandemic, have also caused changes in 
priorities for the development of trade in the country.  
186.  Madagascar is increasingly strengthening the development of national capacities for the 
supply of foodstuffs and basic necessities for the popul ation. In terms of foreign trade, strengthening 
of regional integration in Africa (i.e. African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Common Market 
for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and Southern African Development Community (SADC)).  
187.  Mali listed the  following reasons for changes: (1) Impacts of COVID -19; (2) Importance of 
e-commerce with the outbreak of COVID -19; and (3) Entry into force of the AfCFTA (African 
Continental Free Trade Area).  
188.  Moldova  saw a higher accent on digitalization of economy and e-commerce, MSMEs support 
and development (including women empowerment), promotion of environmentally friendly policies 
(green policies), further accent on trade policies, export basket diversification and promotion of 
competitiveness.  
189.  Pakistan  added integ ration into the global value chains and skills development.  
190.  Papua New Guinea  thought that its Aid -for-Trade priorities had not been well captured in 
the various high level government policies as well as planned due to lack of understanding and 
knowing the importance of trade facilitation to either improve economic development and economic 
growth.  
191.  Peru listed electronic commerce. From the Government and Digital Transformation 
Secretariat (GDTS) and in accordance with current regulations: Legislative Decree N o. 1412, Digital 
Government Law, Emergency Decree No.  006-2020, Emergency Decree that creates the National 
Transformation System Digital (NTSD) and Emergency Decree No.  007-2020, Emergency Decree 
that creates the Digital Trust Framework, Peru considers tha t Electronic Commerce has now become 
a domain and area of special interest for the economic and social development of the population.  
192.  According to indicators from the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (IFSI), the 
population from six (6) year s of age or older that uses the Internet to purchase products and/or 
services has grown steadily. In 2010 (3.2%), 2014 (4.2%), 2018 (9.4%), 2019 (11.5%  %) and 
2020 (10.3%). ( https://www.inei.gob.pe/media/MenuRecursivo/boletines/b oletin_tic.pdf ) 
193.   On environmentally sustainable (or green) growth, including circular economy : Sustainable 
growth is the focus today. Peru has a vision for 2050 seeking to achieve inclusive dev elopment, with 
equal opportunities, competitive and sustainable throughout the national territory. 
(https://www.ceplan.gob.pe/visionperu2050). This vision allows to guide and update the policies 
and plans of the State as a framework to promote sustainabili ty and value it.  
194.  The National Export Strategic Plan to 2025 is the political framework of the Foreign Trade 
Sector, which in its pillar 2 points out the development of a competitive and sustainable diversified 
offer, determining 3 lines of action focused on sustainability: Management of international standards 
of the exportable supply, the development of an exportable supply for biodiversity products and 
sustainability in the development of the exportable supply.  
195.  Thus, this political framework allows us t o develop a series of programs focused on export 
business sustainability, as a key element for internationalization, which has been promoted by 
PROMPERU through inter -institutional work establishing support mechanisms for entrepreneurs. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  through technical a ssistance so that they can incorporate sustainable management into their 
business models as a value proposition to international markets.  
196.  In addition to this, it has developed a Sustainable Culture, a guideline under which institutional 
efforts in matters of sustainability are framed. environmental, social and governance, seeking to 
align Peru to the new global standards. ( https://culturasostenible.pe/ ) Productive capacity  
197.  The Guideline 3 of the Second Agrarian Reform establishes that the industrialization of 
agriculture and the productive transformation of the countryside should be promoted.  
198.  The Philippines  added E -commerce and Economic Recovery to the list of driver of changes.  
199.  Samoa  referenced PACER P lus Rapid Needs Assessment. (Please consult the Samoa Country 
Report 2021  for more information. ) 
200.  Specific Health Related Training: To facilitate the implem entation of the COVID -19 related 
measures at the borders (necessary checks, testing and isolation arrangements), support for training 
of airport and seaport staff on the specific health measures required at ports of entry - from ground 
handling staff to ma nagement.  
201.  Evaluation Study of COVID Impact on Trade Facilitation (TF): Samoa is keen for an evaluation 
of the impact of closed borders due to COVID -19, in particular in relation to its effect on facilitating 
trade, and how the problems and obstacles encou ntered could be better handled in the future. This 
could be a useful region -wide study.  
202.  Impact of COVID -19 and Skills Needs in the Tourism Industry: There is a serious shortage of 
work in the tourism and hospitality industries at the moment due to impact of COVID -19. The Samoa 
Tourism Authority requires technical assistance and capacity building to train more managers and 
supervisors in the tourism industry to be able to take advantage of what is hoped will be a gradual 
increase in tourism in coming  years and enable services suppliers in this sector to benefit from the 
implementation of PACER Plus. Such capacity building would be undertaken in collaboration with 
universities, Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) and other vocational education suppliers.  
203.  Assistance for the Development of a Labour Mobility Framework for Samoa: Labour mobility 
is one of the key long -term growth sectors in the Samoa Vision 2040. A situational analysis/concept 
note is being developed and is anticipated to contribut e to mapping out a comprehensive labour 
mobility framework for Samoa. This includes a review of local labour capacity to meet future 
overseas demand, and how to develop the stronger participation of women in future labour market 
schemes. The consultations noted the labour market analysis for Samoa by APTC recently, which is 
yet to be released by DFAT. This would help shed light on a number of capacity issues and the future 
skills training required. The request now is for a technical expert to be engaged to assist Samoa, 
and any other PIC with a similar need, to develop a labour mobility framework. This would build 
Samoa's institutional capacity and labour market skills development needs in a more gendered and 
evidenced -based manner, to be able to the meet fu ture labour market demand in the region.  
204.  Capacity building support to the private sector/SMEs on use of E -commerce for trade: Some 
companies that export overseas do not have credit card facilities to complete transactions, or are 
not familiar with the use  of mobile phone technology for business. In terms of access to finance, 
businesses in Samoa need to move from traditional services, and build their capacities and 
infrastructure, to take advantage of digital systems/services, and the potential of trade th rough 
e-commerce platforms. There is a need to encourage the use of the internet to promote business as 
a priority, given restricted movements and mobility due to COVID -19. There is also a need for digital 
literacy for small -medium businesses on digital an d e-commerce hardware and software, and how 
to use them effectively. Capacity building for the private sector and SMEs in how to successfully 
trade, through improved connectivity to new and existing markets utilizing e -commerce technology, 
is therefore see n as a medium to high priority. Training should focus in particular on young people 
and women, consistent with the Samoa 2040 Vision Statement.  
205.  Technical Assistance for Improved Digital Banking, E -Payment and Access to Finance: A major 
barrier to e -commer ce take up is that international banks often do not collaborate with local 
commercial banks on use of e -commerce technology, as they consider Samoa high -risk. This WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  therefore limits commercial banks' ability to develop consumer -friendly facilities and servi ces. The 
World Bank has been working on solutions to this, for example using appropriate apps, but this 
project was put on hold due to COVID -19. It is hoped that this will go live in 2022. In addition, the 
ADB offers a Trade and Supply Chain Finance Progra m to help in filling market gaps for trade finance, 
by providing guarantees and loans to banks to support trade. At present, Samoa continues to look 
for additional support to research and develop a range of online payment solutions. This would take 
advanta ge of the high penetration of mobile phones in the country, while also seeking technical 
support for business and individuals to set up bank accounts overseas, to improve the quality of 
e-commerce projects across Samoa. A specific technical assistance proj ect which is accorded high 
priority is collaboration on digital banking, e -payment and access to e -commerce finance, involving 
working with banks, the private sector and relevant government ministries.  
206.  At the sectoral level, Senegal 's Ministry of Trade and  SMEs initiated, from the start of the 
crisis, a series of actions and measures within the framework of the implementation of the Economic 
and Social Resilience Plan.  
207.  St Lucia  highlighted services development including the enhancing of the tourism product as 
the main economic driver, increasing investment and building sector capacity through ports and 
hotel rooms. Additionally, diversification of services portfolio to include priority sectors under the 
National Services policy  and National Export Strategy . Building productive capacity including 
strengthening agriculture production  and exports. Developing education and skills training as per 
Medium Term Development Strategy. Trade facilitation through the implementation of the single 
window as well as rehabilitating infrastructure including ports and road networks.  
208.  In St Vincent and  the Grenadines  drivers of changes were building and productive capacity, 
services development and environmentally sustainable green growth  
209.  "A peaceful Togo , a modern nation with inclusive and sustainable economic growth": this is 
Togo's new national strat egic orientation translated into a Government Roadmap 2020 -2025, broken 
down into three strategic axes and covering the country's main challenges.  
• Strategic axis 1: Strengthen social inclusion and harmony and guarantee peace;  
• Strategic axis 2: Boost job c reation by building on the strengths of the economy;  
• Strategic axis 3: Modernise the country and strengthen its structures.  
 
210.  The Government's Roadmap 2020 -2025 is based on the National Development 
Plan 2018-2022. Thus, the new priorities are, among others, as follows:  
 1. Strengthening production capacities: Togo has enormous potential in terms of supply 
of agricultural products and is developing more new sectors with high growth potential, both in the 
agri-food sector (soya, cashew nuts, shea butter, pineapple, manioc, fruit and vegetables, etc.) and 
in the manufacturing and extractive sectors (phosphates, clinker, etc.) in addition to the traditional 
export sectors (coffee, cocoa, cotton, etc.) In order to develop its supply potential, Togo is working 
with the support of the main technical and financial partners to remove the obstacles that still 
undermine the development of these sectors in order to strengthen the competitiveness of local raw 
and especially  processed products on regional and international markets in order to considerably 
improve the balance of trade. (Strategic axis 2 of the National Development Plan: develop 
agricultural, manufacturing and extractive transformation poles).  
 
 2. Connection to value chains: Togo is convinced that its economic development depends 
on the liberalization of trade by making agriculture, industry and trade, among others, real engines 
of growth through a better connection to regional and global value chains. This re quires the creation 
of real extractive and processing industries for local raw materials in order to meet the need to 
promote healthy local consumption and to satisfy the needs of diversifying exports of processed 
products. The agropoles of Lomé and Kara, or the Adétikopé Industrial Platform (PIA) are concrete 
examples. Regional integration: Togo aims to become a logistical hub of excellence and a first -class 
business centre in the sub -region (Strategic Axis 1 of the National Development Plan), thanks to it s 
strategic positioning and its access to landlocked countries from the autonomous port of Lomé. 
Moreover, the FTAA, which will come into force on 1  January  2021, constitutes a favourable 
instrument for this ambition and an opportunity for continental inte gration, which Togo does not 
intend to ignore.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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 3. […] 
 
 4. Growth and development of MSMEs: The private sector and civil society are real actors 
in the socio -economic development of less advanced countries. In Togo, the contribution of micro, 
small and medium enterprises by men, women and youth in rural and urban areas to development 
and growth is considerable and this area needs more support. This is a priorit y area for Aid for Trade 
in Togo and the National Development Plan rightly aims to "structurally transform the economy for 
strong, sustainable, resilient and inclusive growth, creating new jobs and improving social welfare".  
 
5. E-commerce: The Government 's 2020 -2025 Roadmap aims to make Togo a regional 
reference in digital technology and to strengthen the country's attractiveness to investors. Thus, the 
country is pursuing reforms in the digitalisation of the main public services, the operationalisation 
of laws and application texts on the information society and Electronic transactions, the 
establishment of a strategic infrastructure of sensitive data hosting, among others. Based on the 
recommendations of UNCTAD's Rapid Assessment on its e -business readin ess, Togo has just 
developed a National Strategic Plan for the Development of E -Commerce over the period 2022 -2026 
and a Capacity Building Project for the Development of E -Commerce in Togo (PRoCET). Multilateral 
support for the successful implementation of  this plan and the PRoCET as well as the parallel actions 
underway would not only be to the credit of Aid for Trade but would be beneficial for Togo as well 
as for the  thousands of young start -ups and e -commerce entrepreneurs in various fields of goods 
and services.  
 
211.  Uganda  aims to develop its services. There, the share of the services contribution to 
Uganda`s GDP  has kept on increasing and it currently accounts  for 52%.  
212.  Productive capacity has moved higher in Vanuatu 's priorities - arising out from Covid -19 
environment and disaster risk considerations (from natural disasters and induced climate change 
effects). There is a renewed focus on productive capacity fo r our agriculture sector, MSMEs and the 
domestic economy since exports of goods and services supply chain to export markets being severely 
hampered. The Government has now shifted its focus to the other areas of focus including:  
• Trade Facilitation ; 
• Capaci ty Building Training for officials on trade agreements (e.g.  LDC Graduation 
implications) ; and  
• E-commerce  
 
213.  "For Zambia , During the period under Review, Government policy directive has placed 
emphasis on additional areas that are covered by Aid for Trade, a s follows:  
• Green Growth: and Circular Economy: To this effect Government has created Ministry 
of Green ; 
• Economy and Environment;  
• E-Commerce: Government, through the Ministry, is in the process of developing the 
e-commerce strategy ; 
• Women and Youth Empowerment: Government has moved the mandate of Gender to 
Cabinet Office in order to place emphasis on gender mainstreaming on all 
developmental issues;  and 
• MSMEs development and Youth Empowerment: Government has created the Ministry 
of Small and Medium E nterprise Development in order to create more jobs especially 
for the youth.  
 
Changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (regional economic community and 
transport corridor perspective)  
214.  Three (3) out of the four (4) responding South -South partners saw changes in their 
Aid-for-Trade priorities since 2019.  
Additional information on changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities since  2019 (regional 
economic community and transport corridor perspective)  
215.  TMEA  has developed a series of programmes:  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 37 - 
 
  • TMEA has developed a COVID response programme called Safe Trade ; 
• TMEA has developed a Green Corridor Approach ; 
• TMEA is proposing support to implement the AfCFTA and has signed an MOU with the 
Secretariat ; and 
• TMEA will soon establish a commercial arm to  diversify the way projects are financed  
 
216.  WAEMU  said that the new priority area from the 2019 responses is export diversification. This 
will include, among other things, the development of export development strategies and the 
promotion of local or origin ating products.  
217.  PIFS's Regional Aid -for-Trade priorities are included in the Pacific Aid -for-Trade Strategy 
2020-2025, which was endorsed by Forum Trade Ministers in February  2020. Consultations on the 
(PAFTS) commenced at the 2017 Aid -for-Trade Global Rev iew (AfTGR) and final draft of the Strategy 
was presented the 2019 (AfTGR). Regional Aid -for-Trade Priorities, i.e. priorities to be pursued 
through collective regional actions, include Services, Connectivity, E -commerce, and Deepening 
Markets (via Quality  Infrastructure, Trade Facilitation, Trade Policies and Agreements)."  
218.  SIECA  added "Biosecurity guidelines for land transport of cargo, post -covid economic recovery 
and Biosafety guidelines for the tourism sector".  
Changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (South -South perspective)  
219.  Two (2) out of three (3) respondents said that their Aid -for-Trade priorities had changed since 
2019.  
Additional information on Changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (South -South 
perspective)  
220.  Turkey  viewed sharing experience in technical cooperation and capacity building and 
displaying sustainable and joint solutions for next generations, promoting human development and 
capacity development of human resources and institutions, contributing to regiona l and international 
development agenda, enriching its bilateral development cooperation with mutual learning and 
triangular organizations in forming a common agenda for economic, social and humanitarian 
development have always been among the priorities of Turkey.  
221.  Indonesia  gave a general view based on the National Long -Term Development Plan 
2005-2025, one of the priorities is to achieve Indonesia's self -sufficiency at the global level. 
However, specific adjustment is made in annual government work plan, par ticularly due to Covid -19 
pandemic.  
Changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (donor perspective)  
222.  Sixteen (16) of the thirty -six (36) donors that replied to the self -assessment questionnaire 
(44%) indicated that trade their priorities (i.e.  AfT priori ties) had changed since 2019, fourteen ( 14) 
said no (39%) and six (6) were unsure (17%).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (donor 
perspective)  
223.  Australia 's presented its Partnerships for Recovery (PfR ) development framework, released 
in May  2020, shifted the focus of our development programs to COVID -related assistance and 
recovery. PfR is structured around three pillars, one of which is economic recovery. Trade is an 
important feature of this PfR pillar, which highlights the key role trade can play in economic recover y 
from COVID -19 in developing countries.  
224.  "Australia  will support policy -making that promotes economic response and recovery efforts,  
private sector resilience, open markets and supply chains, improved livelihoods and inclusive growth. 
(Partnerships for Re covery, May  2020, p age 12)"  The PfR does not include an explicit Aid -for-Trade 
target (or any other thematic targets), and it has superseded our 2015 Aid -for-Trade strategy. 
However, Aid -for-Trade priorities feature in Australia's specific regional and bi lateral COVID -19 
Response Plans  under the PfR, and many of Australia's bilateral and regional programs have a 
strengthened focus on providing targe ted Aid -for-Trade support in response to COVID -19.  
225.  Priorities include: economic infrastructure (e.g. roads, energy, maritime, 
telecommunications); building productive sectors (e.g. agriculture, business and other services, 
industry, fisheries, tourism); t rade policy and regulations (e.g. trade facilitation, regional FTA and 
WTO negotiation support); an ongoing focus on women's economic empowerment, including 
women's participation in regional and global value chains; enhanced focus on supporting Pacific 
biosecurity and broader standards -related capabilities; e -commerce development and digitisation 
initiatives which promote inclusive development; and competition and consumer protection issues.  
226.  The Australia -New Zealand  funded Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus 
Program (PHAMA Plus; h ttps://phamaplus.com.au/). Agriculture will be a key source of economic 
growth and recovery for Pacific households. PHAMA Plus helps strengthen biosecurity and sanitary 
and phytosanita ry compliance in Pacific countries ( Cook Islands , Fiji, Kiribati , Niue, PNG, Samoa, 
Solomon Islands, Tonga, and  Vanuatu ) to facilitate existing and/or new exports of agricultural 
exports. As a result, for example, Samoan taro exporters will have more expor t opportunities to 
Australia, as will Tongan watermelon exporters to New Zealand. PHAMA Plus also helped 
twenty -eight ( 28) SMEs across six Pacific nations to maintain Hazard Analysis and Critical Control 
Points (HACCP) accreditation through a remote techno logy-based audit process during COVID -19. 
This has helped to prevent business losses and expand new markets. In Solomon Islands, the 
tourism sector, a major job creator for 700,000 people, is on hold due to COVID -19. With Australian 
support the sector is b uilding on existing projects and undergoing key upgrades in enabling 
infrastructure, so it is ready to welcome tourists and help diversify the economy, including for the 
Pacific Games in 2023, when the sector is able to re -commence operations.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  227.  Australian  funding supported the Pacific Trade and Invest Freight Assistance Package , 
launched in late 2020, pr oviding immediate support to Pacific SMEs to continue to export, as they 
struggled with rising and uncertain costs.  
228.  In Timor -Leste, Australia  supported the coffee sector during COVID -19 related import and 
transportation restrictions. COVID -19 related rest rictions left many Timorese farmers unable to sell 
their crops or forced to sell them for lower prices. Through Australia's Market Development Facility 
(MDF; https://marketdevelopmentfacility.org/) and in partnership with the Timor -Leste 
Government, a suit e of initiatives to support Timorese farmers was created, including alternative 
stockpiling solutions with a storage and transport firm. MDF also supported one business to install 
"cocoons" for coffee collection, enabling it to continue buying from farmers  (and storing) despite the 
short-term drop in demand.  
229.  Australia's Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/engagement/pacific -labour -mobility) is a vital source of 
remittances to the Pacific and Timor -Leste. The scheme brings Pa cific and Timor -Leste workers to 
Australia to address labour shortages in the agriculture sector brought on by COVID -19. New 
COVID -19 safe arrangements and related support were in put in place, bringing to Australia more 
than 12,500 Pacific workers since S eptember  2020.  
230.  The South Asia Regional Trade Facilitation Program  (SARTFP; 
https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/south -west-asia/development -assistance/economic -recovery -in-sout
h-asia#south -asia-regional -trade -facilitation -program) supports increased and inclusive trade, 
infrastructure investment, connectivity and integration in the South Asia region. SARTFP activities 
have been pivoted to help provide immediate COVID -19 related support. SARTFP is placing more 
emphasis on supporting economic recovery by addressing i ssues such as constraints that prevent or 
slow the movement of goods across borders and supporting displaced workers and urban -rural 
migrants. Refer also answers to questions 3 and 4.  
231.  Austria  did not see a continuity between its past strategies and the mos t recent one. 
However, today there was an enhanced focus on women's economic empowerment - see section 3. 
Furthermore, for years the Austrian Ministry for Digital and Economic Affairs contributed annually 
EUR 200.000 to the Doha Development Agenda Global T rust Fund/DDAGTF. Until 2020 it was an 
unearmarked contribution for WTO technical assistance. Since 2021 this contribution has been 
earmarked for the "WTO Chairs Programme" to strengthen capacities of academic institutions in 
developing countries with a fo cus on research for trade and development.  
232.  The Asian Development Bank's ( AsDB ) Guidance Note on Fostering Regional Cooperation 
and Integration for Recovery and  Resilience provides some perspectives on how the three OP7 pillars 
can be made more responsive to the evolving circumstances of economic recovery amid the 
repercussions of the COVID -19 pandemic. It advocates for a wider, deeper, and more open RCI. It 
identifies RCI opportunities in key emerging themes that underpin the goals of inclusive, sustainable, 
and resilient recovery. The Guidance Note advocates for an expansion to new and emerging areas 
such as high -quality regional connectivity that is resilient a nd contributes to a net zero transition, 
including railways and ports, and clean energy trade infrastructure; and trade facilitation and trade 
finance to help make supply chains more resilient; trade in ICT -enabled services, digitalization, and 
e-commerce;  and environmental sustainability (or green) growth, among others. 
https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/764176/re gional -cooperation -integration -recov
ery-resilience.pdf  
233.  While digitalization is still a key area of interest, the sustainability of both trade and transport 
have become increasingly central to AsDB's project development and TA outcomes. During the 
COVID cri sis further efforts have been expanded towards additional initiatives, including the mapping 
of COVID  19 supply chains.  
234.  Canada 's Aid -for-Trade priorities have changed modestly to meet the challenges induced by 
the global pandemic, which has prompted a stra tegic re -evaluation of its overall engagement in 
trade and development. To address an ever -changing international context, Global Affairs Canada 
developed a Trade and Development Guidance Note in April  2021. The Guidance Note reflects 
Canada's view that in ternational trade is an engine for inclusive economic growth and poverty 
reduction that can promote sustainable development (2015 Addis Ababa Action Agenda) in support WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The note touches on the issue of definition  as trade 
and development or Aid  for Trade (used interchangeably by many countries and organizations), 
noting that the concept varies depending on the focus and forum where the discussions are taking 
place. At the WTO, the dialogue on trade and development  is around the concept of special and 
differential treatment (S&DT), while at the World Bank, trade is viewed through the lens of job 
creation, increased economic opportunity and job creation.  
235.  Canada continues working on marrying the various definitions o n trade and development that 
inform its approach. The Guidance Note is meant to provide a general framework to foster greater 
coherence across Canada's efforts on trade and development, including Aid -for-Trade priorities. 
There are six thematic areas of po tential focus outlined in the Guidance Note to help direct Canada's 
approach to trade and development: (1) gender and trade; (2) data and digitalization; (3) MSMEs; 
(4) infrastructure; (5) clean technology; and (6) global value chains. These areas reflect Canada's 
foreign and trade policies and were informed by longstanding and newly exposed challenges induced 
by the global pandemic and were seen as potentially having a catalytic impact in supporting the 
world, including developing and least -developed count ries, to build back better.  
236.  EBRD  saw an Increased emphasis on the g reen economy transition 
https://2020.sr -ebrd.com/investments -in-the-green -economy/#green -trade . 
237.  According to the  European Union, although the C OVID -19 pandemic has led to emerging 
challenges which EU AfT has needed to address, and while short -term priorities may have changed 
depending on the context, the overarching strategy framework has not changed . The "Aid -for-Trade" 
Strategy was updated in 2017 the last time and builds on 10 years of EU Aid -for-Trade assistance 
and aims to strengthen and modernise EU support to partner countries. The latest Communication 
adopted sets out ways the Commission can i mprove and better target its Aid for Trade. It puts a 
strong focus on Least Developed Countries, and countries in situations of fragility. 
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/pres scorner/detail/en/IP_17_4488  
238.   The EU publishes every year a progress report on AFT activities: 
https://ec.europa.eu/international -partnerships/news/aid -for-trade -report -2021_en  
239.   Latest AfT brochure 2021: 
https://op.europa.eu/en/publication -detail/ -/publication/9fc00833 -3864-11ec-8daf-01aa75ed71a1
/language -en/format -PDF/source -239039078  
240.   As from 2021 -27, the Multiannual Financing Framework has led to the Global Europe 
Regulation explained earlier, and its European Fund for Sustainable Development. This has also 
entailed a more gl obal reach, beyond the EU Neighbourhood and Africa.  
241.  Finland  did not see changes in priorities as its government programmes runs from 
2019-2023. However, the women's economic empowerment and gender equality has become an 
even bigger objective in its policy.  
242.  The IaDB  has reinforced its commitment to work towards a sustainable and inclusive 
economic growth, with three objectives: (i) reactivate the productive sector; (ii) promote social 
progress; and (iii) strengthen good governance and institutions. A critical element to define success 
in moving towards these objectives in the coming years will be the ability to seize the opportunities 
the crisis has created.  
243.  ITC remained 100% dedicated to Aid  for Trade and to increasing the trade compet itiveness 
of MSMEs to achieve development objectives. Compared with 2019, the emphasis on inclusiveness 
and environmental sustainability has increased even more, as important goals in addition to 
increased prosperity for those that have been left behind.  
244.  For ITFC, in another development, The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment 
and Export Credit (ICIEC) is considering that the challenges and hardships unleashed by the 
COVID -19 pandemic have made access to concessional finance through Public -Private Partnerships 
(PPPs) even more important for member countries. In this regard, ICIEC has played a significant 
role in soliciting trade and attracting foreign investments to its member countries to support and 
develop the healthcare, transport, and re newable energy sectors The COVID -19 pandemic, combined WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  with flooding, has caused a serious supply chain disturbance and economic distress in many 
OIC Member Countries, especially those ranked as low income or least developed countries 
(LIC/LDC). The ICIEC -ISFD C OVID -19 Emergency Response Initiative (ICERI) has eased the financial 
burden on transactions for selective Member Countries by structuring a concessional all -in pricing 
mechanism, including up to USD  400 million in grant funding from ISFD to support trade flows to 
import -dependent Member Countries.  
245.  Norway  said that formally, its A4T priorities had not changed since 2019 and Norway more 
or less has the same level of commitments to our A4T partners. Norad's new strategy can be found 
here: https://www.norad.no/en/front/about -norad/news/2021/norads -strategy -towards -2030/   
246.  The country's priorities had not changed as such however it was important to note the 
following changes: The grant management of A4T agreements now lay in the Section for Private 
Sector and New Partnerships, which aims to achieve SDG  8 and 17. A4T is a par t of SDG  8. 
Previously the A4T grant management was at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the Trade Policy 
section. Norway also elected a new government which took office mid-Oct 2021. The aforementioned 
factors can insinuate minor changes in our A4T pr iorities, but regarding our commitments and 
partners, the level is the same.  
247.  Sweden 's stated it is i mportant for setting priorities, especially in bilateral and regional 
strategies, developments  in the country or region, as well as national and regional pr iorities.  
248.  Switzerland  references its Dispatch on Switzerland  Strategy on International Cooperation 
2021-2024 and  Brochure on  Switzerland's International Cooperation Strategy 2021 -24. 
249.  Chinese Taipei  said that ICT and Waste Recycling had impacted its AfT a nd development  
strategies.  
250.  Since 2019, the Netherlands  had additionally included the following topics in their 
Aid-for-Trade agenda: services trade, digital trade & e -commerce, climate change and trade, safe 
trade for COVID -19 challenges.  
251.  In the face of th e unprecedented situation, UNCTAD  adjusted the work programme rapidly 
and prioritized technical assistance related to COVID -19 to respond effectively to the most urgent 
needs of developing countries, especially the vulnerable group of countries hit hard by  the pandemic, 
and adopted online or hybrid modes in the delivery of advisory services and capacity -building 
activities, to mitigate the negative impact of travel restrictions on its operational activities as much 
as possible. the focus for the AfT in the coming year must be supporting economic recovery through 
trade Aid for Trade remains of utmost importance.  
252.  Since the last monitoring exercise  it became evident that trade is an essential part of the 
solution to fight a pandemic, while the trading system c ould not help smaller or poorer economies 
mitigate damages from trade disturbance (e.g. limited imports, no availability of transports for their 
exports) during the pandemic -induced trade disturbance. Data show that when the pandemic first 
hit Asia, Asia's  exports of medical products were replaced by those from Europe and United States 
(UNCTAD GTU). Also, countries with less economic diversification have not recovered their trade 
even when others' picked up during 2021.  
253.   The AfT in 2022 -2023 should have two  major objectives: economic diversification through 
trade in goods and services; and increasing the availability and the flows of essential goods including 
vaccines. https://unc tad.org/system/files/official -document/wpd311_en.pdf   
254.  UNCTAD  also added the delivery of online IT tools for coordination of the National Trade 
Facilitation Committees Development of e -learning platform on Trade facilitation.  
255.  UNDP  has scaled up support to regional integration, especially in the context of Africa with 
the entry into force of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). UNDP is supporting an 
inclusive AfCFTA through dedicated programmes of actions towards SMEs (e specially those 
led/dominated by Women and Youth). The ultimate goal is to increase participation of those small 
and medium -sized businesses to regional and continental markets. Key interventions revolve around 
bridging information gaps on market opportuni ties for SMEs, providing technical support to help WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  these businesses comply with trade rules, especially under the AfCFTA while enhancing their 
innovation capabilities. Support i s also being provided to national and regional institutions such as 
RECs and th e AfCFTA Secretariat to advance their trade mandate. Support to national trade 
institutions revolves around adoption of paperless trading systems and regulatory/trade policy 
convergence for efficient trade procedures and practices accounting for countries'  commitment to 
regional and multilateral trade arrangements. In the context of the Central Asia Aid -for-Trade 
project, economic diversification, linking to regional and global value chains and e -commerce , gained 
increased focus/attention to support countri es to enhance resilience to external shocks (such as the 
ones induced by C OVID -19) and adapt to emerging trends (including accelerated digitalization, 
restructuring of global value chains, and extensive use of big data for trade and market intelligence).  
256.  UNIDO  saw a greater emphasize has been given to building capacity in the pharma sector in 
the developing countries since the COVID -19 pandemic and overall, greater emphasis is placed on 
supporting countries in their Digital transformation and innovation eff orts as well as in supporting 
Climate neutral industry and circular economy . 
(https://www.unido.org/news/unido -wto-2021-aid-trade-stocktaking -event ) 
257.  The United Kingdom 's key Ai d-for-Trade priority has always been to ensure developing and 
least developed countries are able to participate and benefit from the multilateral trading system. 
This has not changed since 2019. Whilst some programmes and initiatives have not been able to 
progress due to ODA reductions made due to pressure caused by COVID, we have maintained a 
strong commitment to various Aid -for-Trade programmes, as well as an advocate for AFT policy. 
Whilst this has not changed since 2019, there have been some budgetary p ressures (due to COVID 
health response being prioritised) which have impacted the availability of ODA for AFT at the WTO.  
258.  The World Bank placed greater emphasis on the distributional impacts of trade and on 
assigning a central role to trade and investment in pursuing green, resilient and inclusive pandemic 
recovery paths.  
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  Top drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
 Top drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities  
Africa  Continental or 
regional policy 
instruments 
(e.g. AfCFTA) (1)  E-commerce development (and digital transformation)  
 
Economic and trade impact of COVID -19 pandemic  
 
Industrialization objectives  
 
MSMEs growth and development objectives  
(2 tie)  
Asia MSMEs growth 
and development 
objectives (1)  E-commerce development (and digital transformation)  
 
Economic and trade impact of COVID -19 pandemic  
 
Digital or ICT -related strategy,  policy or plan  
(2, tie)  
LACS  E-commerce 
development 
(and digital 
transformation)  
(1) Economic and trade 
impact of COVID -19 
pandemic  
(2) Environmental sustainability (or green) 
growth, including circular economy  
 
2030 Sustainable Development Goals  
(3, tie)  
Pacific  Economic and 
trade impact of 
COVID -19 
pandemic  
(1) MSMEs growth and development objectives  
 
E-commerce development (and digital transformation)  
 
(2, tie)  
LDCs  MSMEs growth 
and development 
objectives  
(1) Economic and trade impact of COVID -19 pandemic  
 
E-commerce development (and digital transformation)  
 
Continental or regional policy instruments (e.g.  AfCFTA)  
(2, tie)  
 
LLDCs  E-commerce 
development 
(and digital 
transformation) 
(tie) 
 2030 Sustainable Development Goals  
 
Continental or regional policy instruments (e.g.  AfCFTA)  
 
Economic and trade impact of COVID -19 pandemic  
(2, tie)  
 
New regional development or integration strategy, policy or plan  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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   Top drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities  
MSMEs growth 
and development 
objectives  
(1, tie)   
Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs)  
 
Trade Facilitation Agreement  (TFA)  Implem entation  
 
UNSIDS  Economic and 
trade impact of 
COVID -19 
pandemic  
(1) E-commerce development (and digital transformation)  
(2) 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Top drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities (partner countries perspective)  
259.  For partner countries, the top three  (3) drivers of change to the AfT priorities are E -commerce 
development (and digital transformation ); Economic and trade impact of COVID -19 pandemic ; and 
MSMEs growth and development objectives.  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the top drivers of changes in the Aid -for-Trade priorities since 
2019  
260.  Vanuatu's  driver of changes were natural disaster and climate change i nduced. The reality 
of increased incidence of natural disasters in cyclones, droughts, floods, volcanic eruptions and 
ashes, sea level rise has caused Vanuatu to make these changes. There is a need to quickly review 
policies. Economic diversification is al so high on the priorities.  
261.  Madagascar 's government has given priority to the industrialization of the country by setting 
up industries in the districts of Madagascar. With the restriction of travel imposed by C OVID -19, the 
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  country is developing e -commerce in parallel with the development of trade in services (by 
developing a national strategy for trade in services). One of the government's priorities is also 
support for the empowerment of women and young people (Fihariana project, granting of green 
permits) . 
262.  Mali wants to be able to participate in the continental trade within the framework of AfCFTA, 
and for this the country needs to:  
• strengthen the competitiveness of its companies by removing barriers to trade;  
• encourage its companies to innovate but also to invest more in new modern production 
techniques; and 
• promote its exchanges with products with high added value. The COVID -19 pandemic 
has contributed to Mali's economic contraction, which has affected the Sta te's ability 
to mobilize the domestic resources necessary for its development. This will further 
jeopardize progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals  (SDGs) . 
 
263.  Through  Peru's  Supreme Decree No.  164-2021-PCM, the General Government Policy had 
been a pproved for the period 2021 -2026, which establishes ten (10) axes interrelated and 
articulated with the framework of policies and plans of the country; among these axis two 
(2) Economic reactivation and productive activities with agricultural and rural dev elopment, and axis 
eight (8) Government and digital transformation with equity.  
264.  In relation to axis 2, 2.4 is established as a priority guideline: Promote national 
competitiveness through the development of the productive and service sectors for their integration 
into international markets. Lines of intervention 2.4.1 Promote the part icipation of Peruvian 
companies and Mipymes in international trade and electronic commerce. 2.4.2 Promote spaces, 
mechanisms and instruments for innovation that contribute to competitiveness of companies. 2.4.3 
Improve the security of the foreign trade log istics chain and strengthen alliances between the private 
sector and public entities. 2.4.4 Provide tools for capacity building that allow Mipymes to know the 
benefits of the different customs procedures so that they can start in this area and grow their 
enterprises, in collaboration with public entities involved in the export and export processes. import. 
2.4.5 Promote the growth of exports of goods and services with added value in a sustainable and 
diversified manner of organized producers. 2.4.6 Improve the conditions of access to formal value 
chains for micro and small businesses, through financial inclusion and the use of technology  
265.  In relation to axis 8, it is established as a priority guideline 8.1.2: Promote the digital economy, 
electronic commerce,  digital entrepreneurship, innovation, open data, digitization and resilience of 
SMEs and the country's production processes.  
266.  On the other hand, Peru referred to numeral 5.1 of article 5 of Legislative Decree No.  1492, 
Legislative Decree that approves pro visions for the reactivation, continuity and efficiency of 
operations linked to the foreign trade logistics chain, which states "5.1 The entities Public entities 
that require or generate documents or information related to the processes linked to the forei gn 
trade logistics chain, including freight and merchandise transport services in general in all its modes, 
must automate their processes, replace physical documents with digital or digitized documents., and 
exchange data between them, in order to avoid th e movement of people, in order to prevent the 
spread of diseases, as well as to optimize the use of public resources, and reduce the transaction 
costs involved in foreign trade operations. The presentation of physical documents is exceptional.  
267.  Additionally , we Peru mentioned that by Legislative Decree No.  1412, the Digital Government 
Law had been approved, on the other hand, Emergency Decree No.  006-2020, creates the National 
Digital Transformation System (NDTS) and with Emergency Decree No.  007-2020, the D igital Trust 
Framework (DCM) was created. Finally, sustainability aspects are considered as a recovery engine 
for companies to get out of the post -pandemic crisis For Mexico , in the face of the current economic 
and health crisis, the main force that allowed  economic activities to continue was digital, taking a 
central role and impacting our lives, societies and the economy. Therefore, our priorities to help 
Trade are developed and implemented under a public policy framework based on three pillars: 
(1) Innova tion: Element and central point that will allow us to develop and transform activities and 
human beings. (2) Diversification: That the actions are offered in a heterogeneous way, reaching 
the entire population and all regions. (3) Inclusion: Take into acco unt all communities, particularly 
the most unprotected, as well as the most vulnerable sectors of the population, such as indigenous 
peoples and women.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  268.  Fiji thought that a key driver on environmental sustainability emanates out of the existential 
crisis th at small island developing states like Fiji face due to climate change.  
269.  St Lucia 's New development strategies including the Medium Term Development Strategy, 
National Export Strategy and the National Services Policy along with Trade Facilitation commitment s 
had been drivers of change. However, these have been tempered by the COVID -19 pandemic with 
Saint Lucia having to divert resources to meet health and safety regulations and other emerging 
socioeconomic priorities.  
270.  In Pakistan  due to the pandemic, a class  gap in the country had seen an adverse shift with 
economic gaps widening. This has shrunk the purchasing power of the large segment of the society 
which eventually has a debilitating effect on productions as well. State intends to revitalize the 
MSME  sector in parallel with digital and ICT capacities to encourage self -sufficiency at 
micro -economic levels.  
271.  Cambodia  said on 22  December  2021, the Royal Government of Cambodia launched a newly 
designed program for post COVID -19 so called "The Strategic Framewor k and Programs for Economic 
Recovery in the Context of Living with COVID -19 in a New Normal 2021 -2023" with the vision to 
strengthen the building of the path and dynamics for robust socio -economic development and seize 
opportunities both inside and outside  the country to foster the national economy with a highly 
competitive and diversified base. 3Rs - Recovery, Reform and Resilience - are the key elements for 
this strategic framework. Links to support the information: https://mef.gov.kh/news/  and   
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/business/2021 -23-plan-economic -recovery -way-minister   
Top drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (regional economic 
communi ty and transport corridor perspective)  
Institution  Top drivers of changes  
1 2 3 4 5 
PIFS      
SIECA  Economic and trade impact of 
COVID -19 pandemic (1)  
 
Trade Facilitation Agreement 
(TFA) Implementation (1 )    
TradeMark 
East Africa  Continental or 
regional policy 
instruments 
(e.g. AFCFTA)  Environmental 
sustainability 
(or green) 
growth, 
including  
circular 
economy  New 
investment 
strategy, 
policy or plan    
WAEMU  Regional 
integration  Trade 
facilitation  Transport 
infrastructure  E-commerce  Export 
Diversification  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (regional 
economic community and transport corridor perspective)  
272.  No additional information was provided by REC/TCs.  
Top drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (South -South perspective)  
273.  Of all South -South respondents only Indonesia specified the drivers behind the changes to its 
Aid-for-Trade priorities. These were : (1) Economic and trade impacts of COVID -19 pandemic ; and 
(2) New Aid -for-Trade or development strategy, policy or plan.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional information on the changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (South -South 
perspect ive) 
274.  In 2019 Indonesia has launched:  
• Multi-Stakeholder Partnership (MSP) Guidelines to strengthen collaboration of various 
actors in accelerating SDGs achievement ; and  
• Indonesian Agency for International Development (Indonesian  AID) to strengthen 
Indonesia's  contribution to the inte rnational development partnership, enhancing 
South -South and Triangular cooperation, and achieving SDGs.  
Top drivers of change in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (donor perspective)  
275.  For Donor countries, the top three (3) drivers of change to the AfT pr iorities are : Economic 
and trade impact of COVID -19 pandemic ; Environmental sustainability (or green growth) including 
circular economy ; and E-commerce development.   
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the in Aid -for-Trade priorities since 2019 (donor perspectives)  
276.  Asian Development Bank  pointed to its previous responses related to the Guidance Note on 
Fostering RCI for Recovery and Resilience (SDTC -RCI). 
277.  According to Canada , as part of the CAD 200 million, eight (8) year (2020 -2028) support to 
Grand Challenges Canada (GCC), specific elements of the work being undertaken enable technology 
transfer from Canada to low- and middle -income  countries. In addition, global access requirements 
for innovat ors funded by GCC will also be negotiated as part of this funding arrangement. This 
program supports innovators to develop and transition -to-scale innovations that improve the health, 
human rights, and well -being of women, adolescents, and children in low - and middle -income 
countries, including conflict -affected areas. This program also aims to increase gender -responsive 
and locally -driven health products and services, especially for the most marginalized and vulnerable 
populations. Examples of Canadian inn ovations implemented in low - and middle -income countries 
include predictive machine learning for maternal, newborn and child health in Rwanda; tablet -based 
interventions to improve family planning access for HIV positive women in Cambodia; focused 
ultrasou nd for the treatment of uterine fibroids in Egypt; electricity -free cold chain for vaccine 
delivery in India; biodegradable mosquito traps in Brazil; and digital virtual support for COVID -19 
patients in Kenya. Any intellectual property created with funding  from Grand Challenges Canada 
should be made broadly accessible to and affordable in the relevant context. Innovators may apply 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  for and maintain intellectual property protection for funded solutions, but must administer their 
rights in a manner that will n ot impede achievement of access and affordability in these settings. 
Generally, ownership and control of intellectual property remains with the funding recipient, subject 
to applicable laws and policies. More on this can be found in GCC's Sharing & Access for Impact 
Strategy (attached for reference, if needed).  
278.  According to the ITFC, the ICIEC since the start of the pandemic galvanized efforts at the 
regional and international level to combat Covid19. At the organization level, ICIEC contributed 
USD 770 million in insurance coverage towards the implementation of the IsDB Group's 
USD 2.3 billion C OVID -mitigation Strategic Preparedness and Response Program (SPRP), guided by 
the three  (3) Rs (Respond, Restore, Restart) ethos. ICIEC and IsDB also jointly launche d the 
USD 2 billion COVID -19 Guarantee Facility (CGF), which is specifically aimed at supporting the 
private sector, in particular, COVID hit industries in member countries , and attract ing cross-border 
investments. It has also created a fast -track approach  to handle COVID -19 related transactions. In 
addition, ICIEC p laced more focus on the health sector followed by food and energy.  
279.  For IaDB , Latin America and the Caribbean faced the direst socio -economic crisis in the 
61-year history of the bank. The region  was currently at a critical juncture as a result of the 
COVID -19 pandemic, long -standing structural weaknesses, and recent natural disasters, all of which 
further amplified pre -existing development gaps. In 2020, GDP declined by 7.4 % and total 
employment by 10 %, with 44  million people in the region expected to have fallen into poverty and 
52 million to have exited the middle class (Acevedo et al. 2020). Most countries will not return to 
pre-pandemic levels of GDP until 2023 or real income per capita levels  until 2025 (Pieknagura, 
RoldÃ³s, and Werner 2020).  
280.  UNCTAD 's focus for AfT in the coming year was supporting economic recovery through 
trade - Aid for Trade remained of utmost importance.  
281.  Since last monitoring it became evident that trade is an essential part of the solution to fight 
a pandemic, while the trading system could not help smaller or poorer economies mitigate damages 
from trade disturbance (e.g. limited imports, no availability of transports for their exports) during 
the pandemic -induced trade disturbance. Data show that when the pandemic hit first Asia, Asia's 
exports of medical products were replaced by those from Europe and United States (UNCTAD GTU). 
Also, countries with less economic diversification have not recovered their trade even when others 
picked up during 2021.  
282.  AfT in 2022 -2023 should have two major objectives: economic diversification through trade 
in goods and services; and increasing the availability and the flows of essential goods including 
vaccines.  
283.  UNCTAD supported transparency in trade. The Global Trade Helpdesk by ITC -UNCTAD -WTO 
provides trade data and trade intelligence. The informal WTO MSME group, mainly developing 
countries, supports this trade portal.  
284.   UNCTAD maps NTMs of African countries within its  support to AfCFTA and also NTMs of Latin 
America (ALADI members), in ASEAN, and several European countries including the major markets 
of developing countries.  
285.  According to UNDP , the COVID -19 pandemic risked reversing development gains of the last 
three d ecades. In Africa, the AfCFTA if effectively implemented could help achieve the SDGs for 
instance, through direct contribution to SDGs 1, 8, 9 and 17 while supporting recovery to COVID -19. 
UNDP has therefore revamped its support to trade through the AfCFTA  in a context where its 
development mandate revolves around the SDGs. Particular focus is placed on the economic 
empowerment of Women and Youth. Digital transformation being a key driver to sustain trade in a 
context where COVID -19 has heightened the criti cal importance of e -commerce.  
286.  The UNIDO  theory of change, and results management framework is premised on an 
actor-based, behavioural change model where the Organization's results chain links its activities and 
outputs to outcomes and relevant impact level s. Knowledge, skills and institutional capacities are 
important enabling elements of the UNIDO theory of change. Through the strengthening of 
knowledge and institutions by as a result of the interventions and engagement between UNIDO and WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  its stakeholders, developmental impact is achieved through changes in behaviour, business 
practices, policies, technologies and investments, ultimately contributing to long -lasting SDG impact 
through inclusive and sustainable industrial development.  
287.  Switzerland 's Aid -for-Trade strategy is defined in the Dispatches on the Strategy of 
International Cooperation (IC), each valid for four years. The current strategy can be found in the 
Dispatch on IC 2021 -2024. In the new strategy, some adjustments have been made compared to 
the previous one:  
• The main objectives of Switzerland's economic development cooperation focus on the 
development of reliable framework conditions in order to provide individuals and 
companies with access to markets and opportunities, and on the support of pri vate 
sector initiatives to foster decent employment opportunities ; 
 
• In line with Switzerland State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)'s core 
competencies and with respect to Swiss interests, Switzerland focuses on economic 
and trade policy needs of it s partner countries ; 
 
• The business line trade policy and trade system makes use of modern technologies 
(such as e -commerce or blockchain), pilots landscape approaches and mainstreams 
climate into non -climate specific interventions. Switzerland remains comm itted to 
helping developing countries exploit the potential of trade agreements, giving priority 
to the creation of modern trading systems, the implementation of WTO rules and 
international labour standards, and the protection of intellectual property. In addition, 
Switzerland provides developing countries with technical assistance and training 
programmes so that they can represent their interests effectively in trade 
negotiations. In free trade negotiations, Switzerland advocates for the adoption of 
trade -related sustainability standards ; and  
 
• The business line sustainable value chains focuses on territorial (landscape) 
approaches in the area of sustainability. Switzerland promotes specific value chains 
that are particularly relevant for partner countries a nd to which it can contribute based 
on its expertise and its leading role in international trade (i.e. tourism, textiles, 
agricultural commodities such as cocoa and coffee, and mineral commodities).  
 
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Evolution in the importance of Aid for Trade since 201 9  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Evolution in the importance  of Aid for Trade since 2019 (partner country perspective)  
288.  According to the majority of responding partner countries, Aid for Trade has become more 
importance since 2019. This view trend is visible across all countries in developing regions.  
The importance of Aid for Trade has increased since 2019  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the evolution in the importance of Aid for Trade (partner 
country perspective)  
289.  Bangladesh  has been selected for graduation from the LDC status in the second triennial 
review in 2021. Thus the country is going to be graduated from the LDC status in 2026.  
290.  Benin 's Government with regard to the outline of its second Government Action Program 
(PAG 2: 2021 -2026). It is a question of making the Beninese economy, an emerging economy 
displayed, open and competitive on a regional and interna tional scale. Some fundamental axes of 
this Program can be broken down as follows:  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  • Stimulate the industrial boom;  
• Build modern transport and logistics infrastructure to promote development;  
• Make Benin a regional agricultural power;  
• Position Benin as a major tourist destination on the continent and in the world;  
• Restructure the education system by prioritizing professional and technical branches 
and training of excellence;  
• Achieve energy autonomy; and 
• Promote local development and make our municipaliti es pleasant living spaces.  
 
291.  For Colombia , the importance of AfT remains high.  
292.  In Comoros , since 2019, with the outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic, even though national 
needs are greater, Aid-for-Trade providers have felt the brunt of the consequences of the  said 
pandemic. What has been satisfactory is the continuation of the activities of the activities of the 
projects being implemented. Aid for Trade should be important to accompany the vision of making 
Comoros an emerging country by 2030.  
293.  Mainly in the Min istry of Commerce of Equatorial Guinea , where, since 2019, an 
Aid-for-Trade project of the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF), category 1: Institutional Support 
for Trade Development in GE, has been implemented at the national level, the need has been 
verified, importance and the results that are being obtained. Thanks to the EIF, the role of trade in 
an economy is being achieved and better understood; the DTIS and its recommendations, for 
example, the technical assistance provided by the EIF Coordination to both the private and public 
sectors. Moreover, with the financing problems that the country is going through, the EIF has been 
key in supporting certain areas of action that perhaps the government could not have responded in 
a timely manner.  
294.  Gambia , highlighted the need for more Aid for Trade due to the need to build the capacities 
of the MSMEs to exploit the new market opportunities at the level of AfCFTA and build their resilience 
to withstand exogenous shocks such as C OVID -19 pandemic and climate change.  
295.  Grenada , AfT had become more imp ortant because of the need to implement some of the 
WTO trade facilitation measures in order to increase transparency and reduce the clearance time at 
the port s. 
296.  In Guinea Bis sau, infrastructure and urban Development aims to provide the country with 
logist ics, energy and, digital and urban areas necessary for its development . 
297.  Lesotho  thought that the COVID -19 pandemic had adversely impacted on the fiscus of the 
Government and hence the need for more Aid for Trade to augment the national budget.  
298.  Madagascar 's vie on Aid for Trade's importance remained the same as the country's current 
priority is the improvement of the internal supply of basic necessities and foodstuffs (rice).  
299.  For Mali, AfCFTA implementation needs and measures support for the C OVID-19 crisis have 
been added to the many existing needs, thus making Aid for Trade more important.  
300.  Mauritius  said that following the COVID -19 pandemic, Aid for Trade had become more 
important than before . 
301.  For Mexico , world merchandise trade worldwide was on e of the most sensitive sectors to the 
effects of the COVID -19 pandemic in 2020, which caused a decrease in demand and disruptions in 
production chains. However, it was also through foreign trade and coordination through international 
organizations and for ums that the flow of medical products was maintained to provide attention to 
the pandemic (masks, respirators, vaccines, among others), forums where Mexico has had an active 
participation.  
302.  Moldova  saw TFA implementation and important areas in the context o f AfT.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  303.  In Mozambique , Aid for Trade has become important as the country needs assistance in the 
implementation of the multilateral trade agreements such as the WTO Trade facilitation agreement 
reforms to which the country needs technical assistance and sup port. 
304.  For Pakistan , owing to the budgetary constraints induced by the C OVID -19 pandemic, the 
fiscal space of the State has considerably contracted. Hence, Pakistan would welcome substantial 
Aid for Trade.  
305.  Due to Peru's budget restrictions as a result of the pandemic, more international cooperation 
has been required to carry out some projects in the field of foreign trade. On the other hand, 
international technical assistance is very important because it allows learning about experiences and 
good practices  in other economies.  
306.  In Saint Luci a, the COVID -19 pandemic had placed increased burden on Government 
resources coupled with financing needs for the Medium Term Development Strategy (MTDS).  
307.  Senegal  provided a reason for the renewed importance of AfT: COVID -19 and the strong 
demand for funding of category two projects. Aid has gone from EUR 3  million in 2019 to 
EUR 1.5 million recently.  
308.  For St Vincent and the Grenadin es (SVG), Aid for trade has become more important since 
2019 in light of the negative impacts  on the economy as a result of the unprecedented challenges 
that St Vincent and the Grenadines faces as a Small Island Developing State. SVG has not only been 
affected by COVID -19 pandemic but also the eruption of the La Soufriere Volcano and Hurricane in 
2021. These challenges have caused economic hardships. There is need for the rebuilding of 
damaged infrastructure, the rebuilding of the production capacity, the modernization of the services 
sectors and the use of ICT infrastructure to enhance competitive ness and facilitate trade. With SVG 
being heavily dependent on services, particularly tourism, both for income and jobs, the impact of 
COVID -19 has dealt a heavy blow to its economic situation. From an employment standpoint services 
similarly dominate, emp loying 70% of the labour force. In travel and tourism alone, the income 
contribution from these sectors has decreased from 41.7% of GDP to 16.4% of GDP and from 44.8% 
of total employment to 38.2% of total employment, many of whom operate in the informal se ctor. 
309.  Togo  views trade as cross -cutting and affecting almost all sectors of activity. However, its 
financing has often not been a priority in strategic development orientations. In view of the many 
issues and challenges raised by the revised Diagnostic Stu dy for Trade Integration in Togo in 2017, 
it is more than imperative that trade financing be included among the priorities in Aid for Trade. 
With the support of partners, resources have certainly been mobilised to finance development in 
recent years throug h trade, but many needs and priorities are still not covered. It will be necessary 
to further consolidate the achievements with specific support and sustainability programmes, to 
mobili ze more necessary and sufficient resources, through trade, to finance T ogo's development. 
Therefore, Aid for Trade is still a priority for the country.  
310.  Aid for Trade has become more important to Uganda  to facilitate the country in becoming an 
export -oriented economy while ensuring continued economic diversification.  
311.  In Vanuat u, there is a changing domestic and global trading environment that we must 
adjust. The increased movement of persons from the rural to urban areas and changing work 
patterns and dynamics in rural means some changes to address the urban population needed s ome 
attention. The need for physical infrastructure needs remains an extremely high priority. The need 
for AfT has not diminished after Vanuatu's graduation from LDC to Developing Countries in 2020. 
There is , in fact , more need as access to AfT to Vanuatu can be threatened by its graduation.  
312.  Yemen  was still going through a very difficult time, ever since a militia -led coup took place 
on 21  September  2014. Most trade -related infrastructures were damaged or destroyed and normal 
course of trade had been negati vely affected. This situation has also interrupted implementation of 
development strategies and plans. During this troubled period, the focus of aid has been on 
humanitarian assistance. This is likely to be necessary for some time until the country is comp letely 
stabilized. Post -conflict, Aid for Trade will be necessary to rebuild the country's infrastructure, 
productive capacities and support weak segments of the population, particularly women and youth.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  313.  For Zambia , Aid for Trade has become more important than ever because of the advent of 
COVID -19 pandemic which has affected LDCs more than other countries whose economies have 
been predicted to rebound earlier than those of LDCs; and in the same vein, LDCs were 
disproportionately grappling with the effects of global warming and climate change due to their 
already existing vulnerabilities  
Evolution in the importance of Aid for Trade since 2019 (regional economic community 
and transport corridors perspective)  
314.  Two (2) out of four ( 4) responding REC -TCs said that Aid for Trade had become more 
important since 2019 (PIFS and WAEMU). One (1) TMEA respondent did not think it had become 
more important and the other one (1)  said the importance had remained the same. SIECA was 
unsure.  
Additio nal information on the importance of Aid for Trade since 2019 (regional economic 
community and transport corridors perspective)  
315.  According  to PIFs, approval of the Pacific Aid -for-Trade Strategy has facilitated the 
development of regional initiatives focusi ng on identification, approval, and implementation of 
regional collective actions in the priority areas identified by the Strategy. These include the Pacific 
Quality Infrast ructure Initiative , the Pacific E -commerce Initiative  and more recently the Pacific 
Trade Facilitation Initiative. A regional initiative on people -to-people connectivity (labour mobility) 
has also commenced.  
316.  TMEA  is in its core an  Aid for Trade institution, and this would remain.  
317.  WAEMU  thinks Aid for Trade has become more important because it makes it possible to 
support several categories of financing, in this case:  
• the promotion of exports and local products;  
• the development of regional value chains;  
• e-commerce and dematerializatio n; - the promotion of intra -community trade;  
• capacity building in policy and regulation (Including: training of trade officials, analysis 
of proposals and positions and their impact, assistance to national stakeholders to 
articulate trade interests and identify trade -offs, dispute issues, institutional and 
technical support to facilitate implementation of trade agreements, adaptation to rules 
and standards and compliance with them);  
• public health and public procurement;  
• Intellectual Prope rty Rights relating to Trade;  
• the renegotiation of tariff concessions. - trade in services - commercial policy and 
administrative management;  
• trade facilitation;  
• regional trade agreements (RTA);  
• multilateral trade negotiations;  
• education/training in t he field of commerce;  
• transport and storage infrastructure;  
• energy production and supply infrastructure;  
• the development of trade;  
• the services of business support;  
• strengthening production capacity;  
• agriculture;  
• industry;  
• trade -related adjustment (In particular: helping developing countries to put in place 
accompanying measures that enable them to take advantage of trade liberali zation);  
• additional information on the category(ies) of Aid -for-Trade funding in which your 
region or transport corridor  is receiving support for economic diversification; and 
• support for the development of S outh-South cooperation - capacity building for the 
consideration of cross -cutting themes such as gender, youth, climate change in 
programs and activities . 
 WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Evolution in  the importance of Aid for Trade since 2019 (South -South perspective)  
318.  One (1) respondent (China) said that Aid for Trade had become more important since 2019. 
The other respondent did not comment.  
Evolution in the i mportance of Aid for Trade since 2019 (donor perspective)  
319.  Twenty -six (26) out of thirty -six (36), (72%) of Donors did not see an evolution in the 
importance of Aid  for Trade since 2019. Nine (9) donors (25%) found that Aid for Trade had become 
more important and  one (1), (3%) was unsure.  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the importance of Aid for Trade since 2019 (donor perspective)  
320.  The African Development Bank  has given more support to trade -enabling infrastructure in 
the recent years for countries to over come structural bottlenecks for regional integration.  
321.  The Asian Development Bank  thinks that circularity and sustainability directly impact trade 
and the nature of trade. The reduction of unnecessary shipments is key to reducing the impacts of 
current cons umption patterns. (SDTC -ENV) ADB support for trade facilitation has increased with 
growing interest from DMCs and subregional programs. In the case of CAREC, although there was 
delay in implementation of in -person activities (capacity -building or policy di alogue) or investment 
projects (construction delays due to supply chain issues), the 11 member countries have expressed 
the need to continue the momentum in CAREC trade work, deepen regional cooperation, and 
revitalize globalization for post pandemic susta inable recovery. The cross -sectoral linkages of trade, 
especially on cross -border movement of goods and people, have been underscored more than ever. 
(SDTC -RCI, EAPF) In 2022, ADB plans to establish a Trade Facilitation (TF) Resource Centre that 
will coord inate knowledge work on operationally -relevant trade facilitation areas, i.e. technical notes, 
guidance notes, toolkits; develop a knowledge portal of ADB supported TF programs and a database 
of TF experts; and organize knowledge events and capacity buildi ng programs, including in 
collaboration with the World Customs Organization (SDTC -RCI). 
322.  Addressing COVID -19 impacts and recovery are now the main drivers for Australia 's 
approach to Aid  for Trade in the Indo -Pacific. Although Australia no longer has an Aid-for-Trade 
target, Aid  for Trade remains a key component of Australia's COVID -19 development response under 
the economic recovery pillar of our Partnerships for Recovery  policy. In particular, Australia 
continues to prioriti ze efforts to help build trade capacity and address supply side constraints in our 
region through Aid -for-Trade investments. This is reflected in our ong oing commitment to ensuring 
Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and developing countries can engage effectively in and benefit 
from free and open trade, underpinned by a rules -based system. This is not only vital to promoting 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  recovery and building resilience to COVID -19 and future global or regional disruptions, but also 
essential in supporting their longer -term growth and prosperity. For example, Australia strongly 
supports Timor -Leste's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and is working with 
Timor-Leste to build capacity and provide technical assistance in support of its accession. Australia 
also helps the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat (PIFS) to maintain its representative office at the 
WTO in Geneva (AUD8.6  million, 2016 -23). PIFS' presence at  the WTO supports enhanced global 
and regional trade integration of all Forum Island Countries (FICs), their engagement in the 
international trade arena, and strengthens their trade capacity. It enables FIC WTO Members to 
better participate in and influenc e WTO negotiations. Australia's ongoing commitment to Aid  for 
Trade is also reflected in Australia's Free Trade Agreements, a number of which include economic 
development chapters and corresponding economic cooperation programs and funding, the latest of 
these being the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus (PACER Plus) and the 
Indonesia -Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA -CEPA).  
323.  The entry into force of the regional trade and development agreement PACER Plus 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/in -force/pacer/pacific -agreement -on-closer -economic
-relations -plus) in December  2020, offers a new forum for  policy dialogue and decision making about 
Aid-for-Trade priorities.  
324.  A new development program, the PACER Plus Development & Economic Cooperation Work 
Program (https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/in -force/pacer/development -assistance ) 
(AUD  25 million, 2021 -2025) and Implementation Unit (https://pacerplus.org/ ) have been 
established to help implement PACER Plus and deliver priority regional Aid -for-Trade activities. A 
regional Pacific Aid -for-Trade Strategy (https://www.forumsec.org/aid -for-trade -strategy/ ) 
coordinated by the PIFS, and a PACER Plus Needs Assessment undertaken in 2021, are also helping 
to inform and shape our regional Aid -for-Trade approach and activities in the Pacific. IA-CEPA 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/in -force/iacepa/Pages/indonesia -australia -comprehen
sive-economic -partnership -agreement ) entered into force on 5  July 2020.  
325.  It include s a new Economic Cooperation Program (ECP) known as Katalis 
(https://www.iacepa -katalis.org/ ), which aims to maximise the mutual benefits of IA -CEPA, support 
two-way trade and investment, improve market access , and promote inclusive economic growth in 
Indonesia. In particular, Katalis will support IA -CEPA implementation in the agri -food and advanced 
manufacturing and services (including skills) sectors.  
326.  In Austria , there is no specific AfT strategy but some eng agements of Austrian Development 
Cooperation form part of AfT agenda in the wider sense. These engagements remained equally 
important.  
327.  Canada  continues to prioritize Aid for Trade and is seeking to bring greater coherence to its 
efforts and position itself  to engage with increased operational efficiency. Canada continues to focus 
its efforts to advance inclusive growth by: Bringing down barriers to women's economic 
empowerment Building more inclusive and sustainable economies Strengthening economic 
resilien ce. This includes: Support strengthening the key features of well -functioning market 
economies through the formalization of micro -, small - and medium -sized enterprises, and supporting 
their competitiveness, diversity, resilience and good governance; Increa sing the economic 
leadership and empowerment of women at all levels, promoting women's economic rights and access 
to decent work, and helping to address unpaid work and the disproportionate burden of care 
shouldered by women, Support developing inclusive p olicy and programming reforms that recognize 
the specific needs of those living in conflicts and crises, putting particular emphasis on new tools 
and technologies that help support financial inclusion and manage financial risks.  
328.  As part of  the EBRD  COVID -19 crisis response, the Trade Facilitation Programme has more 
than doubled in volume and scope since 2019.  
329.  There is no major change in the AFT policy within the EU. However, the SDG funding gap in 
developing countries is projected to have increased from EUR 2.2. trillion pre -COVID to 
EUR 3.7 trillion a year for the foreseeable future, a 70% increase (based on an OECD report ). EU AfT 
constitutes an impor tant part of supporting partner countries' Covid -19 pandemic .  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  330.  The IaDB  reiterates its commitment to support LAC countries to benefit from international 
trade and participation on Global Value Chains. Trade and investment are engines for economic 
growth an d catalysers for the economic recovery post -pandemic.  
331.  ITC was and is 100% dedicated to A id for Trade. 
332.  For ITFC, - To be relevant in consideration of the massive impacts which COVID -19 has in the 
Arab region, the AfTIAS  2.0 Program, indicated above, will co nsider how it can support the Arab 
region's response to the pandemic. Although as a trade development program it has inherent 
limitations in responding to the crisis, it can play an important role especially in the medium - (the 
Recover stage in IsDB 's Resp onse Strategy) and long -term (the Restart stage) response to the 
crisis. - Although AfTIAS  2.0 can have little impact on the current phase of the pandemic, this 
Programme Document shows how AfTIAS  2.0 will support the recovery phase once the critical 
current phase of the pandemic has abated. The design of AfTIAS  2.0 as a program under which 
specific interventions will be designed and implemented in the five different program facilities 
(indicated above) provides the flexibility to swiftly respond to changin g requirements. This is helpful 
in the current state where specific plans cannot be developed simply because not information is 
available to prepare an evidence -based response for Recover and Restart interventions. In the 
Program design, AfTIAS  2.0's contr ibution to a comprehensive response in particular to the economic 
medium - and long -term effects are framed in a horizontal manner. Each and every facility of the 
programme will be used as an element in the COVID -19 response strategy. In addition to AfTIAS 
Program, it is also worth mentioning that ICD remains dedicated to promoting the private sector in 
member countries  and continue to build the productive capacity and improve the infrastructure, 
which directly and indirectly contribute to Aid-for-Trade obje ctives. For ICIEC, the challenges and 
hardships resulting from the COVID -19 pandemic have made access to finance more critical for 
member countries. Restoring international trade and investment to its pre -COVID levels is essential 
to ICIEC. For IsDB, the l aunching meeting of the Regional Cooperation Integration (RCI) Strategy 
had involved many partners including, Regional Cooperation Organizations, UN Organizations, 
Multilateral Banks (MDBs) and OIC institutions. We extended our network of partners to inclu de key 
regional players leading strategic regional initiatives . 
333.  The COVID -19 pandemic has created a greater need for Aid for Trade but Aotearoa 
New Zealand's  allocation for Aid for Trade has not increased, essentially there is more demand for 
the same allocation.  
334.  UNCTAD 's technical cooperation should continue to assist developing countries and be 
adapted to the new opportunities and challenges in the fields of  trade and development and 
interrelated issues. It should support countries in addressing the challenges exacerbated or revealed 
as a result of the COVID -19 pandemic and build resilience to future economic shocks, by building 
productive capacities, and sup port sustainable development. Aid for Trade has always played an 
important role for UNCTAD. The pandemic revealed that countries use non -tariff measures 
(e.g. export restrictions) frequently and that current transparency measures are not sufficient. 
UNCTAD  observes and list ad hoc measures taken in connection to the pandemic.  
335.  The relative importance of UNDP 's Aid for Trade in the Strategic Plan has not changed, 
however, building forward better from the COVID -19 crisis, makes an imperative to further diversi fy 
the economy, create sustainable value chains and improve quality of employment by putting 
trade -oriented private sector development at the core of national economic diversification efforts, 
expand production capacities of the private sector, and access new markets while targeting 
sustainable and inclusive growth. A response to COVID -19 and Aid -for-Trade support to the countries 
in this response needs to consider a forward -looking recovery embracing the green and digital 
transitions to strengthen economic  and social resilience. Approaches that favour value chains and 
productive capacities in support of SDGs and especially productive capacities that favour innovation 
and productivity growth, while advancing environmental sustainability and climate change 
mitigation/adaptation aspects will be prioritized. In this context, the COVID -19 pandemic has 
underscored the importance of supporting MSMEs -especially those led by youth and women, which 
have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic. The entry into force  of the AfCFTA further brings 
focus on women and youth MSMEs as UNDP has prioritized its engagement in support of the AfCFTA, 
on ensuring women and youth benefit from the agreement.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  336.  According to UNIDO , Industrial development has become a clear priority in COVID -19 
recovery and building back better strategies at country and regional level; there is therefore a 
greater need for AfT support to this objective (of Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization) . 
337.  The United Kingdom 's key Aid -for-Trade priority has a lways been to ensure developing and 
least developed countries are able to participate and benefit from the multilateral trading system. 
This has not changed since 2019. Whilst some programmes and initiatives have not been able to 
progress due to ODA reduct ions made due to pressure caused by COVID, we have maintained a 
strong commitment to various Aid -for-Trade programmes, as well as an advocate for A fT policy. 
That being said, the world's development needs are changing: despite important progress, the SDGs 
are off track and C OVID -19 has set back progress. The drivers of poverty fragility, conflict and 
climate change - are more complex, increasingly interconnected and pose a challenge to the UK's 
long-term security, prosperity and resilience. The UK must adap t to these changes with a more 
forward thinking and geostrategic offer that brings to bear all of our international strengths (in 
security, diplomacy, defence, trade, science, and tech) and focuses on where we can have the 
greatest long -term development im pact. 
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  Responses on whether  changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities  are being reflected in dialogues 
between development partners  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Responses on whether  changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities  are being reflected in dialogues 
with development partners (partner country perspective)  
338.  In every region and income group, the majority of partner country respondents (approx. 80% 
overall) indicated that changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities were being reflecte d in dialogue w ith 
development partners.  
Region/Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  20 83% 
Asia 7 78% 
Americas  7 87% 
Oceania  5 83% 
LDC 22 79% 
LLDC 8 73% 
UN SIDS  7 78% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on how changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities are being reflected in 
dialogues with development partners (partner country perspective)  
339.  For Bangladesh , all the development partners are appraised of the trade related challenges 
after grad uation and requested to extend support for domestic capacity building and enhanced 
Aid for Trade.  
340.  Benin  pointed to the dialogue framework between the Government and the Development 
Partners which allows both parties to evaluate and monitor the implementati on of the Growth 
Program for Sustainable Development (PC2D which operationalizes the NDP) offers favourable 
moments for the Government to discuss its Aid -for-Trade priorities. Similarly, the evaluation of the 
Trade Program (based on an inclusive process of  Mainstreaming Trade in the various sectoral and 
national strategies of the country) resulting from the Document of the Diagnostic Study on the 
Integration of Trade (DTIS) allows different stakeholders to decide on the country's Aid -for-Trade 
priorities.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  341.  Colombia  said that more emphasis on aid needs in trade and environment issues is part of 
the agenda with development partners.  
342.  A Conference of Comoros Development Partners  was organized in Paris in December  2019 
for the financing of the Emerging Comoros Pla n (PCE).  
343.  El Salvador  indicated it held constant communication is maintained with development 
partners, infrastructure programs, regulatory improvement . 
344.  Equatorial New Guinea  provided an example, during the celebration of the Third National 
Economic Confere nce in 2019, in which the New National Development Strategy 2035 was adopted, 
subsequent to the National Economic and Social Development Plan (NESDP) 2020, all development 
partners were part integrates technical work. This is the case of the World Bank, a group with which 
the Ministry of Commerce prepared the DTIS and which supported the consideration of the DTIS 
recommendations matrix to integrate them into the new strategy.  
345.  Through the Permanent Mission of Guatemala  to the WTO in Geneva, Switzerland, the 
comments, positions and notifications of the country are transferred; including those issues that are 
relevant to the circular economy and sustainable development.  
346.  Guinea -Bissau  has seen no change in dialogue with partners . 
347.  Madagascar 's new priorities will be taken into account within the framework of policy 
dialogues and formulation of economic and social development strategies, programs and projects in 
the country.  
348.  Mali indicated that the need to take into account these changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities is 
expressed at all times by the Government. This concern is also shared by sub -regional integration 
organizations such as WAEMU and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).  
349.  There are constant meetings with Peru's developmen t partners, in which information is 
exchanged on the Aid -for-Trade priorities of both parties, which is then reflected in the international 
cooperation strategies of said partners.  
350.  St Lucia  listed two (2) main points:  
• MTDS: Proactively engage donors in de veloping the strategy and outlined plan for its 
phased financing while also considering other innovative financing models including 
Private Public Partnerships.  
• COVID  19 Pandemic: Implementation of the Economic Recovery and Resilience Plans 
(https://www.finance.gov.lc/resources/download/2104 ) including: (a) Repurposing of 
existing financing facilities to meet new socio -economic costs ; (b) Fast tracking of 
previously negotiated trade infrast ructure related capital projects (e.g. road network 
rehabilitation) as a means of creating employment opportunities and stimulating 
economy in the wake of COVID19 impacts on the Tourism Sector ; and (c) Engaging 
donors for negotiations in refinancing existi ng debts and/or securing additional 
finances to meet immediate needs.  
351.  St Vincent and the Grenadine 's government has requested support from development 
partners including the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.  
352.  Togo  indicated that changes had been r eflected in dialogue at several levels:  
• In the very inclusive and participatory elaboration process of the National 
Development Plan (2018 -2022) and in the high -level seminars and colloquiums for 
the appropriation of the new Government Roadmap (2020 -2025) by Technical and 
Financial Partners and the Private Sector. During bilateral and multilateral meetings 
between the State and Donors ; and 
• During the various official missions of Togo abroad.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  353.  In the case of Vanuatu , development partners are already adjusting to these changes. The 
Development Partners are being informed of the Government's priorities and therefore their support 
is directed to those areas. Vanuatu is willing to have more discussions and support with other 
development partners in the fu ture. 
354.  Yemen  said that its legitimate internationally -recognized government took every opportunity 
to consult and explain the situation in the country. Development partners are made fully aware on 
the immediate and longer - term needs. Most recently, during a meeting with diplomats from the EU, 
Minister of Planning and International Cooperation informed that the conflict in Yemen - since 
seven  years ago  - has resulted in the economy's total loss of about USD  126 Billion. The respondent 
appealed to donor commu nity to assist Yemen in overcoming the crisis its was facing.  
355.  Zambia  has been engaging cooperating/ development partners to collaborate in implementing 
programmes that will address the effects of COVID  19 and climate change by way of using trade as 
an engine for sustainable growth.  
Responses on whether  changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities  are being reflected in dialogues 
with development partners (regional economic community and transport corridors 
perspective)  
356.  All four  (4) REC-TC respondents indicated that changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities had been 
reflected in dialogue w ith development partners.  
Additional information on how Aid -for-Trade priorities are being reflected in dialogues 
with developmen t partners (regional economic community and transpo rt corridors 
perspective)  
357.  PIFS added that all regional initiatives carried out under the umbrella of the Pacific 
Aid-for-Trade Strategy are conducted in close cooperation with donor partners. The donor 
community is involved from the early stages of each initiative so as to maximize the  chances of 
support towards the identified regional priorities. After priorities are identified and approved by 
PIF members, engagement of the donor community continues through the establishment of suitable 
governance mechanisms giving this community ample  opportunities to monitor implementation and 
identify the most crucial funding gaps. In the same vein, each regional initiative under the umbrella 
of the Pacific Aid -for-Trade Strategy strives to bring together and coordinate activates from all other 
devel opment partners including relevant regional agencies, civil society organizations, and private 
sector representatives.  
358.  TMEA  has received a first grant for the support of the implementation of the AfCFTA . TMEA is 
negotiating a first -loss investment in the p roposed commercial arm , the C OVID -response 
programme (Safe Trade) has received USD 32 million;  and a ll donors are now prioritizing Climate 
Change and our approved Green Corridor approach is an appropriate answer.  
359.  All the areas of West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) 's prioritization of 
Aid for Trade specified are taken into account in the development of the Union's programmes, 
namely:  
• the program for the construction of the common market and free movement in 
particular through between other tra de promotion activities, competition, free 
movement, customs union and cooperation frameworks with technical and financial 
partners;  
• the Human Development Program;  
• the energy, mining and hydrocarbons development programme;  
• the industry and crafts progra mme;  
• the digital economy development program;  
• the program of convergence of economic policies;  
• the transport program;  
• the community land use planning program; and 
• the environment program; All the areas of prioritization of Aid for Trade specified are 
taken into account in the mechanisms for consultation and cooperation with technical 
and financial partners, in this case round tables, bilateral meetings, requests, etc. The WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Priority Action Framework (CAP  2025), which is a reference fra mework for the 
implementation of these programs, was presented on November  25, 2021, to all 
development partners in Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso).  
 
Responses on whether  changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities are being reflected in dialogues 
with development part ners (South -South partners perspective)  
360.  One (1) South -South respondent (Indonesia) indicated that changes to Aid -for-Trade priorities 
had been reflected in dialogue with development partners. The other respondents skipped the 
question.  
Additional informati on on how Aid -for-Trade priorities are being reflected in dialogues 
with development partners (South -South partners perspective)  
361.  N/A. 
Responses on whether  changes in Aid -for-Trade priorities are being reflected in dialogues 
with development partners ( Donor  perspective) ? 
362.  The majority of donors , twenty (20) out of twenty -eight ( 28), (71%) indicated that changes 
in Aid -for-Trade priorities were being reflected in dialogue with development partners.  
Additional information on how Aid -for-Trade priorities are being reflected in dialogues 
with development partners (Donor perspective)  
363.  Canada  has been promoting a contemporary approach to triangular cooperation, grounded in 
effectiveness and inclusive of multi -stakeholder actors at all levels for sustainable development. 
Since co -founding the Global Partnership Initiative (GPI) on Effective Tri angular Cooperation in 2016, 
Canada has advanced the triangular cooperation modality through its ongoing leadership as a Core 
Group member of the GPI and its leadership of the Global Partnership for Effective Development 
Cooperation (GPEDC)'s Action Area o n Triangular Cooperation. Canada continues to promote and 
advance inclusive trade and gender equality through enhanced bilateral, regional, plurilateral and 
multilateral engagement and participation in international economic forums, such as the World Trade  
Organization (WTO), the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation (GATF), the International Trade Centre 
(ITC), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the Organization for 
Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Asia -Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), 
G7 and the G20.  
364.  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. 
Canada continues to lead d iscussions 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 organizations of the UN system. In 2017 -2018, Canada's long -term institutional support to 
UN system organizations totalled CAD 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. Canad a's support helps these organizations 
to advance key shared priorities in line with the Feminist International Assistance Policy, including 
the goal to accelerate global progress in gender equality and the economic empowerment of women. 
Canada also support s 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.  
365.  More than one third of Canada's officia l development assistance is channelled through trusted 
multilateral organizations, including the African Development Bank, the Asia Development Banks, 
the World Bank and other International Finance Institutions. Trade and development priorities are 
reflect ed in Canada's ongoing engagement with developing country partners through comprehensive 
and inclusive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. Most recently, in June  2021, Canada and 
Indonesia agreed to launch negotiations toward a comprehensive economic partnership agreement 
(CEPA), and in November  2021, Canada and ASEAN agreed to launch negotiations toward a 
Canada -ASEAN FTA, marking an historic milestone in the Canada -ASEAN relationship. Indonesia and 
the majority of ASEAN members are developing countri es, and can advance their sustainable growth WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  through FTAs, which seek to remove tariff and non -tariff barriers to trade and provide a more 
predictable environment for investors and service providers. Canada's discussions 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, such as innovation or goods and services trade d online. In 2020, 
Canada, Chile, and New Zealand signed the Global Trade and Gender Arrangement and are working 
to promote the Arrangement to other countries, including Mexico, which joined in 2021. Going 
forward, Canada continues to seek to negotiate amb itious and comprehensive FTAs in the pursuit of 
tangible inclusive trade elements, such as in the areas of gender, Indigenous peoples, MSMEs, 
environment and labour.  
366.  Canada also provides technical assistance and capacity building to developing countries t hat 
are or could become trading partners. This is done through two programs: the Expert Deployment 
Mechanism for Trade and Development (EDM) and the Canadian Trade and Investment Facility for 
Development (CTIF). The EDM (2018 -2025; CAD  16.5 million) aims t o reduce poverty in developing 
countries by expanding trade and investment to create jobs and achieve growth that works for 
everyone. The project responds to requests for technical assistance from developing countries by 
providing a wide range of assistanc e prior to, during, and following the negotiation of free trade 
agreements (FTAs) or foreign investment promotion and protection agreements (FIPAs) with 
Canada. Project activities include: (1) helping to address the development aspects of priority trade 
issues in the lead -up to FTA/FIPA negotiations; (2) improving the ability of developing country 
governments to take into account the perspectives of poor populations when negotiating a FTA/FIPA; 
(3) supporting trade associations in developing countries to id entify the economic and poverty 
impacts of FTAs/FIPAs; and (4)  helping local, small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs) increase 
their competitiveness in light of new trade and investment regimes, in order to expand employment 
opportunities for the poor. C TIF (2018 -2025; CAD  12 million) provides technical assistance to 
support more inclusive, sustainable and poverty -reducing trade and investment in official 
development assistance (ODA) eligible Asia -Pacific countries. CTIF technical assistance providers 
work with national and regional authorities to improve policy -making practices among regional and 
national institutions, and with public, private and non -governmental stakeholders to increase access 
to markets and finance by Asia -Pacific -based SMEs, particula rly those led by women. CTIF provides 
technical assistance by external contractors following the approval of technical assistance requests 
from eligible beneficiaries. These include regional institutions, governments, civil society 
organisations, and indiv idual firms in ODA -eligible countries in the region.  
367.  AsDB  said that increasing domestic recycling and substitution practices while actively 
discouraging unidirectional trade of polluting and other imports which ultimately created wastes that 
are difficult to manage sustainably.  
368.  Australia  engaged in dialogue and was doing its regular coordination efforts as a standard 
practice in Australia's bilateral and regional relationships, including in our development programs. 
This is elaborated on in Q. 17.  
369.  According  to the EBRD , greater emphasis on resilient and diversified supply chains such as 
trade linkages between Central Asia and Mongolia, for instance.  
370.  EU Delegations in the field maintain a regular policy dialogue with the partner country to align 
on their prio rities while ensuring ownership. Although AfT has always been one of the main priorities 
of the EU in the context of our relations with partner countries, the C OVID -19 pandemic has 
reinforced the policy dialogue on AfT. Following the break of the pandemic in March  2020, our 
Delegations in the field and EU HQs reacted quickly to ensure AfT actions were reorientated to 
address the immediate challenges of the pandemic. Over the last months, this dialogue is evolving 
to encompass also the AfT actions aiming at ensuring an inclusive and sustainable recovery and to 
limit the consequences of the pandemic. Besides, in the framework of our Annual AFT progress 
report, the EU delegations consult all stakeholders (EU MS, government, implementing partners, 
etc.). The fin dings of these consultations are reflected in our annual AFT progress report. In addition, 
the Policy Forum on Development (PFD) debates development issues and how the European Union 
(EU) can best respond to them. The main objective of the Forum is to improve the effectiveness of 
EU development cooperation including AFT .  
371.  Finland  said that women's economic empowerment and gender equality is a standard element 
of Finland's dialogue w ith any development partner country and organization.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  372.  The IaDB's  efforts in the region have been reinvigorated, by the request that echoes 
throughout the countries of the region, that this juncture must propel a solid, sustainable and 
inclusive economic re covery.  
373.  For ITFC, the launching meeting of the IsDB's RCI Strategy had involved many partners 
including, Regional Cooperation Organizations, UN Organizations, MDBs and OIC institutions. We 
extended our network of partners to include key regional players le ading strategic regional 
initiatives.  
374.  Norway  had no changes to report to partners.  
375.  In conformity with the dispatch period, Switzerland 's SECO also renews its country 
programmes every four years. In partnership with its priority countries and other developm ent 
partners, country strategies are renewed and aligned with the overall development/ Aid-for-Trade 
strategy. Country partnership documents can be found here: 
https://www.seco -cooperation.admin.ch/secocoop/en/home.html   
376.  Chinese Taipei  added more ICT know -how and web security issues were brought to the 
dialogue . 
377.  UNIDO  actively participated i n WTO  2021 Aid for Trade Stocktaking event holding 
two webinars, one on "Mobilizing Resources to Build Resilient Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturing 
Industries in Developing Countries - Challenges and Opportunities", with the Permanent Mission of 
Zambia, an d another on "Implementing the AfCFTA: the Need for Deepening Private Sector 
Engagement and Commitment ", jointly with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the 
International Trade Centre (ITC). Link: 
https://www.unido.org/news/unido -wto-2021-aid-trade-stocktaking -event   
378.  The United Kingdom  had communicated this with its partners. For example, through the 
departmental merger which saw our development and foreign affairs departme nts merged, we 
discussed this with our partners and outlined the benefits. The creation of the Foreign, 
Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) presents a unique opportunity to leverage the full 
strength of our development and diplomatic expertise and our  global network in support of our 
development and wider international objectives.  
379.  For the World Bank , they are reflected in its forthcoming new trade strategy for the 
2022-2032 period.  
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Specific strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic recovery post COVID -19 
pandemic  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Specific strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic recovery post COVID -19 
pandemic (partner country perspective)  
381.  Thirty -nine (39) out of fifty-three ( 53) partner country respondents (74%) indicated that they 
had adopted a specific strategy, policy or plan for economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic; 
eight ( 8) respondents said no (15%) and six (6) were unsure (11%).  
Additional information on the strategie s for economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic 
(partner country perspectives)  
382.  Bangladesh outlined its  8th Five-Year Plan (2021 -2026) is mainly targeted for economic 
recovery and to address graduation challenges.  
383.  Benin  spoke about its current Government Action Program (PAG  2: 2021 -2026) took into 
account, even beyond COVID -19, any possible exogenous shocks on the evolution of the country's 
macro -economic data. (See website: www.gouv.bj ) 
384.  According to Bhutan  this is included in the 21st century economic roadmap.  
385.  Burkina Faso  provided the Post -COVID -19 economic recovery plan for Burkina Faso, 
June 2020.  
386.  Cambodia  said that on 22 December  2021, the Royal Government of Cambodia launched a 
newly designed program for post COVID -19 called "The Strategic Framework and Programs for 
Economic Recovery in the Context of Living with COVID -19 in a New Normal 2021 -2023" with the 
vision to strengthen the building of the path and dyn amics for robust socio -economic development 
and seize opportunities both inside and outside the country to foster the national economy with a 
highly competitive and diversified base. Three (3) Rs - Recovery, Reform and Resilience - are the 
key elements for  this strategic framework. Links to support the information: 
https://mef.gov.kh/news/  and 
https://www.phnompenhpost.com/bu siness/2021 -23-plan-economic -recovery -way-minister . 
387.  Comoros  was yet to have a strategy, a policy or a specific national plan for economic recovery 
after COVID -19. However, consultations are underway with all sectors for the development of a 
post-pandemic r ecovery plan.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  388.  Congo DR  said that the government uses external financing to finance major projects in 
various sectors.  
389.  For Colombia , the strategy is described in the document Conpes 4023: Policy for the 
reactivation, revitalisation and sustainable and inclu sive growth: a new commitment for the future 
of Colombia. https://colaboracion.dnp.gov.co/CDT/Conpes/Econ%C3%B3micos/4023.pdf  
390.  Côte d'Ivoire  highlighted its support fund for large companies, with a target allocation of 
100 billion Franc s CFA; Support Fund for SMEs, endowed with 150  billion FCFA; Support Fund for 
Informal Sector Actors, endowed with 100  billion FCFA; Solidarity and Humanitarian  Emergency 
Support Fund, with a target allocation of 170  billion FCFA.  
391.  The Dominican Republic  added ". Assessment of recovery needs due to the social and 
economic impacts" of C OVID -19. 
392.  El Salvador informed of its process of simplification and digitization of procedures has been 
initiated to facilitate the realization of companies, likewise legislation has been created that allows 
the use of ICTs and elimination of requirements.  
393.  The respondent provided a link to the Fijian  Covid Safe Economic Recovery Framew ork: 
https://www.mcttt.gov.fj/doc_uploads/Fijian%20COVID%20Safe%20Economic%20Recovery%20F
ramework.pdf  
394.  According to Grenada , a strategic plan wa s developed for the recovery post COVID -19. One 
of the key areas is MSME support and development.  
395.  Guatemala's  Ministry of Economy developed a strategic plan for economic recovery, to 
minimize the impact caused by the COVID -19 pandemic.  
396.  Guinea  had no strate gy yet after the COVID pandemic.  
397.  Indonesia  spoke about the Government Working Plan in 2022 is focusing on Economy 
Recovery and Structural Reforms which trade and investment is one of the prime movers of 
economic. There are six (6) strategic transformations : (i) Competitive Human Resources; 
(ii) Productivity on Economic Sector; (iii)  Green Economy; (iv)  Digital Transformation; 
(v) Integrated Economic Powerhouse; and (vi)  Relocation of new capital.  
398.  Madagascar referenced  its Multi -sectoral Emergency Plan.  
399.  Mauritius  mentioned a wide range of measures were introduced by the Government, the 
Bank of Mauritius and other public sector bodies to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the 
economy and the population, including: financial support to private sector em ployees through a 
Wage Assistance Scheme and Self -Employed Assistance Scheme; establishment of a C OVID -19 
Solidarity Fund to finance pandemic -related projects; free distribution of basic foodstuffs to 
vulnerable persons; support and equity injections to fi nancially distressed companies through the 
Mauritius Investment Corporation Ltd (MIC); concessional credit facilities by the Development Bank 
of Mauritius to rescue firms in financial difficulties; and loan moratoriums by the Bank of Mauritius 
to commercia l banks in the form of deferred repayment of capital and interest. This measure was 
extended until 30  June 2022. Link: 
https://budgetmof.govmu.org/Documents/2021_22budget speech_english.pdf ; 
https://mof.govmu.org/Documents/Documents/Budget%202020 -
2021/Budget%20Speech%202020 -2021%20%28English%29.pdf . 
400.  Mexico , through the Ministry of Economy, implemented an Economic Reactivation Plan, which 
contains four ( 4)-Strategic Axes, under an Innovation, Diversification and Inclusion approach:  
• Internal market, employment and business. In which the promotion of the 
comp etitiveness of digitization is sought through technology transfer, support for 
micro, small and medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) with training and digital 
updating, for which we have the MIPYMES.MX Platform, which has with the following 
sections: (a) Learn : Provides training programs for MSMEs to acquire or increase their WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  digital skills, financial culture, and sales and promotion techniques ; (b) Emprender : 
Offers information so that entrepreneurs can create their company and protect their 
brands, as well as  the description of the Quick Start of Companies System (SARE) ; 
(c) Sell: Through electronic commerce, solidarity market, and means to promote their 
businesses and identify new clients ; (d) Grow: Offers options funding, certifications, 
and entrepreneurial capital ; and (e) Export:  Provides tools to export, cooperation 
programs, opportunities for foreign trade and has information on the SheTrades 
initiative, the International Trade Centre for SMEs led by women, through which they 
can exchange their experience s, promoting and fostering development production and 
integrating them into value chains.  
• Promotion and facilitation of investment. Streamline the procedures for national and 
international trade, as well as promote the attraction of investments. Through the 
digital platforms developed by the Ministry of Economy, such as: (a) Date Mexico. 
Which allows the integration, visualization and analysis of public data to promote 
innovation, inclusion and diversification of the Mexican economy ; (b) Export MX. It 
allows companies in Mexico, especially Mipymes, to expand their business to the global 
market. It seeks to support MSMEs to ; (i) choose the destination of your products , 
(ii) position the company abroad , and (iii) integrate into global value chains ; and 
(c) Trade MX. Connect Mexican MSMEs with clients, suppliers, partners and investors 
from all over  the world, to strengthen their businesses ; (i) connect  -connect 
businesswomen with potential clients, suppliers or investors , (ii) learn - contains 
information on the main aspects of international trade , and ( iii) finance yourself  - . 
includes information  on financial products and services.  
• International trade. Encouraging exports to new markets and markets existing, 
business conferences, reduction of response times to facilitate imports, defend the 
commercial interests of Mexico to ensure compliance with  the provisions of the 
agreements, seek access to other markets, review and enhance current agreements 
and treaties.  
• Regionalization of the sectors ; Detonate employment, through the commercialization 
of products from the south -southeast in the north and c entre of the country, support 
Mipymes so that they can move towards the use of new technologies, reconversion of 
technological skills in more marginalized sectors, such as of women, for which we have 
launched the initiative Digital Skills for Digital Mexic an Women of the 21st Century, in 
collaboration with the Private Sector, with the aim of: (a) Generate and consolidate 
free digital skills for women over 16 years of age ; (b) Promote the digital literacy of 
those Mexican women in a condition of inequality g ap and, the technological 
specialization of the Mexican women who decide to strengthen their knowledge and 
technical experience to improve their conditions of insertion and success in the labour 
market of our country, offering them courses that offer them from basic skills such as 
the use of devices and social networks, to digital skills in specialized topics such as 
the Internet of things, cybersecurity, programming and networks.  
401.  Myanmar  provided a reference https://www.mopfi.gov.mm/my/blog/45/11310  . 
402.  Nepal  said: Monetary and Fiscal policy (budget) have provisioned various economic recovery 
programs to address the COVID -19 economic impacts.  
403.  Pakistan  spoke of its plan for post COVID -19 pandemic recovery is available at the following 
link: https://www.commerce.gov.pk/wp -content/uploads/2021/12/Final -STPF-2020-25-1.pdf . 
404.  Papua New Guinea  said that there was a draft Strategic Implementation Plan for the National 
Trade Polic y 2017 - 2032 which is the blueprint to contribute the recovery effort and overall economic 
development.  
405.  Paraguay  highlighted its Economic Recovery Plan : 
https://www.set.gov.py/portal/napuaP y/home/leyes   and Analysis of sectors with major post 
COVID -19 potential: https://www.mic.gov.py/mic/w/mic/MIC_Rediex_Plan_post_covid_2020.pdf  . WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  406.  For Peru The following str ategies were being implemented:  
• Mype purchases, Start Peru, Yanapay bonuses (350 soles per person) to low -income 
families, subsidies of 210 soles to low -income formal workers, and actions to 
accelerate public investment projects that impact on private investment and generates 
temporary jobs.  
 
• The Internationalization Support Program PAI aims to strengthen, promote and 
accelerate the internationalization p rocess of Peruvian companies through the 
co-financing of activities that allow them to improve their capacities and management 
skills; in order to facilitate, increase and diversify the sale of goods and services abroad 
and their destination markets. Throu gh contests, the PAI grants Non -Reimbursable 
Resources to companies offices to finance their internationalization projects. 
Additionally, we must mention that Legislative Decree No.  1492 was issued, a 
Legislative Decree that approves provisions for the rea ctivation, continuity and 
efficiency of operations linked to the foreign trade logistics chain.  
 
• The Ministry of Production of Peru has been implementing the strategy called 
"Roadmap for the Modernization of Supply Markets" (hereinafter, Roadmap), which 
has been approved by Supreme Decree No.  021-2021- PRODUCE, dated July  22, 
2021, and defines short - and medium -term lines of action to promote the 
modernization of public and private supply markets.  
 
• To date, the "Implementation Plan in 100 markets" is bein g developed, as part of the 
Roadmap, which includes training and consulting for merchants in one  hundred 
markets. (100) food markets. To date, training has been carried out in eighty (80) 
supply markets, both virtual (71) and face -to-face (9), on topics su ch as updating 
internal regulations, competitive retail supply market management model; quality 
practices: use of metrological verification units; tax formalization; and use of digital 
tools and platforms and digital literacy.  
 
• Similarly, Law 31071, the L aw on State Purchases of Food of Origin in Family Farming, 
and its Regulations are being implemented, the purpose of which is to promote the 
consumption of food of origin in family farming, improve the economy of producers of 
family farming, including them  as providers of the State, and constantly contribute to 
healthy eating.  
 
• In addition, Law 31074 has been enacted, a Law that promotes the creation and 
implementation of the digital platform virtual market for agricultural products and its 
Regulations, in  which agricultural producers, primarily those from family farming, can 
participate by offering and marketing their agricultural products so that they can reach 
buyers using the technology of efficient and effective way.  
 
• Finally, Law 31073, Law that modi fies Law 29676, Law for the Promotion of the 
Development of Agricultural Producers' Markets, to incorporate the Implementation of 
Itinerant Markets "From Chacha to Olla"; These markets are initiatives that the sector 
promotes, commissioned by the Executive  Power, as an alternative to local markets 
for the purchase of food from the basic family basket such as vegetables, tubers, fresh 
fruits, meats, cereals, among others; at real market price and with the participation 
of small local producers.  
 
407.  According to  Senegal , a recovery plan is developed to mitigate the impact of the pandemic 
on the Senegalese economy . 
408.  St Lucia  presented its Economic Recovery and Resilience Plan . 
409.  Togo , with the support  of the United Nations, had developed  a Socio -Economic Recovery and 
Resilience Framework Programme (2020 -2021 with the aim of contributing to cushioning the 
multidimensional shocks of COVID -19 in Togo. This document needs to be updated. - The Conseil 
national du Patronat du Togo (CNP -TOGO)  has carried out a national study on the impact of the 
state of health emergency on formal businesses. Below is the link to this study. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  https://www.cnp -togo.org/index.php/2021/12/28/impact -de-letat-durgence -sanitaire -sur-les-entr
eprises -formelles -du-togo-le-cnp-togo-presente -les-resultats -de-son-etude/  . 
410.  Uganda  mentioned that the Development Policy Operation (DPO) (budget support plan) which 
is consistent with the third National Development Plan is Uganda's National COVID -19 pandemic 
response strategy . 
411.  Vanuatu  said that there was a recognition that this must be addressed. Additional information 
on the specific national strategy, policy or plan for economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic. 
Please follow the link to access more information: https://ndmo.gov.vu/covid -19 . 
412.  According to Yemen , though the "Plan for Reconstruction and Economic Recovery" of 
March  2019 was developed before the outbreak of COVID -19 pandemic, it is still valid and can be 
adjusted to take into account the negative effects of COVID -19 on Yemen popula tion. 
413.  For Zambia , the National Economic Recovery Programme (ERP) 2020 -2023. The Programme 
is a collection of necessary multi -sectoral policies and interventions aimed at restoring and building 
back better the economy in order to deliver on the national pri orities.  
Specific strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic recovery post COVID -19 
pandemic (regional economic community and transport corridor perspective)  
414.  Four (4) out of four ( 4) responding REC -TCs said that they had a specific regional strateg y for 
economic recovery po st COVID -19 pandemic.  
Additional information on the specific strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic 
recovery post COVID -19 pandemic (regional economic community and transport corridor 
perspective)  
415.  As an additional piece of information PIFS  said that despite the absence of a specific plan for 
recovery post COVID -19 regional mechanisms have been established to respond to the emergency 
and sustain recovery. These include the Pacific Humanitarian Pathway , a mechanism that supports 
the timely movement of medical supplies, technical experts and humanitarian assistance and to 
Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Members, as requested and in response to COVID -19. 
416.  A COVID -19 Economic Recovery Taskforce (CERT) was also established following endorsement 
by Pacific Islands Forum Economic Ministers to lead a coordinated response that address COVID -19 
economic priorities, including health, digital economy and connectivity, food security and agriculture 
and building resilient and sustainable economies. A Socio -Economic Impact Assessment (SEIA) 
Report based on analysis by the Council of Regional Organiza tions for the Pacific (CROP) was 
endorsed by Forum Economic Ministers in 2021. It provided an analysis of the social dimensions of 
COVID -19 and its impacts in the Pacific and provided recommendations to ensure the recovery and 
rebuilding efforts include in terventions that address the social issues of the pandemic. This SEIA 
Report was developed by CROP and aligned to the work of the CERT.  
417.  TMEA  implemented its Safe Trade  programme and this includes a Re covery programme . 
418.  Within the WAEMU  area, the economic growth rate in 2020 stood at 1.9%, after 5.7% in 
2019. This slowdown in growth is explained by the negative impact of the health crisis on all sectors 
of the economy and the persistence of the security crisis. It comes after a period of sustained 
economic growth within the Union, which averaged 6.6% from 2015 to 2019. For 2021, the economic 
growth rate within the Union is projected at 5.7%, assuming in particular a global economic recovery 
and control of  the C OVID -19 pandemic. All sectors of activity would contribute to this development. 
In this context, the revival of national economies badly affected by the C OVID -19 health crisis, 
compatible with the requirements of the Union's Convergence, Stability, G rowth and Solidarity Pact 
which was suspended on 27 April 2020 by the Conference of Heads of State and Government of the 
Union, remains one of the main economic challenges identified in the Priority Action Framework 
(CAP 2025) which is the instrument for p lanning and steering the interventions of the Commission 
over the period 2021 -2025.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  419.  The implementation of CAP  2025 should contribute to meeting this challenge of economic 
recovery, in particular by:  
• strengthening the resilience of Member States' economie s against exogenous shocks;  
• mobilization of financial resources to preserve debt sustainability;  
• the diversification of economies to strengthen the creation of wealth;  
• the restructuring of the private sector faced with many challenges (the high cost of 
factors of production and credit; difficulties in accessing financing; low labour 
productivity and the lack of qualified manpower; business environment unfavourable 
to the creation and development of businesses; non -availability and poor quality of 
energy;  weak structuring of the community private sector; low quality of products 
placed on the market);  
• continued promotion of sustainable industrialization; and 
• making use of the potentialities of the Member States in terms of culture. Furthermore, 
in the face  of the COVID -19 pandemic, the Member States of the West African 
Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) first took urgent measures to limit its spread, 
and then developed response and economic recovery plans.  
 
420.  Financial  support measures for economic recovery concern, in particular: (i)  the strengthening 
of funds already available for SMEs; (ii) the establishment of new support funds for formal 
enterprises and informal; (iii) easing the conditions for access to public pro curement; (iv)  the 
systematization of payments to SMEs of start -up advances for public contracts; (v)  extension of 
maturities; (vi)  support and support for agricultural production; (vii)  support for consumption, 
production and safeguarding employment; (vii i) price control to contain inflation; (ix)  support for 
businesses through subsidies and/or deferrals of tax deadlines, or the adoption of more flexible 
payment methods for certain taxes and duties. Community institutions , in particular, the WAEMU 
Commissi on, the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), the West African Development Bank 
(BOAD), the UEMOA Commission, the Regional Savings Council Public and Financial Markets 
(CREPMF) and the Regional Consular Chamber (CCR) have variously contributed to th e 
implementation of these national plans.  
421.  With regard to the WAEMU Commission, in addition to its contribution of CFAF  15 billion to the 
BOAD interest rate subsidy, has made available to Member States the sum of CFAF 10 billion. This 
aid has enabled the a cquisition of masks for healthcare personnel and the general public as well as 
the granting of financial support of 500  million Franc CFA  to each Member State. In addition, to allow 
the consultation of the actors of the Member States as regards to the reop ening of the borders, the 
Commission organized a meeting of the Ministers of Transport on 28  May 2020. At the end of the 
meeting, on the basis of a protocol relating under the conditions for reopening the borders of the 
Member States proposed by the Commis sion, the air borders are, since 1 August  2020, all open 
again.  
422.  Finally , with regard to strengthening the capacities of health systems for the management of 
epidemics, the Commission has drawn up a regional plan for the prevention and response to 
epidemic s over the period 2021 -2025, with a focus on prevention and response. to cross -border 
health risks. This plan, awaiting validation by the various stakeholders, is estimated at 105  billion.  
423.  Regarding  the BCEAO , it has taken a series of measures to fight, a longside the Member 
States, against the spread of the pandemic and limit its negative effects on the economies of the 
area. These measures impact banks, companies, States as well as users of digital means of payment. 
In addition, to strengthen the access o f companies in the Union to bank loans, the BCEAO has agreed 
with the BOAD, the establishment of a system allowing banks to obtain medium -term resource in 
return for loans granted to companies affected by the crisis. Furthermore, the BCEAO and the Agence 
UMOA-Titres  have taken steps to support member states in mobilizing low -cost financial resources 
on the regional financial market. The States were thus able to issue Treasury bonds called 
Bons-Covid which made it possible to raise resources for a total amou nt of 2,790.5  billion. For the 
banks, the measures taken consisted of increasing the Central Bank's liquidity supply at low cost. In 
this sense, the minimum rate of submission to liquidity injection operations has increased from 
2.50% to 2.00% and the rate  of the marginal lending window has been reduced from 4.50% to 
4.00%, from 24  June 2020. This measure had the impact of a sharp increase in the volume of 
refinancing to hedge the deterioration of bank cash and an easing of rates on the money market. 
Indeed , the total outstanding amount of refinancing granted to banks increased by 1,429.1  billion, 
from 4,488.9  billion on 17  March 2020, to 5,918  billion at the end of December  2020, i.e. an increase WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  of 31.8%. The BCEAO also participated with the WAEMU Commissi on in the bonus fund of the West 
African Development Bank (BOAD) to the tune of 25  billion and 15  billion, respectively, i.e. a total 
of 40  billion, in order to allow the granting of 120  billion in concessional loans to States (15  billion 
per State). As fo r BOAD, it granted 120  billion in concessional loans (duration of 18 years including 
05 deferred with an exit rate of 2.75% and a bonus of 2.80%) disbursed immediately, i.e. 15  billion 
per State. These loans are subsidized thanks to a contribution from the  subsidy mechanism of an 
amount of 40  billion (25  billion for the BCEAO and 15  billion for the WAEMU Commission).  
424.  In addition, BOAD granted Member States concessional loans for an amount of 80  billion 
(duration of 10 years including 03 deferred with an ex it rate of 2.80% and a bonus of 2.80%) fully 
disbursed at end of December  2020. In addition to the measures taken to support the States 
following the health crisis, to consolidate its support for the private sector, BOAD has defined a 
program of 100  billion lines of refinancing, approved by its Board of Directors during its session of 
24 June 2020, for the benefit of commercial banks. Finally, the CREPMF has put in place a new 
framework for the issuance of Public Securities by syndication which establishes the registration of 
issuance programs and reduces the time required to carry out the issuances. operations.  
425.  This framework has enabled States to increase the level of resources raised on the market in 
2020 to 1,745  billion, i.e. more than 25% compared to the volume of sovereign borrowings in 
previous years. In addition, the Board revised the conditions for registering bond issues through 
private placement, which contributed to improving the attractiveness of the private sector for bond 
financing, by allowi ng the increase in the volume raised by companies. The CREPMF has published 
a guide on green, social and sustainable type bond issues in line with international standards, in 
particular the standards of the ICMA (International Capital Markets Association) aimed at providing 
a rapid response to the financing needs of the public and private sectors, through diversified 
investment products (Infrastructure bonds, pandemic leaps), and impacting the social progress of 
populations. (CAP  2025 and WAEMU June  2021 Mu ltilateral Surveillance Report). ( www.uemoa.int ). 
Specific national strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic recovery post 
COVID -19 pandemic (South -South perspective)  
426.  Two (2) out of four ( 4) respondents (China and Indonesia) said that they had a South -South 
cooperation strategy, policy or plan for economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic.  
Additional information on the specific strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic 
recovery post COVID -19 pandemic (South -South perspective)  
427.  None of the respondents provided additional information under this part.  
Specific national strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic recovery post 
COVID -19 pandemic (donor perspective)  
428.  Twenty -six (26) out of thirty -six (36) donor respondents (72%) indicated that they had 
adopted a specific strategy, policy or plan for economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic; six 
(6) respo ndents said no (17%) and four ( 4) were unsure (11%).  
Additional information on the specific strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) for economic 
recovery post COVID -19 pandemic (donor perspective)  
429.  AsDB  set up special facilities to provide resources that its DMCs could tap to support national 
and regional initiatives. On 13  April 2020, ADB established the COVID -19 Pandemic Response Option 
as part of AsDB's USD20  billion expanded assistance for DMCs' pandemic response. 
https://www.adb.org/what -we-do/covid19 -coronavirus  (SDTC -RCI) ABD is committed to green 
recovery from the pandemic with the associated development of sustainable and resilient supply 
chains for critical goods (SDTC -ENV). ADB supported subregional initiatives to ensure the smooth 
flow of essential goods and services; strengthen infection surveillance, prevention, and control; and 
reduce disruptions to trade, investment, and mobility of people. Subregional platforms were used to  
conduct dialogue not only on control and mitigation measures but also on macro policies for 
economic recovery and the pandemic's impact on the poor and the vulnerable, women, migrant 
workers, and MSMEs. The GMS mobilized quick -disbursing funds to procure essential supplies and 
equipment at the onset of the pandemic.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  430.  The GMS COVID -19 Response and Recovery Plan 2021 -2023 was set in place. CAREC 
established a health working group to implement the CAREC Health Strategy 2030 to promote health 
cooperation in str engthening national health systems; reinforce regional health security; and 
improve access to health services for migrants, mobile populations, and border communities. SASEC 
customs officials agreed to institute special regimes for sensitive and/or critica l goods to keep 
borders open during the pandemic and develop an action plan for resiliency and preparedness to 
cope with emergencies. The Pacific Humanitarian Pathway on COVID -19 was established to expedite 
responses to humanitarian and health crises acros s the subregion4 and is sustaining trade -related 
economic activities of MSMEs while ensuring gender equality. (SDTC -RCI)  
431.  After helping its developing member countries address the urgent health crisis posed by 
COVID -19, AsDB's priority now is to help them transition toward a green, resilient, and inclusive 
recovery. Recently approved AsDB's country operations strategies and plans include supporting 
sustainable post -pandemic recovery. https://www.adb.org/what -we-do/covid19 -coronavirus 
(SDTC -RCI)  
432.  The Guidanc e Note on Fostering Regional Cooperation and Integration for Recovery and 
Resilience provides some perspectives on how RCI can be made more responsive to recovery. It 
advocates for an expansion to new and emerging areas such as trade in ICT -enabled service s, 
digitalization, and e -commerce, and environmental sustainability (or green) growth, among others. 
https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/764176/regional -cooperation -integration -recov
ery-resilience.pdf (SDTC -RCI) The Trade and Supply Chain F inance Program keeps supporting 
development member banks in their activities to ensure local economies can still access the benefit 
of trade.  
433.  The upcoming "Three -Years Programme on Austrian  Development Cooperation (ADC) 
2022-2024" repeatedly refers to COVI D-19 recovery. This will be done both via bilateral projects 
and via joint financing of multilateral initiatives. It will be conducted in traditional ADC focus sectors.  
434.  Canada's  international assistance response to the COVID -19 pandemic is focused on 
three  pillars of action: fighting the pandemic, managing financial stresses and stabilizing economics, 
and supporting the most vulnerable and reinforcing recovery. This response is also guided by the 
principles and policy priorities set out in the Feminist Inte rnational Assistance Policy, including a 
focus on the poorest and most vulnerable.  
435.  Through these frameworks, Canada is committed to supporting global efforts to stabilize 
developing country economies and enable their pandemic recovery. For example, Canada  is working 
to provide debt relief to the poorest countries through the Debt Service Suspension Initiative, 
including those hardest hit by the pandemic like Small Island Developing States. Canada will support 
a Gender -smart Covid Recovery Plan. In April  2021, FinDev Canada launched a CAD  75 million 
2X Canada: Inclusive Economic Recovery blended finance facility. 2X Canada aims to increase 
resilience and socioeconomic well -being of low -income populations, underserved and marginalized, 
in particular, women an d girls in Latin America, the Caribbean and sub -Saharan Africa. The facility 
will support private sector investments that intentionally drive positive impact on women's economic 
empowerment in entrepreneurship, leadership positions, quality employment and access to 
economic empowerment tools. 2X  Canada is led by FinDev Canada and funded by the Government 
of Canada through Global Affairs Canada's International Assistance Innovation Program (IAIP).  
436.  To promote an inclusive and sustainable economic recovery fr om the pandemic, Canada is 
leading UN discussions under the Financing for Development in the Era of COVID -19 and Beyond 
initiative (with Jamaica and the UN Secretary General) to identify solutions to help guide global 
economic recovery efforts. Launched in  spring 2020, this initiative follows on four years of dedicated 
work and leadership by Canada and Jamaica as co -chairs of the UN Group of Friends of 
SDG Financing. Through the Financing for Development in the Era of COVID -19 and Beyond 
Initiative, the int ernational community identified 259 policy options on a broad range of issues to 
help guide pandemic response as well as global recovery efforts over the long -term towards the 
2030 Agenda. Policy options identified through this initiative include encouragi ng the adoption of 
corporate strategies and business models that integrate long -term sustainable development 
objectives and alignment to the SDGs.  
437.  The Czech Republic  indicated that this area lied within humanitarian aid.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  438.  The EBRD  Coronavirus Solidarity Package  and its extensions.  
439.  The EU is mobilising all resources available to help member states coordinate their national 
responses, and this includes providing objective information about the spread of the virus, the 
effective efforts to contain it and measures taken to repair the economic and social damage brought 
by the pandemic. https://european -union.europa.eu/priorities -and-actions/common -eu-response 
The European Investment Bank and European Investment Fund for Sustainable Development have 
approved more than EUR  56 billion of targeted support for businesses most impacted by the crisis, 
public health and delivery of vaccines. This includes EUR  6.5 billion of new financing to streng then 
health and economic resilience outside the European Union, including EUR  600 million for the COVAX 
initiative that has delivered life -saving vaccines to over 100 countries worldwide.  
440.  The EIB and EU member states have approved EUR  12 billion of new su pport for business 
financing to be deployed under the European Guarantee Fund. 
https://www.eib.org/e n/press/all/eur -56-billion -eib-response -to-covid-19-crisis-climate -action -and
-stronger -development -focus-welcomed -by-eu-finance -ministers  Finally, the EU acting together 
with its Member States and European Financial Institutions, has provided over EUR  46 billion worth 
of global response to Covid -19 pandemic: 
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/FS_21_4897   
441.  Finland  has developed internal documents on the best wa ys to help developing countries to 
cope with and recover from the COVID -19 pandemic.  
442.  France  said that the issue of economic recovery after the 2019 COVID -19 pandemic is at the 
heart of the various Aid -for -Trade programs implemented by France. Indeed, the programs aim to 
build back better by finding practical solutions for a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive 
economic recovery.  
443.  Germany 's Emergency C OVID -19 Support Programme - the Federal Ministry for Economic 
Cooperation and Development ( BMZ) Emergency C OVID -19 Support Programme focuses on key 
areas such as health and pandemic control, food security, social protection and job security in Global 
Value Chains (GVCs), and economic support for enterprises in key industries.  
444.  IaDB 's short and long version of Vision 2025 Reinvest in the Americas Short ver sion. 
445.  An official document concerning the Italian  strategy for economic recovery  post COVID -19 
pandemic has been published in July  2020.  
446.  ITC's Strategic Plan 2022 -25. 
447.  "ITFC outlined its COVID  19: Strategic Preparedness and Response Package (SPRP): In 2020, 
the IsDB Group acted swiftly t o launch a â€˜Strategic Preparedness and Response Package (SPRP) 
to support MCs to mitigate the impact of the COVID -19 Pandemic. The Response Package of 
US$4.6  billion adopts a holistic approach focusing on short, medium, and long -term needs. The 
Response Package is designed under the Framework: Respond, Restore, and Restart : 
• Respond Track (R1) provided immediate support by focusing on strengthening health 
systems and dealing with emergency needs; building capacity in production of testing 
kits and vaccines ; and building Pandemic Preparedness Capacity.  
• Restore Track (R2) focuses on medium -term actions through financing trade and 
SMEs, to sustain activity in core strategic value chains, and ensure continuity of the 
necessary supplies, mainly to health and fo od sectors and other essential 
commodities.  
• Restart Track (R3) will deliver long -term support to build resilient economies on solid 
foundations and catalyse private investment by supporting economic recovery and 
growth. ITFC, as part of the IsDB Group Three (3) Rs Response Initiative, rapidly 
allocated in 2020, US D 300 million in emergency financing in the first phase of its 
intervention, to mitigate the socio -economic obstacles faced by OIC MCs. However, 
due to the severity of the crisis, it was observed that the needs of the MCs extended 
beyond just medical supplie s to include food and other essential commodities. To this 
end, the intervention was scaled up with a total allocation of US D 604.7  million under WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  the R1 (Respond) initiative, which included both new and repurposed facilities to fund 
the purchase of medical  supplies, food items and other essential commodities. 
Furthermore, as part of its Recovery Response Initiative, ITFC has allocated an 
additional US D 550 million to support strategic sectors over the next two years, as 
part of the IsDB Group US D 2.3 billion Three (3) Rs (Respond, Restore, Restart) 
Strategic Preparedness and Response Program (SPRP) for COVID -19 pandemic. As of 
1 October  2021, under R2 (Restore) initiative, ITFC has allocated US D 557 million to 
regional and local banks and financial instituti ons for the recovery of SMEs and the 
private sector clients from the negative impact of the pandemic, as well as for the 
purchase of vaccine.  
448.  In 2020, the ICD decided to allocate USD 250Million  resources to help its MCs in their fight 
against COVID -19, wh ich will be directed towards the following activities:  
• Line of Finance: To provide line of finance to eligible Financial Institutions with the aim 
of supporting the private sector businesses affected by COVID -19 pandemic ;  
• Term Financing /Infrastructure: To provide financing for eligible healthcare, energy 
and agribusiness sector projects ; and 
• Equity Investment and Collaboration with/through ICD  investee companies & other 
financial institutions in ICD network: ICD has developed a plan to support its invest ee 
companies as well as other eligible financial institutions. As regard to ICIEC, it 
contributed USD  770 million in insurance coverage towards the implementation of the 
IsDB Group's US D 2.3 billion COVID -mitigation Strategic Preparedness and Response 
Program (SPRP), guided by the Three (3) Rs (Respond, Restore, Restart) ethos. ICIEC 
and IsDB jointly also launched the US D 2 billion COVID -19 Guarantee Facility (CGF), 
which is specifically aimed at supporting the private sector, in particular, COVID -hit 
indus tries in member countries and to attract cross -border investments. It has also 
created a fast -track approach to handle COVID -19 related transactions. In addition, 
ICIEC put more focus on the health sector followed by food and energy."  
449.  Since 2017, Japan  has annually decided as on an action plan. SDGs Action Plan 2021 was 
entitled Build Back Better from the COVID -19 pandemic and transformation to a new era and it 
includes some economic measures for COVID -19, such as foreign assistance support for overseas  
investment and financing in the Mekong region.  
450.  The Korean  government established a comprehensive initiative: "KOREA: Building TRUST", 
Scientific technology & ICT ODA strategy, "HDP Nexus strategy" and Green New Deal ODA strategy.  
451.  New Zealand  said that par tner countries are responsible for their own national development 
policy, plans, and priorities, which often set out how the partner country intends to implement the 
United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals. Each country we work with has a unique 
development context and challenges. We align our development cooperation funding to national and 
regional development plans of our partners. We maintain ongoing dialogue with partner countries to 
understand their priorities, both through regular formal whole -of-government partnerships talks and 
through less structured regular engagement led by our embassies and high commissions. We 
negotiate Statements of Partnerships with every partner with whom we have a major bilateral 
development programme.  
452.  Norway  saw this areas as not directly related to economic recovery, but Norway is working 
with several organisations and partners to help mitigate the short -term and long -term effects of the 
pandemic . 
453.  Portugal 's new Development Cooperation Strategy will take into account recovery efforts 
from COVID -19 on partner countries in keeping with go als of building back better and contribute 
towards achievement of the SDG and the 2030 Agenda.  
454.  The Russian  State Concept of International Development Assistance which is the key strategic 
document for development - has not changed since 2016 and does not d irectly refer to economic 
recovery post COVID pandemic as an assistance area. However, a number of assistance projects 
being implemented through the Russia -UNDP Trust Fund for Development, UNECE, and UNESCAP, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  and line with the broader priorities contained in the Concept addressed the issue of the COVID -19 
impacts.  
455.  Sweden  does not have any specific economic recovery post -Covid -19 strategy, instead the 
steering of Swedish aid and development cooperation is conducted through existing strategies 
(which did not change due to the pandemic). However, within existing strategies, much work has 
been done to support an economic recovery post C OVID -19 such as : (i) by prioritising certain 
COVID -related ( COVID -response) projects and programs ; and (ii) by reprogramming exi sting 
projects and programs towards C OVID -response. The Swedish core support has also allowed for 
large flexibility for organisations to adapt their work to the pandemic according to their identified 
needs.  
456.  For Switzerland , considerations on economic recov ery post C OVID -19 are taken into account 
in the planning of new projects and in the implementation of running projects. Furthermore, in its 
annual discussions on country program implementation and the related reports, SECO discusses 
strategies for recovery  post C OVID -19 with its partner countries.  
457.  "For UNCTAD , the focus for the AfT in the coming year must be supporting economic recovery 
through trade - Aid for Trade remains of utmost importance.  
• Since last monitoring it became evident that trade is an essential part of the solution 
to fight a pandemic, while the trading system could not help smaller or poorer 
economies mitigate damages from trade disturbance (e.g. limited imports, no 
availability of transports for their exports) during the pandemic -induced trade 
disturbance. Data show that when the pandemic first hit Asia, Asia's exports of medical 
products were replaced by those from Europe and United States (UNCTAD GTU). Also, 
countries with less economic diversification have not recovered their trade even when 
others' picked up during 2021.  
• AfT in 2022 -2023 should have two major objectives: economic diversification through 
trade in goods and services; and increasing the availability and the flows of essential 
goods including vaccines.  
• UNCTAD supports  transparency in trade. The Global Trade Helpdesk by 
ITC-UNCTAD -WTO provides trade data and trade intelligence. The informal WTO MSME 
group, mainly developing countries, supports this trade portal.   
• UNCTAD maps NTMs of African countries within its support  to AfCFTA and also NTMs 
of Latin America (ALADI members), in ASEAN, and several European countries 
including the major markets of developing countries. "  
458.  In addition, for UNCTAD, in the area of Trade Facilitation, the development of a digital trade 
facilitation strategy based on e -learning platform and online IT tools such as the Reform Tracker and 
Trade Information Portals  
459.  UNDP  supported socio -economic impact assessments and work with the UN in formulating 
socio-economic recovery plans as part of United N ations Country Team (UNCT) around the world. 
Building on these, UNDP published its integrated response to COVID -19 early on in 2020 articulating 
how the organization was responding to the demands of partner countries to prepare for and protect 
people from the pandemic and its impacts; respond to the outbreak and recover from the 
socio-economic impacts with particular focus on the most vulnerable countries.  
460.   The strategy identified three  (3) immediate priorities:  
• strengthening of health systems in the face of COVID -19, including procuring urgently 
needed health and medical supplies, strengthening health infrastructure, managing 
health waste, and ensuring salary payments to health workers;  
• Inclusive and integrated crisis management and response, supporting g overnments 
to maintain core functions, and to plan, coordinate, communicate and finance their 
responses; and  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  • Social and Economic Impact needs assessment and response, working with partner 
countries to undertake needs assessments and other analysis to understand the 
economic, social and political implications of the pandemic to help craft adequate 
responses. Further down in the year and building on a better understanding of the 
conditions at country level, depth and scope of the crisis, UNDP expanded th e focus 
of its response to link it more purposefully to long -term resilience. As such, the Beyond 
Recovery: Towards 2030 sought to call attention on the need to remain focused on 
the SDGs by embedding in the response and recovery efforts the foundations fo r the 
SDGs to 2030.  
461.  UNDP identified and prioritized four areas for integrated support: governance, social 
protection, green economy, and digital disruption. The New Strategic Plan endorsed by the Executive 
Board in 2021 defines the direction for the organ ization through 2025 embedding the implications 
of the pandemic in the analysis and definition of priorities for UNDP. Specifically, in Africa, recovery 
from COVID  19 strategies and actions are an integral part of the Africa regional programme 
2022-2025, i ncluding support to building regional supply chains and scale up social protection to the 
most vulnerable groups. UNDP is also supporting the African Union develop Post -COVID -19 recovery 
strategy for Africa. Informed by the findings of UNDP led Socio -econo mic Impact Assessments 
carried out in 15 countries of the region as well as the Socio -economic recovery plans developed in 
partnerships with other UN Agencies, UNDP's Regional Programme for Europe and the 
Commonwealth of Independent States (2022 -2025) aims  to support economic recovery and 
acceleration of structural transformations (Priority 1) to enable green, inclusive and just transitions 
to sustainability.  
462.  UNIDO  Medium -term programme framework 2022 -2025: Integration and scale -up to build 
back better, inc luding Special Initiative on COVID -19 Recovery  The UNIDO COVID -19 framework: 
Responding to the Crisis. Building a Better Future . 
463.  The United Kingdom 's International Development Strategy, which will be launched in the 
Spring, will focus on recovering from COVID; which is the new prism of intern ational work. As above, 
the world's development needs are changing: despite important progress, the SDGs are off track 
and C19 has set back progress. The drivers of poverty fragility, conflict and climate change  - are 
more complex, increasingly interconnec ted and pose a challenge to the UK's long -term security, 
prosperity and resilience.  
464.  The United States  pointed at its Global Response and Recovery Framework . 
465.  The WBG  has developed a GRID strategy that takes a green, resilient, and inclusive approach 
to development as its overall strategic framework. Three aspects of the GRID approach stand out. 
First, since impacts ar e global, effective responses also need international cooperation. Second, 
given the urgency and magnitude of these crises, interventions and investments need to be 
accelerated and at scale. This requires addressing financial constraints, especially in cou ntries with 
limited fiscal space. Third, recovery cannot be sustainable if it leaves behind vulnerable population 
groups. Creating inclusive opportunities is at the core of GRID as climate change and COVID -19 
disproportionately impact the poor and vulnerab le. 
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) for economic recovery from 
the COVID -19 pandemic  
 
Source: OECD -WTO M&E exer cise 2022  
466.  Areas  included in the strategies , policies or plans for economic recovery from the COVID -19 
pandemic include a variety of sectors. The graph above provides a comparison on perspectives on 
these areas between partners and donors.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) for economic recovery from 
the COVID -19 pandemic (partner country perspecti ve) 
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
467.  The top five (5) areas included by partner country respondents in the strategy, policy or plan 
for economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic are the agricultural sector […], MSME support, 
services sector support, job creation and ecommerce.  
Addit ional information on th e areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) 
for economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic (partner country perspective)  
468.  For Congo DR , these priorities are well targeted in the National Strategic Plan for 
Development 2019 -2022.  
469.  Cambodia : "The Strategic Framework and Programs for Economic Recovery in the Context 
of Living with COVID -19 in a New Normal 2021 -2023" gives more focuses on garment sector, 
international and regional integration, e -commerce and digitalization, SME development, lo gistics 
and education and skills.  
470.  The Government of El Salvador  has not only prioritized the life and health of Salvadoran 
families in the face of the crisis caused by the COVID -19 pandemic; From the beginning, it entrusted 
the Economic Cabinet to implemen t the necessary measures for the recovery of economic activity. 
of the country, prioritizing from that moment the Salvadoran Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises 
(MSMEs), and the entrepreneurs of the informal sector. This is how the Trust for the Economic 
Recovery of Salvadoran Companies (ERSC) arose. Through this financial mechanism, the aim is to 
inject economic resources into MSMEs and entrepreneurs in the informal sector that have been 
affected by said pandemic. The "Law for the Creation of the Trust for  the Economic Recovery of 
Salvadoran Companies" establishes that the Development Bank of the Republic of El Salvador 
(DBRS) will be the administrator of ERSC. https://www.firempresa.gob.sv  . 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  471.  Madagascar  added: D evelopment of agriculture, tourism, transport and the private sector 
according to the multisectoral emergency plan of Madagascar . 
472.  Mauritania  added that the strategy also took tourism into consideration.  
473.  Peru: Regarding the areas of connectivity and digital transformation and electronic 
commerce, the following can be commented: As a strategy for economic recovery from COVID -19, 
the State issued two Emergency Decrees, Emergency Decree No.  006-2020 and Emergency Decree 
No. 007-2020, both instruments con stitute, from the perspective of Government and Digital 
Transformation, critical elements for the recovery from COVID -19, since they promoted the use and 
development of digital technologies in the public and private sectors in a context of social distancin g, 
stoppage of economic activities, etc. In the current context, in the midst of a vaccination process 
and even facing the pandemic, the State considers that technologies are a strategic element for the 
development of economic and social activity, evidence  of this is numeral 8 of article 3 of the Decree 
Supreme No.  164-2021-PCM, Supreme Decree that approves the General Government Policy for the 
period 2021 -2026, which details axis (8) Government and digital transformation with equity as one 
of the axes of t he General Government Policy.  
474.  The following can be commented on the scope of productive capacity creation capacity: 
Itinerant markets seek to promote the entrepreneurship of small producers, who continue to work 
to supply food to wholesale markets and sup ply centres, thus guaranteeing a good offer to end users 
as well as prefair  trade and avoid speculation of these. It is important to note that to date more than 
3,000 itinerant markets have been held nationwide, with the participation of 74,000  producers who 
made sales of S/ 40.28  million for a volume of 11.98  thousand tons of food. 
(https://www.agrorural.gob.pe/mercadositinerantes/cifras /) On the other hand, with the 
implementation of this standard, it is expected that by 2024, agricultural prod ucers and 
organizations of agricultural producers will be able to sell to social programs, support or assistance 
food for an amount of around S/ 3,000  million.  
475.  St Lucia  added more information: Infrastructure and Disaster preparedness – the fast 
tracking of  previously negotiated projects that would help meet resiliency objectives in the recurring 
threat of natural disasters were implemented because they had the additional benefit of stimulating 
the economy through employment in the construction sector. Addit ionally, incentives offered to 
home and business owners for private sector capital projects had the similar impact of creating 
economic activity that substituted job losses in the tourism sector. See Economic Recovery and 
Resiliency Plan for more detail: https://www.finance.gov.lc/resources/download/2104   
476.  St Vincent and the Grenadines  listed: (1) innovative approaches to digital transformation; 
and (2) climate change, resilience -building and  the blue economy.  
477.  For Yemen , on macro -economy level, there are several priorities due to the negative effects 
of the coup and war that the militia brought upon Yemen during the past seven years. Most notably 
in areas such as activation the work of governm ent entities and restoration of security and political 
stability, meeting humanitarian needs of effected population, securing basic social needs, restoring 
stability and recovery of macro -economic aspects, infrastructures' rebuilding, and increasing privat e 
sector participation in reconstruction and economic recovery.  
478.  In Zambia , the objectives of the Economic Recovery Programme are to restore 
macroeconomic stability, attain fiscal and debt sustainability, restore growth, dismantle domestic 
arrears and safeg uard social sector spending. The Programme seeks to re -launch the economy on a 
path of sustained economic growth, while stabilizing the monetary, external, and fiscal 
environments. The recovery programme also contains policy measures to mitigate the 
socio-economic effects of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
Areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) for economic recovery from the 
COVID -19 pandemic ( regional economic community and transport corridor perspective ) 
479.  Three (3) of the REC -TCs provided information on the areas that strategy (ies), policy (ies) or 
plan(s) for economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic addressed:  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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Institution  Areas included in REC -TC strategies for economic recovery post COVID -19 
SIECA  Agricultural sector, food production and supply chain support  
MSME support,  
Poverty reduction objectives,  
Trade facilitation  
Trade finance  
TMEA  Digital connectivity and transformation  
E-commerce,  
Environmentally sustainable (or green) growth  
including circular economy  
Job creation  
Services sector support (e.g., tourism)  
Trade facilitation  
Trade policy, modernization and upgrading  
WAEMU  Support for the agricultural sector, food production and supply chain  
Strengthening productive capacity,  
Connectivity and digital transform ation 
E-business  
Environmentally sustainable growth ("green growth")growth, including circular economy  
Job creation  
Support for the industrial sector  
Support for MSMEs  
Poverty reduction targets  
Preparedness, recovery and resilience  
Support to the service sector (e.g. tourism)  
Trade in health products (e.g. personal protective equipment, vaccines, etc.)  
Trade facilitation  
Trade finance  
Trade Policy Modernisation,  
Women's economic empowerment and gender equality and Gender Equality  
Youth Economic Emp owerment,  
Source:  OECD -WTO AfT M&E exercise 2022  
Additional information on the areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) 
for economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic (regional economic community and 
transport corridor perspective ) 
480.  PIFS presented its:  
• Framework for Pacific Regionalism : 
https://www.forumsec.org/wp -content/uploads/2017/09/Framework -for-Pacific -Regi
onalism.pdf  ; 
 
• 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent (still in draft) P acific Aid for Trade 
Strategy 2020 -2025: 
https://www.forumsec.org/wp -content/uploads/2020/04/Pacific -Aid-for-Trade -Strate
gy-2020-2025.pdf  ; 
 
• Pacific E -commerce Initiative :  
 https://www.forumsec.org/2021/02/23/pacific -e-commerce -initiative/  ; and  
 
• Pacific Quality Infrastructure Initiative : 
https://www.forumsec.org/pacific -quality -infrastructure -pqi/ . 
 
481.  SIECA  referenced the following links: 
https://www.sieca.int/index.php/lineamientos -bioseguridad -sector -transporte -terrestreca/    
https://www.sieca.int/index.php/news/reactivacion -economica -en-la-era-post-covid-19-perspectiv
as-economicas -y-comercialespara - centroamerica -2021/  . 
482.  TMEA  published severa l publications on the impact of Covid in the East African Community 
(EAC) region as well as two publications on the impact of Covid on Women traders 
(https://www.trademarkea.com/publications /) as well as a policy brief . WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  (https://www.trademarkea.com/the -impact -of-the-covid-19-crisis-on-trade -recent -evidence -from-
east-africa/ ) 
483.  WAEMU  said that the names of guidance documents related to Aid f or Trade are:  
• Framework of Priority Actions of the WAEMU Commission 2021 -2025;  
• Regional Trade Facilitation Program in West Africa (RTFPWA);  
• West Africa Competitiveness Program (WACOMP);  
• Corridor Development Master Plan for the Growth Ring in West Afric a (CACAO);  
• Community program for the construction of Juxtaposed Checkpoints at the borders 
between WAEMU Member States - Common Market and Free Movement Program;  
• Economic convergence (multilateral surveillance, Economic statistics, harmonization 
of the l egislations of the Member States);  
• Common market promotion policies (Customs Union, movement of goods and 
services, people, right of establishment, trade and competition);  
• Social and Cultural Development Policies (higher education, scientific research; 
vocational training; culture, arts and leisure; gender and development, health);  
• Community Spatial Planning Policy;  
• Transport policy (transport infrastructure and transport and transit services);  
• Telecommunications and ICT policy;  
• Common Policy for the Improvement of the Environment;  
• Agricultural Policy of the Union;  
• Common Energy Policy;  
• Common Industrial Policy;  
• Common Mining Policy;  
• Common Tourism Policy;  
• Common Craf t Policy;  
• WAEMU Strategic Plan 2011 -2020;  
• Regional Trade Facilitation;  
• Regional Trade Development Program ;  
• Regional Program for the Implementation of Instruments for Building the Common 
Market;  
• Community Action Program for Infrastructure and Road Tra nsport (;  
• Regional Air Transport Development Program ;  
• Regional Program for Industrial Development and Promotion of the Private Sector;  
• Regional Energy Development Program;  
• Program for the Development of Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency;  
• Regio nal program to reduce the vulnerability of populations to food insecurity; and 
• Regional support program for the institutionalization of gender and the empowerment 
of women in the UEMOA space.  
Areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) for economic recovery from the 
COVID -19 pandemic (South -South perspective)  
484.  Two (2) respondents highlighted areas in that were included in the strategy (ies), policy (ies) 
or plan (s) for economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic.  
Institution  Areas included in South -South strategies for economic recovery post COVID -19 
China  Digital connectivity and transformation,  
E-commerce,  
Environmentally sustainable (or green) growth,  
including circular economy  
Industrial sector support,  
MSME support,  
Poverty reduction objectives,  
Preparedness, recovery and resilience,  
Trade in health products (PPE, vaccines, etc.),  
Trade facilitation  
Indonesia  Agricultural sector, food production and supply chain support  
Digital connectivity and transformation,  
MSME s upport,  
Trade in health products (PPE, vaccines, etc.)  
Source:  OECD -WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional information on the areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) 
for economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic (South -South perspective)  
485.  N/A 
Areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) for economic recovery from 
the COVID -19 pandemic (donor perspectives)  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
486.  The top five ( 5) areas included by donors in the strategy (ies), policy (ies) or plan (s) for 
economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic are preparedness, recovery and resilience; 
women's economic empowerment […]; environmentally sustainabl e growth […]; MSME support; and 
job creation.  
Additional information on the areas included in the strategy (ies) , policy (ies)  or plan (s) 
for economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic (donor perspective)  
487.  AsDB  invited readers to refer to the Guidance Note on Fostering Regional Cooperation and 
Integration for Recovery and Resilience. 
https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/764176/regional -cooperation -integration -recov
ery-resilience.pdf    
488.  The GMS COVID -19 Response and Recovery Plan 2021 -2023 had three (3) pillars: 
(i) promoting regional  health security through the One Health a pproach; (ii)  protecting the poor and 
vulnerable in border areas through job creation and safe and orderly movement of labour; and 
(iii) ensuring that borders remain open to facilitate transport and trade, rebuild agriculture, and 
generate safe and seamles s tourism opportunities.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 82 - 
 
  489.  https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/institutional -Germany  pointed to 
document/734036/gms -covid-19-response -recovery -plan-2021-2023.pdf AsDB was curre ntly 
conducting a scoping study on GMS trade and investment cooperation.  
490.  Germany  added the issue of stabilization of fragile regions affected by displacement, health 
and pandemic control such as maintaining health care systems and securing access to sexual  and 
reproductive health services, emergency direct funding for national programs, strengthening 
international cooperation.  
491.  IaDB  provided references: 
https://idbdo cs.iadb.org/wsdocs/getdocument.aspx?docnum=EZSHARE -2012700631 -226  
https://idbdocs.iadb.org/wsdocs/getdocument.aspx?docnum=EZSHARE -328957462 -88  
492.  ITC, added the follo wing areas: Regional integration & South -South trade and investment; 
sustainability in international value chains; capacity of business support organizations; inclusion of 
vulnerable groups such as refugees, internally displaced and others.  
493.  ITFC's response to the pandemic has been guided by the IsDB Group Respond, Restore, 
Restart. It is ICIEC 's goal to provide the necessary support for its member countries as a transition 
from R1 into R2 and R3, ensuring that the Organisation of Islamic Cooperatio n (OIC) region emerges 
from this pandemic stronger and more sustainable than ever before. A number of strategic projects 
have already been supported through ICERI Program. So far, USD  276 million worth of trade 
transactions has been supported by the ICERI program in the food and other essential commodities 
sectors. ICIEC has insured a number of telecom equipment transactions in our member countries 
(e.g. Indonesia and Uzbekistan) which supports digital connectivity.  
494.  Italy  has promoted and supported a multil ateral approach favouring it over bilateral action.  
495.  Aotearoa New Zealand  takes a stance of Partnering for Resilience which can be seen here: 
https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/media -and-resources/proactive -release -new-zealands -pacific -engag
ement -from-reset-to-resilience/   
496.  As another area, Switzerland  identified the labour market policies addressing informality 
Examples for C OVID -19 suppo rt to our partner countries:  
• Support to Fairtrade International to assist smallholder farmers in developing 
countries ; 
• Increasing the crisis capacity of the Swiss Investment Fund for Emerging Markets 
(SIFEM) to alleviate liquidity problems faced by SMEs a nd retain jobs ; and 
• Budgetary assistance for public service delivery . 
 
497.  The United Kingdom  added the area of Standards: Reduce non -tariff barriers and supporting 
developing countries to use and meet standards and regulatory measures. This includes capacity 
building for customs systems to reduce red tape, time, and increase transparency for honest and 
reliable systems; and capacity building for developing countries to meet regulatory standards for 
goods and services trade.  
498.  The United States  pointed to its USA ID COVID  19 Response: http://usaid.gov/coronavirus . 
In addition to the focus on vaccine distribution and accessibility, USAID programs are keeping 
children in school, providing emergency food and hygiene assista nce, helping people find work, 
preventing democratic backsliding, addressing gender -based violence, and tackling other 
devastating impacts of the pandemic.  
 
 
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 83 - 
 
  Names, titles, references or weblinks to policy documents relevant to Aid for Trade 
provided by partner countries  
Angola  National Development Plan 2017 -2022 (NDP, the 
Angola 2025 vision in the short term and in the 
Angola  2050 strategy  
Bangladesh  8th Five Year Plan (2021 -2026); 
http://plancomm.gov.bd/site/files/8ec347dc -4926-4
802-a839-7569897e1a7a/8th -Five-Year-Plan. 
Annual Budget 2021 -2022)  
Benin  - National Development Plan of Benin; - National 
Trade Development Policy; - Government Action 
Program (PAG  2: 2021 - 2026); - The various 
national sectoral strategies 
(Agricultural - Digital - Tourism - Energy - Transport, 
Environment, etc.)  
Bhutan  Enhanced Integrated Framework under Department 
of Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs 12 Five Year 
Plan of Bhutan 21st century economic roadmap of 
Bhutan  
Cambodia  https://data.opendevelopmentcambodia.net/laws_re
cord/national -strategic -development -plan-nsdp-201
9-2023/resource/bb62a621 -8616-4728-842f-33ce7e
199ef3  
Cambodia  1. Trade SWAp, https://moc.gov.kh/tradeswap/ 2. 
Rectangular Strategy Phase IV, 
http://cnv.org.kh /wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Rect
angular -Strategy -Phase -IV-of-the-Royal - Governme
nt-of-Cambodia -of-the-Sixth-Legislature -of-the-Nati
onal-Assembly -2018-2023.pdf 3. Industrial 
Development Policy 2015 -2025, 
http://www.mih.gov.kh/File/UploadedFiles/12_9_20
16_4_ 29_43.pdf 4. Cambodia Trade Integration 
Strategy, 
https://cambodiancorner.files.wordpress.com/2019/
12/cambodia -trade -integratio -strategy -2019-2023-1
.pdf 5. E -Commerce Strategy, 
https://www.kh.undp.org/content/cambodia/en/hom
e/library/e -commerce -strategy.ht ml 6. "The 
Strategic Framework and Programs for Economic 
Recovery in the Context of Living with COVID -19 in 
a New Normal 2021 -2023"  
Central African Republic  Recovery and Peacebuilding Plan (2017 -2021); 
Trade and Industry Development Strategy 
(2019 -2023)  
Colombia  National Development Plan 2018 -2022 Pact for 
Colombia, Pact for Equity Pact II: Pact for 
Entrepreneurship, Formalisation and Productivity: a 
dynamic, inclusive and sustainable economy that 
enhances all our talents. A world of possibilities:  
tapping international markets and attracting 
productive investment. 
https://colaboracion.dnp.gov.co/CDT/Prensa/PND -20
18-2022.pdf Conpes 3982 National Logistics Policy 
https://colaboracion.dnp.gov.co/CDT/Conpes/Econ%
C3%B3micos/3982.pdf The CONPES Document 3866 
of 2016 "National Policy for Productive 
Development", has among its objectives the 
diversification and sophistication of the productive 
apparatus and the export basket of the departments 
to which it applies. export basket of the departments 
through a methodology for the prioritisation of 
productive bets (sectors). This document shows 
measurements such as: sophistication (Atlas of 
Economic Complexity), Revealed and Latent 
Comparative Advantage, productive linkages, among 
others. General information on e conomic 
cooperation priorities is also available at: 
https://www.apccolombia.gov.co/ WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 84 - 
 
  https://colaboracion.dnp.gov.co/CDT/Conpes/Econ%
C3%B3micos/3866.pdf  
Comoros  DTIS Revised 2015 SCADD revised 2018 Emerging 
Comoros Plan (PCE), 2020 -2030  
Congo D R We can  mention the Diagnostic Trade Integration 
Study (DTIS)  
Cote d'Ivoire  NDP 2021 - 2025 
Dominican Republic  TRADE POLICY REVIEW OF THE DOMINICAN 
REPUBLIC BEFORE THE WORLD TRADE 
ORGANIZATION (WTO).  
El Salvador  https://www.firempresa.gob.sv/ 
https://plancuscatlan.com  
Equatorial Guinea  1. Institutional Support Project for Trade 
Development in Equatorial Guinea of the Enhanced 
Integrated Framework. 2. The GE EDIC  3. Diagnostic 
Study for the Improvement of the Business Climate 
in Equatorial Guinea 4.  
Ethiopia  Home grown economic reform ten year (2020 -2030) 
development plan  
Fiji 1. Fijian Trade Policy Framework 
https://www.mitt.gov.fj/wp -content/uploads/2018/1
0/Fijian -Trade -Policy -Framework -min.pdf 2. 5 -Year 
and 20-Year National Development Plan 
https://www.fiji.gov.fj/getattachment/15b0ba03 -82
5e-47f7-bf69-094ad33004dd/5 -Year-20-Year-NATIO
NAL-DEVELOPMENT -PLAN.aspx 3. Pacific Aid for 
Trade Strategy (PAfTS) 2020 -2025 
https://www.forumsec.org/aid -for-trade-strategy / 
Kiribati  1. Kiribati Trade Policy - 2017 - 2027 2. Kiribati 
National Investment Policy Framework 2018 - 2028 
3. Kiribati National Quality Policy 2017 - 2023  
Gabon  the Acceleration and Transformation Plan (PAT) the 
Economic Recovery Plan (PRE)  
Gambia  National Export Strategy 2021 to 2026 National 
AfCFTA Implementation Strategy 2021 - 2031 
National Development Plan 2018 -2021 National 
Trade Policy 2018 -2022 Industrial Policy and Trade 
Strategy 2018 -2022 National Investment Policy 
2018-2022 Nationa l MSME Policy 2014 -2018 
National Entrepreneurship Policy 2016 National 
Energy Policy, Strategy and Action Plan  
Grenada  Grenada National Export Strategy and Action Plan, 
MSME policy  
Guatemala  Plan for Economic Recovery in Guatemala. â€¢ 
General Government Policy 2020 -2024. â€¢ Country 
Development Cooperation Strategy 2020 -2025. â€¢ 
Guatemalan Economic Policy 2016 -2021. â€¢ 
Integrated Foreign Trade, Competitiveness and 
Investment Policy of Guatemala.  
Guinea -Bissau  STRATEGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF TRADE AND 
EXPORTS OF GUINEA BISSAU  
Lesotho  1. National Strategic Development Plan II 
(2018/19 - 2022/23) 2. Lesotho National Trade 
Policy (2021 - 2025) 3. Diagnostic Trade Integration 
Study (DTIS) Update 2012 4. Lesotho National 
Export Strategy 5. Lesotho  Rapid eTrade Readiness 
Assessment  
Madagascar  - The Reinforced Integrated Framework Project, 
Phase 2 entitled: "Strengthening national 
implementation arrangements to support trade and 
investment in Madagascar. - Trade Corridor 
Development and Facilitation Project 
(PACFC) - Export Development and Region al 
Integration Support Program (PADEIR) - Trade 
related Facility (TRF) project - COMESA Adjustment 
Facility Project to the Regional Integration Support 
Mechanism (FACMAIR Project) - Agricultural Growth 
and Land Security Project (CASEF WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 85 - 
 
  Project) - Integrated  Growth Pole (PIC2 
Project) - Regional Food and Nutritional Safety 
Program (PRESAN) - Industrialization and Financial 
Sector Support Project (PAISF) - Project for the 
development of the agro -industrial processing zone 
in the South -West region of Madagascar  (PTASO)  
Mali - Strategic Framework for Economic Growth and 
Sustainable Development 2019 -2023; - National 
Trade Development Policy Document and its 
2018-2023 Action Plan; - Mali Trade Policy Review 
Report 2017; Website: www.wto.org - Report of Mali 
on trade monitoring of WAEMU  2020; Website: 
www.uemoa.int - Diagnostic Study on Trade 
Integration (EDIC) and its action matrix updated in 
2015; - Industrial Development Policy.  
Mauritania  No Aid for Trade documents yet. But we would still 
like to have aid to b e able to help Mauritanian SMEs 
to internationalise  
Mauritius  https://budgetmof.govmu.org/Documents/2021_22b
udgetspeech_english.pdf 
https://mof.govmu.org/Documents/Documents/Bud
get%202020 -2021/Budget%20Speech%202020 -202
1%20%28English%29.pdf  
Mexico  http:/ /www.dof.gob.mx/nota_detalle.php?codigo=55
65599&fecha=12/07/2019 
https://www.gob.mx/se/acciones -y-programas/prog
rama-sectorial -de-economia -2020-2024 
Moldova  National Development Strategy Moldova 
2030,https://www.giz.de/en/worldwide/87417.html 
Gov. Decisi on No.  857 of 31 -10-2013 on the 
National Strategy for the Development of the 
Information Society "Digital Moldova 2020".  
Myanmar  https://unctad.org/system/files/official -document/dtl
stict2018d1_en.pdf 
https://themimu.info/sites/themimu.info/files/docu
ments/Report_Medium_Term_Programme_MTP_Mar
2017.pdf 
https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/myanmar/p
ublication/myanmar -diagnostic -trade -integration -stu
dy 
Nepal  Trade policy 2015, NTIS  2016, International 
Development Cooperation Policy 2019 
https://moics.gov.np/public/uploads/shares/policy/tr
ade_policy_20721_1467958214_1470736457.pdf 
https://moics.gov.np/public/uploads/shares/publicati
on/NTIS_2016_1546150729.pdf 
https://www.mof.gov.np/uploads/document/file/prin
t_copy_IDCMP -2019_Eng -fullpage_2 019110707173
9.pdf  
Niger  https://www.nigerrenaissant.org/fr/plandedeveloppe
ment-economique -et-social  
Pakistan  11th Five -year plan as approved by the Ministry of 
Planning, Development and Special Initiatives: 
https://www.pc.gov.pk/web/yearplan Annual Plan  
for year 2021 -22 of Ministry of Planning, 
Development and Special Initiatives: 
https://www.pc.gov.pk/web/annualplan  
Papua New Guinea  National Trade Policy 2017 -2032 
http://www.pngeutra2.org.pg/wp -content/uploads/2
017/08/PNG -National -Trade -Policy -2017-2032.pdf  
Paraguay  Paraguay National Development Plan 2030: 
https://www.stp.gov.py/pnd/ Economic Recovery 
Plan Ã'apu'a Paraguay: 
http://www.set.gov.py/portal/napuaPy/home/leyes 
Analysis of sectors with major post COVID -19 
potential: 
https://www.mic.gov.py/ mic/w/mic/MIC_Rediex_Pla
n_post_covid_2020.pdf Paraguay economic and 
social context: WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 86 - 
 
  https://www.mic.gov.py/mic/w/mic/Contexto%20Ec
onomico%20y%20social%20%20MAB%2028%2003
%202021.pdf National Logistics Plan Paraguay 2030: 
https://www.mic.gov.py/mic/w/pdf/PNL _PY_Product
o_4_publicable.pdf Capital Seed Entrepreneur 
Woman: 
https://www.mic.gov.py/mic/w/mic/Convocatoria_C
apital_Semilla_Mujer.php  
Peru Strategic Plan for National Development: 
https://www.ceplan.gob.pe/sinaplan/planbicentenari
o-2/  Supreme Decree No.  164-2021-PCM, Supreme 
Decree that approves the General Government 
Policy for the period 2021 -2026: 
https://busquedas.elperuano.pe/normaslegales/decr
eto-supremo -que-aproba -la-politica -general -of-gov
ernment -supreme -decree -n- 164-2021-pcm-200206
3-5/  Nation al Export Strategic Plan 2025: 
https://www.mincetur.gob.pe/comercio -exterior/pla
nestrategico -nacional - exporter/penx -2025/  
National Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity 
2019 - 2030: 
https://www.mef.gob.pe/concdecompetitividad/Plan
_Nacional_de_Competi tividad_y_Productividad_PNC
P.pdf  National Policy for International Technical 
Cooperation: 
http://portal.apci.gob.pe/Compendio%20Normas%2
0Legales%20CTI/111.pdf  International Technical 
Cooperation Policy Statement: 
https://www.gob.pe/institucion/rree/norma s-legales
/239333 -007-2019-re  Project of the Strategic Plan 
for National Development to 2050 - Proposal 
(working document): 
https://www.gob.pe/institucion/ceplan/noticias/5538
14-comunicado -017-2021-ceplan State Policies of 
the National Agreement: 
http://ww w.acuerdonacional.pe/politicas -de-estado -
del-acuerdo -nacional/politicas -de-estado%E2%80%
8B/politicas -de-estado -castellano/  National Strategy 
for the Promotion of Biotrade: 
https://consultasenlinea.mincetur.gob.pe/Document
osNormativos/Publico/Imagen.aspx?I TEM=132856  
National Gender Equality Policy: 
https://cdn.www.gob.pe/uploads/document/file/305
292/ds_008_2019_mimp.pdf  Legislative Decree 
No. 1492, Legislative Decree that approves 
provisions for the reactivation, continuity and 
efficiency of operations li nked to the foreign trade 
logistics chain, 
https://busquedas.elperuano.pe/normaslegales/decr
eto-legislativo -que-aprob -provisions -for-the-reactiv
e-legislative -decree -n-1492-1866212 -4/  
Legislative Decree No.  1412, Legislative Decree 
approving the Digital Government Law: 
https://busquedas.elperuano.pe/normaslegales/decr
eto-legislativo -que-aprove -la-ley-de-gobierno -digital
-decreto -legislativo -n-1412- 1691026 -1/  
National Digital Transformation System, created by 
Emergency Decree No.  006-2020: 
https: //busquedas.elperuano.pe/normaslegales/decr
eto-de-urgencia -que-crea-el-sistema -nacional -de-tra
nsfor- emergency -decree -n-006-2020-1844001 -1/  
Digital Confidence Framework, created by 
Emergency Decree No.  007-2020: 
https://busquedas.elperuano.pe/normaslegale s/decr
eto-de-urgencia -que-aproba -el-marco -de-confianza -
digita -decreto -emergency - n-007-2020-1844001 -2/  
Supreme Decree No.  157-2021-PCM, which 
approves the regulations of the National Digital 
Transformation System: 
https://busquedas.elperuano.pe/normasleg ales/decrWT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 87 - 
 
  eto-supremo -que-aproba -el-reglamento -del-decreto - 
de-urg-supreme -decree -n- 157-2021-pcm-1995486 -
1/  
Philippines  N/A 
Samoa  - Strategy for the Development of Samoa, 
2016/17 - 2019/20 - https://policy.asiapacificenergy
.org/node/2834 - Samoa 
2040 - https://www.mof.gov.ws/wp -content/uploads
/2021/03/Samoa -2040-Final.pdf - PACER Plus Rapid 
Needs Assessment: Samoa Country 
Report - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sLrv7Nv_M
m-uLIOYCScbbNOz1zR7etuE/view?usp=sharing - All 
Samoa -related national policy 
docume nts - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/
1rqtjOa3lCkEj5toSmjMN9ZM5PlWPlFbD?usp=sharing  
Sao Tome & Principe  EDIC; Memorandum of OMC accession; Comercial 
strategy (2018/2025); National Strategy post 
Covid -19; Strategic Marketing Plan for Tourism in 
STP 
Senegal  1.CONTRIBUTION OF THE MINISTRY OF TRADE AND 
SMEs TO THE ECONOMIC RELAUNCH PLAN (PREN) 
POST -COVID  19; 2. Data source (e.g. internal 
review by UNMO); 3. National development Plan  
St. Lucia  Medium Term Development Strategy 2020 -2023: 
https://planipo lis.iiep.unesco.org/en/2020/saint -luci
a%E2%80%99s -medium -term-development -strateg
y-2020-2023-7124 National Trade/Export Strategy 
2020-2024: 
https://exportsaintlucia.org/wp -content/uploads/202
0/09/National -Export -Strategy -2020-2024.pdf 
Economic Recovery and  Resiliency Plan: 
https://www.finance.gov.lc/resources/download/210
4  
Togo 1. Diagnostic Study for Trade Integration and its 
Operational Action Plan (DTIS, 2017 2022)  
2. National Development Plan (NDP, 2018 2022)  
3. National strategy for the use of AGOA  (2018)  
4. Government Roadmap (2020 2025)  
5. National Strategy for Export Promotion in the 
FTAA Market  
6. National Strategic Plan for E -Commerce 
Development (2022 2026)  
7. Capacity building project for the development of 
e-commerce in Togo (PRoCET, 2022  2026).  
8. Joint Programming Document/European 
Cooperation in Togo (2021 202  
Tuvalu  1. Tuvalu Trade Policy 
Statement - https://enhancedif.org/en/system/files/
uploads/undp_ -_tuvalu_trade_policy_statement_tps.
pdf?file=1&type=node&id=6121 2. Tuvalu Trade 
Diagnostic 
Study - https://enhancedif.org/en/system/files/uplo
ads/tuvalu_dtis_update_report -2016_final_dec_201
6.pdf?file=1&type=node&id=5314 3. Tuvalu Rapid E 
Readiness Assessm ent 
Study - https://enhancedif.org/en/system/files/uplo
ads/tuvalu_rapid_etrade_readiness_assessment.pdf
?file=1&type=node&id=5842 4. Tuvalu National 
Trade Development Strategy - recently finalised and 
will be launched in late January  2022. 5. Te 
Kete - https://mfed.tv/wp -content/uploads/2021/06
/Te-Kete_TuvaluNationalStrategyForSustainableDeve
lopment_2021to2030.pdf 6. Tuvalu Priority 
Investment 
plan - https://mfed.tv/wp -content/uploads/2021/05/
PRIF-Tuvalu -Infrastructure -Plan-FINAL -pages.pdf  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 88 - 
 
  Uganda  https://www.oecd -ilibrary.org/development/aid -for-t
rade-at-a-glance -2019 
https://www.intracen.org/itc/about/mission -and-obj
ectives/aid -for-trade/ 
https://ec.europa.eu/international -partnerships/syst
em/files/eu -aid-for-trade -progress -report -2019 
https://tra de4devnews.enhancedif.org/en/aid -trade 
https://www.usaid.gov/uganda 
https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/uganda/publ
ication/uganda -economic -update 
https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org 
https://www.fao.org/in -action/globefish/fishery -infor
mation/resource -detail https://www.mtic.go.ug 
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/booksp_e/aid4tr
ade15_chap3_e.pdf 
https://www.un.org/development/desa/dpad/wpcont
ent/uploads/sites/45/publication/2016_Member_Aid
_for_Trade Third National Development Plan (NDP3) 
2020/21 -2024/25 https://www.finance.go.ug  
Vanuatu  1. National Sustainable Development Plan 
2016-2030 
(https://www.gov.vu/index.php/resources/vanuatu -
2030) 2. National Trade Policy Framework Update 
2019-2025 
(https://enhancedif.org/system/tdf/uploads/tpfu -van
uatu.pdf? fi le=1&type=node&id=5919) 3. Post 
Disaster needs assessment Volume A & B 
(https://dsppac.gov.vu/index.php? 
option=com_content&view=article&id=135&Itemid=
363) 
Viet Nam  Vietrade Promotion Agency, Ministry of Industry and 
Trade: http://www.vietrade.gov.vn/  
Zambia The National Policy and Strategy Documents in 
which trade and trade related issues are as follows: 
National Trade Policy 
(https://www.mcti.gov.zm/?page_id=1285) 
Industrial Policy 
(https://www.mcti.gov.zm/?page_id=1285)  
National Export Strategy 
(https ://www.mcti.gov.zm/?page_id=1285)  7th 
National Development Plan which is in the process of 
being replaced by the 8th National Development 
Plan 
(https://www.mndp.gov.zm/wp -content/uploads/20
18/05/7NDP.pdf)  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
Names, titles, refer ences or weblinks  to policy documents relevant to Aid for Trade 
provided by regional economic communities and transport corridors  
PIFS Framework for Pacific Regionalism 
https://www.forumsec.org/wp -content/uploads/2017/0 9/Framework -for-Pacific -Regionalism.pdf 
2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent (still in draft) Pacific Aid for Trade Strategy 
2020-2025 
https://www.forumsec.org/wp -content/uploads/2020/04/Pacific -Aid-for-Trade -Strategy -2020-2
025.pdf Pacific E -commer ce Initiative 
https://www.forumsec.org/2021/02/23/pacific -e-commerce -initiative/ Pacific Quality 
Infrastructure Initiative https://www.forumsec.org/pacific -quality -infrastructure -pqi/  
TMEA  TMEA published several publications on the impact of Covid in the  EAC region as well as two 
publications on the impact of Covid on Women traders 
(https://www.trademarkea.com/publications/) as well as a policy brief 
(https://www.trademarkea.com/the -impact -of-the-covid-19-crisis-on-trade -recent -evidence -fro
m-east-africa/)  
SIECA  https://www.sieca.int/index.php/lineamientos -bioseguridad -sector -transporte -terrestreca/ 
https://www.sieca.int/index.php/news/reactivacion -economica -en-la-era-post-covid-19-perspec
tivas-economicas -y-comercialespara - centroamerica -2021/  
WAEMU  The names of guidance documents related to Aid for Trade are: - Framework of Priority Actions 
of the WAEMU Commission 2021 -2025; - Regional Trade Facilitation Program in West Africa WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  (FEAO); - West Africa Competitiveness Program (WACOMP); - Corridor Develop ment Master 
Plan for the Growth Ring in West Africa (CACAO); - Community program for the construction of 
Juxtaposed Checkpoints (PCJ) at the borders between WAEMU Member States - Common 
Market and Free Movement Program; - Economic convergence (multilateral  surveillance, 
Economic statistics, harmonization of the legislations of the Member States); - Common market 
promotion policies (Customs Union, movement of goods and services, people, right of 
establishment, trade and competition); - Social and Cultural De velopment Policies (higher 
education, scientific research; vocational training; culture, arts and leisure; gender and 
development, health); - Community Spatial Planning Policy; - Transport policy (transport 
infrastructure and transport and transit services ); - Telecommunications and ICT 
policy; - Common Policy for the Improvement of the Environment; - Agricultural Policy of the 
Union; - Common Energy Policy; - Common Industrial Policy; - Common Mining 
Policy; - Common Tourism Policy; - Common Craft Policy; - WAEMU Strategic Plan 
2011-2020; - Regional Trade Facilitation (PRFE); - Regional Trade Development Program 
(PRDEC); - Regional Program for the Implementation of Instruments for Building the Common 
Market (PRMIEM); - Community Action Program for Infrastru cture and Road Transport 
(PACITR); - Regional Air Transport Development Program (PRDTA); - Regional Program for 
Industrial Development and Promotion of the Private Sector; - Regional Energy Development 
Program (PRDE); - Program for the Development of Renew able Energies and Energy Efficiency 
(PRODERE I & II); - Regional program to reduce the vulnerability of populations to food 
insecurity; - Regional support program for the institutionalization of gender and the 
empowerment of women in the UEMOA space.  
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Names, tit les, references or weblinks to policy documents relevant to Aid for Trade 
provided by South -South partners  
499.  Indonesia provided the following links: Lembaga Dana Kerja Sama Pembangunan 
Internasional  (Indonesian Agency for International Development) Website: ldkpi.kemenkeu.go.id  
Names, titles, references or weblinks to policy documents relevant to Aid for Trade 
provided by Donors  
AfDB AfDB. 2013. "Ten Year Strategy", [online]. Available at 
https://www.afdb.org/en/about -us/mission -strategy/afdbs -strategy AfDB. 2019. "Aid for Trade 
Trust 
Fund",https://www.afdb.org/en/topics -and-sectors/initiatives -partnerships/aid -for-trade-trust-fu
nd AfDB. 2021. "Aid for Trade Initiatives and partnerships", [ online], available at: 
https://www.afdb.org/en/topics -and-sectors/initiatives -partnerships AfDB. 2021. "AfDB Group 
Gender Strategy 2021 -2025", [online], Available at: 
https://www.afdb.org/en/documents/african -development -bank-group -gender -strategy -2021-20
25  
AsDB  Regional Cooperation and Integration: RCI operational plan for 2019 -2024 
(https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/institutional -document/495981/strategy -2030-op7-regio
nal-cooperation -integration.pdf) Guidance Note on Fostering Regional Cooperation  and 
Integration for Recovery and Resilience. 
(https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/publication/764176/regional -cooperation -integration -rec
overy -resilience.pdf) Regional: Subproject 2: Aid for Trade for Inclusive Growth, 2020 -2022 
(https://www.adb.org/p rojects/52189 -003/main#project -pds) (SDTC -ENV) ADB TSCFP: 
https://www.adb.org/what -we-do/trade -supply -chain -finance -program/main Central and West 
Asia/CAREC: CAREC Integrated Trade Agenda 2030 
(https://www.adb.org/documents/carec -trade-agenda -2030-action -plan-2018-2020) Rolling 
strategic action plan 2021 -2023 
(https://www.carecprogram.org/uploads/CITA -2030-RSAP -2021-2023_EN.pdf) Southeast 
Asia/GMS: (SDTC -RCI, SERC) Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation Program 
Strategic Framework 2012 -2022 
(https:// www.adb.org/sites/default/files/institutional -document/33422/files/gms -ec-framework -2
012-2022.pdf) GMS COVID -19 Response and Recovery Plan 2021 -2023 
(https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/institutional -document/734036/gms -covid-19-response -
recovery -plan-2021-2023.pdf) Indonesia: Competitiveness, Industrial  Modernization, and Trade 
Acceleration Program, Subprogram 1 (https://www.adb.org/projects/53211 -001/main) 
Timor -Leste: Capacity for Multilateral and Regional Economic Integration 
(https://www.adb.org/pr ojects/54143 -001/main) Regional: "Early Harvest" Implementation of 
the Cross -Border Transport and Trade Facilitation in the Greater Mekong Subregion 
(https://www.adb.org/projects/53411 -001/main) Regional: Enhancing Trade Facilitation in 
Southeast Asia (htt ps://www.adb.org/projects/54205 -001/main)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Australia  Partnerships for Recovery: Australia's COVID -19 Response 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/publications/aid/partnerships -recovery -australias -covid-19-developme
nt-response) Examples of bilateral Aid -for-Trade activities: Papua New Guinea Transport Sector 
Support Program (https://www.pngtssp.com/). In 2019, 1,768 kilometres of PNG national 
priority roads were maintained. This support helps to ensure that goods can reach export 
markets. Samoa Enhancing Road  Access Project 
(https://projects.worldbank.org/en/projects -operations/project -detail/P145545). Sound road 
networks support trade and promote commercial activity by facilitating the movement of goods 
and services. Australia's AUD13  million contribution to the rehabilitation of existing infrastructure 
assets and construction of new economic enabling infrastructure has helped improve Samoa's 
network of roads, which is vital to country's economy and development. The project was based 
on a vulnerability study c onducted by the Land and Transport Authority. Degrading critical 
infrastructure project sites (East Coast Road & Vaitele Road and bridges Maliolio, Moamoa, 
Maagao, Leone, Nuusuatia and Aia) were chosen for their importance in providing access to 
hospitals,  schools, places of employment, tourist infrastructure, port facilities, power plants and 
airports. Samoa Submarine Cable Project 
(https://www.adb.org/projects/documents/sam -47320 -001-pcr). Australia provided a 
AUD2.8  million contribution to co -finance wit h Asia Development Bank (ADB) the implementation 
of the second submarine cable between Samoa and Fiji. The project provides universal access to 
reliable and affordable broadband internet services for the people and businesses of Samoa. It 
was completed in 2018. More than 90% of the population now has access to 4G bandwidth 
internet. The wholesale price of internet bandwidth is now USD54â€"USD160Mbps/month 
compared to USD1500Mbps/month prior to the project. Vanuatu Governance for Growth (GfG) 
Program 
(https: //www.dfat.gov.au/about -us/publications/Pages/vanuatu -governance -for-growth -phase -3-
design). In partnership with the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Australia has 
supported a local business (with over 40,000 plantations) to gain HAACP certificati on in food 
safety to help gain access to international export markets for passionfruit. GfG has also 
supported business coaching for MSMEs /SMEs with a particular focus on women founded and led 
businesses. Coaching has been particularly impactful during CO VID-19. GfG is also supporting the 
Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Agency to develop its first National Investment Policy 
which aims to increase and improve investment that promotes sustainable development and 
economic recovery. Another key action sup ported by GfG, and which has been discussed and 
showcased at the WTO Aid -for-Trade Stocktake, is the National Electronic Single Window Project 
(https://singlewindow.gov.vu/). The project is a first for the Pacific region, making trade faster, 
easier and mo re reliable by digitising paper -based processes and allowing connection to 
inter-operable systems such as customs and biosecurity. This has allowed Vanuatu to better 
connect to global markets and is helping drive local business growth. Tonga With Australia n 
support, Tonga is constructing an agricultural goods packhouse that will help Tonga's export 
marketing pathways for root crops and cucurbit. It will provide jobs and income opportunities for 
women and youth who are heavily involved in the export processi ng stage. The packhouse will be 
climate resilient and fully equipped to meet international standards in handling and biosecurity. 
In addition, Australia is supporting Tonga's horticulture sector by expanding the scope of 
agricultural extension activities w hat will help growers to upgrade their operations and enter 
export markets through the packhouse. Examples of regional Aid -for-Trade activities: The PHAMA 
Plus (https://phamaplus.com.au/) Program focuses on improving market access for Pacific island 
countr ies' (Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu) key export 
industries and promoting industry coordination through the establishment of industry working 
groups. In 2018, the program transitioned to a third phase focusing on cocoa, coff ee, high -value 
coconut products and fisheries, and finding export markets for them. The Market Development 
Facility (MDF; https://marketdevelopmentfacility.org/) currently focuses on five market systems 
in the Indo -Pacific - Fiji, Timor -Leste, Sri Lanka, P apua New Guinea, and Pakistan. It supports the 
agribusiness sector in these countries to improve quality, achieve certification for export 
commodities, and connect with international markets. MDF has benefitted 97,000 people and 
leveraged USD14.2  million i n private sector investment. The Pacific Flights Program and 
Humanitarian and Essentials Services Corridor 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/australia -stepping -up-to-address -covid-19-in-the-pacific) 
support subsidies to Pacific airlines, and the Pacific 's efforts to maintain connectivity, ensure 
supply chains remain open and facilitate business continuity. Australia has funded 
point-of-departure COVID -19 testing for travellers and facilitated movement of essential cargo 
and people. Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development (https://pacificwomen.org/our -work) is 
Australia's flagship gender program in the Pacific, supporting the economic empowerment of 
women. It works with Pacific governments, civil society organisations, the private sector, and 
multilatera l, regional and United Nations agencies to support the transition of women into the 
formal economy. It supports activities that look at how regulations, policies, services, and social 
norms affect how women gain from and influence the formal and informal e conomies. The 
Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP; https://www.aiffp.gov.au/) 
includes up to AUD400  million in financing to upgrade ports in PNG, enabling them to take larger 
ships, improving trade and connectivity between P NG and its trading partners. Refer also: Pacific 
Agreement on Closer Economic Relations Plus WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  (https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/in -force/pacer/pacific -agreement -on-closer -economi
c-relations -plus) Pacific regional economic growth and private sector d evelopment 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/development -assistance/economic -growth -and-private -sect
or-development) Pacific Step -up (https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific) South Asia Regional 
Infrastructure Connectivity (SARIC) Framework 
(https://www.dfat .gov.au/publications/development/south -asia-regional -infrastructure -connectivi
ty-saric-framework) South Asia Regional Trade Facilitation Program 
(https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/south -asia-regional -integration/brief/south -asia-regio
nal-trade -facilita tion-program) Competition Law Implementation Program 
(https://www.accc.gov.au/about -us/international -relations/competition -law-implementation -prog
ram-clip) Consumer Affairs Program 
(https://www.accc.gov.au/about -us/international -relations/consumer -affairs -program -cap) 
Indonesia COVID -19 Development Response Plan 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/publications/development/indonesia -covid-19-development -response -p
lan) Indonesia -Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreem ents/in -force/iacepa/Pages/indonesia -australia -comprehe
nsive-economic -partnership -agreement) Blueprint for Trade and Investment with Indonesia 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/publications/trade -and-investment/blueprint -trade -and-investment -ind
onesia) Australia -Indonesia Joint Statement on Cooperation on the Green Economy and Energy 
Transition | Prime Minister of Australia 
(https://www.pm.gov.au/media/australia -indonesia -joint-statement -cooperation -green -economy
-and-energy -transition -0) IA-CEPA Economic Cooperation  Program - Katalis 
(https://www.iacepa -katalis.org/about -katalis/#about -katalis) Indonesia Australia Partnership for 
Infrastructure (KIAT) - Design and Implementation 
(https://www.cardno.com/projects/indonesia -australia -partnership -for-infrastructure -kiat-design -
and-implementation/) Sustainable Infrastructure Assistance Program Phase II (SIAP2) | Asian 
Development Bank (https://www.adb.org/projects/52152 -001/main) Development Partnership in 
Indonesia 
(https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/indonesia/development -assist ance/economic -recovery -in-indonesi
a)  
Austria  For the Austrian Development Policy in general, see the "Three Year Programme 
2019-2021" - https://www.entwicklung.at/fileadmin/user_upload/Dokumente/Publikationen/3_JP
/Englisch/3JP_2019 -2021_EN.pdf For Austri an engagement in Women's economic 
empowerment" - see section 3 of the questionnaire and "Gender 
Policy" - https://www.entwicklung.at/fileadmin/user_upload/Dokumente/Publikationen/Leitlinien/
Englisch/PD_Gender_2017_EN.pdf For engagement in renewable energy see policy document 
"Energy for sustainable 
development" -https://www.entwicklung.at/fileadmin/user_upload/Dokumente/Publikationen/Leit
linien/Englisch/PD_Energy_July2010_EN.pdf For sustainability issues see "Strategic guideline on 
environment and developme nt" 
https://www.entwicklung.at/fileadmin/user_upload/Dokumente/Publikationen/Strategien/Englisc
h/EN_Strategic_Guidelines_Environment.pdf  
Canada  Feminist International Assistance Policy: 
https://www.international.gc.ca/world -monde/issues_development -enjeux_developpement/priori
ties-priorites/policy -politique.aspx?lang=eng Website on Canada's inclusive approach to trade 
https://www.international.gc.ca/gac -amc/campaign -campagne/inclusive_trad e/index.aspx?lang=
eng The Government of Canada's International Assistance 2019 -2020 
https://www.international.gc.ca/transparency -transparence/international -assistance -report -rappo
rt-aide-internationale/2019 -2020-toc-tdm.aspx?lang=eng  
Czech 
Republic  https://www.mpo.cz/cz/zahranicni -obchod/podpora -exportu/projekty -rozvojove -spoluprace -aid-f
or-trade/  
EBRD  Rudolf Putz, Head of Trade Facilitation Programme Ines Rocha, Financial Products, Small and 
Medium -Sized Enterprises Richard Jones, Director, Climate Ambition and Strategy 
https://2020.sr -ebrd.com/investments -in-the-green -economy/#green -trade 
https://www.ebrd.com/what -we-do/coronavirus -solidarity 
https://www.ebrd.com/work -with-us/advice -for-small-businesses/overview.html  
European 
Union  The main  documents with weblinks are listed in the response to question 5. The EU Aid for Trade 
Progress Report 2021 illustrates in a quantitative and qualitative manner EU AfT operations. 
https://ec.europa.eu/international -partnerships/system/files/eu -aid-for-trade-progress -report -20
21_en.pdf Related, the DG INTPA webpage for AfT contains some illustrative information, and will 
be soon be complemented by an interactive mapping of AfT operations. 
https://ec.europa.eu/international -partnerships/topics/trade_en  
Finland See Finland's government program, esp. sections on global cooperation: 
https://valtioneuvosto.fi/en/marin/government -programme/globally -influential -finland  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  France  LAW No.  2021-1031 of August  4, 2021 on programming relating to solidarity development and 
the fight against global inequalities Link: 
https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000043898536  
Germany  Free and fair trade as a driver for development the German strategy for Aid for Trade 
https://www.bmz.de/resource/blob/23548/ed f6e69f1e440f11e9526c94996d4ab5/strategiepapier
405-07-2017-data.pdf  
Hungary  Hungary's International Development Cooperation Strategy for the period 2020 -2025 available at 
https://nefe.kormany.hu/download/8/2f/92000/NEFE2025_summary_en.pdf  
IaDB Support to the reforms agenda that strengthen Colombia's integration into global value chains 
and boost economic recovery. https://www.iadb.org/en/project/CO -T1612  Scaling up 
Immunization Capacities in PROSUR Countries https://www.iadb.org/en/project/RG -T3919 
Support to promote foreign trade and foreign direct investment as engines of post -pandemic 
economic recovery https://www.iadb.org/en/project/RG -T3825 Support f or the preparation and 
start of the Productive Economic Reactivation Program of Costa Rica 
https://www.iadb.org/en/project/CR -T1236 Technology Solutions for the Internationalization of 
SMEs During and After the Coronavirus Pandemic https://www.iadb.org/en/ project/RG -T3727 
Support for Export Continuity and New Opportunities for MSMEs in the Covid -19 Context 
https://www.iadb.org/en/project/RG -T3687  
Ireland  Ireland's Policy for International Development A Better World  
Italy EU Aid for Trade - Progress Report 2021 (page 148 - ITALY) 
https://ec.europa.eu/international -partnerships/system/files/eu -aid-for-trade-progress -report -20
21_en.pdf  
ITC ITC Strategic Plan: 
https://www.intracen.org/itc/about/working -with-itc/corporate -documents/strategic -plan/  
ITFC 1) IsDB 10 Year Strategy 
https://www.isdb.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020 -10/IsDB%20Policy%20Compend
ium%20English.pdf 2) The Regional Cooperation and Integration Strategy 
https://www.isdb.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020 -10/RCI_Strategy_LR_Bookmark
ed.pdf 3) The Regional Cooperation and Integration Strategy/Policy 
https://www.isdb.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020 -02/IsDB_RCI_Policy.pdf 4) The 
Womenâ€™ s Empowerment Policy 5) 
https://www.isdb.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2021 -10/Women%26%23039%3Bs%
20Empowerment%20Policy_0.pdf 6) The Youth Development Strategy 7) 
https://www.isdb.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020 -02/The%20IsDB%20Yout h%20
Development%20Strategy.pdf 8) The OIC  10 Year Action Plan 
https://www.oic -oci.org/upload/documents/POA/en/The%20OIC%20 -2025%20POA%20Impleme
ntation%20Plan%202016 -2025%20%28E%29.pdf 9) https://iciec.isdb.org 10) 
https://www.isdb.org  
Japan  Cabinet decis ion on the Development Cooperation Charter 
(https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/gaiko/oda/files/000067701.pdf)  
Korea   ODA Korea webpage: http://odakorea.go.kr 2. KOICA webpage: http://www.koica.go.kr  
Lithuania  Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania on Approval of the Inter -Institutional 
Action Plan on Development Cooperation [dated 21  September  2016,  No 937].  
New 
Zealand  All of Aotearoa New Zealand's relevant aid information can be found at: 
https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/aid -and-development/our -approach -to-aid 
Norway  https://www.regjeringen.no/globalassets/upload/ud/vedlegg/utvikling/aidfortrade_e.pdf 
https://www.regjeringen.no/no/dep/ud/tilskuddsmidler/ovrige -tilskudd/tilskudd_utviklingssamarb
eid/id755294/  
Russian 
Federation  A web -link (available in Russian): http:// www.kremlin.ru/acts/bank/38334 - Decree of the 
President of the Russian Federation On approval of the Russian State Concept of International 
Development Assistance (as amended by the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation N 
248, dated 24  May 2016). 
Slovenia  Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Strategy of the Republic of Slovenia until 2030, 
providing a framework for multilateral activities and scope to enhance bilateral co -operation. 
Link: 
https://www.gov.si/assets/ministrstva/MZZ/Dokum enti/multilaterala/razvojno -sodelovanje/Devel
opment -Cooperation -and-Humanitarian -Aid-Strategy -of-the-Republic -of-Slovenia.pdf  
Sweden  Sida's work on trade: https://www.sida.se/en/sidas -international -work/trade The Swedish Policy 
Framework for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Assistance can be found here: 
https://www.government.se/49a184/contentassets/43972c7f81c34d51a82e6a7502860895/skr -6
0-engelsk -version_web.pdf  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Switzerlan
d Dispatch on the Strategy of International Cooperation 2021 -2024 (in French): 
https://www.fedlex.admin.ch/eli/fga/2020/648/de  
Taipei, 
Chinese  International Development and Cooperation Report https://en.mofa.gov.tw/cp.aspx?n=1579 
ICDF Annual Report 
https://www.icdf.org.tw/lp.asp?ctNode=31067&CtUnit=148&BaseDSD=7&mp=2  
The 
Netherland
s Policy Strategy (2017 -2021) Investing in global prospects for the world and for the Netherlands: 
Policy Document on Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation 
(https://www.government.nl/documents/policy -notes/2018/05/18/investing -in-global -prospects). 
Digital Strategy (2017 -2021)  
Digital Agenda for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation  
(https://www.government.nl/documents/policy -notes/2019/07/31/digital -agenda -for-foreign -trad
e-and-development -cooperation -bhos). EU Aid for Trade Report - 2021 
(https://ec.europa.eu/international -partnerships/system/files/eu -aid-for-trade-progress -report -2
021_en.pdf).  
UNCTAD  Trade policies affect both the environment and development, even policies by other countries. 
UNCTAD's study on A European Union Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism assesses the impact 
of EU policies on the cost of trade as well as CO2 emission of developin g countries and other 
trade partners. Further resources - policy documents: 
https://unctad.org/system/files/official -document/wpd311 -add1_en.pdf 
https://unctad.org/system/files/official -document/wpd311_en.pdf 
https://unctad.org/system/files/official -docume nt/tdb63d7_en.pdf 
https://unctad.org/system/files/official -document/td541add2_en.pdf https://unctad.org/projects  
UNDP  - UNDP Strategic Plan 2022 -2025, 
https://www.undp.org/publications/undp -strategic -plan-2022-2025 - UNDP Private Sector 
Strategy 2018 -2022, 
https://www.undp.org/publications/undp -private -sector -strategy -2018-2022 - UNDP Regional 
Programme Document for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States 
(2022 -2025) - Aid for Trade in Central Asia (phase -IV) project 
(https://open.undp.org/proje cts/00105653) - The Futures Report 2021: Which Value Chains for a 
Made in Africa Revolution, 
https://www.africa.undp.org/content/rba/en/home/library/reports/futures -report -2021.html - Un
derstanding the AfCFTA: Guide for Small and Medium -Sized Enterprises i n the ECOWAS Region 
https://www.africa.undp.org/content/rba/en/home/library/understanding -the-afcfta --guide -for-s
mall-and-medium -sized-enter.html - The Futures Report: Making the AfCFTA Work for Women 
and Youth 
https://www.africa.undp.org/content/rba/en/ho me/library/the -futures -report --making -the-afcfta -
work-for-women -and-youth.html - Africa's promise: The UNDP Strategic offer in Africa 
file:///C:/Users/bernal/Downloads/Strategic%20Offer%20in%20Africa.pdf  
UNIDO  UNIDO Medium -term programme framework 2022â€"2025: Integration and scale -up to build 
back better 
https://www.unido.org/api/opentext/documents/download/21331415/unido -file-21331415 
Particularly, paras 57 to 61 (pages 11 -12) relate to Digital transformation; paras 62 to 65 (pages 
12-13) focus on Climate -neutral Industry and Circular Economy; paras 67 to 74 focus on Gender, 
Youth and Leave No One Behind (pages 13 -14). Finally, paras 35 to 42 (pages 8 -9) give the 
strategic orientation of UNIDO for the 2022 -2025 period. 2020 -2023 UNIDO gen der equality and 
empowerment of women strategy: 
https://www.unido.org/sites/default/files/files/2019 -11/UNIDO%20Gender%20Strategy%20eboo
k.pdf, Strategic framework for the 4th IR: 
https://www.unido.org/api/opentext/documents/download/23510211/unido -file-23510211  
United 
Kingdom  The UK's International Development Strategy will be launched in Spring 2022, which will be 
extremely relevant for our Aid -for-Trade activities. Other relevant documents include our 
Integrated Review: Global Britain in a Competitive A ge: the Integrated Review of Security, 
Defence, Development and Foreign Policy 
(https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/global -britain -in-a-competitive -age-the-integrated
-review -of-security -defence -development -and-foreign -policy) as well as a recent spe ech given by 
our Secretary of State at Chatham House regarding the UK building a 'network of liberty' 
(https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/foreign -secretary -liz-truss-building -the-network -of-li
berty). Also relevant to our Aid for Trade activities is the  launch of British Investment 
International 
(https://www.gov.uk/government/news/truss -revamps -british -development -finance -institution -t
o-deliver -jobs-and-clean-growth). BII will prioritise sustainable infrastructure investment to 
provide a clean, honest an d reliable financing and avoid low and middle income countries being 
left with bad and unsustainable debt. It builds on the Prime Minister's commitments at COP26 to 
help developing countries take advantage of clean technology and grow their economies 
susta inably, with the BII delivering  billions in climate financing for projects like solar power, 
sustainable transport and disaster -resilient infrastructure over the next 5 years.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  United 
States  Trade Capacity Building Dashboard: www.tcb.usaid.gov Policy for Trade Capacity Building: 
https://www.usaid.gov/documents/1865/policy -trade-capacity -building Economic Growth Policy: 
https://www.usaid.gov/documents/usaid -economic -growth -policy USAID Digital Strategy: 
https://www.usaid.gov/usa id-digital -strategy USAID Private Sector Engagement Policy: 
https://www.usaid.gov/work -usaid/private -sector -engagement  
World 
Bank https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/trade 
https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/trade/coronavirus 
https://www.worldbank.org/en/to pic/regional -integration 
https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/trade -facilitation -and-logistics 
https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/trade -facilitation -support -program 
https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/umbrella -facility -for-trade WBG Approach Paper 
2022-2032 Leveraging Trade for Green, Resilient & Inclusive Economic Growth  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
 
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  SECTION 2: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND TRADE  
Environmental dimension of sustainable development reflected in national pol icy 
document(s), plan(s) or strategies  
500.  Fifty-one (51) of the fifty-three ( 53) partner developing country governments that replied to 
the self -assessment questionnaire (96%) indicated that sustainable development was a priority in 
their national policy document(s), plan(s) or strategies. Similarly, all fifty-three (53) donors 
highlighted that sustainable development was a priority in their nation al policy document(s), plan(s) 
or strategies. All  four (4) regional economic communities or transport corridors and three (3) 
South -South partners (75%) also indicated that sustainable development was a priority in their 
policy document(s), plan(s) or stra tegies.  
501.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with all twenty -five (25) respondents 
indicating that sustainable development is reflected as a priority in their national policy document(s), 
plan(s) or strategies. 93% of LDC respondents and al l twelve (12) LLDC respondents indicated that 
sustainable development is reflected as a priority in their national policy document(s), plan(s) or 
strategies.  
Regions and Groups: Environmental dimension of sustain able development reflected in 
national polic y document(s), plan(s) or strategies  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  25 100%  
Pacific  6 100%  
LACS 9 100%  
Asia 9 82% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LLDC 12 100%  
UN SIDS  9 100%  
LDC 27 93% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (202 2) 
Environmental dimension of sustainable development reflected as a priority in 
sustainable development strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s)  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
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  Additional information provided by respondents on environmental dimension of 
sustainable development reflect ed in your national policy document(s), plan(s) or 
strategies  
502.  A number of developing countries provided additional information on how the environmen tal 
dimension of sustainable development is reflected in the ir national policy document(s), plan(s) or 
strategies.  
503.  Bangladesh  noted that the " Delta Plan 2100 " was designed to primarily target environment 
protection.  
504.  Benin highlighted that the environmental dimension of development was included in all its 
national and sectoral strategy documents. These documents also include references to Benin's 
sustainable development objectives.  
505.  Burkina Faso  pointed to the "Schéma national d’aménagement et de développement durable 
du territoire (SNDDT)" as a policy document referencing environmental considerations.  
506.  Colombia  highlighted the following plans with references to the environmental dimension; 
i)The National Development Plan 2018 -2022; ii) Sectoral Strategic Plan - Environment Sector ; 
iii) Institutional Strategic Plan  of the  Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development; iv)  and 
the Institutional Action Plan  of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development.  
507.  Comoros  indicated that the Emerging Comoros Plan (PCE) seeks to foster development that 
is resilient to climate change and disasters, in all dimensions of development. Furthermore, the PCE's 
ambition was to develop a sustainable blue economy.  
508.  The Democratic Republic of Congo observed that work on a national sustainable 
development strategy has recently commenced with the support of GIZ. The strategy's priority areas 
are: i) governance/security; ii ) energy/drinking water; iii) environment and natural resources 
Environment; iv) transport and housing; v) industry; vi) agriculture; vii) education and training; and 
viii) health. In parallel, the National Council for the Environment and Sustainable Devel opment, 
referenced in the framework law on the environment, will be operationalised. The objective of 
sustainability is also gradually finding its place in the DR Congo's development strategy. For instance, 
the government's action programme for 2012 -2016 w as inspired by the 4  pillars of sustainable 
development. Furthermore, pillar 4 of the "Document de la Stratégie de croissance et de réduction 
de la pauvreté II" (DSCRP -II) prioritizes "protecting the environment and combating climate change" 
through cross -cutting aims. The aim is to strengthen environmental and climate change concerns 
into all sectoral strategies as to achieve a green, low -carbon and climate resilient development 
model. The conservation of tropical forests remains a key issue and a pillar o f DPR Congo's REDD+ 
efforts. It is moreover a long -term vision for the transition of the country's economic model to a 
green economy. The rationale and content of this were drawn up in 2010, during the preparatory 
work for the Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy – II (GPRSP -II). The strategy results from a 
consultation process involving the main ministries concerned and was informed by two UNDP policy 
briefs.  
509.  Cote d'Ivoire  noted that its National Development Policy (NDP) for 2021 -2025 included 
references  to the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
510.  El Salvador   stated that the environmental dimension was a cross -cutting issue, running 
across all policies as part of the " Cuscatlan Plan ". 
511.  Equatorial Guinea  pointed to two documents referencing the environmental dimension; 
i) The Regulatory Law for the Protection of the Environment; and ii) The National Strategy for 
Sustainable Development, which includes an entire axis on environmental sustainability a nd 
highlights various environmental policies of the government. Furthermore, Equatorial Guinea was 
noted to be a part of the Global Agreement on Climate Change.  
512.  Fiji observed that "The Fijian National Development Plan" was aligned with global 
commitments,  including those targeting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris 
Agreement on Climate Change. Moreover, in order to be consistent with the Paris Agreement goal WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  of achieving a climate neutral and a low -emission world, Fiji developed a 20 50 Pathway to 
decarbonise the Fijian economy. Here, the integrated nature of development and the need for 
multi-sectoral solutions were addressed and recognised. Cross -cutting issues such as: i) climate 
change; ii) green growth; iii) the environment; iv) g ender equality: v) disability; and vi)  governance 
were mainstreamed in this plan.  
513.  The Gambia  stated that environmental issues, including those related to climate change, 
were mainstreamed in its National Develo pment Plan . 
514.  Guatemala  highlighted that the trade and sustainable development dimensions were 
reflected in the National Development Plan "K'atun Nuestra Guatemala 2032" . 
515.  Guinea Bissau pointed to environmental references in Chapter 3 of its "Terra Ranka" nat ional 
development plan. The plan looks to foster the sustainable management of natural capital, through 
the establishment of a regulatory and institutional framework for sustainable development, 
biodiversity, and the dual management of ecosystems.  
516.  Lesotho indicated that environmental issues and climate change were integral topics in its 
current National Strategic Development Plan II (NSDP II) . 
517.  Madagascar  observed that environmental considerations were clearly referenced to in the 
"Malagasy Environmental Cha rter" of February 2015. This law provides clear direction regarding the 
compatibility of investments with the environment. Furthermore, the previous National Development 
Plan prioritized inclusive and sustainable development for future generations by promo ting 
environmentally friendly investments. This approach was relayed in the Madagascar Export Strategy 
for Industry and Services (SEMIS).  
518.  Mali noted that the environmental dimension of sustainable development was considered in 
three policy documents: i ) La Politique Nationale de Protection de l’Environnement 
(PNPE)  - Constituted in 2019, the mission of the PNPE was to promote inclusive and sustainable 
development for all Malians, particularly women and youth through the sustainable management of 
natural r esources and the environment, as to promote 'a better quality of life' by 2030. The PNPE's 
overall objective was to contribute to the promotion of sustainable development, and to ensure that 
the environmental dimension was considered in all decisions affec ting the design, planning, 
implementation and monitoring -evaluation of policies, programs and activities. The implementation 
of the PNPE was based on five major areas of interventions; a) Climate Change; b)  natural 
resources; c) the living environment Prog ram; d) environmental actions; and e)  sustainable 
development; ii) Le Cadre stratégique pour la Relance Economique et le Développement D urable 
2019-2023 (CREDD)  - Objective 4.2 of CREDD seeks to contribute to sustainable development by 
providing appropriate solutions to the challenges related to climate change. It includes two specific 
objectives: a) strengthening capacities for the preven tion and management of risks and natural 
disasters; and b) improving the adaptive capacity of populations, ecological systems, economic 
systems and society in the face of climate change effects;  and iii) La Politique de Développement 
Industriel (PDI ): The policy calls for action on several cross -cutting issues affecting sustainability 
and highlights steps to be carried in the fight against industrial pollution.  
519.  Mauritius pointed to the Government Programme for 2020 -2024, which lays emphasis on 
creating a sustainable and Green Mauritius. Furthermore, the Budget 2021 -2022 announced that 
Mauritius must produce 60 % of the country's energy needs from green sources by 2030. Moreover, 
the Revised Nationally Determined Contributions , which was recently submitted to the UNFCCC 
Secretariat, demonstrated Mauritius 's commitments towards sustainable Development.  
520.  Mexico highlighted references in the National Development Plan 2019 -2024 of the Federal 
Government.  The plan states that the "Federal Executive will consider, in all circumstances , the 
impacts that its policies and programs will have on the social fabric, ecology political and economic 
horizons of the country. In addition, the plan will be guided by an idea of development that corrects 
social injustices and promotes economic growth , without affecting peaceful coexistence, solidarity 
and cultural diversity ". Other reference documents include the Environment and Natural Resources 
Program ,  National Water Program  , National Program on Forestry , National Program of Natural 
Protected Areas , National Strategy on Biodiversity of Mexico   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  521.   Nepal  pointed to its 15th plan , prepared by the National Planning Commission, as a policy 
document where environmental concerns were listed as a key cross -cutting thematic.  
522.  Pakistan  highlighted its Alternate Renewable Policy of 2019 and the "Electric Vehicle Policy" 
of 2020 as examples of environmentally focusse d national initiatives.  
523.  Papua New Guinea cited the 2nd edition of its National Strategy for Responsible Sustainable 
Development  as a national document with environmental references. Here, promoting "Inclusive and 
Innovative Green Economic Growth Platform" is listed as a key strategy objective.  
524.  Paraguay observed that its National Development P lan 2030 (PND)  integrates several 
priorities of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development. It also includes both goals and indicators 
devised to achieve this agenda. Furthermore, Paraguay's National Environment Policy , currently 
under review, also serves to address the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
525.  Peru pointed to Objective 2 of the "Strategic Plan for National Development to 2050" as an 
example of an environmental reference in it s national policy framework. The objective seeks to 
manage the territory in a sustainable manner, as to prevent and reduce the risks and threats 
affecting livelihoods. The priority issues are: i) land use planning; ii) disaster  risk management; 
iii) urban and rural development; iv) biological diversity; v) water resources, vi) environmental 
quality; vii) climate change and; vi) protection of national interests. Peru noted that the environment 
was also referenced in other areas o f work. For instance, it is highlighted in State Policy 19 on 
"Sustainable Development and Environmental Management of the National Agreement" and axis 7 
of the "General Government Policy ", which refers to the efficient management of risks and threats 
to the rights of people and their environment. Along the same lines, environmental references are 
also found in Law No. 30754 - Framework Law on Climate Change  and its regulations. These 
regulations establish a series of principles and provisions to promote a) sustainable management of 
natural resources; b) sustainable private in vestment and; c) climate change management (low 
carbon development). Likewise, the "High -Level Committee for a Digital, Innovative and Competitive 
Peru", created by Supreme Decree No. 118 -2018-PCM, aims to promote digital transformation and 
strengthen comp etition, while ensuring sustainability in all regions of Peru as articulated by the 
National  Digital Transformation System .  
526.  Philippines noted that  the environmental dimension of sustainable development was 
reflected in the following two documents: i) National Development Plan  - In this plan, ensuring 
ecological integrity, and enabling a clean and healthy environment are considered as foundations for 
sustainable development. The plan lays out actions and reforms, challenges, strategies, and 
legisla tive agenda in relation to the environment and sustainable development; ii) COVID -19 
Recovery Plan: The environment is given great emphasis and importance in this plan, also known 
as the "We Recover a s One" plan. The document contains a specific chapter  on the environment, 
which mentions issues/topics such as air pollution, infectious waste materials, and urban agriculture.  
527.  Senegal indicated that its "Green National Development plan" made clear references to the 
environment and its interlinkages with develo pment strategies.  
528.  Sri Lanka noted that  sustainable development was an integral part of its national policy 
document titled " Vistas of Prosperity & Splendou r". This policy framework integrates sustainable 
development in three prongs or pillars, which are economic, social and environmental.  
529.  St. Lucia  observed that its National Adaptation Plan  focuses heavily on environmental 
concerns and on laying paths towards SDGs. In addition, St Lucia's Medium Term Development 
Strategy encompasses social, economic, and environmental aspects of development and attempts 
as much as possible to align itself with the SDGs . 
530.  St. Vincent and the Grenadines  highlighted  Goal 4 of the National Economic and Social 
Development Plan as an example of how environmental concerns were included in their national 
strategy. The goal, titled "Improving the Physical Infrastructur e, Preserving the Environment and 
Building Resilience to Climate Change" seeks to optimise land space use, reduce dependency on 
imported fuel, and conserve natural endowment. Furthermore, the goal seeks to enhance the 
capability of St. Vincent and the Gren adines to effectively prepare, respond and mitigate disasters.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  531.  Togo brought attention to "La Feuille de Route Gouvernementale (2020 -2025)", document 
which was a portfolio of 42 priority projects and reforms for the government to support. It includes 
references to environmental legislation, a green mobility program and a response to climate risks.  
532.  Uganda  noted that its " Third National Development Plan (NDP3) " contai ned an entire chapter 
on natural resources, environment, climate change, land and water management.  
533.  Vanuatu  indicated that one of the three core pillars of the "National Sustainable Development 
Plan (NSDP) 2016 -2030" focussed on the environment. The NSDP was the overarching policy for 
which all other government policies fall under. Moreover, the "Trade policy Framework Update" 
(TPFU) 2019 -2025 has a full chapter dedicated to the environment aspects of trade.  
534.  Zambia  pointed to environm ental references in its Forestry Policy of 2014, Forestry Act No.4 
of 2015 and the National Policy on Climate Change. Furthermore, Zambia's 7th National 
Development Plan, currently being revised for the period 2022 -2026, makes references to objectives 
such as organic and climate smart agriculture, sustainable forestry, and sustainable construction. 
It also highlights the importance of climate proofing livelihoods and assets as to bolster resilience.  
535.  No south -south questionnaire respondents provided addition al information on how sustainable 
development was reflected in their national document(s), plan(s) or strategy(ies).  
536.  A few regional economic communities also provided additional information on how the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development was  reflected in the national policy 
document(s), plan(s) or strategies . 
537.  The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS)  observed that its draft "2050 Strategy for 
the Blue Pacific Continent" acknowledges the presence of two regional strategies addressing 
sustai nable development, namely: i) the Pacific Oceanscape  which addresses the sustainable 
development and management of our ocean;  and ii ) The Framework for Nature Conservation and 
Protected Areas , which guides the planning, prioritization and implementation of nature 
conservation. Moreo ver, under Thematic 4 (Ocean and Natural Environment) of the 2050 Strategy, 
PIFS will seek to build partnerships with the global community to harness blue and green economies 
through sustainable, resilient, integrated and Pacific -relevant models of develop ment. Doing so can 
address issues such as land and ocean pollution; waste management and disposal; and inefficient 
energy systems. Moreover, Thematic 3 of the 2050 Strategy was fully dedicated to Climate Change.  
538.  TradeMark East Africa (TMEA)  noted that it has developed a Green Corridor approach  to 
promote the development of green transport and logistics corridors in the eastern African region. 
Several projects were already under way as part of th is initiative. This includes : i) developing green 
port programmes in Mombasa; ii) identifying methods to measure and monitor regional greenhouse 
gases ; and  iii) identify and develop circular trade and logistic clusters.  
539.  The West African Economic and Monet ary Union (WAEMU)  stated that the foundations 
of the WAEMU treaty calls for the coordination of national policies, through the implementation of 
common actions and policies in the following areas: i) human resources; ii) regional planning; 
iii) transport a nd telecommunications; iv) environment; v) agriculture; vi) energy; vii) industry; and 
viii) mining. As such, issues relating to the environment and sustainable development were 
considered specifically in the Environment Program and while being addressed i n various others. The 
Commission has also taken steps to adapt populations climate change effects by: a) improving 
agricultural production capacity; b) helping to improve the management of West Africa coastal areas; 
and c) contributing to the fight against  the silting up of the Niger River. Finally, two actions of the 
WAEMU's Priority Action Framework (CAP 2025) were the promotion of sustainable agriculture, and 
the strengthening of population resilience in the face of hazards such as climate change.  
540.  Variou s donors provided additional information on how the  environmental dimension of 
sustainable development reflected in the national policy document(s), plan(s) or strategies.  
541.  The African Development Bank  noted that it has formulated several strategies for 
addressing climate change mitigation and securing associated funding. Furthermore, trends in 
African green growth, as well as green growth readiness levels of African countries, were studied in 
a Green Growth Readiness Assessment  conducted this year.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  542.  The Asian Development Bank stated that the environmental dimension was addressed in 
all its projects and activities. Environmental concerns formed a core priority of " Strategy 2030 ", 
under Operational Priority 3: "Tackling Climate Change, Building Climate and Disaster Resilience , 
and Enhancing Environmental Sustainability". Key responses identified in this Operational Priority 3 
include (i) scaling up support to address climate change, disaster risks, and environmental 
degradation; (ii) accelerating low GHG emission development; (iii) ensuring a comprehensive 
approach to build climate and disaster resilience; (iv) ensuring environmental sustainability; and 
(v) increasing focus on the water and food energy nexus. Furthermore, as part of its sustainability 
initiatives, the ADB Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program (TSCFP) ensures alignment with global 
environmental standards and helps the promotion of standards a mong the program's partner banks. 
Environmental dimensions were also incorporated in the following institutional and partnership 
frameworks: RCI operational plan for 2019 -2024, Guidance Note on Fostering Regional Cooperation 
and Integratio n for Recovery and Resilience , The Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation 
Program Strategic Framework 2012 -2022, ADB country partnership strategy for Mongolia  and the 
ADB's country partnership strategy for the PRC . 
543.  Australia  noted that the Indo -Pacific region contained ten of the fifteen countries considered 
most at risk to the effects of natural disasters and climate change. Disasters and extreme weather 
events could c ompound the effects of the COVID -19 pandemic and undermine efforts to build 
prosperous and stable nations. This is recognised in Australia's " Partnerships for Recovery " (PFR) 
framework, under the stability pillar. The framework recognizes the importance of sustainable 
development and support for resilience to threats such as climate change. In addition, the 
Department of Foreign Affairs an d Trade's (DFAT ) Climate Change Action Strategy  commits to 
integrate climate change action across Australia's development assistance programs. This includes 
commit ments in the infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, health, and education sectors. 
The strategy also has a private sector engagement focus. Additionally, in COP26, the Australian 
Government announced increased commitment of AUD 2 billion in climate  finance for the period 
2020 to 2025. This was a doubling of the Government's previous five -year commitment of 
AUD1  billion. In 2019, the Australian Government also pledged AUD 500 million over five years  from 
2020 to help Pacific nations invest in renewable energy, and climate change and disaster resilience 
efforts. This exceeds its previous four -year AUD300 million pledge by over 65 %. Australia's 
investments include dedicated c limate change and disaster resilience programs and integrated 
resilience platforms across its Pacific aid investments. This approach supports the Framework  for 
Resilient Development in the Pacific  endorsed by Leaders in 2016, as an integrated and coordinated 
approach to addressing climate change and disaster risk management in the Pacific. The following 
bilateral programs also prioritize the environmental di mension: i) Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership ; 
ii) Papua New Guinea - Australia Climate Change Action Plan ; iii) Papua New Guinea -Australia 
Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership . 
544.  Austria  stated that i) poverty reduction, ii) peace and human security, and ii)  environmental 
protection formed the three main goals of the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC), enshrined 
by the Development Cooperation Act. Therefore, ADC projects were reviewed for their impact on the 
environment. Negative impacts were minimised or widely mitigated.  
545.  Canada  observed that its Feminist International Assistance Policy  (FIAP) includes 
Environment and Climate Action as one of its six key action areas. The policy states that "Canada 
will support developing countries' efforts to transition to low -carbon, environmentally sustainable 
and climate -resilient economies and societies, through initia tives that will reduce global greenhouse 
gas emissions, improve climate resilience, and protect and sustainably manage natural resources 
and ecosystems, such as by addressing pollution, which disproportionately affects the poorest and 
most vulnerable". Fur thermore, Canada uses Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA) to make 
informed decisions in support of sustainable development. The SEAs help to incorporate 
environmental considerations into the development of public policies, plans and programs. For 
instance, an SEA was done for the FIAP, as well as for other departmental strategic documents, such 
as Canada's Middle East Strategy , prepared i n 2016, for development assistance programming in 
Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon and Syria.  
546.  Chinese Taipei  pointed to the annual reports  of its International Cooperation and 
Devel opment Fund as an example of national documents highlighting the environmental dimension.  
547.  Czech Republic  noted that the environmental dimension was one of the crosscutting 
principles of the Czech development strategy 2018 -30. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  548.  European Bank for Reconstruct ion and Development  pointed to the "Green Economy 
Transition Approach  2021-2025" as a policy document covering the environmental dimension.  
549.  European Union  highlighte d that the environmental dimension was reflected in two (2) 
overarching development policy documents. I) The " European Cons ensus on Development: Our 
World, Our Dignity, Our Future " of 2017 - confirms that The EU and its Member States were 
committed to a life of dignity for all, reconciling economic prosperity and efficiency, peace, social 
inclusion and environmental responsibi lity. The "Planet", one of five prioritized themes in this 
document, details EU's strategies to protect the environment, manage natural resources and tackle 
climate change. In addition to dedicated actions, environmental considerations are expected to be 
integrated across all sectors of development cooperation; II) "Neighbourhood, Development and 
International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) - 'Global Europe '" adopted in 2021 also covered the 
environmental. The NDICI -Global Europe instrument covers EU cooperation with all third countries 
(except for the pre -accession beneficiaries and the overseas countries and territories from the 
geographic programmes) from 2021 to 2027. Here, "En vironment and Climate Change" forms one 
of ten goals. The Instrument will contribute to mainstream climate action in the Union policies. It 
includes spending targets to support climate and biodiversity objectives. Particularly, Article 25.5 of 
the NDICI -Global Europe establishes a mandatory environmental screening – including for climate 
change and biodiversity impacts – at all levels of actions, in accordance with the applicable legislative 
acts of the Union. The NDICI -Global Europe Regulation also establi shes that, when relevant, strategic 
environmental assessments, shall be used in the implementation of sectoral programmes. 
The screening is mandatory for all actions.  
550.  Germany  noted that free and fair trade was a driver for development in the "German strate gy 
for Aid for Trade".  
551.  Inter -American Development Bank  pointed to its " Vision 25 " document as an example of 
an institutional strategy prioritizing the environmenta l dimension.  
552.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC),  on behalf of the Islamic 
Development Bank (IsDB) Group, noted that its recently updated Development Effectiveness Policy 
commits to carrying out operations in an environmentally and socia lly responsible manner. 
In assessing the Environmental and Social Impact dimension, ITFC pays special attention to 
SDG 1 (No Poverty ), SDG 4 (Quality Education ), SDG 5 (Gender Equality ) SDGs 7 (Affordable and 
Clean Energy), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Moreover, the Islamic Cooperation for Insurance for 
Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) was committed to assisting Members mitigate and adapt to 
climate change's threats. The ICIEC recogn ized that the failure to mitigate and adapt to the effects 
of a warming planet and extreme weather patterns could undermine gains made to alleviate poverty, 
improve health, promote education, and boost prosperity across the Member Countries.  
553.  Italy  highlighted that the environmental dimension of sustainable development was clearly 
reflected in recent " Three years Programming and Strategy " document s. 
554.  Japan observed that global issues were listed as priority policies in its Cabinet decision on the 
Development Cooperation Charter. In this context, Japan will address the following challenges: i) 
climate change, including through the creation and adapta tion of a low carbon society; ii)  infectious 
diseases control; iii) promotion of universal health coverage; iv) mainstreaming disaster risk 
reduction; v) disaster risk reduction and post -disaster recovery measures; vi)  conservation of 
biodiversity and the sustainable use of resources from forests, farmlands and oceans; vii) promotion 
of a sound water cycle; viii) environmental management and other environmental -related initiatives; 
viii) responses to demographic challenges including an aging population; ix)  food security and 
nutrition; x) sustainable access to resources and energy; and xi)  closing the digital divide.  
555.  The Netherlands  indicated that sustainable development was reflected in its development 
policy documents and Aid -for-Trade agenda. Issues such  as the circular economy and research work 
on the trade and climate nexus were integrated in such documents. However, the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development was yet to integrated more broadly/deeply in the economic 
domain of its development  policy, including on Aid  for Trade. It is expected to become a crucial part 
of Dutch policy from 2022 and onwards.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  556.  Norway  observed that the environmental dimension was a key priority in its 2013 
Aid-for-Trade action plan . 
557.  Portugal noted that it categorize d all development aid flows to the OECD Creditor Reporting 
System (CRS) as per the RIO markers. More information on the methodology can be found here. 
558.  The Russian Federation  stated that the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development was reflected in Article 10 of the Russian State Concept on International Development 
Assistance. This policy noted that "ensuring access of the population to the basic human nee ds, first 
of all water and electricity ", and " environment protection and solution of cross -border environmental 
issues" were key priorities.  
559.  Slovenia  pointed that the environmental dimension was an integral part of its sustainable 
development strategies. In fact, environmental dimension was a mandatory criterion in the 
methodology for the selection of projects, as prescribed by the decree on implementing development 
cooperation and humanitarian aid of the Republic of Slovenia. With the same Decree, Sloveni a also 
banned project that contribute to an increased use of fossil fuels.  
560.  Sweden  highlighted that sustainable development was an integral component of the Swedish 
Policy Framework for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Assistance . The framework 
considers economic, social and envi ronmental circumstances and processes as equally principles. It 
therefore constitutes prerequisites and opportunities in relation to each other. With regards to the 
environmental dimension specifically, an environmental and climate perspective was explicit ly 
integrated in Swedish development cooperation. For instance, the Swedish International 
Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) states that all its work should be permeated by 
environmental and climate concerns, as to secure sustainable development.  
561.  Switz erland noted that sustainable development and the 2030 Agenda played an integral 
part of Switzerland's strategy on International Cooperation. They were systematically considered in 
all development cooperation, including Aid -for-Trade activities. Switzerlan d seeks to identify new 
partnerships and financing models – notably by mobilising private finance – to achieve sustainable 
development. Furthermore, the nexus between trade and sustainable development was also 
reflected in Switzerland's Foreign Economic Po licy Strategy, as well as in the Swiss Strategy on 
Sustainable Development 2021 -2030. In addition, Switzerland participates in multi -stakeholder 
partnerships with private and public actors, as well as multilateral institutions (UN, World Bank, 
regional dev elopment banks, etc.). On a global level, it also advocates for standards and regulations 
aligned with the vision of the 2030 Agenda.  
562.  UNCTAD  observed that reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing climate resilience, and 
promoting sustainable developmen t were indispensable aims to achieve SDGs. To achieve these 
aims, UNCTAD noted that the Paris Agreement – under the UNFCC – provided a framework for the 
decoupling of economic growth from environmental degradation. This was through nationally 
determined co ntributions and long -term strategies calling for coordinated collective action. The 
Bridgetown Covenant  was pointed to as an example of UNCTAD's contribution in this context . 
In addition, UNCTAD's efforts through its Division of International Trade and Commodities (DITC) 
work programme pays particular attention to the commodities sector (agriculture, mining), fisheries, 
industry, and services. Services particularly played a k ey role in gearing a country's product capacity, 
across all sectors. Increased efficiency in services was thus essential for promoting a country's 
economic diversification. Furthermore, UNCTAD noted that its contributions to the Asia-Pacific Trade 
and Investment Report  2021, particularly on Climate Smart Transport and Trade Facilitation, 
underlines its commitments to the environmental dimension of sustainable developme nt.  
563.  UNDP  noted that its Strategic Plan supports countries drive change in three directions: 
i) structural transformation; ii) leaving no one behind; and iii) building resilience. Furthermore , 
support was provided through six (6) signature solutions: i) po verty reduction and inequality, 
ii) gender equality, iii) energy, iv) environment, v) resilience, and vi) governance. Support was 
integrated across these signature solutions and adapted to country contexts as bring on board the 
three dimensions of sustaina ble development. UNDP noted that its support to the African Continental 
Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) prioritizes support to SMEs operating in sectors with green potential. 
UNDP aims to also support such SMEs adopt environmentally responsive trade and prod uction 
practices.  Moreover, environmental sustainability was one of the cross -cutting issues underlying the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  activities of UNDP's "Aid for Trade in Central Asia" project. In particular, the project supports the 
Central Asian countries shift from vertically  specialized value chains, towards green value chains 
with greater added value. The project implements measures to raise productivity and resource 
efficiency in SMEs and farms, while reducing negative externalities, such as soil erosion, inorganic 
agro-chemical pollution, and agricultural GHG emission. In particular, the project supports the 
introduction of sustainable agricultural practices and innovative resource -efficient technologies. 
This will not only reduce the environmental footprint of production, but also foster green exports. 
On a macro level, the project supports the creation of enabling conditions for sustainable agriculture. 
This includes for example the establishment of an appropriate regulatory framework related to 
quality and food safety reg ulations. The adoption of support mechanisms for businesses will also be 
considered as part of this project. In addition,  the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development was at the heart of UNIDO's Inclusive and Sustainable Industrial Development (ISID)  
concept. ISID's vision was adopted at the Lima Declaration by UNIDO's Member States in December 
2013. The different aspects of ISID are: i) creating shared prosper ity; ii) advancing economic 
competitiveness; iii) safeguarding the environment; iv) and strengthening knowledge and 
institutions.  
564.  The United Nations Industrial Development Organization  pointed to its Medium -term 
programme framework 2022 -2025: "Integration and scale -up to build back bette r" as an example 
of a policy document addressing the environment dimension. Here, paragraphs 62 -65 specifically 
relate to Cli mate-neutral Industry and Circular Economy.  
565.  The United Kingdom  highlighted several sustainable development objectives running across 
its foreign and development policy. For instance, the British Investment International  (BII) seeks to 
prioritise sustainable infrastructure investment as to provide clean, honest and reliable financing to 
low and middle income countries. The  BII builds on the UK's commitments at COP26 to help 
developing countries take advantage of clean technology and grow their economies sustainably. 
Accordingly, the BII will be delivering billions in climate financing for projects like solar power, 
sustaina ble transport, and disaster -resilient infrastructure over the next 5 years. The environmental 
dimension is also reflected in UK's policy through commitments to the Build Back Better World (B3W) 
initiative. Furthermore, the forthcoming Digital Development S trategy will also outline how the UK's 
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) will prioritize the objective of "doing 
development in a digital world". The objective seeks to accelerate partner countries' progress 
towards social and economic de velopment goals, by implementing digital transformation in an 
inclusive, responsible, and sustainable way. It will also form a key lever of the UK's integrated 
approach to addressing global opportunities and challenges. In addition, the FCDO is improving t he 
way in which it administers development programmes. This improvement will also reflect the 
sustainable development dimension. Finally, in collaboration with Department of International Trade 
(DIT) and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the Trade Centre of E xcellence (COE) will provide 
more rounded and streamlined trade expertise, to aid poverty reduction and bring benefits to UK 
businesses and consumers. Expertise will focus on tackling trade -related challenges and 
strengthening the capability of developing countries to trade with the UK and participate effectively 
in the wider multilateral trading system. For partner countries, this will support economic growth, 
support their ability to move out of a dependency on aid and assist poverty reduction.  
566.  The Unite d States highlighted two frameworks covering the environmental dimension: i)  The 
Environmental and Natural Resource Management Framework ; and ii) Climate Change Strategy   
567.  The World Bank  noted that with climate -sensitive reforms, trade can be an effective channel 
to transition to a low -carbon world. Sustainability and biodiversity issues were becoming more widely 
discussed. For instance, the EU's New Green Deal calls for increased traceability requirements, 
discussions over border carbon tax adjustments, and the potential for liberalizing trade in 
Environmental Goods and Services (EGS). Because trade and global value chains play a major role 
in driving land use change and overexploi tation of renewable natural resources, exporting and 
importing countries need to align their trade policies with nature -smart domestic policies. 
New opportunities will open up for developing countries in trade as the world adapts to climate 
change. However , while trade is a cause of climate change, it can also be a central part of the 
solution, through both facilitating mitigation and adaptation. Global trade in EGS already stands at 
USD 1 trillion and is growing. Freer trade during times of climate change -induced crises can help 
deliver essential goods to disaster -affected areas and can support longer -term recovery. There are 
a host of policy measures that can be taken to help. Reducing trade costs at the border to promote 
trade and lowering tariffs and non -tariff barriers on imports embodied with new technologies, can WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  drive productivity growth and adaptation. Identifying and developing carbon competitive goods and 
services can drive the shift away from reliance on comparative advantages vulnerable to climat e 
change. Furthermore, global, and regional integration agreements can develop common standards 
on Environmental Goods and Services and address challenges with cross -border impacts (e.g. 
deforestation). Developed countries can support Green, Resilient and Inclusive Development (GRID) 
through trade reforms that reduce the current bias toward carbon -intensive upstream goods. They 
can also support green trade liberalization by focusing on goods and services of priority interest to 
developing country exporters.  Countries can review trade -related measures, such as intellectual 
property rights, that may restrict the diffusion of clean technologies to developing countries. It is 
thus essential for developing countries to understand the risks and opportunities for t heir trade and 
development strategies associated with climate change. Focused country studies are a useful way 
to provide a step toward a broader dialogue on: (i) ways to increase capacities and identify 
opportunities for carbon mitigation to increase comp etitiveness in a climate -constrained world; (ii) 
the investments in carbon measurement that are necessary to verify carbon competitiveness; and 
(iii) trade policy and trade facilitation reforms that will support adaptation and access to essential 
technolog ies and techniques. Nevertheless, the precise impacts on and role of trade in the transition 
to a low -carbon world are not yet fully understood. The following key issues have been raised in 
consultations as requiring further and deeper analysis: (i) the ne xus of conflict, climate change, and 
trade; (ii) deeper analysis of the role of trade in adaptation to climate change; (iii) the distributional 
impacts of the transition to a low -carbon world; (iv) government procurement of climate -related 
goods and servic es and impacts on trade; and (v) more detailed analysis of potential comparative 
advantages for developing countries in a future global low -carbon economy.  
National strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for sustainable development  
568.  Forty-seven  (47) of the fifty (50) partner Members (94%) who responded to the question 
indicated that their national development strategy, policy or plan reflected sustainable development 
objectives. Furthermore, nineteen ( 19), (38%) partner respondents indicated that their nation al 
export strategy, policy or plan reflected sustainable development priorities, while eighteen ( 18), 
(36%) partners noted that their trade development strategy, policy or plan encapsulated sustainable 
development priorities. Meanwhile, twenty -six (26) of the thirty -three ( 33) donors that responded 
the question (79%) stated that their Aid for Trade or development strategy, policy or plan highlighted 
sustainable development. Fifteen  (15), (45%) partners also indicated that their trade development 
strategy, p olicy or plan reflected sustainable development. Two (2) of the four  (4) regional economic 
community respondents indicated that sustainable development was highlighted in their regional 
development, trade and export strategies or plans.  
569.  From a regional pe rspective, more than 90 % of African, Asian, LACS and Pacific respondents 
indicated that their national development strategy, policy or plan included sustainable development 
priorities. A group -specific breakdown also highlights similar trends, with more th an 85% of LDCs, 
LLDCs and SIDS indicating that their national development strategy, policy or plan reflects 
sustainable development.  
Regions and Groups : National strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for sustainable 
development  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share 
per region  
Africa  National development strategy, policy or plan  22 92% 
National trade development strategy, policy or plan  9 38% 
National export strategy, policy or plan  10 42% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy, policy or plan  8 33% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy (or green growth), policy or plan  6 25% 
National sustainable trade strategy, policy or plan  1 4% 
National strategy, policy or plan for circular 
economy/sustainable consumption and production  2 8% 
National strategy, policy or plan for COVID -19 4 17% 
Other (please specify)  6 25% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share 
per region  
Asia National development strategy, policy or plan  8 90% 
National trade development strategy, policy or plan  1 11% 
National export strategy, policy or plan  2 22% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy, policy or plan  3 33% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy (or green growth), policy or plan  1 11% 
National sustainable trade strategy, policy or plan  0 0% 
National strategy, policy or plan for circular 
economy/sustainable consumption and production  2 22% 
National strategy, policy or plan for COVID -19 4 44% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LACS National development strategy, policy or plan  9 100%  
National trade development strategy, policy or plan  2 22%  
National export strategy, policy or plan  3 33% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy, policy or plan  0 0% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy (or green growth), policy or plan  2 22% 
National sustainable trade strategy, policy or plan  2 22% 
National strategy, policy or plan for circular 
economy/sustainable consumption and production  3 33% 
National strategy, policy or plan for COVID -19 5 56% 
Other (please specify)  2 22% 
Pacific  National development strategy, policy or plan  6 100%  
National trade development strategy, policy or plan  6 100%  
National export strategy, policy or plan 3 50%  
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy, policy or plan  4 67%  
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy (or green growth), policy or plan  4 67%  
National sustainable trade strategy, policy or plan  2 33%  
National strategy, policy or plan for circular 
economy/sustainable consumption and production  1 17%  
National strategy, policy or plan for COVID -19 2 33%  
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Group  Categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share 
per group  
LDC National development strategy, policy or plan  24 89% 
National trade development strategy, policy or plan  12 44% 
National export strategy, policy or plan  12 44% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy, policy or plan  9 33% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy (or green growth), policy or plan  6 22% 
National sustainable trade strategy, policy or plan  2 7% 
National strategy, policy or plan for circular 
economy/sustainable consumption and production  2 7% 
National strategy, policy or plan for COVID -19 6 22% 
Other (please specify)  5 19% 
LLDC National development strategy, policy or plan  10 83% 
National trade development strategy, policy or plan  2 17% 
National export strategy, policy or plan  4 33% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share 
per region  
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy, policy or plan  3 25% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy (or green growth), policy or plan  3 25% 
National sustainable trade strategy, policy or plan  1 8% 
National strategy, policy or plan for circular 
economy/sustainable consumption and production  0 0% 
National strategy, policy or plan for COVID -19 2 17% 
Other (please specify)  1 8% 
UN SIDS  National development strategy, policy or plan  8 89% 
National trade development strategy, policy or plan  8 89% 
National export strategy, policy or plan  5 56% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy, policy or plan  5 56% 
National environmentally sustainable economy 
strategy (or green growth), policy or plan  4 44% 
National sustainable trade strategy, policy or plan  2 22% 
National strategy, policy or plan for circular 
economy/sustainable consumption and production  1 11% 
National strategy, policy or plan for COVID -19 4 44% 
Other (please specify)  2 22% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
National strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for sustainable development  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (202 2) 
Additional information on the national strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) in which 
sustainable development is reflected  
570.  A number of developing countries provided additional information on their national 
strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for sustainable development . 
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  571.  Angola  pointed to its national strategy, policy or plan for women's economic empowerment 
as an example of a document in which sustainable development is reflected.  
572.  Bangladesh  noted that its "8th Five Year Plan" for the period 2021 -2026, and the  "Perspective 
Plan 2021 -41" were targeted to achieve the SDGs.  
573.  Benin  indicated that its National Aid for Trade strategy addresses sustainable development 
dimension.  
574.  Cambodia  noted that the environmental dimension was embedded in the "Cambodia Trade 
Integration Strategy (CTIS)" for 2019 -2023 and its E -commerce Strategy.  
575.  Colombia  highlighted 3 policies and strategies highlighting the environmental dimension: 
i) Green Growth Policy ; ii) National Circular Economy Strategy ; iii) and Policy for Reactivation, 
Repowering and Sustainable and Inclusive Growth: New Commitment for Colombia's Future   
576.  Comoros  noted that the Emerging Comoros Plan (PCE) reflected its sustainable development 
objectives . 
577.  The Democratic People's Republic of Congo indicated that Pillar 5 of its National Strategic 
Plan for Development (PNSD) made references to environmental p rotection and climate change. 
The PNSD also aimed to achieve social inclusion by grouping together actions that ensure sustainable 
development. These include activities contributing to the mitigation of the effects of climate change, 
as well as adaptation to already present forces such floods, erosion, landslides, and droughts.  
578.  Cote D'Ivoire  stated that the following documents prioritized sustainable development; 
i) National Strategy for Women's Economic Empowerment; ii) National Aid for Trade strategy; and 
the iii) SNE PND 2021 - 2025 National Strategy Document for the Empowerment of Women.  
579.  Dominican Republic  highlighted 3 documents that cover the sustainable development 
dimension; i) National Development Strategy 2030 (END) ; ii) National Plan for the Promotion of 
Exports (PNFE 2020 -2030) ; and iii) Assessment of recover y needs due to the social and economic 
impacts of Covid -19. 
580.  Madagascar  noted that "Law 2020 -003 on organic agriculture" adopted in July 2020, looks 
to promote sustainable development. Madagascar has also drafted a National Green Export Review 
document, ai med at supporting sustainable production and export in coffee and pulse value chains.  
581.  Mali observed that its National strategy for Gender Equality and the National Strategy for 
women's economic empowerment include sustainable development references. Furthe rmore, the 
general objective of CREDD 2019 -2023 was to "promote inclusive and sustainable development in 
favour of reducing poverty and inequalities in a united and peaceful Mali ". This will be based on the 
current resilience capacities, with a view to ach ieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 
2030. In the document, "Strategic Axis 4" specifically addresses the issue of environmental 
protection and strengthening resilience to climate change. Furthermore, the vision of the National 
Environmental Po licy is to promote, by 2030, an inclusive sustainable development for all Malians, 
particularly women and young people, through sustainable management of natural resources, 
environmental protection and promotion of a better quality of life. Furthermore, th e national gender 
policy and guidelines of the Beijing Action Plan contain key information on sustainable development.  
582.  Mexico  indicated that its National Development Pla n 2019 -2024 (PND 2019 -2024) endorses 
the commitment to promote sustainable development, which has been shown to be an essential 
factor for well -being. Furthermore, the General Law of Circular Economy  was approved in 
November  2021. The environmental dimension also features heavily in the " National Strategy for 
the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Pollinators ". In addition to the PND 2019 -2024, sus tainable 
development is reflected in the Sectoral Economy Program 2019 -2024, whose action strategies 
contribute to the fulfilment of SDGs 1 , 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12 and 17. Additionally, Mexico's trade policy 
in recent years has included the incorporation of comprehensive Environmental Chapters in 
international trade agreements. These include agreements with Canada  and Australia .  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  583.  Papua New Guinea  pointed to its " National Strategy for Responsible Sustainable 
Development for Papua Guinea " as an example of document referencing sustainable development 
objective. All sectoral plans refer to this document.  
584.  Paraguay  noted that sustainable development is underlined in the National Development Plan 
Paraguay 2030  and its Economic Recovery Plan . 
585.  Peru noted that its National Environmental Policy (PNA) to 2030  establishes a basis for the 
conservation of the environment. It ensured a sustainable, responsible, rational , and ethical use of 
natural resources and the environment as to contribute to the social, economic and cultural 
development of the citizenry. In this policy, Priority Objective 7 seeks to improve the environmental 
performance of the value chains and the c onsumption of goods and services by applying circular 
economy principles. Meanwhile, Peru's National Export Strategic Plan to 2025 points out in its 2nd 
pillar that that the development of a competitive and sustainable exports is determined by 3 lines of 
action: i) the management of international standards for exports; ii) the development of exports for 
biodiversity products; and iii) sustainability in the development of exports. Furthermore, the National 
Biotrade Strategy and its Action Plan to 2025 , published in 2016, was the result of joint and 
coordinated work between the members of the National Comm ission for the Promotion of Biotrade 
and other actors linked to the development and promotion of Biotrade products. It is derived from 
native biodiversity, developed under criteria of environmental, social, and economic sustainability. 
The purpose of this National Biotrade Strategy is to consolidate the legal framework and other 
necessary mechanisms to promote and implement Biotrade in Peru. The strategy covers seven 
thematic axes: i) Policies and regulatory framework for the promotion and implementation of  
Biotrade; ii) Fostering institutions related to Biotrade; iii)  Offer development; iv) Research, 
development and innovation; v) Market development; vi)  Knowledge management; and 
vii) Monitoring and evaluation. In addition, the Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Exports 
and Tourism (PromPeru) has launched the strategy " Sustainable Culture " to value sustainability 
actions, through new strategic guidelines that support the strengthening of Peruvian exporters and 
companies. Furthermore, The National Policy  and Plan for Competitiveness and Productivity contains 
three priority objectives directly related to sustainable development. They are: i) Priority objective 
3 - Development of innovation, adoption capacities and technology transfer  capacities; ii) Priority 
objective 7: Facilitate conditions for foreign trade in goods and services; iii) Priority objective 9: 
Promote environmental sustainability in the operation of economic activities. Finally, The Ministry of 
the Environment has laun ched " Peru Limpio ", an education and communication strategy on 
responsible consumption, recovery and integrated management of solid waste. This is approved by 
Supreme Decree No. 122 -2021-MINAM. It is an inst rument that contains prioritized actions to 
encourage good environmental practices among citizens. The target audience for this initiative is the 
public sector, local governments, private sector and citizens. Prioritized topics include responsible 
consumpt ion, proper management of solid waste, and municipal taxes for cleaning services.  
586.  Sri Lanka  highlighted 3 documents reflecting priorities: i) The National Environment Policy of 
the Ministry of Environment; ii) The Sustainable Financing Framework developed by the Central 
Bank; and iii) Public Investment Plan formulated by the Department of National Planning . 
587.  St. Lucia  pointed to its National Adaptation Plan  and its UN Voluntary National Review of 2019  
as examples of policy documents highlighting sustainable development.  
588.  St. Vincent & The Grenadines  observed that the two ( 2) documents below highligh ted 
sustainable development objectives: i) National Climate Change Policy and Action Plan; and ii)  Ocean 
Policy.  
589.  Zambia  highlighted three ( 3) documents that reflect environmental priorities : i) National 
Strategy on National Capital Account; ii) National Policy on Environment; and iii) The 7th National 
Development Plan, which is currently being revised into the 8th iteration.  
590.  No south -south questionnaire respondents provided additional information on the national 
strategy(ies), policy(ies) or pla n(s) in which sustainable development was reflected.  
591.  Two (2) regional economic communities gave additional information on regional policy 
document(s), plan(s)or strategy(ies) in which sustainable development is reflected.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  592.  The Pacific Island Forum Secretar iat noted that while sustainable development was 
reflected in the highest -level regional development strategy, its linkages were weaker in regional 
trade strategies, notably the Pacific Aid -for-Trade Strategy. This is due to the fact that regional work 
on sustainability issues was carried out quite independently from regional trade work. Exceptions 
exist, for example the current work carried out in support to WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations.  
593.  The West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU)  pointed to the following 
policy documents that were related to Aid for Trade: i) UEMOA Commission Priority Action 
Framework 2021 -2025; ii) Regional Trade Facilitation Program in West Africa (FEAO); iii) West Africa 
Competitiveness Program (WACOMP); iv) Corridor De velopment Master Plan for the Growth Ring in 
West Africa (CACAO); v) Community program for the construction of Juxtaposed Checkpoints (PCJ) 
at the borders between WAEMU Member States; vi) Common Market and Free Movement Program; 
vii) Economic convergence ( multilateral surveillance, Economic statistics, harmonization of the 
legislations of the Member States); viii) Common market promotion policies (Customs Union, 
movement of goods and services, people, right of establishment, trade and competition); ix) Soci al 
and Cultural Development Policies (higher education, scientific research; vocational training; culture, 
arts and leisure; gender and development, health); x) Community Spatial Planning Policy; xi) 
Transport policy (transport infrastructure and transport  and transit services); xii) 
Telecommunications and ICT policy; xiii) Common Policy for the Improvement of the Environment; 
xiv) Agricultural Policy of the Union; xv) Common Energy Policy; xvi) Common Industrial Policy; 
xvii) Common Mining Policy; xviii) Common Tourism Policy; x ix) Common Craft Policy; xx) WAEMU 
Strategic Plan 2011 -2020; xxi) Regional Trade Facilitation (PRFE); xxii)  Regional Trade Development 
Program (PRDEC); xxi ii) Regional Program for the Implementation of Instruments Building the 
Common  Market (PRMIEM); xx iv) Community Action Program for Infrastructure and Road Transport 
(PACITR); xxv) Regional Air Transport Development Program (PRDTA); xxvi) Regional Program for 
Industrial Development and Promotion of the Private Sector; xxvii) Regional  Energy Development 
Program (PRDE); xxi ii) Program for the Development of Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency 
(PRODERE I & II); xx ix) Regional program to reduce the vulnerability of populations to food 
insecurity; xxx) Regional support program for the  institutionalization of gender and the 
empowerment of women in the UEMOA space.  
594.  A number of donors provided additional information on the national strategy(ies), policy(ies) 
or plan(s) in which sustainable development is reflected.  
595.  The Asian Development B ank highlighted that sustainable development was reflected in all 
trade related program documents of the Regional Cooperation and Operations Coordination Division  
(SERC). It was also included in the ADB's Regional Cooperation and Integrational Operational Plan 
(SDTC -RCI). Environment was also a key objective in ADB's " Strategy 2030 " document, under 
operational Priority 3: "Tackling Climate Change, Building Climate and Disaster Resilience, and 
Enhancing Environmental Sustainability" . 
596.  Australia  referred to the following documents: i) Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction 
Guidance Note ; ii) Investing in nature -based solutions ; iii) Supporting the Indo -Pacific to tackle 
climate change ; iv) Improving food and water security ; v) Strengthening trade and investments ; vi) 
and Supporting climate action in the Indo -Pacific region . 
597.  Austria  noted that sustainable development was prioritized in its 3-year Austrian 
Development Policy  and the intergovernmental guideline  on "Environment and Development".  
598.  Canada  observed that other than through the overarching Feminist International Assistance 
Policy and other strategic domestic documents, Canada pro vides policy leadership on environment, 
climate change, biodiversity, land degradation and agri -food systems through planning 
commitments for Global Affairs Food Security and the Environment Bureau for 2022 -23. 
Furthermore, Canada aligns the environment, c limate change, biodiversity, land degradation and 
agri-food systems policies of key UN and Global Partners, OGDs and civil society partners with its 
Feminist International Assistance Policy priorities in efforts to address the COVID -19 pandemic and 
build a  resilient, net -zero and nature positive world for sustainable development. Canada's policies 
were also in line with priority objectives and outcomes of various Multilateral International Assistance 
Programmes. These include the Paris Agreement, the G7 Nat ure Compact, the UN Convention to 
Combat Desertification, as well as attainment of SDGs. Canada furthermore monitors and 
communicates environment, climate change, biodiversity, land degradation and agri -food systems 
development results with Canadians and e xternal partners. Sustainable development was also WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  reflected in the Plan of Action to implement the Joint Declaration on ASEAN -Canada Enhanced 
Partnership (2021 -2025). This declaration encourages cooperation between Canadian and ASEAN 
experts in CSR practi ces by sharing of information and best practices to support green growth, 
employee development, and sustainable communities.  
599.  European Union  noted that references to the environment and sustainable development 
more broadly were integrated in the European Co nsensus on Development and the NDICI -Global 
Europe Regulation, highlighted in its response to Question 12. In addition, the EU Trade Policy 
Review: "An Open, Sustainable  and Assertive Trade Policy" , adopted in 2021, places significant 
emphasis on sustainable development and the environmental dimension. Here, "supporting a post 
COVID -19 recovery and fundamental transformation of the EU economy in line with its green and 
digital objectives" and "reshaping global rules for a more sustainable and fairer globalization" were 
two of the three core objectives listed ". Furthermore, the European Green Deal  has the overarching 
objective of transforming the EU's economy for a sustainable future. It is an integral pa rt of the 
Commission's strategy to implement the United Nation's 2030 Agenda and associated SDGs. Finally, 
the EU's Circular Economy Action Plan  was one of the main b uilding blocks of the European Green 
Deal. It notes that the EU's transition to a circular economy will reduce pressure on natural resources 
and will help to create sustainable growth and jobs. The plan is also a prerequisite to achieve the 
EU's 2050 clima te neutrality target and to halt biodiversity loss. The new action plan announces 
initiatives along the entire life cycle of products. It targets how products are designed, promotes 
circular economy processes, encourages sustainable consumption, and aims t o ensure that waste is 
preserved and the resources used are kept in the EU economy for as long as possible.  
600.  Finland  highlighted that the environmental dimension of sustainable development, including 
climate change and zero -carbon development, is an importa nt part of Finland's program and global 
policies . Implicitly, they were also a key element of Finland's Aid -for-Trade strategies. Furthermore, 
environment and climate were key areas of cooperation in Finland's " Africa Strategy ".  
601.  Germany  noted that its Aid-for-Trade strategy, titled "Free and Fair Trade as a Driver for 
Development", covers SDGs 1, 2, 3,  5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 16, and 17. Furthermore, it addresses 
several of the above topics, including sustainable trade. Germany's green growth development 
strategy also exhibits three areas of intervention: i) climate change mitigation and adaptation; 
ii) renewable energy and energy efficiency; and iii) sustainable urban development. Finally, 
promoting the One Health approach  serves the goal of prevention, and fosters interdisciplinary 
cooperation between human medicine, veterinary medicine and environmental science.  
602.  Inter -American Development Bank  reflected that its "Vision 2025" document indicates the 
administration's priorities to advance implementation of sustainable development. The document 
also points to the challenges that Latin America and the Caribbean can be expected to face in the 
years to come, and provides a path to emerge from the COVID -19 crisis with more sustainable 
growth and resilience.  
603.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporati on (ITFC),  on behalf of the Islamic 
Development Bank highlighted its "Development Effectiveness Policy" as an example of a document 
highlighting sustainable development priorities. Furthermore, the ICIEC collaborates with Members 
to mobilize finance for cl imate change projects.  
604.  The International Trade Centre  observed that sustainable development was reflected in its 
strategies and plans at different organizational levels. Related topics were also an integral dimension 
in the advisory services and approach through which ITC supports partner countries and clients 
develop trade and business strategies and plans.  
605.  Italy  highlighted the " Italian Development Cooperation's Lines of Actions and Programmes: 
Responses to the COVID -19 Pandemic " as a useful reference for additional inform ation.  
606.  Korea highlighted three ( 3) national policy documents that prioritize the environment 
dimension of sustainable development: i) The 3rd Mid-term Strategy for International Development 
Cooperation  (2021 -2025); ii) The Scientific Technology & ICT ODA s trategy; and iii) The Green New 
Deal ODA strategy. Furthermore, The Korean International Cooperation Agency (KICA) has adopted 
a Mid -term Strategy for Climate Action and Energy respectively. In addition, Korea's Economic 
Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF)  adopted 3 strategies prioritizing the environment: WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  i) Post-COVID Strategy; ii) The EDCF environmental and social safeguard policy; and ii) The green 
EDCF strategy for supporting recipient countries' green policies.  
607.  Norway noted environmental priorities ha ve been noted in its Aid for Trade action plan . 
608.  Portugal  referred to the National Development Strategy  for additional information on the 
sustainable development dimension.  
609.  Russian Federation  noted that sustainable development was one of the priority areas set 
out by the Russian State Concept on Intern ational Development Assistance. There was no separate 
policy document on the development assistance in the area of sustainable development.  
610.  Slovenia  pointed to the Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Strategy of the 
Republic of Slovenia until 2030  strategy document for additional information on initiatives addres sing 
the environmental dimension.  
611.  Sweden  stated that besides the Swedish Policy Framework for Development Cooperation and 
Humanitarian Assistance, 30 of SIDA's strategies on global/regional/bilateral assistance have clear 
guidelines on environment and cli mate change. This includes, for example, key strategies such a 
Sweden's Global Development Cooperation in the Areas of Environmental Sustainability, Sustainable 
Climate and Oceans, and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources  as well as Sweden's development 
cooperation in sustainable economic development.  
612.  Switzerland  pointed  to four ( 4) documents that outline environmental priorities : i) Strategy 
on International Cooperation 2021 -2024; ii) Swiss International Cooperation Strategy 2021 -24; 
iii) Swiss Foreign Economic Policy Strategy ; iv) Swiss Strategy for Sustainable Development . 
613.  UNCTAD  highligh ted that its Trade Facilitation plans and roadmaps also prioritized sustainable 
development.  
614.  United Kingdom  pointed to its Integrated Review  as an example of a national strategy which 
embedded with environmental and sustainable development priorities.  
National development strateg y(ies), policy(ies) or plan (s) explicitly targeting S ustainable  
Development  Goals  (SDGs)  - SDG 7, SDG 12, SDG 13, SDG 14, SDG 15 and others  
615.  Forty-three (43) out of the fifty ( 50) partner developing country governments that replied to 
the question (86%) indicated that "Climate Action" (SDG 13) was explicitly targeted in national 
development strategies, policies, or plans. Forty -one (41), (82%) partners specified that 
"Sustainable P roduction and Consumption" (SDG 12) was explicitly targeted in national development 
strategies, policies or plans, while thirty -nine ( 39) partners (78%) indicated that "Affordable and 
Clean Energy" (SDG 7) were highlighted in similar documents. Meanwhile, twenty -nine ( 29) out of 
the thirty -one (31) partners that replied to the question (94%) indicated that SDG 13 was explicitly 
targeted in national development strategies, policies, or plans. Furthermore, partners an equal 
proportion of partner respondents ( 71%) indicated that SDG 7 and SDG 12 were reflected in national 
development strategies, policies or plans. Three (3) out of the four (4) regional economic community 
respondents (75%) pointed out that SDG 12, SDG 13 and SDG 15 were included in their regiona l 
development strategies, policies or plans. Finally, two (2) of the three  (3) South -South respondents 
indicated that SDG 12 was a key priority in their development strategies, policies and plans.  
616.  Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7), Sustainable Productio n and Consumption (SDG 12) and 
Climate Action (SDG 13) were identified as the most featured SDGs in policy documents on a regional 
level. Twenty -three ( 23) of the twenty -four ( 24) African respondents (95%) indicated that SDG 12 
was explicitly reflected in national development strategies, policies or plans, while sixteen ( 16) out 
of the eighteen ( 18) Asian and LAC partners (89%) pointed to SDG 13 as an explicit ly target in 
national development strategies, policies or plans. SDGs 7,12 and 13 were also highlig hted as top 
priorities for LLDCs, LDCs and UNSIDs. Twenty -four ( 24) of the twenty -six (26) LDC respondents 
(92%) indicated that SDG 12 was reflected in their national policy documents.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Regions and Groups : National development strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) 
explicitly targeting SDGs  
Region  Top Categories  Number of 
Responses  Percentage share 
per region  
Africa  Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)  19 79.17%  
Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12)  23 95.83%  
Climate Action (SDG 13)  19 79.17%  
Life Below Water (SDG 14)  10 41.67%  
Life on Land (SDG 15)  12 50.00%  
Other (please specify)  0 0.00%  
Asia  Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)  7 77.78%  
Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12)  7 77.78%  
Climate Action (SDG 13)  8 88.89%  
Life Below Water (SDG 14)  4 44.44%  
Life on Land (SDG 15)  5 55.56%  
Other (please specify)  3 33.33%  
LACs Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)  6 66.67%  
Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12)  7 77.78%  
Climate Action (SDG 13)  8 88.89%  
Life Below Water (SDG 14)  4 44.44%  
Life on Land (SDG 15)  5 55.56%  
Other (please specify)  1 11.11%  
Pacific  Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)  5 83.33%  
Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12)  3 50.00%  
Climate Action (SDG 13)  6 100.00%  
Life Below Water (SDG 14)  5 83.33%  
Life on Land (SDG 15)  5 83.33%  
Other (please specify)  2 33.33%  
Group  Top Categories  Number of 
Responses  Percentage share 
per region  
LLDC Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)  9 75.00%  
Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12)  11 91.67%  
Climate Action (SDG 13)  9 75.00%  
Life Below Water (SDG 14)  2 16.67%  
Life on Land (SDG 15)  6 50.00%  
Other (please specify)  2 16.67%  
LDCs Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)  20 76.92%  
Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12)  24 92.31%  
Climate Action (SDG 13)  21 80.77%  
Life Below Water (SDG 14)  9 34.62%  
Life on Land (SDG 15)  11 42.31%  
Other (please specify)  1 3.85%  
UNSIDS  Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)  8 88.89%  
Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12)  6 66.67%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Region  Top Categories  Number of 
Responses  Percentage share 
per region  
Climate Action (SDG 13)  9 100.00%  
Life Below Water (SDG 14)  8 88.89%  
Life on Land (SDG 15)  6 66.67%  
Other (please specify)  3 33.33%  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (202 2) 
National development strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) explicitly targeting SDGs  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (202 2) 
Additional information on whether national sustainable development strateg y(ies), 
polic y(ies) or plan (s) explicitly target any  of the following SDGs  – SDG 7, SDG 12, SDG 13, 
SDG 14, SDG 15 or other  
617.  A number of developing countries gave additional information on whether their national 
development strategies, policies or plans target the listed SDGs.   
618.  Banglade sh noted that its Export Policy 2018 -2021 and the Import Policy Order for 2021 -24 
also contained environment related targets to achieve resilience against climate change.  
619.  Benin  indicated that its SDG objectives were specifically mentioned under Strategic 
Objective  2 of Benin's NDP, with the prime objective of sustainably increasing the productivity and 
competitiveness of the Beninese economy. This involves: i) accelerating the structural 
transformation of the economy; ii) increasing total factor productivit y; iii) strengthening the 
integration of sectors, in particular agriculture, agro -industry and value chains; iv) developing rural 
infrastructure; and iv) ensuring more appropriate financing of the economy.  
620.  Colombia  observed that in addition to technology transfer issues, linkages between 
sustainable development and objectives such as industrialisation, export diversification and trade 
(within a circular economy) were also of relevance. Local technological capacity bu ilding, through 
foreign investment or cooperation projects, also has an important role to play.  
621.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  noted that though it has not made commitments to 
reduce GHG emissions, it is in the process of setting up institutional framew orks to fight climate 
change, with the financial backing of developed countries. Furthermore, the DRC has made efforts 
to meet its obligations in this area, with the preparations for REDD+ being particularly focussed and 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  committed. However, there is a lack  of implementation of necessary mitigation and adaptation 
projects due to the lack of funding capacity, as well as the lack of scientific knowledge about the 
expected effects of climate change on the country.  
622.  Cote d'Ivoire  observed that its SDG objectives and associated strategies were outline d in its 
National Development Plan (NDP) 2021 -2025. 
623.  Dominican Republic  pointed to its National Development Strategy 2030  as an example of a 
policy document with references to the listed SDGs . 
624.  Equatorial  Guinea  observed that Axis 4 of the 2035 National Plan spoke exclusively of 
environmental sustainability. The design and conception of this str ategic axis includes all the 
objectives related to the environment goals mentioned in the question.  
625.  Guatemala  noted that its Development Plan focused on 5 axes: i) urban and rural Guatemala; 
ii) welfare for the people; iii) riches for everyone; iv) natural  resources for today and the future; and 
v) state guarantor of human rights and development. These 5 axes encompass the goals mentioned 
in the question, in relation to sustainable development, trade and environment.  
626.  Guinea Bissau  noted it intends to be a m odel of sustainable development by 2025, one whose 
biodiversity will be preserved and regenerated to sustainably maintain urban and human 
development. Poorer populations will be especially targeted by this process.  
627.  Madagascar  noted that it was very active  in the implementation of agroclimatic techniques. 
Furthermore, it was gradually integrating dynamic practices that reduce greenhouse gases.  
628.  Mali observed that environmental references can be found under axis 4 of the policy document 
"Le Cadre stratégique pour la Relance Economique et le Développement Durable 2019 -2033" 
(CREDD 2019 -2023). Here, environment concerns are highlighted in the following objectives: 
i) Specific Objective 4.1.1 - "Promote decentralized and participatory management of renewable 
natural resources"; ii) Specific objective 4.1.2: "Promote the use of innovative technologies that 
respect the environment"; iii) Specific objective 4.1.3: "Improve the living environment of 
populations"; iv) and Specific objective 4.2.2: "Improve the adaptive  capacity of populations and 
the resilience of systems". In addition, Mali's Industrial Development Policy (PDI) addresses these 
environmental objectives through the points:  i) Funding: Axes1.1, 1.4,  - Know -how and technology 
transfer; and ii) Axes 3.2, 3.3, 3.5 - Promoting the integration of value chains.  
629.  Mauritius  observed that to ensure sustainable and responsible investment, it aims to 
champion a development policy based on four ( 4) pillars : (i) Investing in clean energy; (ii) Cre ating 
a cleaner and greener Mauritius; (iii) Mitigating climate change risks; and (iv) Protecting marine 
resources.  
630.  Mexico observed that "Sembrando Vida" program, which is part of The National Development 
Plan (PND) 2019 -2024, directly contributes to SDG 13 and 15. This program encourages the 
establishment of agroforestry production systems that combines the production of traditional crops 
together with that of fruit and timber trees. This will be integrated with the system of Milpa 
Intercalated between Fruit Trees (MIAF) which contributes to generating jobs, food self -sufficiency, 
the recovery of one million hectares worth of forest cover and improvements in the incom e of 
inhabitants. On the other hand, the Sectoral Economy Program (PROSECO) 2019 -2024, proposes 
actions that contribute to SDG 12. It guarantees sustainable consumption and production patterns, 
specifically, by encouraging companies adopt sustainable pract ices and incorporate information on 
sustainability into their reporting cycle (PROSECO, 2020, p. 15). The PND 2019 -2024 refers to 
sustainable development in general, while the sectoral programs address specific objectives related 
to the environment. Two ot her relevant policy documents were the General Law on Circular 
Economy , approved on November 17, 2021, and the Special Climate Change Program 2020 -2024. 
631.  Mozambique  stated that its national policies also targeted sustainable natural resources 
management as a key goal.  
632.  Nepal noted that its national plans also included SDG 11: Safe, inclusive and sustainable 
cities as a key priority.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  633.  Papua New Guinea  referenced its National Strategy for Re sponsible Sustainable 
Development of Papua New Guinea  (STARS) as a document outlining its environment specific 
strategies.  
634.  Peru highlighted Law 30988: Law on Food Loss and Waste , was published in June 2019 under 
Decree No. 003 -2020-MINAGRI in regard to SDG 12. The law aims to reduce and prevent food waste 
at all stages of the food chain, from primary production to human consumption. Regarding SDGs 12 
and 13, general guidelines to identify and promote eco -businesses and bio -businesses  were 
formulated with the  purpose of serving as a guide to the public sector and the private sector. The 
guidelines will help to develop actions, projects, programs, plans or strategies aimed at contributing 
to the development of these business models. Institutions from both the p ublic and private sector 
must use these general guidelines to guide efforts towards the sustainable business models. This 
also includes means to achieve local development and contribute to decentralization, since they are 
focused on sustainably taking adva ntage of local resources. Furthermore, " The National 
Competitiveness and Productivity Policy " incorporates the circular economy priority objective 
number 9 on environmental sustainability. This is in line with the vision of strengthening institutional 
frameworks to generate the conditions for a circular transition that: i) promotes changes in 
production and consumption patterns; ii) reduces the use of raw materials; iii) incorporates 
secondary raw material in production processes; iv)  moulds design of products so that they facilitate 
recovery in the post -consumption stage; and v) improves producti on processes and promotes the 
growth of competitiveness. Likewise, the National Competitiveness and Productivity Plan  
incorporates policy measures seeks to develop roa dmaps for industrial, agricultural, fishing and 
aquaculture sectors. The plans are instruments that will facilitate and promote the incorporation of 
good circular economy practices in the processes of the aforementioned sectors. In turn, it will allow 
for the strengthening of the circular transition process. Finally, the "Peru Limpio: Education and 
Communication Strategy on Responsible Consumption, Recovery and Integrated Management of 
Solid Waste Education" intends to promote and strengthen good environmen tal practices for 
responsible consumption among citizens. It additionally looks to minimize the generation of solid 
waste, the segregation and recovery of solid waste, and coordinate public and private efforts which 
are integral for a circular transition.  
635.  Philippines  noted that various sector -specific and cross -cutting strategies were to be 
implemented under the following areas: i) sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem services; 
ii) improving environmental quality; iii) increasing resilience of communities and their livelihood ; 
and iv) cross-cutting strategies. Furthermore , information can be found in the Updated Philippine 
Development Plan  (pages 351 -366).  
636.  Samoa  referred to Priority Area 4 of its Strategy for the Development of Samoa (SDS) which 
specifically addresses the environmental dimension.  
637.  Senegal  noted that the Taiba N'Diaye  windfarm illustrates its desire to become a spearhead 
of clean energy . 
638.  St. Lucia  highlighted priority objectives for each listed SDG. For SDG 7, objectives include: 
a) Sustainable energy production; and b) Promotion of renewable energy, energy efficiency and 
conservation. For SDG 12: a) Coordinated chemicals management systems; and b) Increased 
livestock and food crop production to reduce dependence on food imports and improve food security. 
As part of SDG 13: a) Undergo Ecosystem Service Valuations for 3 key ecosystems; and b) Establish 
a National Environmental Information System (NEIS). Under SDG 14: a) Adopt national ocean 
governance policy by December 2021; b) Strengthen the capacity of the National Ocean Governance 
Committee (NOGC); and c) Introduce co hesive, eco -based approaches to development to ensure 
that human activity is managed in line with Goal 3.1 (Protect, maintain or restore the overall quality 
of the marine environment by managing the impact of human activity on ecosystem goods and 
services,  ensuring biological diversity and the ecologically sustainable use of marine resources) and 
requirements of the National Environment Management Strategy (NEMS). For SDG 15: a) Develop 
voluntary conservation agreements for private lands; b)  Operationalise bio-livelihood initiative in the 
form of Latanya production, beekeeping, cultural heritage tourism; and c) Seek endorsement for 
Land Use Policy. Finally, under SDG 11: a) Public sector modernization for the reduction of paper 
and other waste; b) Rejuvenati on of tourism sites and other green spaces;  and c) Road network 
rehabilitation as a means of reducing congestion and improving domestic trade supplies.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  639.  Uganda  noted its strategic plan for water and environment  to guide investments into the 
sector.   
640.  Vanuatu  noted that additional references to the international conventions and agreements 
that it has ratified can be accessed  here.  
641.  Zambia  highlighted three policy documents that addressed its environment specific goals: 
i) Zambia Integrated Investment Framework and Financially Strategies for Sustainable Land 
Management; ii) Environmental Awareness Strategy; and iii) Pollution Management Plans . 
642.  Two (2) south -south partners provided additional information on the environment -specific 
goals and approaches that were targeted by their regional development strategy or plan.  
643.  Indonesia  noted that it was committed to achieve all SDGs related to sustainable 
development.  
644.  Colombia indicated that there was no explicit linked to the SDGs in all cases.  
645.  Various regional economic communitie s provided additional information on the 
environment -specific goals and approaches were targeted by their regional development strategy or 
plan. 
646.  TradeMark East Africa  proposed to address environment specific goals by: i)  Improving 
Climate Change Policy Fra meworks, 2) Promoting green infrastructure and green transport 
(multimodal, public transport, technological efficiency and innovations such as hydrogen trucks); iii) 
Strengthening the Green Economy for enhanced trade and exports (eco -industries, climate sm art 
value chains, green competitiveness), and iv) Catalyzing green growth/infrastructure financing by 
developing commercial products  
647.  The West African Economic and Monetary Union  highlighted that one of the strategic 
objectives of the Priority Action Framew ork (CAP 2025) was to consolidate sectoral actions for a 
viable economic space. As such, some of the key actions include: i) the development of sustainable 
agriculture; ii) the development of energy poles; iii) strengthening food and nutrition security; an d 
iv) strengthening the resilience of populations in the face of hazards and climate. In terms of results, 
WAEMU wields successes in fields such as renewable energy, sustainable production and 
consumption, climate change and aquatic life. In fact, one of t he objectives set in its energy policy 
was to ensure that 82% of the energy produced in Member States by 2030 was renewable and 
green. Furthermore, the Energy Development Fund (FDE) of the "Innovations et Réseaux pour le 
Développement" (IRED) financed 13 e nergy programmes valued at FCFA  244.93  billion. Projects 
include the construction of power stations, transformer stations and power lines. In addition, the 
Regional Program for Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency has helped install mini -solar power 
stations with distribution networks, solar street lights, solar kits and drinking water supply systems 
in several Member States. Regarding the environment and the sustainable management of natural 
resources, WAEMU has adapted populations to the effects of cl imate change by improving 
agricultural production capacity, the management of West African coastal zones and the fight against 
silting of the Niger River. In terms of agricultural development and the promotion of food security, 
WAEMU has contributed to fre shwater access by helping to build more than 3,420 boreholes. It has 
worked to harmonize regulations on agricultural inputs, sanitary and phytosanitary safety, fisheries, 
and aquaculture management. The Commission has also supported priority agricultural s ectors, by 
establishing infrastructure for irrigation (2,174 ha), storage and marketing of produce 
(250,000  tonnes). Finally, the WAEMU achievements in animal disease prevention include the 
management of organisms harmful to plants, and consolidation and s trengthening of community 
markets for veterinary medicinal products  
648.  Several donors provided additional information on the environment -specific goals and 
approaches such as financing, sharing of know -how, technology transfer (including sharing of 
know -how), promotion of value chain integration targeted by their Aid for Trade or development 
strategy, policy or plan.  
649.  Asian Development Bank observed that climate change mitigation, ocean health, and 
disaster resilience, achieved through sustainable and nature -based solutions, were central goals in WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  ADB project development. For instance, the ADB Strategy 2030's  Operational Priority C, titled 
"Tackl ing Climate Change, Building Climate and Disaster Resilience, and Enhancing Environmental 
Sustainability" centralizes environmental sustainability in all aspects of ADB's projects and activities. 
Key responses identified in Operational Priority 3 include: (i) scaling up support to address climate 
change, disaster risks, and environmental degradation; (ii) accelerating low GHG emission 
development; (iii) ensuring a comprehensive approach to build climate and disaster resilience; 
(iv) ensuring environmental s ustainability; and (v) increasing focus on the water -food-energy nexus. 
Furthermore, the RCI operational plan for 2019 -2024 includes support for: (i)  renewable energy and 
sustainable transport; (ii) measures to improve shared capacity of DMCs to mitigate o r adapt to 
climate change; and (iii) measures to expand cross -border environmental protection and sustainable 
management of shared natural resources.  
650.  Australia  highlighted that while its PFR development framework does not explicitly refer to 
the highlight ed SDGs, it recognises that the pandemic poses profound challenges to economic 
development and human wellbeing, as addressed in these goals. The framework also acknowledges 
that the impacts of the pandemic are likely to be most acute across the developing world, threatening 
to jeopardise progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Australia's country specific 
development programs continue to support progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development 
Goals . For example, Australia is a key partner in the Solomon Island's Tina River Hydropower project  
which is a major renewables venture. This public private partnership has attracted investm ents worth 
USD 240 million from a range of financiers, including the Green Climate Fund. The Tina River Hydro 
project will provide affordable, reliable clean energy and will power the electricity needs of Honiara. 
This large scale, transformative project w ill meet 100 per cent of Solomon Islands' international 
commitment for emissions reduction under the Paris Agreement. It  will also build resilience in 
communities and businesses by catalysing growth and development of livelihoods and productive 
enterprises . A further example of Australia's activity consistent with achieving environment -specific 
SDGs is Australia's high -integrity Carbon Offset S cheme for the Indo -Pacific  (IPCOS), which 
complements the PFR's stability and resilience pillar objectives. Papua New Guinea was one of the 
first countries to sign up to the scheme, during COP26. IPCOS will help PNG protect natural carbon 
sinks such as rai nforests and mangroves, adopt low -emissions technologies, and provide access to 
an established market for offset credits. Papua New Guinean and Australian agencies will now work 
together to develop a national carbon market strategy for the former. This  involves enabling new 
policies and regulations needed for participation in carbon markets, and practical and credible 
demonstration offset projects in priority sectors including forestry preservation. Additional Australian 
projects addressing environment spec ific goals include: i)  Empowering Women's Economic 
Development in Solomon Islands ; ii) Increasing Resilience in Tonga with Renewable Energy ; 
iii) Solar mills in Vanuatu  ; iv) The Australia -Indonesia Plastics Innovation Hub  to End Plastic Waste; 
and v)  New cool chains to scale up safe vegetables value chain in Son La, Vietnam .  
651.  Austria  observed that its key SDG priorities also included wastewater treatment/sanitatio n 
and water resources management  
652.  Canada  highlighted some of the steps taken to address each of the 5 SDGs highlighted. For  
example : i) Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7): Canada's CAD 5.3 billion climate finance program 
will likely include projects focus ed on supporting countries establish sustainable development and 
climate action plans; ii) Sustainable Production and Consumption (SDG 12) – Canada's Action Area 
Policy on "Growth that Works for Everyone" provides guidance on this dimension of the Feminist  
International Assistance Policy. It focuses on sustainable production in agriculture and food products. 
Furthermore, a portion of Canada's international Aid -for-Trade programming relies on sustainable 
agri-food value chains and climate smart agriculture t o deliver on environmental aspects of Canada's 
development policy. Furthermore, Canada noted that it continues to spearhead related efforts since 
launching the "Ocean Plastics Charter" at the June 2018 Leader's Summit during its G7 Presidency. 
The Charter,  aligned with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, specifically commits to 
achieve sustainable consumption and production; iii)  Climate Action (SDG 13): Canada supports the 
comprehensive and transparent reporting on mobilized finance. This was central to its understanding 
of countries' actions to address climate change and biodiversity loss. Canada welcomed the 
improvements to the quality and transparency of DAC reporting on official climate and 
biodiversity -related financing, including ODA, mob ilized capital, and other forms of financing in 
support of SDG  13. Canada was also committed to combatting climate change and its impacts 
through international climate finance for developing countries. For  instance, Canada recently 
delivered on its 2015 cl imate finance commitment of CAD  2.65 billion, and is doubling its climate 
finance to CAD 5.3  billion over the next five years (2021 -2026). Canada's international climate WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  finance supports a wide range of programs and initiatives helping developing countries  build 
domestic capacity to take climate action, build resiliency, and reduce pollution. All projects under 
that program will have climate mitigation and/or adaptation as the main objective. Twenty percent 
of the CAD 5.3 billion climate finance envelope  will be allocated to nature -based climate soluti ons 
and biodiversity co -benefits; iv) Life below water (SDG 14): The "Ocean's Plastic Charter" highlighted 
above, launched during Canada's G7 presidency, takes a comprehensive lifecycle approach to 
prevent marine plastic pollution, and lays the groundwork to ensure that plastics are designed for 
reuse and recycling. To date, more than 25 governments and over 70 businesses and other 
organizations have endorsed the Charter. The Charter specifically commits to the conservation and 
sustainable use of oceans, se as and marine resources;  and v) Life on Land (SDG 15): Canada 
considers the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) as a key initiative to 
our commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The Parliament of Canada ratified this 
Convention in 1995 and in 2001, Canada hosted the 5th Conference of Parties. Canada engages with 
the UNCCD, along with the other 196 parties, to limit desertification, drought, and land degradation. 
Since re -joining the UNCCD in 2017, Canada has played a k ey leadership role in the Convention, 
including leading the negotiations for the adoption UNCCD's Gender Action Plan (GAP) at the 
Thirteenth Conference of Parties of the Convention. Canada supports developing countries meet the 
objectives of the Convention  through the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and several other 
multilateral environment agreements. In fact, Canada is the sixth -largest contributor to the GEF.  
653.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development indicated that its " Green Economy 
Strategy " targets some of the SDGs highlighted.  
654.  European Union  observed that "The European Consensus on Development" and the "NDICI -
Global Europe Regulation" referenced the highlighted SDGs where relevant. F urthermore, the 
Agenda 2030 and the SDGs were central to the 2017 European Commission Communication: 
"Achieving Prosperity through Trade and Investment: Updat ing the 2007 Joint EU Strategy on Aid 
for Trade ". This communication noted that "The ambition must be to support partner countries in 
their efforts to make progress on the SDGs and achieve sustainable prosperity through increased 
trade and investment". Whi le it does not refer to specific SDGs, it was a cross -cutting priority. For 
example, " Stronger focus on the social and environmental dimensions of sustainability, together 
with inclusive economic growth" was one of five principles in the strategy:  
655.  Hungary  indicated that it also focussed on SDG 6: "Ensure availability and sustainable 
management of water and sanitation for all" as an explicit development target.  
656.  Inter -American Development Bank  noted that its Climate Change Action Plan 2021 -2025 
lays out approaches to further incorporate climate change and sustainability in the IDB Group's work. 
This can help to place a lasting impact as the region attempts to build back more sustainably. The 
plan centres on maintaining ambitious climate action.  
657.  International Trade Centre  noted that all SDGs were targeted in its Strategic Plan. 
Environmental sustainability was furthermore treated as one of the main goals. Moreover, ITC 
sub-strategies (e.g. Green to Compete) targeted specific SDGs are part of its T heory of Change.  
658.  Japan  pointed to its Development Cooperation Charter , which says that Japan will take 
advantage of its own experience, expertise and technology, as well as lessons learned,  in order to 
realize "quality growth" and poverty eradication. From this perspective, Japan will provide necessary 
assistance to secure and drive economic growth. Its scope includes: a) the development of industrial 
infrastructure and industries through im provements in areas such as infrastructure, finance and 
trade and investment climate; b) sustainable cities; c) introduction of information and 
communications technology (ICT) and high technology; d) promotion of science, technology and 
innovation; e) rese arch and development; f) economic policy; g) vocational training and industrial 
human resources development ;h) employment creation; i) and the promotion of agriculture, 
forestry and fisheries, including the development of food value chains. Moreover, Japa n will provide 
necessary assistance to promote people centred development supporting basic human life, while 
taking full account of the importance of human and social development. It encompasses health care, 
safe water, sanitation, food and nutrition, qual ity education, disparity reduction, women 
empowerment, culture and sports bringing spiritual affluence. Furthermore, the Charter observed 
that stable development, through "quality growth", will not be achieved unless the rights of 
individuals are guarantee d. People can engage in economic and social activities only with a sense of 
safety, and when society is managed equitably and stably. With a view to solidifying the foundations WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  for such development, Japan will lend assistance as to share universal values s uch as freedom, 
democracy, respect for basic human rights and the rule of law to realize a peaceful, stable and 
secure society. The Charter noted that in the contexts highlighted above, Japan will address 
challenges such as: a) actions against climate chan ge, including the creation of a low carbon society 
and adaptation to adverse effects of climate change; b) infectious diseases control; c) promotion of 
universal health coverage; d) mainstreaming disaster risk reduction; e) disaster risk reduction and 
post-disaster recovery measures; f) conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of resources 
from forests, g) farmlands and oceans; h) promotion of a sound water cycle; i) environmental 
management and other environmental -related initiatives; j)  respon ses to demographic challenges, 
including an aging population; k) food security and nutrition; i) sustainable access to resources and 
energy; m) closing the digital divide . Finally, the Charter observed that in the international 
community today, various non -governmental actors play an increasingly important role in the 
development of developing countries. With this recognition, collaboration between JICA and other 
agencies responsible for other official funds such as the Japan Bank for International Cooperat ion 
(JBIC), Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI), and the Japan Overseas Infrastructure 
Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) was to be strengthened. The 
government will furthermore enhance mutually beneficial partnersh ips with various actors, as to 
serve as a catalyst for mobilizing a wide range of resources, including the private sector.  
659.  Korea  indicated that its projects on renewable energy and climate change response were 
priority projects for EDCF, subject to prefere ntial treatment for loan conditions. Moreover, according 
to its green strategy, Korea has a 40% target goal for increasing green EDCF projects.  
660.  The Netherlands  noted that its Aid -for-Trade agenda and development strategy include the 
following goals: i) pro motion of sustainable value chains; ii) promotion of circular solutions to trade, 
iii) promotion of sustainable consumption & production, and iv) support for research and analyses 
on the climate -trade nexus.  
661.  Portugal  indicated that SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation for All) was also a priority.  
662.  Russian Federation  noted that Article 8 of the Russian "State Concept on International 
Development Assistance" includes state policy principles for International Development Assistance. 
One of the principles is the  commitment of the Russian Federation to the priorities of Sustainable 
Development.  This meant that Russia is committed to all 17 SDGs, addressing the balance between 
all three dimensions of sustainable development. In other words, all Russian state strat egies, policies 
or plan, related to development, target implicitly some environment -specific goals.   
663.  Slovenia  highlighted that the "Resolution on development cooperation and humanitarian 
assistance of the Republic of Slovenia", defines two priorities for development cooperation, namely: 
a) promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies, with a particular emphasis on good governance, 
equal opportunities, including gender equality, and quality education; and b) fight against climate 
change, focused on the sus tainable management of natural and energy resources. These have been 
narrowed further in the "Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Strategy of the 
Republic  of Slovenia", specifically to address SDG 8, 12, 13 and 16.  
664.  Sweden  observed that "The Swedis h Policy Framework for Development Cooperation and 
Humanitarian Assistance" directs the Swedish Development Cooperation to work broadly in the areas 
of environment, climate change and the sustainable use of natural resources. Furthermore, SIDA's 
work was t o be permeated by an environmental and climate perspective.  
665.  Switzerland lent insights on its activities targeting each of specified SDGs:  i) SDG 7 - 
Through international cooperation, Switzerland supports developing countries mitigate climate 
change (reduction of greenhouse gas emissions) and adapt to its effects. Switzerland's international 
cooperation contributes to the sustainable management of u rban and rural areas by reducing the 
growing risks related climate change, and by promoting renewable energies and energy efficiency ; 
ii) SDG 12 - Switzerland promotes private sector integration in global value chains (e.g. palm oil, 
cocoa, tourism) and st rengthens the relevant dimensions of sustainability in the process ; iii) SDG 
13 - Climate and resource efficiency was a transversal theme of Switzerland's strategy on 
International Cooperation. It was systematically considered in all development activities ; iv) SDG  15 
– Switzerland's international cooperation supports the sustainable management of resources such WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  as water, air, soil, raw materials, and ecosystems. In addition, it supports conservation of 
biodiversity for the benefit of all people, especially  the most vulnerable, along value chains.  
666.  UNCTAD  highlighted that its initiatives supported the Sustainable Development Goals, 
particularly Goal 7 (Energy), Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and Goal  13 (Climate 
Change). Furthermore, progra mmes aided the following objectives: i) Promote – from a trade and 
development perspective – the extensive use of renewable and low -emission energy sources and 
technologies as to generate a more diverse and sustainable energy mix and facilitate cooperation  
on technology and identification of finance in this field;  and ii) Support developing countries  identify 
relevant trade and investment policies as to contribute to the atta inment of the climate and 
environmental goals of the 2030 Agenda.  
667.  UNIDO  noted that safeguarding of the environment , by tackling SDG 9, was a key priority. 
UNIDO's efforts looked to bu ild resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable 
industrialization and foster innovation. Furthermore, UNIDO pointed to its network of Investment 
and Technology Promotion Offices (ITPOs), which helped to broker investment and technology 
agreements between developed and developing countries.  
668.  United Kingdom  noted that its Integrated Review of Foreign, Development and Defence 
Policy  explicitly mentioned SDG 7, 12 and 13.  
669.  United Nations Development Programme  noted that its "Strategic Plan 2022 -2025" 
identified 3 di rections of change and six signature solutions that cover support to the SDGs in a 
holistic manner. The Plan furthermore identified three enablers, namely digitalization, strategic 
innovation and development finance. Particularly, UNDP looked to support go vernments, private and 
financial sector actors and enterprises align development to SDGs.  A "Sustainable Finance Hub" was 
established in 2019 to better coordinate, codified knowledge and scale UNDP's development finance. 
Further information on UNDP's work on sustainable finance can be found using this link.  
670.  The United States  highlighted its Climate Change Strategy  as a reference document outlining 
SDG objectives.  
The presence of trade objectives in national development strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or 
plan(s) 
671.  Forty-five (45) out of the fifty-one ( 51) partner developing country governments that 
responded to the questi on (88%) indicated that their national development strategies, policies or 
plans  included trade objective. Meanwhile, thirty ( 30) of the thirty -six (36) donor responses (83%) 
highlighted that national development strategies, policies or plans included trad e objectives . Three 
(3) out of the four regional economic economies or transport corridors and two  (2) South -South 
partners (50%) also indicated that national development strategies, policies or plans included trade 
objectives.  
672.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with twenty -three ( 23) of the twenty -five 
(25) respondents indicating that  national development strategies, policies or plans included trade 
objective . 96% of LDC respondents and all twelve (12) LLDC respondents indicated that the ir 
national development strategies, policies or plans did the same.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Regions an d Groups: The presence of trade objectives in national development 
strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or plan (s) 
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Pacific  6 100%  
Asia 7 78% 
Africa  23 92% 
LACS 7 78% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
UN SIDS  8 89% 
LDC 26 96% 
LLDC 12 100%  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
The presence of trade objectives in national development strateg y(ies), polic y(ies) or 
plan(s) 
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on whether the national or regional sustainable development 
strategy (ies) , policy (ies) , or plan (s) includes trade objectives  
673.  Many partners provided additional remarks on how the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development was reflected in their national policy document(s), plan(s) or strateg y(ies). 
674.  Angola  indicated that economic diversification, trade integration and the expansion of 
domestic agricultural and non -agricultural production were key aims for development.  
675.  Bangladesh  stated that green growth was prioritized as a trade strategy of the country.  
676.  Benin  noted that the expected effects of its strategy plans include: i) the diversification and 
expansion of the productive bases of the Beninese economy; ii) increase in the productivity of 
domestic factors of production; iii) effective integration of agricult ure and agro -industry for the 
promotion of value chains; and iv) creation of modern and reliable infrastructures for economic 
exchanges and access to market. Benin also highlighted the implementation of an electronic payment 
platform (PKU: Payment Key Iden tification).  
677.  Burkina Faso  pointed to Axis 4 of its National Plan for Social and Economic Development 
(PNDESII), which made pointed references to sustainable trade objectives.  
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  678.  Colombia  stated that its Green Growth Policy seeks to maintain and increase the pace of 
economic growth in a sustainable manner. This is by (among others): i) generating new economic 
opportunities to diversify the economy, through the sustainable production of goods and services; 
ii) Ensuring an efficient and productive use of natural  resources; and iii) reducing and minimising 
the environmental and social impacts generated by productive activities.  
679.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  observed that a "National Forest Fund (FFN)" was 
established by the forestry code as to i) finance refor estation; ii) conduct inventory and management 
operations; iii) and conduct studies relating to sustainable development. Furthermore, to ensure the 
legality of the timber trade with European markets, the DRC is negotiating a partnership agreement 
with the EU, under its Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) Action Plan.  
680.  Equatorial Guinea  noted that its sectoral plans and studies, along with Axis III of its GE  2035 
Agenda, broadly explain and reflect the commercial objectives of Equatorial Guinea in the face of 
sustainable development. For instance, the " Estudio de Diagnóstico de la Integración Comercial " 
(EDIC), the "Apoyo Institucional para el Desarrollo del Comercio en Guinea Equitorial (MIM -GE)", as 
well as other sectoral plans are based on the vision and definition of this overall strategy.  
681.  The Gambia  observed that strategic pillar 8 of its National Development Plan aims to develop 
the private sector's trade contributions to national development.  
682.  Guatemala  noted that objectives focussing on economic development and employment 
generation can help the population to address household needs. Similarly, ac tivities that improve 
competitiveness, reduce poverty, and minimize inequality can help to bolster resilience, and include 
more population groups into economic activities.  
683.  Guinea Bissau  indicated that it seeks to evolve into a diversified economy by 2025, relying 
on 4 growth engines: i) agriculture and agro -industry; ii) fishing; iii) tourism; and iv) mining.  
684.  Lesotho  highlighted that its strategic objectives include: i) Improving commercial agriculture 
and food security; ii) Diversifying export products; ii i) Developing business linkages between local 
and foreign owned businesses; iv) Improving and diversifying tourism products.  
685.  Madagascar  observed that sustainable development objectives were prioritized in the 
National Green Export Review. The document pri marily examined the coffee and legumes value 
chains. Other sectors and value chains are gradually following the same approach.  
686.  Mali pointed to General Objective 4.1 of its IDP, which stated that the "orderly, rapid, 
sustainable and balanced industrial deve lopment, generating employment, enabling the secondary 
sector to achieve GDP contribution of 42% by 2025" was a key priority.  
687.  Mauritius  highlighted that it provides incentives to promote the use of electric vehicles, solar 
PV, and low -emissions vehicles. F urthermore. the Budget Speech 2020 -2021 makes mention of 
Green and Blue Bond frameworks to be set up by the Bank of Mauritius.  
688.  Mexico stated that abiding the conditions of the PND 2019 -2024 regarding sustainable 
development, "the Federal Executive will consider, in all cir cumstances, the impacts that its policies 
and programs have on the social fabric, ecology and the political and economic horizons of the 
country . In addition, the Federal Executive will be guided by an idea of development that corrects 
social injustices a nd promotes economic growth, without affecting peaceful coexistence, ties of 
solidarity, cultural diversity or the environment". Furthermore, the PND 2019 -2024 establishes that 
the federal government will promote the modalities of fair trade for social and  solidarity economy.  
689.  Papua New Guinea  pointed to its National Trade Policy 2017 -2032, which made several 
references to the trade and sustainable development intersect.  
690.  Peru highlighted the Ministeria l Resolution No. 046 -2020-MINAM, which approve s General 
Guidelines to identify and promote domestic eco and bio -business. The resolution aims to establish 
general standards, principles and objectives for these businesses, such that that they contribute to 
the conservation of biodiversity, and prioritize environmental, economic and social sustainability. 
Concurrently, the Environment Ministry's Eco and Biobusiness Catalogue  was a promotion tool that WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  functioned as a  digital directory, bringing together sustainable enterprises identified by MINAM. The 
catalogue helps to support the growth of these businesses, promotes responsible consumption 
among citizens and encourages the creation of similar sustainability -oriented  business initiatives. 
Furthermore, Law No. 30988 promotes the reduction and prevention of food losses and waste and 
establishes the following strategic actions: a) Strengthening training activities and good practices in 
food handling, at all stages of the  food chain; b) Promoting the implementation of programs and 
projects related to the reduction and prevention of food losses and waste at the national, regional 
and local levels; c) Performing project evaluations at an early stage to correct detected short comings 
and replicate good practices; d) Promoting private sector and general public participation in the 
measures aimed at achieving the object set forth in this law; and e) Enhancing scientific and 
technological capacity and promote training of researche rs specialized in the reduction and 
prevention of food losses and waste. Furthermore, the 2002 Export Plan of the Commission for the 
Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism (PROMPERU) considers the promotion of sustainable 
exports through various commerc ial platforms such as fairs, conferences and missions. The plan 
moreover places greater emphasis on those companies that have voluntary sustainability standards. 
Finally, Peru noted that its "National Biotrade Strategy" and its Action Plan to 2025, contain s 
12 strategic objectives, with each reflecting the promotion and development of Biotrade as a priority . 
691.  Senegal  noted that sustainable trade practices were pursed in the development of marketing 
channels for certain strategic products. These include wood,  charcoal, wild harvest and agricultural 
and pastoral products.  
692.  St. Lucia  observed that currently, there were no national sustainable development strategy, 
policy, or plan at place. However, trade objectives corelating to the environment were captured 
within its national adaptation plan . The planning and implementation of this document includes 
ongoi ng consultations with relevant stakeholders in the trade and economic fields.  
693.  Togo  indicated that its nation plan outlined the following objectives: i) Create an attractive 
framework for domestic and foreign investment, in particular through the facilitati on and adaptation 
of legislation; ii) Promote the growth of promising manufacturing firms by creating a framework for 
conducive industrial development;  and iii) Encourage and promote export development, particularly 
for industrial products.  
694.  Uganda observe d that its " Strategic Investment Plan for Water and Environment Sector " 
outlined trade -based sustainable development obje ctives.  
695.  Zambia  noted that many of its policy interventions focussed on reversing the unsustainable 
utilization of natural resources, including through trade. This will be done through the development 
of management plans for natural resources such forests,  water, and wildlife.  
696.  The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat  pointed to the excerpts from the "2050 Strategy for 
the Blue Pacific Continent", which notes that "Pacific Regionalism to date has focused less on 
economic and political integration and more on a convergence of Pacific values and shared 
geography. However, there is increasing urgency across the region to progress issues of significance, 
including  trade development." PIFS noted that though the priority thematic areas for regional 
development do not include trade, two of the six priority areas present strong linkages with trade 
as either an enabler (Thematic Area 2: Resources and Economic Development), or a beneficiary 
(Thematic Area 6: Technology and Connectivity). Trade -related priorities listed in these thematic 
areas sometimes include reference to sustainability, in particular the need to enable the sustainable 
management of the region's natural resources.  
697.  One south -south partner provided additional information on the trade objectives highlighted 
in their development strategy, policy or plan for sustainable development.  
698.  Colombia noted that while certain elements of its sustainable development policy impacts 
trade objectives and issues, trade was not necessarily considered as a central objective.  
699.  A few regional economic communities provided additional information on the trade objectives 
embedded in their regional development strategy or plan that includes sustainable development.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  700.  TradeMark East Africa  noted its commitment to reducing time (15%) and costs (10%) of 
trade over the course of its current strategy.  
701.  West African Monetary and Economic Union (WAEMU)  pointed to a critical objective of 
the amended WAEMU Treaty, which was to create a common market  between member states based 
on the free movement of persons, goods, services and capital. The treaty also calls for the right of 
establishment for persons exercising an activity – either self -employed or salaried – as well as a 
common external tariff and a common commercial policy. Based on this objective, the WAEMU 
Commission has opted to focus its actions over the period 2021 -2025 on: i) the free movement of 
goods; ii) trade policy; iii) competition rules; and iv) the free movement of persons, services a nd 
capital. Hence, the Priority Action Framework (CAP 2025) prioritizes the accelerated convergence of 
the common market so as to encourage the emergence of a competitive regional private sector. The 
Commission also intends to: a) promote trade ; b) put in place the system of free practice within 
WAEMU; c) Strengthen the operational capacities of structures for implementing competition rules; 
d) Set up a stabilization fund within the Union; e) Produce and promote regional statistics; f)  Develop 
efficient tra nsport and transit infrastructure; g) Promote multimodal transport; and h)  Support 
secure border management in the WAEMU area. Concerning the promotion of commercial 
exchanges, the Commission will look to develop systems and adopt texts that help to facili tate 
commercial operations and increase intra -community commercial exchanges. The  Commission will 
also look to address factors which undermine the development of intra -Community trade. These 
include: i) the persistence of non -tariff barriers between States  which hinders the free movement of 
goods; ii)  the absence of synergies between Members to develop regional value chains in agricultural 
processing; iii) extroverted consumption patterns; iv)  insufficient transport infrastructure; and v) 
the persistence of  anti-competitive practices. The WAEMU Commission's aim is to increase the rate 
of intra -Community trade from 11.5% in 2019, to 20 -25% by 2025. At the same time, by 
coordinating the management of a common trade policy, the Commission will lead initiatives which 
promote the capacities of Member States such that they derive maximum benefit from intra -African 
trade. This could be within the framework of the AfCFTA or the multilateral trading system. Since 
February 2017, Member States of the Union have been con tributing multilaterally through the 
implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). The TFA aims to boost global trade 
by expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods, including goods in transit.  
702.  Several donors provided additional  information on the trade objectives found in their Aid for 
Trade or development strategy policy or plan that includes sustainable development.  
703.  African Development Bank  noted that it has formulated a regional integration strategy 
anchored on trade and sustainable development objectives.  
704.  Asian Development Bank  stated that its Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program promotes 
the inclusion of sustainability in trade -oriented  projects. For instance, in the Mongolia Country 
Partnership Strategy , ADB will focus on three strategic priorities: (i) fostering inclusive social 
development an d economic opportunity; (ii) climate -resilient infrastructure to drive competitiveness 
and diversification; and (iii) resilience for sustainable, green, and climate -conscious development.  
705.  Australia  noted that the PFR framework commits to ensuring climate change and 
environmental sustainability are embedded in Australia's support for economic recovery, including 
trade. The framework gives attention to facilitating responsible business models, low carbon 
development, and greater value chain diversification a s to boost economic resilience and mitigate 
future shocks. Furthermore, Australia's Climate Change Action Strategy  for 2020 -2025 complements 
PFR priorities by info rming development assistance policy, increasing targeted climate investments, 
and integrating climate considerations in existing and planned investments. It also sets out how 
Australia can harness the expertise of aid implementation partners, enhance partn erships, and 
promote innovative approaches to addressing climate change. A significant focus will be on enabling 
greater private sector investment in climate mitigation and adaptation, and partnering with 
developing countries to create enabling environment s, including for carbon markets and green 
economy agreements. In addition, Australia noted that the inextricable links between trade, 
development and the environment continue to shape its Aid for Trade in the pacif ic region . For 
instance, in regard to fisheries, it is working with Pacific countries, regional organisations, and 
multilateral development banks to ensure the sustainability of fisheries stocks. The aim is to ensure 
long-term income streams and improving market access. Australia supports the fisheries sector 
primarily through partnerships with the South Pacific Community (SPC) and the Forum Fisheries 
Agency (FFA). Increases in GDP, government revenues and export volumes have all been achieved. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Onshore investments in fisheries were also increasing, as are exports to international markets. The 
support has h elped underpin scientific monitoring and assessments needed to ensure the future 
sustainability of valuable offshore fish stocks. A further example is the Australian Infrastructure 
Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), which was established to provid e grants and loans for vital 
infrastructure projects in Timor -Leste and the Pacific. The AIFFP invests in high -quality projects in 
telecommunications, energy, transport, water and other priority infrastructure. The facility forms an 
important part of Austr alia's COVID -19 recovery efforts in the region, by funding climate resilient 
infrastructure projects that support sustainable economic growth and local employment. Other 
programmes include: i) Pacific regional fisheries assistance ; ii) PACER Plus ; iii) Pacific regional 
economic growth and private sector development ; iv) PHAMA Plus ; vi) and Pacific Step -up  
706.  Canada  observed that "The 2019 -2022 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy" (FDS) 
does include high -level trade objectives broadly related (i.e. they are not specifi c to Canada's 
development/investment strategies, policies, or plans, or Aid -for-Trade priorities) to free trade 
agreements. In particular, the FDS identifies goals/actions to: i) advance an inclusive approach to 
trade, including integrating robust environm ental provisions into trade agreements, and supporting 
clean technology exports; and ii) to include provisions in free trade agreements that promote the 
use of products and services related to clean and renewable energy and support Canada's leadership 
role in chemicals management and air quality. The "Sustainable Development Strategy 2020 -2023: 
Global Affairs Canada", also builds on these broad FTA actions/objectives through Canada's inclusive 
approach to trade. This includes conducting environmental assess ments of trade negotiations and 
including obligations aimed at environmental protection and robust environmental governance. 
Canada's international assistance efforts considers trade objectives through its involvement in 
multilateral partnerships. Canada f or instance supports strong messaging from the DAC to 
Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), bilateral Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) and 
multilateral funds to: i) ensure that their financial flows are aligned with the goals of the Paris 
Agreement  and support the objectives of international biodiversity conventions; ii) commits to 
mobilize climate and biodiversity finance at scale; iii) mainstream nature across their operations. 
Within the next five years, Canada expects all development programs to  cater to climate and nature 
objectives at country, regional and global levels. A few examples of how this maybe done include: 
i) integrating environmental considerations into trade agreements using policy tools such as strategic 
environmental assessments;  ii) Using the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS), responsible for 
promoting Canadian exports, coordinated with the Offices of Liaison with International Financial 
Institutions (OLIFI) to identify opportunities for Canada's clean tech firms, explore opportun ities to 
export products and services through the development of a procurement marketplace; and 
iii) developing backgrounders and informational tools on emerging green transition and nature 
positive policies (e.g., carbon adjustments) to inform ongoing tra de negotiations.  
707.  European Union  noted that the 2017 Joint EU AfT Strategy underlines the importance of 
support to sustainable development. Furthermore, The European Green Deal  Communication, 
referenced in response to Question 13, notes the important role of trade policy and the WTO in 
advancing ambitious environment, climate and energy objectives. It also highlights the specific 
measures that the Commission will propose to make the Paris agreement an essential element for 
all future comprehensive trade agreements. The Commission will also continue to work on new 
standards for sustainable growth and use its economic weight to shape international standards in 
line w ith EU environmental and climate ambitions. In addition, it will work to facilitate trade in 
environmental goods and services, in bilateral and multilateral forums. Moreover, the annexes of 
the NDICI -Global Europe Regulation, referenced in Question 12, are  formulated to address the 
following thematic areas: i) Promoting the phasing -out of environmentally harmful fossil fuel 
subsidies, stable and transparent energy markets, deployment of smart grids and the use of digital 
technologies for sustainable energy management; ii) Supporting efforts to improve sustainable 
economic diversification, competitiveness, local value -added in supply chains and sustainable trade, 
with a particular focus on low -emission climate -resilient green growth such that SMEs and 
coopera tives can take advantage of the benefits of existing trade agreements with the Union for 
sustainable development; iii) Developing and strengthening markets in a manner that would bolster 
inclusive, sustainable and climate -resilient growth, as well as contr ibute to reducing the socio -
economic marginalisation of vulnerable groups; iv) Supporting the regional integration agenda and 
promoting optimal trade policies supporting inclusive and sustainable development, while 
strengthening countries' capacity to trad e. Concurrently, support the consolidation and 
implementation of trade agreements between the Union and its partners, including holistic and 
asymmetrical agreements with developing country partners, in line with human rights standards; v) 
Promoting and str engthening multilateralism, sustainable economic cooperation, as well as WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  measures aimed at promoting and strengthening the rules of the World Trade Organization; 
vi) Supporting the implementation of the Union trade policy and trade agreements, in line with  
sustainable development; vi) Strengthening partner countries' capacities to trade and improving 
access to partner country markets and boosting fair trade, promoting responsible and accountable 
investment and business opportunities for companies from the U nion while eliminating barriers to 
market access and investment, as well as aiming at easing access to climate -friendly technologies, 
while ensuring as much as possible added value sharing and human rights due diligence in supply 
chains, taking into accoun t policy coherence for development; vii i) Promoting an effective policy mix 
supportive of economic diversification, value addition, and regional integration and sustainable green 
and blue economy; ix) Fostering access to digital technologies, including pro moting access to finance 
and financial inclusion, as well as e -commerce . 
708.  Finland  pointed to " The Government report on the implementatio n of the 2030 Agenda " as a 
policy document intertwining trade objectives in sustainable development strategies . 
709.  Germany  highlighted its " German Sustainable Development Strategy, Update 2021 " as a 
useful reference for further information on this topic.  
710.  Inter -American Deve lopment Bank  noted that it has launched an ambitious climate target 
of allocating USD  24 billion for climate and green finance projects over the next four years. The 
green finance target builds on the IDB's established track record of backing projects to r estore and 
preserve natural capital, reduce pollution, improve waste management, and promote the circular 
economy.  
711.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) observed that in the coming 
years, its strategic framework will focus on several objec tives, including one to build partnerships to 
create sustainable development impact through the provision of integrated trade finance and trade 
development solutions. Furthermore, as an active player on the global front, ITFC remains 
committed to efforts a imed at achieving the SDGs by making efforts to develop customized Shariah 
compliant trade solutions programs, facilitate knowledge and experience transfer between Member 
Countries, diversify its trade finance portfolio, and support OIC trade development. Conversely, 
through the ICIEC, the IsDB supports export growth by providing risk mitigation instruments that 
increase Intra -OIC trade and capacity.  
712.  Italy  indicated that through trade might be a significant objective in some initiatives, it was 
not a princi pal focal point in many of its sustainable development strategies.  
713.  Norway  noted that the SDGs were embedded into the framework of the Norwegian Agency 
for Development Corporation (NORAD).  
714.  The Russian Federation  highlighted that SDGs, including those targe ting environmental 
concerns, were addressed in the Russian State Concept on International Development  
715.  Sweden  observed that "Inclusive Economic Development", was prioritized in the eight priority 
areas in the Policy Framework for "Swedish Development, Coop eration and Humanitarian 
Assistance". Furthermore, "Free and Fair Trade and Sustainable Investment" formed on e of the two 
listed sub -priorities in this framework. Trade -related objectives were also included in several 
development cooperation strategies. Th ey were referenced in global thematic strategies (for ex .: the 
strategy for Sweden's global development cooperation in the areas of environmental sustainability, 
sustainable climate and oceans, and sustainable use of natural resources ) as well as regional and 
bilateral country strategies.  
716.  Switzerland  highlighted that its "Strategy for Sustainable Development" document contains 
multiple objectives related to trade. Examples including: i) Boosting the supply of sustainable goods 
and services; ii) Promoting socially and environmentally sustainable production patterns; 
iii) Boosting competitiveness, innovative capacity and the productivity of the Swiss economy; 
iv) Avoiding the adverse effects of chemical products on health and the environment; 
v) Strengthening corporate responsibility in Switzerland and on an international lev el; 
vi) Preserving, sustainably using, promoting and regenerating biodiversity and genetic diversity .  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  717.  The Netherlands  noted that the SDGs formed a fundamental part of its strategy for Foreign 
Trade and Development Cooperation (2017 -2021).  
718.  UNCTAD  highlighted that its work on the circular economy started in 2015, through a 
collaboration with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation on resource -circularity potentials in large 
economies like India and China. Circularity was already part of many lines of work wi thin UNCTAD, 
including activities like fossil fuel and fisheries subsidies. Furthermore, UNCTAD works on the circular 
economy by: i) encouraging activities that bring value out of waste streams; ii)  encouraging 
discussions around collaborative economy sect ors; iii) examining innovate business models; and iv) 
encouragement of consumer awareness and behavioural shifts.  
719.  UNIDO  observed that building trade capacities and ensuring all countries benefit from global 
trade was an essential dimension of UNIDO's sust ainable industrial development approaches. 
Furthermore, UNIDO's Medium Term Strategy explicitly highlights Circular economy approaches 
along global and domestic value chains. This includes new business models such as: i)  green design; 
ii) extending product  lifetimes; iii) remanufacturing; iv) secondary markets for regeneration; v) 
recycling and waste -to-energy products; vi) and services and ecosystem -based adaptation for 
industry and supply chains. Other relevant references to UNIDO's trade -related services  can be found 
here, here and here. 
720.  The United Kingdom  noted that UK's Integrated Review  contains specific Trade objectives.  
721.  United Nations Development Programme  highlighted that it does not have a sep arate 
sustainable development strategy. However its guiding document, the Strategic Plan , embeds 
sustainability issues in three directions of change and six signature solution steps as to help countries 
drive development efforts. Specific programmes take forward this integrated approach, while 
incorporating Aid -for-Trade priorities.  
Trade objectives addressing the environmental dimension  of sustainable development   
722.  Thirty -five (35) out of the forty-four ( 44) partner developing country governments that 
responded to the question (86%) indicated that their trade objectives address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development. Meanwhile, twenty -seven ( 27) of the twenty -nine ( 29) donor 
responses (93%) st ated that their trade objectives address the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development. Meanwhile, all regional economic economies or transport corridors four 
(4) and South -South partners two (2) who responded to the question highlighted that thei r trade 
objectives addressed the environmental dimension of sustainable development . 
723.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with twenty -one ( 21) of the twenty -three 
(23) respondents (93%) indicating that  trade objectives address the environme ntal dimension of 
sustainable development. 88% of LDC respondents and all nine ( 9), (75%) of LLDC respondents 
indicated the same .  
Regions and Groups: Trade objectives addressing the environ mental dimension of 
sustainable development  
Region  Number of resp onses  Percentage share per region  
Pacific  6 100%  
Asia 6 86% 
Africa  21 91% 
LACS 4 67% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
UN SIDS  8 100%  
LDC 23 88% 
LLDC 9 75% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Trade objectives addressing the environmental dimension of sustainable development  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the trade objectives addressing the environmental dimension 
of sustainable development  
724.  Several partner countries gave additional information trade dimension of sustainable 
development was reflected in the national policy documents, plans or strategies.  
725.  Bangladesh noted that trade objectives addressing the environmental dimension were 
refere nced in the following: i) Export Policy 2018 -2021; ii) Import Policy Order 2021 -24; iii) The 8th 
Five Year Plan; and iv) Perspective Plan 2021 -41. 
726.  Colombia  indicated that its national policies were focused on industrial and productive 
policies. This in tur n have an impact on trade policy. Colombia additionally wished to highlight that 
this linkage would be an interesting issue to explore in Aid -for-Trade reviews.  
727.  Democratic Republic of Congo  noted that its trade objectives did address the 
environmental dim ension. This was largely due to DRC's practice of drafting environmental studies 
for any economic activity causing large scale exploitation of natural resources.  
728.  Dominican Republic  highlighted axis 3 of the National Development Strategy of the 
Dominican Republic  (END) as a reference point for its trade -based environmental objectives.  
729.  Fiji noted that one of the guiding principles of the "Fijian Trade Policy Framework" was to 
ensure sustainable development and environmental protection. In implementing this policy, the 
Government will seek to ensure that the needs of the present generati on do not compromise the 
needs of the future, by considering environmental protection through the optimal management and 
exploitation of natural resources. The Trade Policy Framework will be accordance with sound 
environment policies, and in compliance wit h various Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) 
such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of flora and fauna (CITES) 
and the Montreal Protocol on trade in ozone -depleting substances. The Trade Policy Framework will 
also be conducted in accordance with precautionary principles which take into account the 
environmental, ecological, socio -cultural, and economical aspects of Fiji.  
730.  Guinea Bissau  noted that both the "Guinea -Bissau Strategy 2025" and the "Terra Ranka" 
operational p lan propose to transform Guinea -Bissau into a diversified economy by 2025, through 
the sustainable development sectors such as agro -industry, tourism, fishing and mining.  
731.  Madagascar stated that in addition to being referenced in the MECIE decree, environm ental 
issues were a major cross -cutting dimension for development projects, including those on trade.  
732.  Mali highlighted that the fight against industrial pollution was the 8th point to be carried out 
under Axis 1.5 of Mali's Industrial Development Policy ( PDI). Furthermore, the National Trade 
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  Development Policy (PNDC) of 2018 considers the environmental dimension in its overall objective, 
of "creating an environment conducive to the development of trade, with a view to its contribution 
to sustainable econom ic growth and poverty reduction "  
733.  Mauritius  noted that its Green Finance Strategy aims to promote environmental protection 
through fiscal concessions to household and firms, and the issuance of sustainable green bonds at 
the Stock Exchange of Mauritius . 
734.  Mexico pointed to its Sectorial Economy Program (2019 -2024), which was a national policy 
instrument that articulated the mission and efforts of the Economic Ministry. These were aimed at; 
i) promoting the economic development of productive sectors; ii) incre asing innovation; 
iii) promoting competition in the internal market; iv) improving regulatory mechanisms; 
v) promoting the creation and consolidation of productive MSMEs and entrepreneurs; vi) and 
promoting economic equality between regions and sectors. Th e actions of this Sectorial Economy 
Program directly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals: 1, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12 and 17.  
735.  Nepal  highlighted the incentives provided to industry, using efficient technology and controls 
on the import and production of goods affecting animal and plant health and environment as 
examples of trade objectives serving the environmental dimension  
736.  Pakistan  highlighted that its Ministry of Climate Change has embarked on a project to 
determine its "Nationally Determined Contr ibutions". This will help to understand and quantify the 
sectors, inclusive of trade, that affect the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
737.  Peru pointed to Pillar 2 of its "National Export Strategic Plan to 2025", which promotes the 
developme nt of a competitive and sustainable export portfolio. It was determined by 3 lines of 
focussed action: i) Management of international standards for exportable supply; ii) the development 
of export capacity for biodiversity products; and iii) sustainability  in the development of an 
exportable supply. Furthermore, the general guidelines to identify and promote eco and bio -
businesses  defines eco -businesses as "those busin esses that offer goods or services that contribute 
to the caring for the environment, seeking not only economic sustainability but also social and 
environmental sustainability, with a fair distribution of benefits". These businesses are divided into 
four c ategories: i) waste recovery products, ii) sustainable construction products, iii) energy and 
resource efficiency products, and iv) bio -businesses. The environmental criteria that are considered 
to identify eco -businesses and bio -businesses are established  in point 8: "Means of Identification 
and Categories of Eco -Businesses". Likewise, point 9 establishes the lines of action for the promotion 
of eco and bio -businesses. These include: i) Business skills; ii) Research, innovation and technology; 
iii) Access to markets; iv) Access to financing; v) Institutions, politics and regulations, and vi) Equal 
participation. Furthermore, the "Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism" 
(PROMPERU) has prepared a directory of its programs  addressing sustainable development. These 
include, among others, good Eco -efficiency practices, circular economy, and environmental footprint.  
738.  Uganda  pointed to strategic objective 4 of the "Environment and Natural R esources Sub -
Sector Gender Mainstreaming Strategy of 2016 -2021". Through this objective, Uganda looks to 
promote equitable sharing of environment and natural resource products and services.  
739.  Vanuatu  noted that its sustainable development strategies did not provide room for short 
cuts and threats to the environment. The " Vanuatu National Ocean Policy ", and commitments  to the 
international conventions and agreements were highlighted as example of efforts deployed.  
740.  Zambia  observed that several objectives enshrined in its National Policy on Climate Change 
of 2016  aim to provide a framework for coordinating climate change programmes. These objectives 
seek to ensure climate resilience and establish low carbon development pathways for sustainable 
development, thus co ntributing to the attainment of Zambia's 2030 Vision . 
741.  No South -South questionnaire respondents gave additional information on how the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development was reflected in regional policy document(s), 
plan(s) or strategy(ies).  
742.  No regional economic community or trade corridor provided additional information on how the 
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  743.  Many donors provided additional information on how the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development was reflected in development or aid policy documents, plans or strategies.  
744.  Asian Development Bank  highlighte d the "Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program", which 
promotes the inclusion of sustainable elements (including environmental elements) in its 
international trade support mechanisms.  
745.  Australia  noted that ensuring sustainable development and climate resilie nt approaches were 
part of its development support. They are also included in the economic recovery pillar of the PFR, 
which includes trade.  
746.  Canada  indicated that it will continue to build on the June 2021 G7 Leaders commitment, by 
coordinating with other signatories to further prioritize support for clean technology diffusion. 
Furthermore, Canada will also seek to end direct public support for global unabated fossil fuel use 
by the end of 2022, with provisioned leeway for limited and clearly defined circum stances that are 
consistent with the 1.5 -degree Celsius warming limit and the goals of the Paris Agreement.  
747.  The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development  pointed that all its work, 
including those on trade facilitation, were subject to green -economy  targets. These include for 
example, a target of allocating 50% of total EBRD financing to green economy transitions within the 
medium term.  
748.  Inter -American Development Bank  highlighted its " Integration and Trade Sector 
Framework Document ", which points to trade objectives addressing the environmental dimension.  
749.  International Trade C entre  noted that it addressed trade -based sustainability objectives 
from different perspectives. These include: i) creating new environmental market opportunities for 
MSMEs; ii) reducing environmental footprints, while increasing productivity/lowering cost s; and 
iii) increasing MSME resilience against adverse environmental shocks.  
750.  Russian Federation  observed that the circular economy was one of its key assistance areas.  
751.  Slovenia stated that the environmental dimension has been actively mainstreamed through 
its Development Cooperation initiatives. Furthermore, the environmental dimension was a 
mandatory criterion in the methodology for the selection of projects, as prescribed by the Decree on 
implementing development cooperation and humanitarian aid of the Re public of Slovenia.  
752.  Sweden  noted that its Policy Framework for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian 
Assistance  also addresses: i) resource -efficient, circular and bio -based economies; and ii) the 
sustainable use of ecosystem services and natural resources, including transparent and effective 
regulations for investments and trade in natural resources.  
753.  UNIDO  noted that it seeks to  improve the competitive supply capacities  of developing 
countries and enable their enterprises to meet international market requirements such as quality, 
safety, and corporate responsibility -related standards.  UNIDO also assists  SMEs to integrate into 
global value chains by responding to social, ethical, and environmental sustainability regulations and 
standards that play an important part in sourcing and buying decisions of governments, institutional 
buyers, and consumers. More information can be found here.  
754.  United Kingdom  pointed that in addition to its "Integrated Review", the forthcoming 
"International Development Strategy" reveals an ambition to harness UK capital markets to deliver 
transparent, responsible, and environmentally sound capital investment to low -and middle -income 
nations. Such sustainable investment promotion strategies will also involve cooperation with partner 
countries and the private sec tor to deliver development finance at scale, while creating new 
opportunities at home and helping economies avoid unsustainable debt.  
755.  United Nations Development Programme  stated that the aims and direction s given by its 
Strategic Plan are prioritized in regional programmes and projects. For example, the Aid for Trade 
in Central Asia project supports the formulation of trade policy measures/instruments that promote 
environmentally sustainable and resilient va lue chains. The project also allows countries to harness 
trade -related opportunities arising from transition to green economy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  The existence of c oordination or dialogues regarding sustainable development   
756.  Twenty -three  (23) out of the thirty -one ( 31) partne r developing country governments that 
responded to the question (74%) pointed to the existence of coordination or dialogues regarding 
sustainable development. Similarly, twenty -six (26), (87%) donors indicated the existence of 
coordination or dialogues reg arding sustainable development. No regional economic communities or 
transport corridors responded to the question, while three (3) of the four (4) South -South partners 
who responded (75%) pointed to the existence of coordination or dialogues regarding sust ainable 
development.   
757.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with eight ( 8) of the twelve ( 12) 
respondents indicating the existence of coordination or dialogues regarding sustainable 
development. In addition, twelve ( 12) LDC respondents (71%)  and five (5) LLDC respondents (50%) 
pointed to the existence of coordination or dialogues regarding sustainable development.  
Regions and Groups : The existence of coordination or dialogues re garding sustainable 
development  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Pacific  5 83% 
Asia 5 71% 
Africa  8 67% 
LACS 3 75% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
UN SIDS  6 86% 
LDC 12 71% 
LLDC 5 50% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
Additional informat ion on whether the respective governments have a dedicated national 
committee (or ha ve coordination or dialogues across ministries and agencies) on 
sustainable development that includes Ministries of Trade or associated agencies  
758.  Several partners provided additional information on the dedicated national committees on 
sustainable development which include the Trade Ministry and associated agencies.  
759.  Bangladesh highlighted that SDG implementation was coordinated and monitore d by the 
Prime Minister's Office. It was also serviced by a committee that included the Ministry of Commerce.  
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  760.  Cambodia  pointed to the National Council for Sustainable Development (NCSD), a 
policy -making body established in May 2015 to promote sustainable d evelopment and ensure 
economic, environmental, social, and cultural balance. The NCSD was consolidated through four 
bodies, namely: i) the National Council of Green Growth; ii) the National Climate Change Committee; 
iii) the National Biosafety Secretariat;  and iv) the National Biodiversity Steering Committee. The 
NCSD comprised of 36 ministries and agencies and includes 25 capital/provincial governors. It is 
chaired by the Minister of Environment, with the Prime Minister holding the position of Honorary 
Chair. The General Secretariat supports the operation of the NCSD, under the direct oversight of the 
Council's Executive Committee which consists of 12 members from key ministries and the Council. 
In addition, the Ministry of Commerce established the Cambodia  Trade Integration Strategy (CTIS) 
Committee and the E -Commerce Committee, which consists of all relevant line ministries as 
members to review the progress and implementation of CTIS and e -commerce.  
761.  Colombia  noted that the National Environmental Council wa s the national committee liaising 
on matters concerning sustainable development. Created under Law 99 of 1993 and regulated by 
Decree 3079 of 1997, the Council aims to ensure intersectoral coordination for policies, plans and 
programmes related to environm ental and renewable natural resource matters. The members of the 
Council include: i) The Minister of the Environment (Chair); ii) The Minister of Agriculture; iii)  The 
Minister of Health; iv) Minister of Economic Development; v) Minister of Mines and Energ y; vi) 
Minister of National Education; vii) Minister of Public Works and Transport; viii) Minister of National 
Defence; ix) The Minister of Foreign Trade; x) The Director of the Administrative Department of 
National Planning; xi) The Ombudsman; xii) The Co mptroller General of the Republic; xiii) A 
representative of the Governors; xiv) The Colombian Federation of Municipalities; xv)  President of 
the National Council of Oceanography; xvi) A representative of the indigenous communities; xvii) A 
representative of the black communities; xviii) A representative of the agricultural production guilds; 
xix) A representative of the industrial production guilds; xx) A representative of the mining 
production unions; xxi) A representative of the exporters'  associations; xxii) A representative of the 
non-governmental environmental organisations; xxiii)  University elected by the National Council of 
Higher Education (CESU); and a representative of the forestry trade unions.  
762.  Guatemala highlighted that its Mini stry of Economy established a National Committee for 
Trade and Sustainable Development in which such issues were addressed. The Committee was 
oriented to analyse commitments and obligations embedded in Guatemala's trade agreements.  
763.  Indonesia  pointed to its  SDGs secretariat, which was coordinated by the Ministry of National 
Development Planning. Though not a Committee, the Secretariat aimed to integrate SDGs into 
national development strategies.  
764.  Mauritius  observed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regio nal Integration and International 
Trade of Mauritius was involved in the following national dialogues: i) The Multilateral Environmental 
Agreements Co -ordinating Committee (MEACC) which deals with treaties concerning the 
environment; ii) The National Envir onment Commission; iii) The National Network for Sustainable 
Development under the Environment Protection Act . 
765.  Nepal stated that three high -level committees were formed to help implement SDGs. These 
included: i) A steering committee chaired by the Hon Prime Minister; ii) a coordination and 
implementation Committee chaired by the Vice Chairman of the National Planning Commis sion (NPC) 
and involving the Secretary to the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies; and iii)  seven 
thematic committees headed by NPC members.  
766.  Pakistan  highlighted that a specific wing within the Ministry of Planning, Development and 
Special Initiati ves was dedicated for SDG focused activities. It regularly held inter -ministerial 
meetings, in which the Ministry of Commerce was also represented for matters concerning trade.  
767.  Papua New Guinea  observed that all sustainable development efforts were coordin ated by 
the Ministry of Climate Change and Development and the Department of National Planning and 
Monitoring. Trade concerns were however not centric in this process.  
768.  Paraguay  pointed to its SDG Commission  which integrated 17 State Agencies and Entities. 
Though the Ministry of Trade was not a member of this Commission, it played an active part at a 
technical level in three working groups or subcommittees: i) Subcommittee 8: "Decent Work, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Innovation and Economic Growth"; ii) Subcommittee 9 and 11: Sustainable "Cities and 
Infrastructure"; iii) and Subcommittee 12 "Responsible Consumption and Production".  
769.  Samoa  noted that the Trade division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade sits on the 
"Trade Commerce Man ufacturing Steering Committee". Furthermore, it Chairs the "National Working 
Committee on Trade Arrangements".  
770.  Senegal  noted that the sub -committee of the National Committee for International Trade 
Negotiations was involved in coordination efforts.  
771.  Togo  noted that a National State -Donor Committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, deliberated 
on issues relating to sustainable development. The Minister of Trade was an active part in the 
sessions of this Committee.  
772.  Uganda  pointed to "The presidents Round Table ", chaired by the President and Coordinated 
by the Prime Minister, as an example of a coordination agency.  
773.  Vanuatu  indicated that its National Trade Development Committee (NTDC), under the 
Ministry of Trade, functions as a coordination agency addressing matters related to sustainable 
development. The Committee, which meets 3 times per year, handles coordination with a ll 
government departments, ministries and non -state actors to discuss trade -related issues. The 
Committee also addresses issues highlighted in the different government policies, such as the 
National Sustainable Development Plan and the Trade policy Framewo rk. 
774.  Zambia  noted that it has created a "Ministry of Green Economy and Environment" to 
spearhead and coordinate sustainable development efforts. Furthermore, Zambia used the Cabinet 
System, where all policies, strategies and reforms were deliberated upon. T rade-relevant dialogues 
were also discussed here, since the cabinet included the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry.  
775.  One (1) South -South questionnaire respondent  provided perspective on the coordination or 
dialogues held with developing countries' n ational committees, Trade Ministries, and agencies on 
sustainable development. Turkey highlighted that the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency 
(TikA) has established Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with: i) Singapore Cooperation 
Programme (SCP); i i) Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA);  iii) Colombian Presidential 
Agency of International Cooperation (APC); iv) Mexican Agency of International Cooperation for 
Development (AMEXCID); v) Chilean Agency for International Co -operation and Devel opment 
(AGCID); vi) Ecuador International Cooperation Agency (AGECI); vii) The Peruvian International 
Cooperation Agency (APCI); viii) The Kazakhstan Agency for International Development (KAZAID); 
and ix) The African Union. Furthermore, MoU processes are o ngoing between TiKA and other 
institutions from Thailand, Indonesia and the Organization of Turkic States on environment and 
sustainable development related issues.  
776.  No regional economic community or trade corridor provided additional information on how 
their institutions coordinate with the various national trade ministries or agencies on matters 
pertaining to sustainable development.  
777.  Many donors gave additional information on how their Ministries of Trade was represented in 
coordination or dialogues with  developing countries on sustainable development.  
778.  The African Development Bank  noted that its projects were delivered through regional and 
local institutions at a member state level . 
779.  Asian Development Bank  highlighted that a degree of participation was es tablished at the 
country level for its projects. Primary contacts usually involved, for instance, the Ministries of 
Finance, Environment and Fisheries. More formal mechanisms were however evident for subregional 
programs, which involved coordination with c oncerned agencies. For instance, the Greater Mekong 
Subregional environmental cooperation was overseen by a Working Group on Environment , which 
consists of one nominated senior government official from the environment ministries of member 
countries. Moreover, under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) program, the 
Regional Trade Groups (RTG) comprise of appointed representative from CAREC member countries . 
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  points for future topical issues discussion. This RTG is the le ad consultative and coordinating body, 
wielding full operational authority over CAREC's work on trade. It also works closely with CAREC's 
Customs Cooperation Committee and the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Regional Working Group.  
780.  Australia  pointed out that it engages with partner countries at multiple levels across relevant 
ministries, including on trade and sustainable development issues. Australia's Foreign Minister for 
Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Minister for International Development and the Pacific and the 
Minister for Regional Health meet regularly with counterparts to discuss such issues. Furthermore, 
senior officials also hold regular dialogues. For example, Australia's Prime Minister and Indonesia's 
President have released a joint statement  which states that economic, trade, energy, and investment 
dialogues, along with other regular bilateral mechanisms, will supp ort progress on a green economy 
and the energy transition agenda. Furthermore, Australia and the Papua New Guinea hold an annual 
Trade and Investment Working Group, an Economic Cooperation Dialogue, and other Senior Officials 
Meetings. Sustainable developm ent and climate change were also discussed regularly at the annual 
Australia -PNG Climate Change Dialogue. Finally, discussions with the Solomon Islands on sustainable 
development takes place on an ongoing basis, in partner -level dialogues, on development 
programming. For example, sustainable development is considered in the Solomon Islands 
Infrastructure Program (SIIP) and other private sector program decision -making and procurement 
processes.  
781.  Canada  noted that the Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) commits Canada to 
building local capacity and working with local and national actors, including women's groups, in 
design, delivery, and monitoring of international assistance initiatives. Furthermore, Canada 
continues to work with many multilateral  organizations to build capacity and accelerate the clean 
energy transition in developing countries. Through such contributions, Canada aims to create an 
enabling policy, regulatory and infrastructural environment that supports robust economic activities. 
For instance, the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) department engages with various multilateral 
organizations to promote the sustainable development of the international oil and gas sector. While 
NRCan maintains regular dialogues with strategic partners in  priority markets (e.g.  Japan), 
interaction with developing countries is however limited to India on a semi -regular basis. NRCan 
primarily engages with 5 organizations, namely: i) International Energy Agency: This includes 
engagement with the many of the I EA's Technology Collaboration Programmes. These are initiatives 
to advance the research, development and commercialization of clean energy technologies. 
In addition, Canada was a donor and participant in the IEA's Clean Energy Transition Programme, 
which w as established to accelerate global clean energy transitions in major emerging economies. 
This was through collaborative analytical work, technical cooperation, capacity building, and 
strategic dialogues. Canada was also a member of the IEA's Global Commis sion on People -Centred 
Clean Energy Transitions, which aims to ensure a just and inclusive energy transition; ii) Clean 
Energy Ministerial (CEM): The CEM brings together major industrial powers with key emerging 
economies to promote policies and programs a dvancing clean energy and accelerating the transition 
to a global clean energy economy. Canada hosted the 2019 annual Ministerial meeting (CEM10) in 
Vancouver. This meeting advanced a diverse and inclusive dialogue on the global clean energy 
transition. As  host, Canada increased the CEM's focus on gender equality, indigenous leadership, 
and a just and inclusive transition for workforces and communities. Furthermore, Canada co -lead 10 
of the 25 operational work streams of the CEM, across a wide range of topi cs of strategic importance 
to the clean energy transition. This included work to: a) advance nuclear innovation, b) women's 
education and empowerment, c) the deployment of electric vehicles, d) the deployment of hydrogen 
fuel cell technology, e)  commercial -scale bioenergy production, f) trade, and use globally, and; g) 
skills development in the clean energy transition. Canada also participates in CEM work areas 
targeting carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), power system flexibility, smart grids,  
clean energy solutions, and super -efficient equipment and appliances; iii) G20 Energy Working 
Group: Canada offers guidance and input to advance energy -related issues in this working group 
and other G20 Tracks, including on sustainable natural resources, innovation, the circular economy, 
energy access, just Transition, infrastructure, cyber security and gender equality; iv) International 
Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA):  Canada contributes to IRENA's mission of providing clean, 
sustainable energy for the w orld's growing population by providing expertise in the development 
and deployment of renewable energy technologies. It was also helping to shape the ongoing global 
dialogue on renewable energy and climate change, including on issues such as energy access and 
gender equality. Furthermore, during COP26, Canada launched a new partnership with IRENA. This 
includes a CAD 500,000 investment to create a platform that will support the transition of remote 
communities to renewable energy. As part of this initiative , Canada will draw its experience and 
expertise in transitioning diesel -reliant remote communities toward clean energy. It will focus on WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  increasing local ownership of clean energy projects, and building local capacity and economic 
opportunities, including jobs for youth and women; v) The APEC Energy Working Group (EWG): This 
voluntary, regional -based forum enables APEC member economies to facilitate energy trade and 
investment, and maximize the energy sector's contribution to economic growth, social well -being, 
and sustainability. Canada's engagement with the APEC -EWG includes sharing quantitative and 
qualitative data and reviewing and commenting on key energy initiatives.  
782.  Czech Republic  noted that it established contacts through Czech Embassies.  
783.  The Europea n Bank for Reconstruction and Development  stated that its cooperation 
programmes in the green economy area (for example the Green Cities initiative ) involved detailed 
action plans negotiated with the relevan t authorities . 
784.  The European Union  highlighted that its cooperation efforts involved close dialogue with the 
partner countries, where – following the Paris Declaration principles and the EU Consensus for 
Development – ownership and alignment with the partne r country priorities was ensured. 
For instance, EU budget support, central to its international cooperation endeavours, was aimed at 
strengthening partnerships with partner countries as to promote sustainable development, eradicate 
poverty, reduce inequali ties, and consolidate peace and democracy. The budget support involved 
direct financial transfers to the national treasury of partner countries engaging in sustainable 
development reforms. These transfers were conditional on policy dialogue, performance as sessment, 
and capacity building. In all cases, EU funding was subject to rigorous dialogue with partner 
governments in various ways, depending on the specific funding modality and context. Through its 
delegation offices in the field, the EU engages bilater ally with partner countries and establishes a 
regular policy and political dialogue on issues of common concern. Aid for Trade was often at the 
top of the agenda in discussions. Such policy dialogue often took many different forms depending 
on the: i) them atic area; ii) the partner governments; iii) the level of engagement; and iv) the 
modality of support put in place. Dialogues were often chaired by a Ministry (normally the Ministry 
of Economy and or Finance) identified as the official EU counterpart which  coordinated directly with 
counterpoints in the relevant line Ministry, to discuss issues falling under the line Ministry's mandate. 
In other cases, dialogues were established bilaterally, directly between the EU and the line ministries.  
785.  Finland conducted  cooperation negotiations with key partner countries at regular intervals, 
every few years. They are held between Finland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the key counterpart 
of the developing country, which is not usually the ministry of trade.  
786.  The Inter -American Development Bank   highlighted that it conducted annual "Regional 
Policy Dialogues" to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences among the highest -level officials 
in the LAC region responsible for trade and investment policy. In the dialogu es held in December 
2021, the environmental considerations in the trade agenda of LAC were addressed. In  particular, 
Members discussed the trade policy measures taken to advance public policy objectives on the 
environment and climate change. The Dialogue a lso addressed measures such as the carbon border 
adjustment tax, environmental commitments in the European Union -Mercosur agreement, the 
USMCA, etc. The opportunities that the LAC region stands to benefit from green growth 
opportunities, for instance throu gh clean energy and bioeconomy growth, were also discussed. 
Furthermore, IDB also coordinates with Members through dialogues with subregional blocs. For 
instance, the IDB offers technical and financial support to the Pacific Alliance (PA) (Chile, Colombia,  
Mexico and Peru) to implement the Roadmap on the Sustainable Management of Plastics. Through 
this assistance, the PA is able to comply with the 2030 Development Agenda to eliminate the single -
use plastic.  
787.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation ( ITFC)  indicated that its "Aid for Trade 
in Arab States 2.0" (AfTIAS 2.0) program was based on an extensive consultation process which 
involved several meetings that included all the Ministries of Trade of the Arab Countries. These 
Ministries have designate d AfTIAS 2.0 focal points to express their countries needs and priorities.  
788.  International Trade Centre  noted that as a technical assistance agency, it provides 
support through coordination with developing countries' governmental counterparts. This usually 
involves Ministry of Trade officials and trade promotion organisations. Local stakeholders may also 
lead in needs -assessments, steering committees, and public -private dialogues.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  789.  Ireland  pointed that as an EU member, coordination was honed via EU dialogues . 
790.  Japan noted that it conducts policy consultations with government officials in developing 
countries, and promotes efforts to share mutual recognition and understanding, as to provide more 
effective development assistance.  
791.  The Netherlands stated that its coordination was only driven through partners like the EU, 
World Bank and UNCTAD.  
792.  Norway  pointed out that very little bilateral aid was provided through its Aid-for-Trade 
portfolio. Sustainable development was however covered in dialogue with the recipien ts where 
relevant. These include for example, the Knowledge Bank's  programs "for development", some of 
which relate to trade such as Fish for Development.  
793.  The Russian Federation  supported international development, including through trade, in a 
variety of ways. It is delivered through various assistance programs and pro jects within the 
framework of several international organizations. Numerous projects are being implemented for 
instance through the Russia -UNDP Trust Fund for Development, UNECE and ESCAP. All of these 
projects include a single window in the recipient coun try, usually an authorized state body which is 
responsible for contacts of any kind on a bilateral basis.  
794.  Switzerland  observed that when conducting projects, its State Secretariat for Economic 
Affairs (SECO) always addressed the questions surrounding susta inable and inclusive development 
with the governments/ministries/agencies of beneficiary countries.  
795.  UNCTAD  indicated that Ministry of Trade officials acted as focal points in partner countries.  
796.  UNIDO pointed to its " Circular Economy, Impact Financing and Industry 4.0 " as an example 
of a coordinated initiative. Its aim was to engage and sensitize public and private sector , academia, 
financial institutions, and civil society representative on the circular economy.  The initiative also 
looked to outline the different aspects of impact financing for the circular economy.  
797.  United Kingdom  observed that it wields one of the large st overseas diplomatic networks in 
the world, with representation in most developing countries. Through this network, it engages with 
Ministries of Trade on all subject matters, including sustainable development. Moreover, the UK has 
appointed specific Tra de for Development Policy Advisors across the world in different regions such 
as Fiji, Pakistan, Kenya, Ghana, and the Caribbean.  
798.  United Nations Development Programme  noted that country ownership and participatory 
approaches were integral parts of UNDP's programmes. It stated that consultations with partners 
took place at different levels; i) Executive Board for the Strategic Plan; ii) regional level for regional 
programmes, i ii) national level with government and other stakeholders for national programmes  
and iv) implementing partners and other stakeholders concerned with projects. The Aid for Trade in 
Central Asia project for example has extensive stakeholder consultation mechanisms and national 
steering committees, where coordination as well as policy di alogue with main governmental 
counterparts on priority issues (including sustainable development) are held.  
799.  The World Bank Group  observed that country operations and dialogue addressed the trade 
and environmental sustainability nexus with a view to promoti ng diversification, away from 
environmentally unsustainable processes and towards decarbonized and sustainable trade.  
Dialogues addressing t he environmental dimension of sustainable development  
800.  Thirty -two (32) out of the thirty-seven ( 37) partner developing country governments that 
responded to the question (86%) indicated that dialogues within their national committees address 
the environmental dimension of sustainable development. Similarly, twenty -two (22) (88%) donors 
stated that natio nal committee dialogues address the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development. One  (1) regional economic community and two  (2) of three (3) South -South partners 
(67%) who responded to the question also indicated that regional or national committee  dialogues 
address the environmental dimension of sustainable development.   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  801.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with  seventeen  (17) of the nineteen ( 19) 
respondents indicating the existence of coordination or dialogues in national or regional committees 
regarding sustainable development. Furthermore, twenty ( 20) LDC respondents (95%) and six (6) 
LLDC respondents (86%) pointed to the existence of coordinat ion or dialogues regarding sustainable 
development in national committee discussions.  
Regions and Groups: Dialogues addressing the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Pacific  5 83% 
Asia 5 100%  
Africa  17 89% 
LACS 5 83% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
UN SIDS  7 100%  
LDC 20 95% 
LLDC 6 86% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Responses o n whether dialogues address the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on whether the associated national committee addresses the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development  
802.  Several donors provided additional information whether their national committee addresses 
the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
803.  Bangladesh  observed that given its position as one of the most vulnerable countries t o 
climate change, it has taken steps to address climate change issues through SDG implementation.  
804.  Benin  stated that it was considering the establishment of a National Sustainable Development 
Committee for augmenting coordination efforts. The environmental dimension of sustainable 
development was currently taken into account in the National Development Plan (NDP) of the 
country. It was also retraced in the past and ongoing action programs. Particularly, the 
environmental dimension was considered in strategic objective 3 of the NDP. The priority was to: (i) 
guarantee better management of the environment and cl imate change, and (ii) contribute to the 
attractiveness and competitiveness of human settlements.  
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  805.  Colombia  highlighted its National Environment Council as a national committee addressing 
sustainable development concerns.  
806.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  pointed that there was a requirement for environmental 
impact assessments prior to the implementation of implementation of projects in the DRC.  
807.  Dominican Republic  observed that the Ministry of Industry and Commerce was not part of 
the Inter -ministerial Commi ttee for monitoring the National Development Strategy.  
808.  Equatorial Guinea  noted that "The National Strategy for Sustainable Development for 
Equatorial Guinea Agenda 2035" was the basis for all its policies and sectoral actions. Thus, the 
national committees  were not exempt from considering the environmental dimension in their tasks. 
Moreover, the strategy is serviced by multisectoral committees in which technicians from the 
Department of the Environment and other interest groups take part.  
809.  Guinea Bissau  stated that environmental considerations were included in the guidelines of 
the national development plan.  
810.  Mali highlighted that the coordination for sustainable development endeavours was ensured 
by the CT -CSLP, which works with 11 Planning and Statistics Uni ts (CPS). This includes the CPS for 
industry, trade, crafts, employment and promotion of private investment sector. It works with the 
Directorate General for Trade, Consumption and Competition (DGCC), which is a member of a 
thematic group for the Strategic  Framework for Economic Recovery and Sustainable Development 
(CREDD) and the SDGs. Furthermore, Decree No. 2018 -0623/PM -RM of August 2018 sets the 
institutional mechanisms for steering and monitoring of the CREDD and the SDGs which comprises 
four thematic groups, with one that includes environmental protection.  
811.  Mauritius  pointed to paragraph 11 of the Environment Protection  Act, which informs the 
National Network for Sustainable Development.  
812.  Mexico  highlighted its "National Council for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development", 
which was created in 2017, with political commitment at the highest level. The  council serves a s a 
mechanism to promote the national implementation of the 2030 Agenda, by linking the Federal 
Executive with local governments, the private sector, society and the academy. In addition, the 
Council coordinates the design, execution and evaluation of stra tegies, policies, programs, and 
actions for the fulfilment of the 2030 Agenda.  
813.  Nepal  noted that it seeks to implement the 15th plan, which contains working procedures for 
achieving the targets of SDGs related to environment.  
814.  Peru stated that though there w as no national committee for sustainable development, the 
following National Commissions address sustainable development issues: i) National Commission for 
the Promotion of Biotrade, chaired by the Ministry of Foreign Trade; ii) National Commission for the  
Protection of Access to Peruvian Biological Diversity and the Collective Knowledge of Indigenous 
Peoples; iii) Working group of the Environmental Multisectoral Commission, which is in charge of 
reviewing and evaluating the recommendations of the environme ntal performance study of PERU 
ECLAC/OECD; and iv) A Multisectoral Working Group called "Promoting Group in charge of preparing 
the roadmap for the creation, conformation and implementation of the Peruvian Platform for a 
Circular Economy". These national c ommittees develop actions related to sustainable development 
and the environmental dimension, in coordination with the Ministry of the Environment (MINAM). 
Furthermore, through Supreme Resolution No. 04 -2016-MINAM, the Working Group of the 
Multisectoral En vironmental Commission was formed to review and evaluate the recommendations 
of the environmental performance study for PERU ECLAC/OECD. The group is made up of deputy 
ministers, head of attached bodies and representatives of regional and local governments . The 
performance study served as the basis for the "Environmental Performance Evaluation" of Peru, 
which seeks to evaluate the progress made in meeting environmental objectives. Likewise, Supreme 
Decree No. 005 -2017-MINAM approved the implementation of th e recommendations given by the 
Environmental Performance Evaluation Plan. The plan aims to establish a roadmap for sectors and 
institutions linked to environmental issues at the national level. Furthermore, the abovementioned 
"Promoting Group in charge of preparing the roadmap for the creation, conformation and 
implementation of the Peruvian Platform for a Circular Economy", was made up of public and private WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  entities, and seeks to create a space for dialogue, coordination and collaboration. The group will l ook 
to implement the necessary to national policies related to the circular economy, as well as 
strengthening the knowledge and exchange good practices for circular economy in the country.  
815.  Zambia  pointed to the newly created "Ministry of Green Economy and Environment", which 
was mandated to address the environmental dimension of sustainable development, in collaboration 
with all stakeholders including cooperating partners.  
816.  No South -South questionnaire respondent gave additional comments on how their commit tees 
address the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
817.  One (1) regional economic community provided additional information on how a committee 
addresses the environmental dimension of sustainable development. The Pacific Islands Forum 
Secretar iat noted that a dedicated " Pacific Resilience Partnership Taskforce " was established to 
oversee work in the areas of climate change and disaster Risk Reduction. However, the participation 
of trade officials and experts in the taskforce was very limited.  
818.  Many donors provided additional information on how their committees, ministries of trade or 
agencies address the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
819.  African Development Bank  highlighted that all infrastructure development projects were 
implemented post a rigorous country level environmental impact assessments.  
820.  Asian Development  Bank  stated that measures addressed include policy development, 
capacity building, knowledge management, and improvements to enabling environments.  
821.  Canada  noted that the Global Affairs Canada (GAC) also advances environmental dialogues 
bilaterally with nationa l committees and trade ministries and agencies through its network of 
missions abroad. GAC also collaborates with other government departments, including Environment 
and Climate Change Canada and Natural Resources Canada. Discussions focus on a range of is sues 
including: i) solutions to mitigate and adapt to climate change; ii) addressing drivers of biodiversity 
loss and environmental degradation; and iii) providing capacity building and technical support. 
Multilaterally, GAC officials represent Canada as a  shareholder in six multilateral development banks. 
Officials are also present as a Board member in the Green Climate Fund and the Global Environment 
Facility. Through these engagements, Canada and other donors work directly with developing 
countries and s mall island developing states to negotiate and approve funding for projects 
addressing the root causes and impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss. GAC also helps these 
countries meet their obligations under various multilateral environmental agree ments. Moreover, 
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) provides strategic advice to ensure competitiveness of the 
Canadian oil and gas sector. It also advocates for its role in the low -carbon energy sector and 
transition. This involves working with a variety of  stakeholders, including some in developing 
countries, to promote Canadian energy products in international markets; and conduct research and 
analysis on geopolitical trends and their effects on the Canadian oil and gas sector. Through its trade 
promotion activities, NRCAN highlights the environmental assessment and reporting best practices 
observed in the Canadian oil and gas sector.  
822.  European Union  noted that it has mainstreamed the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development in all policy and polit ical dialogues, as well as in the implementation of all EU funded 
actions. Specific contents of dialogues carried out depend on the context. For instance, the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development was recognised as a central element of the 
NDICI-Global Europe regulation for 2021 -2027. This regulation which lays out the foundation for 
country and regional -specific programming, as well as of global and thematic actions.  
823.  United Nations Development Programme  noted that it has instituted AfCFTA pol icy 
dialogues, involving national and regional institutions, to discuss the bidirectional effects between 
trade and climate shocks. Measures discussed include: i) the trade affects of environmental 
sustainability ii) means to mitigate climate impacts; and iii) climate shocks and its impacts on 
production and trading as well as mitigation actions. Furthermore, in the context of the Central Asia 
Aid-for-Trade project, the dialogues held with governmental counterparts addressed the formulation 
of trade policy measures and instruments promoting environmentally sustainable and resilient value 
chains. These value chains allow countries to harness trade -related opportunities arising a green WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  economy transition. Furthermore, policy level discussions were held on crea ting enabling conditions 
for sustainable agriculture. This includes the creation of regulatory framework related to quality and 
food safety regulations, as well as the adoption of support mechanisms for businesses.  
824.  UNCTAD  noted that its Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Pollution  (SMEP) project 
facilitates research and related interventions which aim to reduce the environmental, health and 
socio-economic impacts of the manufacturing sector. It particularly addresses plastic pollution, one 
of the most pressing challenges facing the circular economy. UNCTAD's other activities include: (i) 
Developing and testing technology -based solutions and producti on methods to reduce pollution 
generated through manufacturing; (ii) Identifying suitable policies and business models to facilitate 
and encourage uptake across target areas; and (iii) identifying solutions for reducing plastic 
pollution, an issue which ha s reached critical levels in several countries across Africa and Asia and, 
posing a serious threat to the health of the oceans worldwide.  
825.  Sweden  highlighted that its Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) supports the 
implementation of the AfCFTA as part of a "Team Europa Initiative", together with France, Germany, 
and the EU Commission. The environmental dimension of sustainable development was dialogue 
issue raised throughout the project's implementation. In addition, Sweden supports the World 
Customs Organisation in its work to modernise customs agencies in 12 Sub -Saharan countries. 
Furthermore, sustainable development was an integral part of this programme, in addition to job 
creation and collaboration within and between countries . 
Economic sect ors that would gain the most in terms of economic and export diversification 
as a result of the move to sustainable development  
826.  Fifty-one (51) of the fifty-three ( 53) partners who responded to the question (96%) pointed 
to agriculture as a sector with high  economic and export diversification potential as a result of the 
move to sustainable development. Partners also highlighted services (78%), fisheries (74%)  and 
industry as other sectors with economic and export diversification potential due to a transitio n. A 
similar trend is observable when examining donor responses. Thirty  (30) of the thirty -one ( 31) 
donors who responded to the question (97%) indicated that agriculture was a sector that would gain 
the most in terms of economic and export diversification through a move towards sustainable 
development. Industry (74%) and services (61%) were also pointed as sectors with economic and 
export diversification potential during a transition to sustainable development. Meanwhile, all three 
(3) regional economic com munities indicated that the agricultural sector stands to gain most from a 
sustainable transition. Two (2) of the four ( 4) South -South partner respondents stated that 
agriculture and services can be expected to gain the most in term of economic and export 
diversification because of a move to sustainable development.  
827.  Agriculture also features prominently when examining responses through a regional lens. More 
than 95% of African, Asian, Pacific and LAC respondents highlighted the sector as having much 
econom ic and export diversification potential due to a move to sustainable development. On a similar 
vein, more than 95% of LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS also indicated agriculture as a sector with economic 
and export diversification potential during a move to sustainabl e development. Moreover, all SIDS 
respondents nine (9) highlighted fisheries as a sector with potential during a transition.  
Regions and Groups : Economic s ectors that would gain the most in terms of economic 
and export diversification as a result of the mo ve to sustainable development  
Region  Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Pacific  Agriculture  6 100%  
Fisheries  6 100%  
Forestry  2 33% 
Mining  1 17% 
Industry  4 67% 
Services  6 100%  
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Asia Agriculture  10 91% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Fisheries  7 64% 
Forestry  3 27% 
Mining  4 36% 
Industry  9 82% 
Services  9 82% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Africa  Agriculture  24 96% 
Fisheries  19 76% 
Forestry  11 44% 
Mining  10 40% 
Industry  17 68% 
Services  17 68% 
Other (please specify)  3 12% 
LACS Agriculture  9 100%  
Fisheries  6 67% 
Forestry  6 67% 
Mining  1 11% 
Industry  7 78% 
Services  7 78% 
Other (please specify)  1 11% 
Group  Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
UN SIDS  Agriculture  9 100%  
Fisheries  9 100%  
Forestry  3 33% 
Mining  1 11% 
Industry  6 67% 
Services  9 100%  
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LDC Agriculture  28 97% 
Fisheries  21 72% 
Forestry  11 38% 
Mining  9 31% 
Industry  18 62% 
Services  21 72% 
Other (please specify)  3 10% 
LLDC Agriculture  9 100%  
Fisheries  6 67% 
Forestry  6 67% 
Mining  1 11% 
Industry  7 78% 
Services  7 78% 
Other (please specify)  1 11% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the economic sector(s) that would gain the most in terms of 
economic and export diversification as a result of the move to sustainable development  
828.  Several partners made additional comments on the economic sectors that would gain the most 
due to a move to sustainable development.  
829.  Bangladesh  highlighted that export diversification and sustainable growth were the biggest 
gainers from a sustainable tran sition.  
830.  Benin  highlighted sectors referenced in its "Plan National de Développement 2018 -2025" and 
"Programme d'Actions du Gouvernement 2021 -2026".  
831.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  noted that it holds several assets to ensure adequate 
agricultural product ion. These include vast expanses of arable land, favourable climactic conditions 
and adequate annual rainfall. The development of the agricultural sector can therefore provide 
several benefits in the context of economic diversification.  
832.  Equatorial Guinea  observed that its General Strategic Plan, combined with its sectoral 
strategies, define the priority sectors for economic diversification and sustainable development. 
For example, the Equatorial Guinea EDIC integrates petrochemicals and tourism as sectors w ith 
strong potential for economic diversification.  
833.  Grenada  pointed to agro -processing as a viable sector post a transition.  
834.  Guinea Bissau  indicated sustainable fishing as a sector with high added value potential. 
Additionally, it was looking to promote Bis sagos Islands as a leading ecotourism destination.  
835.  Madagascar  stated that the below initiatives were developed to facilitate a transition to 
sustainable development: i) agroecology; ii) marine pollution reduction; iii) agricultural waste 
recovery; iv) and the recovery of agricultural and forestry by -products in crafts and tourism . 
836.  Mali noted that sectors with export diversification potential were: i) mango; ii) mahogany; iii) 
sesame; iv) gum 142rabic and iv) groundnut. Mali also pointed to Objective 2 (Axes 2.1, 2.2, 2.5) 
and Objective 3 of its "Industrial Development Policy" for more information on sectoral strategies.  
837.  Mauritius  noted that the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sectors can ensure c onservation 
of resources by following sustainability principles. Simultaneously, it can help to sustain the exports 
for livestock, fish and raw materials and associated products (such as wood, medicinal plants etc.). 
Furthermore, the industrial and service s sector benefit from reduced utility bills, through 
investments in renewable technologies, and water efficient technology such as rainwater harvesting.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  838.  Paraguay  noted that it wished to further assess the gains in a transition to sustainable 
development, i n particular the distribution of effects in the population.  
839.  Peru highlighted that its exports of native biodiversity products were valued at 
USD 409 million in 2020. Though there were no specialized studies on economic and export 
diversification opportunit ies, the framework of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Plan 
provided circular economy roadmaps for the industry, agriculture, fishing and aquaculture sectors. 
Furthermore, a Roadmap towards a Circular Economy in the Industry Sector was approve d under 
Supreme Decree No. 003 -2020-PRODUCE. This roadmap develops interventions in the activities of 
the manufacturing industry and industrial fishing processing and implements actions for: 
i) sustainable industrial production; ii) sustainable consumption , iii) use of discarded material and 
industrial waste management, and iv) innovation and financing. The objective is to implement these 
roadmaps in the short, medium and long term i.e. 1, 3 and 5 years respectively. Additionally, 
proposals for the followin g roadmaps are being prepared: a) "Roadmap towards a circular economy 
in the Agricultural and Irrigation Sector" – to target agriculture, livestock and forestry activities; and 
b) "Roadmap towards a circular economy in the Subsector Fishing"  – covering art isanal fishing 
extraction, and processing and Aquaculture. The preparation of these roadmaps, as well as their 
implementation, are led by corresponding sectors, with the support and participation of MINAM. 
Finally, tourism and crafts can also be pointed ou t as sectors with potential.  
840.  St. Lucia  made the following sectoral observations: i) Agriculture – St. Lucia wished to move 
away from the declining banana industry, into other crop and livestock subsectors that would help 
expand sectoral contribution to GD P, while also attracting youth and new investment. Doing so will 
further improve food security and help reduce Saint Lucia's import bill.; ii)  Industry  – St. Lucia 
continuously seeks to improve manufacturing capacities, as means of import substitution and 
improving overall export performance; iii) Services Sector – St. Lucia's new services policy seeks to 
diversification into other service sub -sectors outside tourism. Key areas with competitive advantage 
and scope in global value chains are being considered  under the policy. This includes Business 
Process Outsourcing (BPO) within the ICT and Professional services sub -sectors.  
841.  St. Vincent and Grenadines  pointed to services, especially tourism, as an important sector.  
842.  Uganda highlighted that water bodies and w etlands, tourism and wildlife, transport services 
require attention and stand to benefit from a sustainable transition.  
843.  Yemen  noted the need to diversify its economy, which is currently natural resource (i.e. oil 
and gas) dependent. The agriculture sector  was Yemen's main employer and thus there was a need 
to support this field to guarantee food supplies and enhance sectoral export potential.  
844.  Zambia  highlighted that: i) Agriculture was the main employer in Zambia. Its output has 
however been severely affe cted due to climate change; ii) Fresh water fishing yields have drastically 
dropped due to unstainable means of fishing; iii) the Forestry sector's contributions have been 
deteriorating due to climate change and unsustainable methods of harvesting timber; iv) Service 
sectors such as tourism have been directly affected by deterioration of the environment . 
845.  Two (2) South -South respondents gave additional information on the economic sectors that 
they believed gained the most in terms of economic and export dive rsification, as a result of the 
move to sustainable development.  
846.  Indonesia pointed to the health sector as a field with potential during a sustainable transition.  
847.  Colombia  indicated that the tourism sector will be presented with opportunities when 
underg oing a transition.  
848.  One regional community provided additional information on the economic sector that it 
believed would gain the most through a sustainable development transition. TradeMark East Africa  
pointed to transportation as an additional sector ben efitting in terms of economic and export 
diversification through a move to sustainability.  
849.  Many donors lent additional information on the economic sectors that would gain the most 
from a move towards sustainable development.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  850.  African Development Bank  highlighted African nations' dependency on the agricultural 
sector and noted that it was thus important to consider the sector when undergoing a transition.  
851.  Australia  noted that each of its developing and LDC partners wield particular circumstances 
and needs. As such, economic sectors that would gain the most as a result of the move to sustainable 
development vary from country to country and region to region. Feedback from Australia's partner 
countries indicates all of the above sectors would benefit.  
852.  Canada noted that substantial investment was required in the agriculture sector as to promote 
climate change adaptation and address rising challenges such as hunger and food security. There 
was thus a need to increase production capacity, while finding solutions to  reduce environmental 
toll. Export diversification was beneficial for developing countries in this context, as it can spur 
development by attracting foreign investor into the high value production of fruits and vegetables. 
However, a lack of infrastructure  prevents such investment from materializing. Therefore, Canada 
helps farmers improve farming techniques, by providing access to climate -smart seeds and farming 
equipment. This notably has the potential to help the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sect ors in 
LDC partner countries. Agricultural progress also intersects with Canada's aim to promote 
deforestation -free supply chains, by ensuring that forest ecosystems were not illegally destroyed for 
the cultivation of agricultural commodities. In fact, Glo bal Affairs Canada was currently advancing 
the 2021 -2025 climate finance envelope, which includes a strong emphasis on addressing the 
intersection of climate change, deforestation, biodiversity loss and poverty. Furthermore, at COP26, 
Canada and twenty -seven (27) other countries pledged their support for the FACT Roadmap . The 
roadmap agrees to promote sustainable development and trade of agricultural commodities, while 
protecting and managing sustain ably forests and other critical ecosystems. Canada furthermore 
endorsed the UK -led Global Forest Finance Pledge , which aims to allocate USD  12 billion in public 
climate finance from 2021 to 2025, to support further ambition from forested developing countries. 
Finally, Canada recognizes the important role that the oil and gas sector play in the world transitions 
to low carbon energy. These sectors can in fact continue to be a motor of economic diversification 
in instances where limited options exist. Canada is a stable, reliable and transparent trade partner 
that can support developing countries' transition to low carbon energy, while supporting their energy 
security.  
853.  The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development  noted that its " Just Transition " 
programme helps to facilitate green -economy transition in coal -dependent regions  
854.  European Union  stated that its r esponses were context -specific, depending on the existing 
economic, political and environmental challenges and opportunities in the particular country. 
Greening the manufacturing sector was noted to be the most significant aspect of diversification 
from a sustainable development perspective. Diversifying sectors such as agriculture will also be 
important for certain countries. Additionally, an expansion of the services sector was pointed to bring 
important benefits for the environment and diversification in  most contexts.  
855.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) pointed to the importance of 
establishing adequate infrastructure for SMEs.  
856.  Japan pointed to the importance of quality infrastructure for transport, digitalization etc.  
857.  New Zealand  pointed to tourism as a sector with viable potential  
858.  Norway  highlighted clean energy as a sector with economic and export potential, during a 
move towards s ustainable development  
859.  Portugal  identified transport and storage infrastructure as an additional sector that would 
gain from a sustainable transition.  
860.  Russian Federation  observed that the impacts a sustainable transition will depend on, for 
example, a co untry's economic structure, geography and level of development.  
861.  Sweden noted that though the highlighted sectors were covered in several projects, its 
Aid-for-Trade commitments were generally not geared towards a specific economic sector.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  862.  Switzerland pointed to digital technologies as a sector with promise during a transition.  
863.  United States  highlighted  the USAID Oceans and Fisheries Partnership  as an exam ple of an 
initiative that strengthens and promoted sustainable fisheries in developing countries.  
864.  The World Bank  stated that all the options provided were relevant and typically at play as 
factors vary depending on differing county contexts.  
Economic sect ors that may face the biggest challenge from the move to sustainable 
development   
865.  An equal number of partner Government, that is thirty ( 30) of the fifty-three ( 53) respondents 
(66%) pointed to agriculture and industry as economic sectors that may face the  biggest challenge 
from the move to sustainable development . Twenty -eight (28) partners (53%) also highlighted 
mining as a sectors facing challenges due to a transition. Meanwhile, an overwhelming , twenty -six 
(26) of the twenty -eight ( 28) donor  countries who responded to the question (97%) indicated that 
the industrial sector may face the biggest challenge from the move to sustainable development. 
Nineteen partners (68%) also highlighted agriculture and mining as sector that can be expected to 
face challenges during to a transition.  Two  (2) of the three ( 3) (67%) regional economic community 
respondents to the questions noted the agricultural, mining and industrial sectors as sectors with 
challenges during a move to sustainable development. All S outh-South respondents three (3) 
meanwhile highlighted mining as a sector facing many  challenges from the transition to sustainable 
development.  
866.  From a regional perspective, nineteen ( 19) of the twenty -five (25) African partner respondents 
(76%) highlight ed that the industrial sector may face the biggest challenge during a move to 
sustainable development. Seventeen (17) African respondents (68%) also pointed to mining as a 
sector that may face possible challenges. Meanwhile seven ( 7) of the eleven ( 11) Asian (64%) and 
eight ( 8) of the nine ( 9) LAC (89%) respondents indicated that the agricultural sector may face 
challenges when undergoing a transition. All Pacific Members responding to the question (6) 
highlighted that the fisheries sectors may face the big gest challenge from the move to sustainable 
development.  
Regions and Groups: Economic sectors that may face the biggest challenge from the 
move to sustainable development  
Region  Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Industry  19 76% 
Mining  17 68% 
Agriculture  14 56% 
Forestry  13 52% 
Fisheries  10 40% 
Services  10 40% 
Other (please specify)  2 8% 
Asia  Agriculture  7 64% 
Services  7 64% 
Industry  6 55% 
Mining  5 45% 
Fisheries  3 27% 
Forestry  3 27% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Pacific  Fisheries  6 100%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Agriculture  4 67% 
Services  3 50% 
Forestry  2 33% 
Mining  2 33% 
Industry  2 33% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LACS Agriculture  8 89% 
Industry  7 78% 
Mining  4 44% 
Fisheries  3 33% 
Services  3 33% 
Forestry  2 22% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Group  Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
UN SIDS  Fisheries  9 100%  
Agriculture  7 78% 
Industry  5 56% 
Services  5 56% 
Forestry  4 44% 
Mining  2 22% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LDC Industry  20 69% 
Agriculture  16 55% 
Mining  16 55% 
Forestry  13 45% 
Services  13 45% 
Fisheries  12 41% 
Other (please specify)  1 3% 
LLDC Industry  9 75% 
Agriculture  8 67% 
Mining  5 42% 
Services  5 42% 
Forestry  4 33% 
Fisheries  2 17% 
Other (please specify)  1 8% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Economic sectors that may face the biggest challenge from the move to sustainable 
development   
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the sector(s) of the economy that may face the biggest 
challenge from the move to sustainable development  
867.  Several partners provided additional comments regarding the economic sectors that may face 
the biggest challenge from the mo ve to sustainable development.  
868.  Colombia indicated that it faced several adaptation and transition costs when switching to 
sustainable practices. It noted that it was important to consider challenges arising from an uneven 
playing field.  
869.  The Democratic Rep ublic of Congo  noted that the forestry sector was affected by 
deforestation activities, while water was affected by climate change and agricultural practices.  
870.  Equatorial Guinea  stated that strong investments were needed, especially from the 
Government, to  develop the mining industry. Considering the current economic reality of the 
country, it was proving to be a challenge for the country to develop this industry despite its potential. 
Moreover, industrialization, a transversal activity requiring regulation s, standards, certifications, 
environmental care, etc. also constitutes important challenges.  
871.  Guatemala  observed that agriculture has an environmental impact due to the use of 
restricted pesticides. The extraction methods of the mining sector have also placed impacts such as 
aquifer contamination. Finally, the industrial sector was affected by production constraints due to 
strict environmental regulations.  
872.  Mali noted that the fishing sector faced particular challenges due to the decrease in the 
quantitie s of aquatic fish. Overfishing was listed as being a contributing factor. Furthermore, the 
forestry sector faced challenges due to deforestation. In addition, other activities such as mining 
were affected due to pollutive practices.  
873.  Mauritius  pointed to ag riculture, fisheries and forestry as sectors facing particular challenges. 
These sectors would require proper planning and financial access to achieve SDGs. For example, 
post-harvest losses in the agricultural field need to be assessed and if required, add itional 
investments to improve technological capacity need to be implemented. Fisheries meanwhile 
requires adequate conservation equipment to ensure eco -friendliness. Finally, in regard to services, 
Mauritius pointed out that hotels who are experiencing a low turn -over due to pandemic effects, are 
experiencing difficulties in investing into renewable energy, and changing their way of operations.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  874.  Peru  observed that the highlighted sectors have all been considered due to the environmental 
impacts they generat e. However, a detailed, and in -depth study would be required to accurately 
assess impacts. For instance, emerging Farm to Fork concepts are expected to have an impact on 
Peru's food exports to the European market, which represents 55.7% of its total export s to the 
European Union. Associated measures established by the European Green Deal thus pose a challenge 
for companies and supply chains if sufficient risk assessments are not undertaken to accurately 
measure regulatory effects. Furthermore, given the cur rent international and regulatory framework, 
Peruvian firms may face challenges when adapting to new models. Given that Peru has developed a 
wide portfolio of agricultural and fishery exports to the European Union, additional steps may need 
to be taken to ensure that it emerges with the EU as a key partner in this transition.  
875.  St. Lucia  noted that the agriculture, fishery, and forestry sectors were affected by an ageing 
labour force and a lack of interest from youth. Furthermore, a sustainable transition was  checked by 
traditional methodologies that leans towards the use of chemicals and pesticides. A transition in the 
industrial sector was affected by difficulties in accessing necessary capital to retrofit plants and re -
engineer manufacturing processes. The lack of technological know -how and expertise, particular 
among MSMEs who represent up to 80% of the business community, was also an issue.  
876.  St. Vincent and the Grenadines  noted that the investment required for the transition to 
sustainable approaches may be  prohibitive for some businesses.  
877.  Uganda  highlighted construction services as a sector that may face challenges.  
878.  Zambia noted probable challenges arising in the following sectors: i)  Mining: The sector 
contributes substantially to the domestic economy, an d any export contractions will have impacts; 
ii) Industry: will be affected as a transition to sustainable development may restrict certain methods 
of production that are not yet modernized . 
879.  No South -South respondent made additional comments on the economi c sectors that may 
face challenges during a move to sustainable development.  
880.  No regional economic community or regional corridor provided additional information on the 
sectors they believed may face the biggest challenge from a sustainable development tra nsition.  
881.  Many partners gave additional information on the economic sectors that may face the biggest 
challenges from the move to sustainable development.  
882.  African Development Bank  observed that most of the highlighted industries rely on nature -
based input s, with high risks of resource exhaustion. It was therefore essential to integrate 
sustainable production technologies, but this will require considerable investment.  
883.  Asian Development Bank  noted that waste management and the recycling industry will face 
challenges during a move to sustainable development.  
884.  Canada  made the following sectoral observations: i) Agriculture: The COVID -19 pandemic led 
to several challenges for global food supply chains. The resiliency of food systems was tested, and 
local confl icts continue to impact food insecurity. Furthermore, food prices have increased around 
the world and food insecurity has been rising. For instance, in 2020, nearly one in three people were 
food insecure. In addition, women face higher food insecurity than  men by 10%. To make matters 
worse, agricultural food systems are one the biggest sources of pollution, producing 40% of global 
greenhouse gas emissions and 70% of freshwater withdrawals. They are also the biggest drivers of 
forest and biodiversity loss. F urthermore, a third of the Earth's soils are degraded, compromising 
our ability to produce food and to filter and store water. Our challenge is to therefore make the 
global food system more economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable. Intervent ions in 
the food system must create transformative change to empower women within the food system and 
increase livelihoods for the most vulnerable; ii)  Energy  - Canada noted that along with G7 partners, 
it has worked to end multilateral support for fossil fuel investments in developing countries. 
Furthermore, Canada advocates for the alignment of energy investments with science -based 
transition pathways, in line with Paris Agreement objectives and targets. This will include support 
amounting up to USD 1 bil lion for the Climate Investment Funds as to help developing countries in 
Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean with a just transition. It will involve a move away from WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  coal-fired electricity and towards clean power, clean transport and green and en ergy-efficient 
infrastructure. At COP26, Canada also committed USD 1 billion to the Climate Investment Funds to 
help phase out coal, and USD  25 million to the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program to 
reduce energy poverty by expanding access to moder n, safe, affordable and sustainable energy 
services. In addition, Canada advocated for a global price on carbon, and pledged to end direct public 
support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022. Canada's 
emissions profil e shows that any credible de -carbonization path must include meaningful reductions 
of oil and gas in transportation, heavy industry, buildings and agriculture. Though efforts to date 
have led to some results (e.g. carbon pricing, regulations), the steps fo rward will be more costly and 
will require structural and behavioural changes; iii) Services - Developing countries will face 
challenges in the provision of infrastructure for digital services. Additionally, where sufficient 
infrastructure exists, economic  development will be more challenging in digital sectors, as developing 
countries will generally be a client rather than a solution provider.  
885.  European Union  reiterated that its responses were context -specific depending on the existing 
structure as well as economic, political and environmental challenges and opportunities faced by 
different countries.  
886.  Inter -American Development Bank  noted that regional Members will face challenges in 
aligning manufacturing sector ambitions with a sustainable transition.  
887.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) noted that aligning  
infrastructural facilities, especially to cater towards SMEs, may prove to be a challenge.  
888.  Japan observed that all economic sectors were facing difficulties . 
889.  Norway highlighted that a lot of challenges related to climate adaptation and mitigation  exist.  
890.  Russian Federation  observed that the challenges will depends on the partner, country's 
economic structure, geography and nature conditions, level of development etc.  
891.  Sweden  noted that an  assessment of sectoral challenges would require substantial  and 
context -specific analysis.  
892.  UNCTAD  pointed to "fossil fuels" as a sector facing challenges.  
Views on which  challenges constitu te the main obstacles to the transition towards 
sustainable development  
893.  Forty six  (46) of the fifty-two (52) partner Governments who responded to the question (88%) 
indicated that "access to finance" was a key obstacle for a transition towards sustainable 
development. The  "lack of technology transfer (i ncluding know -how)" and "limited economic and 
export diversification" possibilities were indicated as a key challenge by  thirty -seven  (37), (71%) 
and thirty -five ( 35), (67%) of partner respondents respectively.  Access to finance was also 
highlighted as a key challenge by twenty -seven ( 27) of thirty -four ( 34) donors who responded to 
the question (79%). Furthermore, twenty -five (25) donors (73%) also indicated that "domestic 
political challenges" acted as a challenge for a transition towards sustainable deve lopment. Three  
(3) out of the four ( 4) South -South respondents (75%) also pointed to access to finance as a key 
obstacle for sustainable development transitions. Meanwhile, all regional economic communities who 
responded to the question (4) pointed to high  trade costs as a key obstacle for a transition towards 
sustainable development.  
894.   On a regional level, "access to finance" was highlighted as a key obstacle to sustainable 
development by twenty -two ( 22) of the twenty -five ( 25), (88%) and nine ( 9) of the eleven ( 11), 
(82%) African and Asian respondents respectively. All LAC respondents eight (8) also listed "access 
to finance" as a key obstacle. Meanwhile all pacific region respondents (6) pointed to "dependence 
on a narrow basket of goods and services" and  "existing transport infrastructure" as key obstacles 
to the transition towards sustainable development. Access to finance was also indicated as key 
impediment by LDCs (90%) and LLDCs (83%) when examined through a group -focussed lens.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Regions: Views on which challenges constitute the main obstacles to the transition 
towards sustainable developme nt 
Region  Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Access to finance  22 88% 
Limited economic and export diversification  19 76% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  18 72% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  18 72% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 18 72% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  17 68% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  16 64% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  16 64% 
Lack of human resource capability  15 60% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  15 60% 
High trade costs  14 56% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  13 52% 
Existing transport infrastructure  13 52% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  13 52% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  13 52% 
Business climate  11 44% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  10 40% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  10 40% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  9 36% 
Lack of political will  6 24% 
Gender inequality  4 16% 
Other (please specify)  1 4% 
Asia Access to finance  9 82% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  8 73% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  7 64% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 7 64% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  5 45% 
Existing transport infrastructure  5 45% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  5 45% 
Lack of human resource capability  5 45% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  4 36% 
High trade costs  4 36% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  4 36% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  4 36% 
Business climate  3 27% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  3 27% 
Limited economic and export diversification  3 27% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  3 27% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  2 18% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  2 18% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  2 18% 
Gender inequality  1 9% 
Lack of political will  1 9% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Pacific  Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  6 100%  
Existing transport infrastructure  6 100%  
High trade costs  6 100%  
Access to finance  5 83% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  5 83% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  5 83% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  5 83% 
Limited economic and export diversification  5 83% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 4 67% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  4 67% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  4 67% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  4 67% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  4 67% 
Business climate  3 50% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  3 50% 
Gender inequality  3 50% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  3 50% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  3 50% 
Lack of human resource capability  2 33% 
Lack of political will  2 33% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  1 17% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LACS Access to finance  8 100%  
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  8 100%  
Limited economic and export diversification  6 75% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  5 63% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  5 63% 
Existing transport infrastructure  5 63% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 5 63% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  4 50% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  4 50% 
Business climate  3 38% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  3 38% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  3 38% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  3 38% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  3 38% 
High trade costs  2 25% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  2 25% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Lack of human resource capability  2 25% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  2 25% 
Gender inequality  1 13% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  0 0% 
Lack of political will  0 0% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Groups: Views on which  challenges constitute the main o bstacles to the transition 
towards sustainable development  
Region  Sector  Number 
of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
UN 
SIDS Access to finance  8 89% 
Business climate  4 44% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  9 100%  
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  1 11% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  7 78% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  6 67% 
Existing transport infrastructure  9 100%  
Gender inequality  3 33% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  6 67% 
High trade costs  9 100%  
Lack of data to support decision -making  5 56% 
Lack of human resource capability  5 56% 
Lack of political will  3 33% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  7 78% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 6 67% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  8 89% 
Limited economic and export diversification  8 89% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  7 78% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  7 78% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  5 56% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  6 67% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LDC Access to finance  26 90% 
Business climate  11 38% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  13 45% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  12 41% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  15 52% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  19 66% 
Existing transport infrastructure  17 59% 
Gender inequality  5 17% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  17 59% 
High trade costs  17 59% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  13 45% 
Lack of human resource capability  16 55% 
Lack of political will  6 21% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  21 72% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 20 69% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  17 59% 
Limited economic and export diversification  21 72% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  15 52% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  15 52% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  19 66% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  11 38% 
Other (please specify)  1 3% 
LLDC Access to finance  10 83% 
Business climate  5 42% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  4 33% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  10 83% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  5 42% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  7 58% 
Existing transport infrastructure  4 33% 
Gender inequality  2 17% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  4 33% 
High trade costs  5 42% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  5 42% 
Lack of human resource capability  7 58% 
Lack of political will  2 17% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  10 83% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 7 58% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  7 58% 
Limited economic and export diversification  7 58% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  6 50% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  6 50% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  5 42% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  5 42% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Views  on which  challenges constitute the main obstacles to the transition towards 
sustainable development  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on which  challenges constitute the main obstacles to the transition 
towards sustainable development  
895.  Many partners provided additional comments on what challenges they believed were the main 
obstacles towards sustainable development.  
896.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  noted the following as obstacles to a sustainable 
development transition: i) lack of trad e finance; ii) difficulties in transporting goods; iii) low capacity 
to process products; iv) Energy constraints; and v) the low quality of exportable products.  
897.  Equatorial Guinea highlighted the lack of an established regulatory framework and a 
business cu lture favouring sustainable development as impediments.  
898.  Madagascar  stated that establishing renewable energy infrastructures was an expensive 
investment which was sometimes beyond the reach of small and medium -sized businesses.  
899.  Mali pointed to weak applic ation of the provisions in national and international legislative as 
a key obstacle. This was however driven by financial, technical and material constrain ts. 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  900.  Paraguay  pointed to its small market size and landlocked geographic position as key 
impediments t o development. Often, additional incentives are needed to attract investment, but 
they  place financial constraints on public policies. This acts as an additional development obstacle.  
901.  Peru highlighted unsustainable consumer behaviour as a factor that rein forces the overuse 
of natural resources and the incessant accumulation of solid waste. According to data from the  
"National Environmental Policy to 2030", Peru's ecological footprint per capita has increased by 39% 
within the period 2004 to 2016. Data fur thermore notes that only 58% of urban households 
segregate solid waste, and that 68% of the total plastic waste generated was single -use plastic.  
902.  St. Lucia  quoted an excerpt from the Medium -Term Development Strategy 2020 -2023.  
"Saint Lucia is well integrated into the global economy, evident by its high degree of trade openness. 
As such, Saint Lucia was susceptible to vagaries in global commodity prices, which place s inflationary 
pressure on the economy. Particularly fossil fuel, on which Saint Lucia is fully dependent for its 
energy needs, was estimated at XCD 513.9 million, equivalent to 23.9 percent of imports in 2018.  
903.  St. Vincent and Grenadines highlighted social  pressures related to poverty as an obstacle.   
904.  No South -South respondent made additional comments on the obstacles towards sustainable 
trade, sustainable consumption and production patterns.  
905.  A few regional economic communities provided additional informa tion on the challenges they 
believe most likely constitute obstacles towards sustainable trade, sustainable consumption, and 
production patterns in the region.  
906.  The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat  provided clarity on the definition of trade costs and 
presented a breakdown of  expenses related to the term. As per PIFS definition, trade costs include 
all expenses incurred in getting a good to a final user, other than the marginal cost of producing the 
good itself. This includes: i) transportation costs (bot h freight costs and time costs); ii) policy barriers 
(tariffs and non -tariff barriers); iii) information costs; iv) contract enforcement costs; v) foreign 
exchange costs; vi) legal and regulatory costs;  and vii) local distribution costs (wholesale and ret ail). 
907.  The West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU)  indicated that the Regional 
Monitoring Report of National Development Plans or Poverty Reduction Strategies that focussed on 
SDGS identified the main constraints for its achievement as: i) A weak s ocial protection system for 
health insurance, social safety nets, vulnerable groups, micro -credits and empowerment; 
ii) Persistence of socio -cultural constraint and the unavailability of a single registry of vulnerable 
people; iii) The unavailability and i naccessibility of food security measures; iv) Limited human 
resources and limited geographical reach of social services; v) Constrained business climate reliant 
on the informal sector and not conducive to private sector development; vi) Insufficient sustai nable 
infrastructure for energy, water, ICT and transport as to support growth; vii)  Vulnerability to external 
shocks such as climatic hazards; viii) Low capacity for economic transformation;  ix) Unequal 
national resource access for women and other vulner able groups such small rural farmers and 
disabled; x) Poor integrated management of the living environment and its sanitation; x) Socio -
political instability in the sub -regional level; xi) Weak human rights enforcement; and xii) Fragile 
local governance st ructures. Furthermore, the availability of quality and reliable data remained a 
major challenge. Statistics for monitoring the SDGs targets prioritized by the States were not yet all 
available. In addition, the SDGs relating to climate, environmental manag ement and governance 
were not easy to follow. Certain disaggregations were still available not for existing indicators. 
However, WAEME wished to note that several challenges have been met,  mainly due to the effective 
coordination of development policies a nd strategies between Members.  
908.  Several donors provided additional thoughts on the challenges they believed constituted as 
significant obstacles towards sustainable trade, sustainable consumption and production patterns.  
909.  Australia  noted that the obstacles to a transition towards sustainable development among 
Australia's developing and LDC partners vary according to particular circumstances and needs.  
910.  Canada  highlighted that LDC partners are sometimes perceived as high -risk from a financial 
perspective  due  to the high concentration of economic activity in their informal sectors.  The absence 
of a strong and regulated financial ecosystem deters companies from investing, thus slowing the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  transition toward sustainable development. Canada has nevertheless accel erated its effort in three 
fronts: i) Access to climate finance:  Developing countries – SIDS in particular  - face tremendous 
barriers in accessing international climate finance. As part of its 2018 G7 Presidency, Canada 
spearheaded work to identify a way forward. For example, it committed to study how barriers in 
accessing finance can be addressed. As part of this work, Canada has partnered with the Rocky 
Mountain Institute (RMI), a leading climate innovator. In line with this partnership, a grouping of 
like-minded actors have formed a Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN) initiative to identify 
concrete solutions for action. CFAN brings together organizations experienced in deploying 
embedded climate advisors to countries seeking access climate finance. Su ch advisors provide 
in-country support, and long -term capacity building that developing countries need to rapidly access 
climate finance and achieve climate objectives. Canada has provided catalyst funding to help this 
network. For instance, as part of its  USD 2.65 billion climate finance commitment for 2016 -2021, 
Canada contributed USD 9.5 million to support CFAN in some of the most climate -vulnerable 
countries, notably the Pacific SIDS;  ii) Energy transition: Canada, along with its international peers, 
continue to urge countries to increase climate ambition. In fact, climate and clean growth were 
highlighted at key leaders -level multilateral fora (i.e., G7 and G20). The world's ability to meet the 
SDGs, while avoiding catastrophic climate change, hinges o n a rapid transition to climate resilient, 
affordable, secure, efficient, low -carbon energy systems and infrastructure. Canada leads on key 
energy transition initiatives and strategic clean energy dialogues at the G7, G20, the OECD, the IEA, 
the IRENA, the  Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the Clean Energy Ministerial and Mission Innovation. 
In addition, Canada co -chairs the Powering Past Coal Alliance, which is the world's leading initiative 
to accelerate a global phase -out of coal -fired electricity. Canada als o works with the big six 
multilateral development banks (MDBs) to advocate for their alignment with the Paris Agreement. 
Such dialogues have led to a group of MDBs announcing a Joint Framewor k at COP24  outlining their 
commitment to align themselves to the Paris Agreement. Work surrounding the development of this 
framework was led by the International Finance Corporation (IFC); iii) Social Pressure: The costs 
and benefits of a just transition w ill be unevenly distributed across regions, communities, industries 
and individuals. Some will face disproportionate impacts on livelihood, including under -represented 
and marginalized communities. Nevertheless, such a just transition for impacted people a nd 
communities will be essential. For this, the Development Finance Institute of Canada (DFIC), was 
launched in 2017. Operating under the FinDev Canada brand, its aim was to support sustainable 
inclusive private sector growth in developing markets. FinDev Canada contributes to poverty 
reduction through job creation, women's economic empowerment and climate action.  Further 
capitalized by an additional CAD  300 million in 2021, it currently wields a portfolio worth CAD 1.4 
billion. By filling the gap between commercial support and development assistance, FinDev Canada 
brings financial strength to businesses in developing markets, thus creating stability and prosperity 
for local communities. Recently, FinDev Canada launched the " 2X Canada: Inclusive economic 
recovery " facility. This is a CAD 75.9 million blended finance facility, funded by the Government of 
Canada that will contribute to the socio -economic wellbeing of underserved populations, p articularly 
women, in Latin America, the Caribbean and Sub -Saharan Africa. 2X Canada will support 
investments driving positive impact on women's economic empowerment as well as a gender -smart 
economic recovery, including through the mobilization of additio nal public and private investment.    
911.  European Union  believed that domestic political challenges and social pressures (e.g. job 
creation needs) were two challenges were commonly perceived to constrain sustainable 
development. Some challenges include: i) wh ether to prioritise greener access to finance, or access 
to finance more generally; ii) whether to ensure renewable energy access for firms as opposed to 
cheaper but emissions -intensive fossil fuel access needed to foster firm competitiveness. Regardless, 
the EU wished to point out that obstacles faced by countries were context -specific, depending on 
the current economic, political, and environmental challenges and opportunities. A thorough analysis 
of the main local constraints was always required to prior itise interventions.  
912.  France highlighted inadequate network infrastructure for utilities such electricity, water, and 
telecommunications as impediments to a sustainable transition.  
913.  The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)  noted that SMEs  face 
several obstacles when facing a sustainable development transition.  
914.  Norway  stated that one of the challenges facing LDCs was that most of the consequences of 
climate change they face often originates from developed or middle income countries.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  915.  Portu gal indicated that most of its partner countries were both LDC and SIDS. Therefore, 
they were constrained by a wide array of challenges.  
916.  Russian Federation pointed that any transition should be gradual and should ensure 
sustainability of the energy and manufacturing sectors. The transition must also account for national 
specificities and interests, as well as current economic structures. Furthermore, Russia n oted that 
developments in the trade and climate -related policies of large, industrialized countries have impacts 
on the overall competitiveness of international market. The pace set by  industrialized countries may 
thus affect the transition pathways for d eveloped and LDC partners.   
917.  Sweden noted that corruption was an additional albeit critical obstacle.  
918.  United States  pointed to remarks by the USAID Administrator , which highlighted several 
challenges and opportunities facing the trade, gender and climate  change nexus.  
Main challenges that Aid for Trade should address to support a transition to sustainable 
development in countr ies 
919.  Forty six of the 53 partner Governments who responded to the question (87%) indicated that 
"access to finance was a key obstac le for a transition towards sustainable development. Moreover, 
41 (77%) partner respondents indicated that Aid for Trade should address the economic impacts of 
the COVID -19 impact so as to harness sustainable development. From a donor perspective, 24 of 
the 32 respondents indicated access to finance as an area requiring Aid-for-Trade attention for a 
sustainable development transition. Eighteen donors (56%) also noted that Aid for Trade should 
address "digital connectivity", "business climate and economic" a nd "export diversification" 
challenges as to enable a sustainable development transition. Meanwhile, all regional economic 
community respondents (4) highlighted that Aid for Trade should address high trade costs as to 
support a transition to sustainable de velopment. Furthermore, access to finance and lack of 
technology transfer were highlighted by regional economic communities (75%) and South -South 
partners (50%) as areas requiring Aid-for-Trade support as to enable a sustainable development 
transition.  
920.   On a regional level, "access to finance" was highlighted as a key Aid-for-Trade support area 
for sustainable development by all Pacific respondents (5). Twenty -two of the 25 (88%) African 
respondents and of 9 LAC respondents (89%) also listed access to fina nce as a key obstacle. 
Additionally, 10 of the 11 (91%) of Asian respondents indicated that Aid for Trade should address 
the "economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic" as to support a sustainable transition. Access to 
finance was also indicated as key Aid-for-Trade focal point by all SIDS (9), 24 LDCs (83%) and 
8 LLDCs (67%) when examined through a group -focussed lens.  
Region: Main challenges that Aid for Trade should address to support a transition to 
sustainable development in countr ies 
Region  
Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
Africa  Access to finance  22 88% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  18 72% 
High trade costs  18 72% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  18 72% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  18 72% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  17 68% 
Existing transport infrastructure  17 68% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  16 64% 
Limited economic and export diversification  16 64% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  16 64% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Lack of human resource capability  15 60% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  15 60% 
Lack of political will  14 56% 
Business climate  13 52% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  13 52% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  12 48% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  12 48% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  9 36% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  7 28% 
Gender inequality  5 20% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 5 20% 
Other (please specify)  1 4% 
Asia Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  10 91% 
Access to finance  8 73% 
Existing transport infrastructure  6 55% 
High trade costs  6 55% 
Lack of human resource capability  6 55% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  5 45% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  5 45% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  4 36% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  4 36% 
Lack of political will  4 36% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  4 36% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  4 36% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  4 36% 
Limited economic and export diversification  3 27% 
Business climate  2 18% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  2 18% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  2 18% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  2 18% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  2 18% 
Gender inequality  1 9% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 1 9% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Pacific  Access to finance  6 100%  
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  5 83% 
High trade costs  5 83% 
Limited economic and export diversification  5 83% 
Business climate  4 67% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  4 67% 
Existing transport infrastructure  4 67% 
Lack of human resource capability  4 67% 
Lack of political will  4 67% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  4 67% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Limited agricultural processing capacity  4 67% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  4 67% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  4 67% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  3 50% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  3 50% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 2 33% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  2 33% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  2 33% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  1 17% 
Gender inequality  1 17% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  1 17% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LACS Access to finance  8 89% 
Lack of human resource capability  8 89% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  7 78% 
Lack of political will  7 78% 
Limited economic and export diversification  6 67% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  5 56% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  4 44% 
High trade costs  4 44% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  4 44% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  4 44% 
Existing transport infrastructure  3 33% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  3 33% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  3 33% 
Business climate  2 22% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  2 22% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  2 22% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  2 22% 
Gender inequality  1 11% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  1 11% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  0 0% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 0 0% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Group: Main challenges that Aid for Trade should address to support a transition to 
sustainable development in countr ies 
Region  
Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per 
region  
UN SIDS  Access to finance  9 100%  
High trade costs  8 89% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Limited economic and export diversification  8 89% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  7 78% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  7 78% 
Existing transport infrastructure  7 78% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  7 78% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  7 78% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  7 78% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  7 78% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  6 67% 
Lack of human resource capability  6 67% 
Lack of political will  6 67% 
Business climate  5 56% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  5 56% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  4 44% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 3 33% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  3 33% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  3 33% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  1 11% 
Gender inequality  1 11% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LDC Access to finance  24 83% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  21 72% 
Existing transport infrastructure  20 69% 
High trade costs  19 66% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  19 66% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  18 62% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  18 62% 
Limited economic and export diversification  17 59% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  17 59% 
Lack of human resource capability  16 55% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  16 55% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  14 48% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  14 48% 
Lack of political will  14 48% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  14 48% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  13 45% 
Business climate  12 41% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  9 31% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  8 28% 
Gender inequality  5 17% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 5 17% 
Other (please specify)  1 3% 
LLDC Access to finance  8 67% 
Economic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic  8 67% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Existing transport infrastructure  8 67% 
High trade costs  8 67% 
Dependence on a narrow basket of goods and services  7 58% 
Existing energy and power generation infrastructure  7 58% 
Slow, expensive or insufficient digital connectivity  7 58% 
Business climate  6 50% 
Lack of data to support decision -making  6 50% 
Lack of technology and innovation enabling environment  6 50% 
Low productivity of agricultural sector  6 50% 
High concentration of economic activity in the informal sector  5 42% 
Limited agricultural processing capacity  5 42% 
Limited economic and export diversification  5 42% 
Low productive capacity in manufacturing  5 42% 
Domestic political challenges (e.g., security and stability)  4 33% 
Lack of human resource capability  4 33% 
Gender inequality  3 25% 
Lack of political will  3 25% 
Social pressures (poverty, population growth)  3 25% 
Lack of technology transfer (including know -how) 1 8% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Main c hallenges that Aid for Trade should address to support a transition to sustainable 
development in countr ies 
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional Information on the main challenges that Aid for Trade should address to 
support a transit ion to sustainable development in your country?  
921.  Several partners gave additional information on the main challenges that Aid for Trade should 
address to support a sustainable transition.  
922.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  noted that Aid for Trade can help to bridge gaps created 
by a lack of trade finance. It could also help the DRC acquire modern processing infrastructure.  
923.  Madagascar noted that it placed emphasis on: i) the supply of affordable and environmentally 
friendly energy; ii) improvements to transport and storage logistics; and iii)  connection to 
international value chains. Furthermore, it noted that Aid for Trade should address points such as 
the strengthening diversification and export  capacities of developing countries and LDCs.  
924.  Mali highlighted the following points: i) addressing problems related to communication and 
connectivity problems; ii) subsidizing Malian Aid for Trade; iii) assisting the implementation of the 
Trade Facilitatio n Agreement; iv) strengthening the capacities of trade -related economic operators.  
925.  Peru observed that the European Green Deal, as well as the EU's associated environmental 
regulations, must be prioritized in the work of both the public and private sector.  This can be through 
inter-institutional work that establishes support mechanisms for businesses, which for example 
provides training that allows them to adapt processes and business models. This will help the private 
sector adopt attributes key to integra te into green value chains.  
926.  No South -South respondent made additional comments on the main challenges that Aid for 
Trade should address to support a transition to sustainable development.  
927.  No regional economic community or transport corridor provided additional information on the 
main challenges that Aid for Trade should address to support a sustainable development transition.  
928.  A few donors lent additional insights on the main challenges that they believed Aid for Trade 
should address to support a transition to sustainable development .   
929.  Australia  indicated that the challenges faced by its developing and LDC partners when 
transitioning towards sustainable development varied according to particular circumstances and 
needs. Australia's approach to supporting development partners is deman d driven and informed by 
such specific needs and circumstances.   
930.  Canada  pointed to the initiatives coordinated by the Development Finance Institute of Canada 
(DFIC) referenced earlier.  
931.  The European Union  reiterated that country challenges were context -specific, depending on 
the existing economic, political and environmental challenges and opportunities. Furthermore, 
challenges were noted to be intertwined and at different scales. For instance, business climate was 
a large area which, if tackled correctly, could help reduce trade costs, improve access to finance, 
and reduce informal sector dependency. Addressing the economic impact of the pandemic would 
also help to address numerous areas, including gender inequality, sustainability and job creation.  
Circula r economy strategies, policies, or objectives in place  
932.  Twenty -three out of the 53 partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire ( 43%) indicated the presence of circular economy strategies, policies 
or objectives. On a similar vein, 22 of the 36 donors (61%) highlighted that circular economy 
strategies, policies or objectives were present within domestic frameworks. Two of the four regional 
economic communities or transport corridors (50%) and one of three South -South partners (25%) 
indicated the presence of circular economy strategies, policies or objectives.  
933.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share of question respondents, with 10 (40%) of 
respondents indicating the presence of circular economy strategi es, policies or objectives. Six of the 
9 LACS respondents (67%) meanwhile stated the presence of circular strategies. Ten out of 29  LDC WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  respondents and 3 out of 12 LLDC respondents the highlighted presence of circular economy 
strategies, policies or object ives. 
Regions and Gro ups: Circular economy strategies, policies, or objectives in place  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
LACS 6 67% 
Asia 5 45% 
Africa  10 40% 
Pacific  2 33% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 10 34% 
LLDC 3 25% 
UN SIDS  2 22% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Circular economy strategies, policies, or objectives in place  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on whether a circular economy strategy, policy, plan is in place  
934.  Several partner countries provided additional information on their circular strategies, policies 
or plans.  
935.  Bangladesh  noted that several policy documents address various points related to the circular 
economy.  
936.  Benin pointed its National Development Plan  (page 121) and the "Integrated Report on the 
State of the Environment in Benin" for additional references on its circular economy approaches.  
937.  Colombia  referenced its  National Circular Economy Strategy .  
938.  El Salvador pointed to its work related  to the circular economy.  
939.  Equatorial Guinea  highlighted that it ha s committed to several circular economy -based 
objectives. Furthermore, it was a participant in the first African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA) 
and the Circular Economy Coalition of Latin America, and the Caribbean (CECLAC) regional dialogue 
organized to  strengthen cooperation around common objectives. In addition, development partners 
such as the UNDP were working on domestic projects in the context of the circular economy.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  940.  Mauritius  highlighted that the Budget Speech for 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 clearly stated 
Maurit ius's intentions and measures to adopt the circular economic strategy. Furthermore, the new 
"Solid Waste Management Strategy & Action Plan" that was approved by Cabinet on August 2021 , 
contains clear circular economy objectives. Under this plan, the Government intends to proceed with 
the setting up and operation of regional composting plants and sorting units throug h a Public -Private 
Partnership using the Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) route. Through this mechanism, the private 
sector would design, build, finance and operate the composting plants and sorting units. Moving 
forward, the government intends to obtain consultancy services of a transaction advisor to prepare 
the request for proposal documents to invite potential candidates submit their bids for the setting 
up and operation of the composting plants and sorting units.  
941.  Mexico  pointed to its " General Law of the Circular Economy ", which was proposed in the 
Senate of the Republic in 2019 and approved unanimously in November 2021. It is currently in the 
review process in  the Chamber of Deputies. In this law, article 8 proposes to design, formulate, 
conduct, and evaluate the national policy for the Circular Economy, as well as prepare National 
Promotion Program for Circular Economy principles.  
942.  Peru stated that it seeks to  promote the extraction, transformation, distribution and recovery 
of materials and energy efficiency as key circular economy principles. In fact, priority objective 9 of 
its "National Competitiveness and Productivity Policy" called for, among others, the promotion of the 
circular economy, and the generation of sustainable and diversified solutions for productive business 
development. Moreover, policy measure No. 9.3 of this priority objective called for the promotion of 
circular economy and clean productio n agreements in the industrial, fishing and agricultural sectors. 
Moreover, the "Peruvian Pact for a Circular Economy" was voluntarily signed by public entities, 
business associations, academia and international stakeholders in July 2021. It represents a 
collaborative effort with the purpose of promoting a progressive circular transition. Furthermore, the 
Ministry of the Environment, through Ministerial Resolution No. 139 -2021- MINAM, created a 
multisectoral working group called the "Promoting Group in Char ge of Preparing the Roadmap for 
the Creation, Conformation and Implementation of the Peruvian Platform for a Circular Economy". 
This platform will serve as a space for dialogue, coordination and collaboration between public and 
private actors. In  addition,  a "Roadmap towards a Circular Economy in the Industry Sector" was 
approved under Supreme Decree No.  003-2020-PRODUCE. This was an initiative jointly prepared by 
the Ministry of Production and the Ministry of Environment (MINAM), to promote inclusive and 
sustainable industrial development. Primarily, it will seek to develop actions that drive and promote 
a transition from a linear to a circular economic model in the manufacturing and industrial fishing 
industries. Finally, the Ministry of Agrarian Developme nt and Irrigation published a draft supreme 
decree approving the " Roadmap towar ds a Circular Economy in the Agrarian and Irrigation Sector ".  
943.  Philippines   highlighted the findings of an ADB report  which spotlighted several circular  
economy practices in the Philippines. Policies and frameworks related to the circular economy 
include: i) Solid waste management policies such as the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 
2000, Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act of 1990, Sustainable public 
procurement (SPP) to stimulate circular economy (CE), The Philippine Green Public Procurement 
Roadmap and the Government Procurement Reform Act); ii) Housing and construction policies for 
climate resilient housing such as th e 2017 -2022 National Urban Development and Housing 
Framework, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Act, and the National 
Informal Settlement Upgrading Strategy; iii)  Renewable energy and rural electrification policy 
frameworks such as  the Accelerated Barangay Electrification Program, the Rural Electrification 
program and  Expanded Rural Electrification Program; iv)  Green job creation policies such as the 
Philippine Green Jobs Act of 2016 and National Green Jobs Human Resource Developm ent Plan.  
944.  Senegal mentioned that its national development plan was supplemented by a national policy 
on the circular economy  
945.  St. Lucia  noted that it was currently exploring opportunities to develop a green economy 
policy, and a Sustainable Consumption and Production Strategy and Action plan. The  Solid Waste 
Management Authority was focal point for the circular economy, while the Department of Sustainable 
Development was the focal point for sustainable consumption and production, which was overarching 
area f or the circular economy.  
946.  Zambia  noted that circular economy strategies can be found in various policies and strategies 
crafted by the Ministries of: i) Green Economy; ii) Local Government; and Lands.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  947.  One South -South respondent provided additional informa tion on their circular economy 
strategy, policy, or plan. Colombia observed that circular economy practices were an important 
component of its sustainability policies.  
948.  Two regional economic communities and transport corridors provided additional informati on 
on their circular economy strategy, policy or plan.  
949.  The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat  pointed to the " Cleaner Pacific 2025: Pacific 
Regional Waste  and Pollution Management " strategy developed by the Secretariat of the Pacific 
Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). However, regional trade officials and experts played a 
limited role in the development and implementation of this strategy.  
950.  TradeMark Ea st Africa noted that its Trade and Logistics Cluster had a focus on circular 
economy principles.  
951.  Several donors responded with provided additional information on their circular strategies, 
policies or plans.  
952.  Asian Development Bank  noted that it was devel oping a circular economy framework to 
support investment and technical assistance activities. Meanwhile, the ADB's Trade and Supply Chain 
Finance Programme (TCSFP) supports trade links to the circular economy as to facilitate future 
growth. It noted that t he circular economy was incorporated in some country partnership strategies, 
like for example, the ADB's country partnership strategy with China . 
953.  Australia  highlighted that while its current development strategy does not include an explicit 
circular economy strategy or plan, it conducts a range of active programs and initiatives in the Pacific 
that support similar objectives showing good results. The Pacific region faces serious land and marine 
waste challenges. These include: i) long distances to recycling markets; ii) limited land for waste 
management; and iii) small, dispersed populations, resulting in a low critical mass of waste. The 
impacts of cl imate change and severe weather events amplify these challenges. Australia is therefore 
helping to address poor waste management by coordinating through a multi -donor initiative called 
the Pacific Region Infrastruct ure Facility  (PRIF). The PRIF initiative works on a concept of a "regional 
resource circulation and recycling network", identifying and quantifying the opportunities to improve 
the resource recovery of 15 common commodities present in the solid waste strea m in 15 Pacific 
Island countries. The first phase of the study conducted a material flow analysis of imports and 
exports, estimated the available materials for recovery and quantified the expected increase in 
commodities based on various policy interventio ns. The results were compiled and published as 
Pacific Island Country and Territory Profiles  in the solid waste and recycling sector. The study 
revealed that ma terial flows were too small to be processed feasibly in each country. 
It recommended processing on a regional scale in the Pacific. Many of the Pacific Island countries 
have proposed, drafted or adopted a combination of solid waste and environmental manage ment 
legislation to stimulate circular economy approaches.    Between 2019 and 2021, the PRIF and other 
agencies used the PRIF standard Waste Audit Methodology to conduct waste audits in 14 Pacific 
countries. They have continued meetings to ensure synergie s are maintained, even during the 
COVID -19 period. Three waste audits have been completed and other waste audits are expected to 
be completed soon. The Pacific regional recycling network and pre -feasibility assessment are 
expected to involve extensive work . The 14 country waste audit results will be used to determine 
total volumes and types of recyclable materials, investment waste management, and recycling 
facilities in each Pacific country. Furthermore, PRIF was also working to identify options for a Paci fic 
regional recycling network. This network is expected to include local processing centre(s), trans -
shipment and recycling facilities. It will cater for all or some recycling materials in one or more 
locations in the Pacific region. Future work will incl ude undertaking a demand analysis for recycled 
wastes and potential markets and identifying possible solutions. Thereafter a pre -feasibility 
assessment will be undertaken for the most favourable option for a regional recycling facility based 
on technical, environmental, social, financial, and economic assessments.  
954.  Austria  highlighted circular economy references in its upcoming "Three year programme on 
Austrian Development Policy 2022 -2024" report. Circular economy was part of the subchapter on 
"sustainable  resources management". The related objectives were: i) to promote resource efficiency 
and the circular economy; ii) to contribute to the safe handling, trade and disposal of chemicals; iii) WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  to promote sustainable waste management and reduce food losses; i v) to promote sustainable 
production and consumption; iv) the responsible use of natural resources in rural and urban areas.  
955.  Canada  highlighted ongoing efforts to transition towards a more circular economy. This 
included active collaborations between all levels of government, businesses and other organizations. 
One of the priority points in this context was to keep plastic in the economy and out of the 
environment. Canada thus supported strong collaborations with the private sector, innovators, and 
entrepr eneurs, to developing innovative alternatives and solutions that increase resource efficiency 
and promote circular economy in the use of plastics and plastic products.  
956.  Chinese Taipei  pointed to its " Solid Waste Management and Recycling Project " in St. Kitts 
and Nevis as an example of its initiatives to promote circular economy principles.  
957.  European Bank for Reconstruction and D evelopment pointed to circular economy 
references in its Green Economy Transition  (GET) approach.  
958.  The European Union  highlighted that its Aid-for-Trade disbursements have contributed to 
developing co untries' transition to low carbon and climate change resilient economies. Furthermore, 
the EU's Aid-for-Trade strategy outlines clear leapfrogging opportunities presented by green or 
circular economy transitions for developing countries and LDCs. The EU circular economy action plan  
also outlines the importance of circular economy aspects in free trade agreements. Additionally, the 
plan reviews the rules on waste shipme nts, and highlights support measures aimed at combating 
the environmental crime related to illegal exports and trafficking of waste shipment. The plan also 
outlines strategies improve sustainable management of waste in developing countries.  
959.  Finland  highlig hted that though its Aid-for-Trade support included circular economy 
objectives and activities, it did not have an explicit AFT or development strategy.  
960.  Germany  noted that it has advanced several initiatives to promote circular economy concepts, 
but the Ge rman Aid-for-Trade strategy does not yet include a circular economy perspective.  
961.  Inter -American Development Bank pointed to its COP 26 declaration, which  announced 
that all its provisioned loans and projects will be fully aligned with the Paris climate ag reement by 
2023. This could help countries in Latin America and the Caribbean fight climate change, while also 
aiding those people most vulnerable with a sustainable recovery. Furthermore, the IDB noted that 
such an alignment would help to provide USD 24 b illion for climate and green finance over the next 
four years. Furthermore, the IDB's green finance target looks to restore and preserve natural capital, 
reduce pollution, improve waste management, and promote the circular economy.  
962.  International Islamic T rade Finance Corporation (ITFC) pointed to the results of a 
strategy review it conducted in Q2 of 2020. The review indicated that though the ITFC Corporate 
Strategy remained sound, it required some adjustments to take advantage of opportunities in the 
"new-normal" market. As a result, through prudent strategic planning, ITFC charted a new, 
innovative direction with a five -year medium -term "Strategy 2.0" plan which addresses the growth 
opportunities stemming from the COVID19 crisis. In this new strategy, the  following strategic vectors 
were prioritized for the long term; i)  Sovereign Market Strategy; ii) Diversification Strategy; iii) New 
Profit Formula Strategy; iv) Funding Strategy; v) Enhanced Organizational Capacity Strategy"  
963.  Italy  noted that the circular  economy was referenced in the " Three years Programming and 
Strategy " document that covered the period 2021 to 2023".  
964.  Japan referenced three papers rel eased by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency 
(JICA): i) Thematic Guidelines on Solid Waste Management; ii) Strategy paper on waste 
management; and iii) Positio n Paper  on SDGs: Goal 12 . 
965.  Korea  noted that circular economy strategies have not been explicitly included in its 
development strategies. However, they were considered in Korea's green ODA projects. For instance, 
Korea utilizes a green index as an indicator for the implementation of its Green EDCF strategy. 
Circular economy objectives are included in measuring the index.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  966.  Norway  observed that the circular economy was not an A4T priority. However, achieving a 
more circular economy was indirectly a part of NORAD 's mission to achieve the SDGs.  
967.  The Netherlands  noted that its development strategy and Aid-for-Trade agenda reference 
circular economy objectives. This is in coordination with the Circular Dutch economy by 2050  
roadmap. Furthermore, Netherlands was a memb er of the Platform for Accelerating the Circular 
Economy (PACE), which involves more than 40 countries, companies and international organisations.  
968.  Russian Federation  noted that the circular economy was an area for development assistance 
covered by the priority areas set out by the Russian State Concept on International Development 
Assistance. There however was no separate policy document on the development assistance in this 
area. On a national front, a key policy document on the circular economy was the "Strategy of the 
Russian Federation for the Development of Industrial Processing, Utilization and Decontamination of 
Production and Consumption Wastes till 2030".  
969.  Slovenia indicated that Aid for Trade and Circular Economy interlinkages were separately 
addressed in the Development Cooperation Strategy, under the focus on SDG 8 and on SDG 12. 
However, intersections were always possible, and even desirable.  
970.  Sweden  observed  that the objective addressing free and fair trade in the Swedish Policy 
Framework for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian A ssistance , also highlighted the 
importance of a resource -efficient, circular, and   bio -based economy. The Swedish Policy Framework 
for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Assistance (p. 32).  
971.  Switzerland  highlighted that a circular economy transition was an objective of Switzerland's 
sustainable development strategy. The Confederation aims to facilitate the implementation of 
innovative production procedures and sustainable, resource -sparing business models guided by 
circular economy principles. It wish es to eliminate barriers and administrative hurdles that hamper 
companies from establishing resource -efficient business models. Strategies will rely on private sector 
initiative and, where necessary, will explore regulatory and non -regulatory approaches to  promote 
themes such as resource conservation, eco -design, repairing, sharing and reuse. This can boost 
material efficiency and reduce waste generation all along the value chain.  
972.  UNCTAD  noted that a circular economy offers opportunities to reuse and recycl e materials as 
to reduce the pressure on strained ecosystems. Furthermore, the circular economy was an 
alternative economic framework which can play an important role in achieving the SDGs. References 
to the circular economy can be found in the Bridgetown Covenant  unveiled in October 2021.  
973.  United Kingdom  pointed to specific circular economy objectives in its Integrated Review  
policy document. The document stated that, "to promote green trade as part of the solution to 
climate change and biodiversity loss, the UK  will remain at the centre of WTO discussions on trade 
and the environment, exploring opportunities to liberalise environmental goods and services, 
mitigate carbon emissions, set standards and make progress towards a circular economy.  
974.  UNIDO  highlighted the  following link which contained references to its circular economy 
activities. UNIDO also pointed to the work of its Industrial Resource Efficiency Division  in supporting 
a circular economy. UNIDO's activities related to circular economy were also highlighted in a report 
by the Director General , released in December 2021.  
975.  United Nations Development Programme  pointed to three UNDP initiatives that lend an 
overview of the circular economy approaches implemented within the broader framework of its 
Strategic plan: i) The UNDP Regional Programme Document for Europe and the Commonwealth of 
Independent States (2022 -2025) : The programme includes a priority to "Accelerate structural 
transformatio ns for green, inclusive and just transitions to sustainability". Furthermore, it seeks to 
support rights -based, sustainable development pathways which integrate the 2030 Agenda, the Paris 
Agreement, Sendai Global Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and other international and 
regional agreements. The programme also seeks to support countries' aspirations to build forward 
better from the pandemic, by focusing on the application of digital solutions in particular. In this 
context, it supports green program ming to increase investments in the region's natural capital, by 
promoting the sustainable use of water, energy, land and other natural resources, and supporting 
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  efficiency; b) reduce land degradation; c) accelerate transitions away from fossil fuels towards 
renewable energy technologies, and d) strengthen waste management and other circular economy 
aspects; ii)  Leaving no -one behind : UNDP also prioritizes the objective of leaving no -one behind 
when addressing persistent and new forms of poverty and inequalities. This programme supports 
countries and regional partners lead a soci o-economic recovery from the pandemic. It also seeks to 
address new and persistent poverty, inequalities and other forms of exclusion. The  programme 
supports the development of productive capacities and green value chains that produce high value -
added and competitive products. It also looks to create decent jobs and promote sustainable and 
circular production patterns for cross -border trade in goods and services, in partnership with the 
ITC. Furthermore, the programme provided regional support to national a nd subnational institutions 
to help design and implement local sustainable development solutions, and deliver innovative, 
gender -responsive public services; iii) Climate Promise : This flagship UNDP initiative provides 
support to 120 countries to help enhance and implement their Nationally Determined Contributions 
(NDCs).  The initiative also looks to identify and integrate circular opportunities in such revised NDCs 
and accelerate circular implementation. A key component of this support is engaging all actors of 
society, including key agents of change such as indigenous pe oples and local communities.  
976.  United States  highlighted USAID's projects  focussing on the circular economy. Furthermore, 
it also referenced a private sector partnership to combat plastic pollution in the ocean .  
977.  The World Bank  pointed that though its overall trade strategy terms did not explicit ly cover 
the circular economy, several projects implemented address circular economy aims that may 
generate trade impacts.  
Economic sectors covered by the circular economy strategy, policy, plan or objectives  
978.  Eighteen of the 19 partners who responded to th e question (95%) highlighted industry as a 
sector covered by circular economy strategies, policies, plans or objectives. Sixteen partners (84%) 
also highlighted agriculture as a sector covered by circular economy strategies, policies, plans or 
objectives. A similar trend is observable when examining donor responses. Seventeen of the 22 
donors who responded to the question (77%) indicated that the industrial sector was covered by 
circular economy strategies, policies, plans or objectives. Furthermore, 15 par tners (68%) also 
highlighted services as a sector with a circular economy emphasis.  
979.  On a regional level, it can be seen that all Pacific (2), LACS (4), Asian (3) and 9 out of 
10 African respondents (90%) indicated that the industrial sector was covered by  circular economy 
strategies, policies, plans or objectives. Moreover, all Asian respondents and 90% of African 
respondents pointed to the agriculture as a sector with existent circular economy frameworks. The 
agriculture and industry were also identified by LDCs, LLDCs and UNSIDS as sectors with existent 
circular economy strategy, policy, plan or objectives.  
Regions and Groups: Economic sectors covered by the circular econo my strategy, policy, 
plan or ob jectives  
Region  Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentag e 
share per region  
Pacific  Industry  2 100%  
Agriculture  1 50% 
Fisheries  1 50% 
Services  1 50% 
Other (please specify)  1 50% 
Forestry  0 0% 
Mining  0 0% 
Asia Agriculture  3 100%  
Industry  3 100%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Forestry  1 33% 
Mining  1 33% 
Services  1 33% 
Fisheries  0 0% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Africa  Agriculture  9 90% 
Industry  9 90% 
Forestry  6 60% 
Fisheries  5 50% 
Mining  4 40% 
Services  4 40% 
Other (please specify)  1 10% 
LACS Industry  4 100%  
Agriculture  3 75% 
Fisheries  2 50% 
Services  2 50% 
Other (please specify)  2 50% 
Forestry  1 25% 
Mining  0 0% 
Group  Sector  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per region  
UN SIDS  Industry  2 100%  
Agriculture  1 50% 
Fisheries  1 50% 
Services  1 50% 
Other (please specify)  1 50% 
Forestry  0 0% 
Mining  0 0% 
LDC Agriculture  9 90% 
Industry  9 90% 
Fisheries  4 40% 
Forestry  4 40% 
Mining  4 40% 
Services  4 40% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LLDC Agriculture  3 100%  
Industry  3 100%  
Fisheries  2 67% 
Mining  2 67% 
Services  2 67% 
Forestry  1 33% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Economic sectors covered by the circular economy strategy, policy, plan or objectives  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the economic sectors covered by the circular economy strategy, 
policy, plan or objectives  
980.  A few partners provided additional information on the economic sectors covered by their 
circular economy strategy, policy, plan or objectives.  
981.  Bangladesh  observed that priority was given to the reuse of resources in industry and other 
sectors.  
982.  Benin noted  that circular economy plans also covered its medical and pharmaceutical sectors.  
983.  Colombia  indicated that its circular economy objectives covered the flows of: i) industrial 
materials and fast -moving consumer goods; ii) biomass; iii) packaging and packagin g material; 
iv) energy sources; v) water; and vi) building materials. Additional details can be found here.  
984.  Cote D'Ivoire  observed that waste recycling and waste -water  recovery were prioritized by 
its National Waste Management Office (ANAGED).  
985.  Fiji observed that circular economy priorities also considered landfills and green technology 
processes.  
986.  Peru noted that the development of circular economy roadmaps for the indus try, agriculture, 
fishing and aquaculture sectors were prioritized within the framework its "National Competitiveness 
and Productivity Plan". Moreover ,, the "Roadmap towards a Circular Economy in the Industry Sector" 
was approved under Supreme Decree No. 0 03-2020-PRODUCE. The roadmap develops interventions 
for the industry and industrial fishing processing sectors. It implements 42  actions in the approaches 
of: i) sustainable industrial production; ii) sustainable consumption; iii) reuse of discarded materi al 
and industrial waste management, and iv) innovation and financing. Additionally, a proposal for a 
"Roadmap towards a circular economy in the Agricultural and Irrigation Sector" is currently under 
consideration. It includes proposals for the agriculture,  livestock and forestry activities. A proposal 
for a "Roadmap towards a circular economy in fishing subsectors" (artisanal fishing extraction, small 
and large scale; and small -scale or artisanal processing) is also under consideration . Peru also 
wished to note that the promotion of circularity for the mining, construction and sanitation, energy 
and hydrocarbons, and tourism sectors is also being evaluated.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  987.  Philippines   highlighted that circular economy priorities include: i) solid waste management; 
ii) publ ic procurement; iii) climate resilient housing; iv) renewable energy; and v)  green jobs.  
988.  One regional economic community provided additional perspectives on sectors covered by the 
circular economy strategy, policy, or plan. The Pacific Islands Forum Secret ariat indicated that 
the "Cleaner Pacific 2025: Pacific Regional Waste and Pollution Management Strategy" highlighted 
earlier focussed on the types of waste as opposed to economic sectors.  
989.  Many donors provided additional information on the economic sectors  covered by the circular 
economy strategy, policy or plan.  
990.  Asian Development Bank  pointed to the following projects as examples of initiatives 
covering circular economy dimensions: i) " Plastik Sulit": Accelerating Circular Economy for Difficult 
Plastics in Indonesia  ; ii) Promoting Resource Efficiency and Circularity to Reduce Plastic Pollution 
for Asia and the  Pacific ; and iii) Innovating Eco -Compensation Mechanisms in Yangtze River Basin . 
991.  UNIDO  highlighted the following reports: i ) Industrial Resource Efficiency Division and 
Circular Economy ; ii) UNIDO activities related to circular economy , a report by the Director General . 
992.  United Nations Development Programme  pointed to recent projections, which indicate 
that the global population could rise from 7.9 billion, to around 9.7 billi on by 2050. The impact of 
rising consumption and production patterns was thus a cause for concern, and business as usual 
was not an option. Therefore, through the Climate Promise , UNDP was working with countries to 
identify and capitalize on opportunities arising from a circular transition. Such a transition presents 
several benefits for people and the planet. For instance, circular economy approaches can help 
countries accelerate their transition to more inclusive, resilient, and lower -carbon economies. At the 
same time, they can support the regeneration of natural systems, respond to the climate and 
biodiversity crises, and create new green jobs. The  creation of Nationally Determined Contributions 
(NDCs) presents countries with the opportunity to leverage circular economy approaches as a 
powerful tool to meet short to medium -term climate and development targets, longer -term net -zero 
goals and other closely link ed environmental and development priorities. Many governments are 
leading the way by including circular approaches within their NDC across sectors such as waste, 
agriculture, urban planning, tourism, and construction. UNDP highlighted that it was working w ith 
partners to such efforts by for instance carrying out circular economy assessments to identify priority 
areas for circular action and building communities of practice for private sector engagement.  
993.  Canada noted that its circular economy strategies also  cover topics such as the climate, the 
environment (including plastics), food security and malnutrition. Canada reiterated trade's crucial 
role in supporting food security as it helps reduce food price volatility and facilitates food access 
after disasters  such as floods. Moreover, trade enables producers in developing countries to earn 
better incomes and allows them to make choices that reduce environmental impacts. Canada 
therefore explores opportunities to partner with likeminded economies, in forums suc h as the FAO 
and APEC to advance circular economy initiatives. Through such efforts, Canada aims to improve its 
international assistance efforts for empowering women, addressing complex environmental 
challenges and malnutrition, while contributing to livel ihoods and inclusive economic growth. 
Furthermore, Canada was taking bold action at home and abroad to stop plastic waste from entering 
the ocean, and to promote a circular economy approach to marine litter. Internationally, some of 
the initiatives Canada was currently pursuing include: i) a USD 69 million contribution to PROBLUE , 
a World Bank -administered Trust Fund that supports healthy and productive oceans by tackling 
marine pollution, managi ng fisheries and fostering the sustainable growth of coastal economies; ii) 
a USD  6 million contribution to the World Economic Forum's Global Plastic Action Partnership , which 
is bringing businesses, international donors, national and local governments, community groups and 
world -class experts together to avert the growth in global plastic pollution, and promote a circular 
economy model to the use of plastic products; iii) a USD 20 million contribution to the G7 Innovation 
Challenge as to address Plastic Marine Litter to stimulate innovation and raise awareness of needed 
improvements to the management of plastic in developing countries.  
994.  UNCTAD  stated that its circular economy strategies also prioritized the creative economy . 
995.  Taipei, Chinese  pointed to its " Solid Waste Management and Recycling Project " in St. Kitts 
and Nevis as an example of its initiat ives to promote circular economy principles.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  996.  United States  noted that the USAID Circular Economy Strategy  covers renewable energy.  
997.  Sweden stated that it had not identified specific sectors as requiring additional priority. 
Rather, Sweden noted that its circular economy objectives aimed to support green jobs, 
competitiveness, and sustainable growth. However, in the case of its bilateral strategy with 
Bangladesh, socially and environmentally s ustainable textile production was a highlighted area.  
998.  European Union  highlighted that both its Aid-for-Trade strategy and its Circular Economy 
Action Plan address trade in a cross -sectoral way. In these plans, the shipment of waste was given 
a special focus, therefore making a case for a particular focus on services.  
Does  the circular economy strategy, poli cy, plan includes trade objectives ? 
999.  Sixteen out of the nineteen partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire (84%) indicated that their circular economy strategy, policy, plan 
includes trade objectives. Furthermo re, 13 of the 22 donors (59%) who responded to the question 
highlighted that trade objectives were included in their circular economy strategy, policy, plan. One 
regional economic community (50%) and one South -South partners (100%) who responded to the 
question indicated the same.  
1000.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share of question respondents, with 9 (90%) of 
respondents indicating the presence of trade objectives in circular economy strategies, policies or 
objectives. All LACS respondents (3 ) meanwhile stated the presence of circular strategies. All LLDC 
respondents and eight out of 10 LDC respondents highlighted that trade objectives were included in 
their circular economy strategies, policies or objectives.  
Regions and Groups: Does  the circ ular economy strategy, policy, plan includes trade 
objectives ? 
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Pacific  2 100%  
LACS 3 100%  
Africa  9 90% 
Asia 2 50% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
UN SIDS  2 100%  
LLDC 3 100%  
LDC 8 80%  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Region and Groups : Does  the circular economy strategy, policy, plan includes trade 
objectives ? 
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on whether the circular economy strategy, policy, plan includes 
trade objectives  
1001.  Partners lent additional perspectives on whether their circular economy strategy, policy or 
plan includes trade objectives.  
1002.  Benin  highlighted recent decline in the development and promotion of certa in value chains 
for agriculture. Market access for such produce have also proven to be an issue.  
1003.  Colombia  noted that though its strategies  are more fo cussed on domestic activities, they also 
pose direct impacts on international trade flows.  
1004.  Cote D'Ivoire  reiterated that waste recycling and waste -water recovery were prioritized by 
its National Waste Management Office (ANAGED).  
1005.  Equatorial Guinea  highligh ted that it possesses one of the best digital connectivity 
infrastructures in Central Africa. In fact, Equatorial Guinea was planning to expand its commercial 
relations with the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC), and South 
American nations as to expand digital connectivity reach.  
1006.  Mali pointed to axes 1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 3.4 of its Industrial Development Policy (PDI).  
1007.  Mauritius  stated that "An Extended Producer Responsibility Organization" (EPRO) for the 
segregation and collection of E -Waste was announced in the budget speech for 2020 -2021. E-waste 
would therefore be either exported, re -used or recycled. The EPRO works under the Solid Waste 
Management Division of the Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change.  
1008.  Peru  noted that its roadmaps were instruments that seek to f acilitate the development and 
incorporation of circular economy models in value chains at the national level. This will thereby 
improve the productivity and competitiveness of companies and enterprises. Said documents 
transversally deal with action plans f or the improvement of conditions and opportunities at both a 
national and international level. Importantly, the process of preparing the roadmaps was 
collaborative, including the active participation of business associations, public institutions, 
academia,  organized civil society and international stakeholders.  
1009.  No South -South responded provided additional insights on the trade objectives included in 
their circular economy strategy, policy or plan.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1010.  No regional economic community or transport corridor gave additional information on the 
trade objectives included in their circular economy strategy, policy or plan.  
1011.  A few donors provided additional insights on whether their circular economy strategy, policy 
or plan includes trade objectives.  
1012.  Unite d Kingdom  highlighted that the promotion of green trade was part of the solution to 
climate change. The UK would continue to remain at the centre of WTO discussions on trade and the 
environment. It will also explore opportunities to liberalise environmenta l goods and services, 
mitigate carbon emissions and set standards to progress towards a circular economy.  
1013.  UNIDO  noted that its Circular economy approaches wishes to incorporate business models 
such as: i) green design; ii) product lifetime extensions; iii)  remanufacturing and secondary markets 
for regeneration; iv) recycling and v) waste -to-energy products . 
1014.  Canada  stated that in addition to addressing harmful single -use plastics it was seeking to 
support markets for recycled plastics in the products and pac kaging field.  
1015.  Sweden  noted that though it does not have a strategy for the circular economy, related 
concepts were included in key policy documents that steer the Swedish development cooperation, 
including the Policy Framework for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Assistance . 
1016.  The Netherlands  pointed to The Circular Dutch economy by 2050  action plan, which includes 
actions and references on trade.  
1017.  Switzerland  observed that its sustainable development strategy includes objectives 
regarding trade. However, its circular economy object ive does not explicitly specify trade.  
1018.  European Union  noted that one of the commitments in the " EU Circular Economy Action 
Plan" was to reflect circular economy obje ctives in free trade agreements. In addition, facilitating 
the re -use and recycling of waste in the EU region will be enhanced by a thorough review of EU rules 
on waste shipments. This review will aim to restrict waste exports considered harmful for health  and 
the environment. Such waste may instead be treated domestically, within the EU. The Commission 
will also support measures at multilateral, regional and bilateral levels to combat environmental 
crime, notably in the areas of: i) illegal exports; ii) il licit trafficking; iii)  strengthening controls waste 
shipments; and iv) improving the sustainable management of waste in developing countries.  
Sectors that Aid  for Trade should focus on as to support sustainable development 
objectives  
1019.  Fifty of the 52 partn ers who responded to the question (96%) highlighted agriculture as a 
sector that Aid for Trade should focus on as to support sustainable development objectives. 
Forty-seven partners (91%) also highlighted services as a sector requiring support, while 43  (90%) 
indicated that Aid for Trade should be geared towards the industrial sector to enable a sustainable 
transition Similar trends are observable when examining donor responses. Twenty -nine of the 33 
donors who responded to the question (88%) indicated that  Aid for Trade should focus on the 
agricultural sector to support sustainable development. Nearly 85% of donor respondents (28) also 
pointed to the industrial sector as a potential Aid-for-Trade destination. Meanwhile, all South -South 
respondents (4) and 7 5% of regional economic community respondents (3) indicated that Aid for 
Trade should focus on services to support sustainable development. All South -South partners also 
pointed to the agriculture as a sector that may require Aid-for-Trade support to enable a transition.  
1020.  A regional breakdown of partner responses indicates that agriculture and services were often 
highlighted as sectors that Aid for Trade should focus on as to support sustainable development 
objectives. When examined on a granular level,  it can be seen that more than 90% of African, Asian, 
LACS and Pacific respondents pointed to agriculture as a key sector requiring support. Moreover, 23 
African respondents (88%) and 4 out of 5 Pacific respondents (80%) also pointed to fisheries as an 
important sector requiring Aid-for-Trade support. The agriculture and services sector were also 
identified by LDCs, LLDCs and UNSIDS as key sectors requiring Aid-for-Trade support for a 
sustainable development transition.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Regions and Groups: Sectors that Aid  for Trade should focus on as to support 
sustainable development objectives  
Region  Sector  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  Agriculture  24 96% 
Services  24 96% 
Industry  23 92% 
Fisheries  22 88% 
Forestry  14 56% 
Mining  13 52% 
Other (please specify)  1 4% 
Asia Agriculture  10 91% 
Services  10 91% 
Industry  9 82% 
Fisheries  6 55% 
Forestry  5 45% 
Mining  4 36% 
Other (please specify)  2 18% 
Pacific  Agriculture  5 100%  
Fisheries  4 80% 
Industry  4 80% 
Services  4 80% 
Forestry  2 40% 
Mining  1 20% 
Other (please specify)  0   
LACS Agriculture  9 100%  
Services  8 89% 
Industry  7 78% 
Fisheries  6 67% 
Forestry  5 56% 
Mining  2 22% 
Other (please specify)  2 22% 
Group  Sector      
UN SIDS   Agriculture  8 100%  
Fisheries  7 88% 
Industry  7 88% 
Services  7 88% 
Forestry  4 50% 
Mining  1 13% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LDC Agriculture  27 93% 
Services  27 93% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Industry  25 86% 
Fisheries  23 79% 
Forestry  13 45% 
Mining  12 41% 
Other (please specify)  0 0% 
LLDC Agriculture  11 92% 
Services  11 92% 
Industry  10 83% 
Forestry  8 67% 
Fisheries  5 42% 
Mining  5 42% 
Other (please specify)  1 8% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Sectors that Aid for Trade should focus on as to support sustainable development 
objectives  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the sectors that Aid  for Trade should focus on as to  support 
sustainable development objectives  
1021.  Several partners provided additional information  on the sectors that Aid  for Trade should focus 
on as to support sustainable development objectives  
1022.  Cambodia noted that Aid for Trade could help expand the E -commerce's sectoral 
competitiveness and export diversification through programs which support dig ital literacy, digital 
skills and infrastructure.  
1023.  Democratic Republic of Congo indicated that the agro -industry could be expanded through 
Aid-for-Trade support. Such support can help to improve product processing, with a view to 
diversifying the economy.  
1024.  Equatorial Guinea observed that sectors highlighted in the questionnaire were included in 
its PND as strategic objectives. Furthermore, they were also prioritized in Equatorial Guinea's 
economic diversification strategy.  
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  1025.  Gabon  indicated that creative indust ries could be bolstered through trade facilitation support. 
An existing technical and financial assistance program existed in this regard.  
1026.  Indonesia  pointed to the following sectors: i) sustainable Energy; ii) sustainable waste; 
iii) management and circula r economy; iv) coastal and marine industries; v)  transport and 
infrastructure . 
1027.  Madagascar  noted the following sectoral objectives: i) agriculture and fishing – Techniques 
that are productive and respectful for the environment need to be developed; 
ii) Industry - Environmental impact studies for large mining operations and industrial investments 
need to be reworked; iii) Services: the promotion of digital development in e -commerce needs to be 
prioritized.  
1028.  Mali highlighted the following support measures: i) Strengthening supply capacities of 
agricultural sector  to promote diversification and competitiveness; ii) Remote sensing to monitor 
forests; i ii) Using probes for fishing; iv) automation of industrial product ion means; v)  development 
of online services or digitization of administrative procedures.  
1029.  Mexico  noted that the circular economy issue was a national priority, but the financial and 
human resources for support measures were limited. Therefore, Aid for Tra de can help to create 
synergies and execute cooperation projects with the Government on this issue.  
1030.  Moldova  pointed to digital transformation sustainable growth of ICT sector as activities that 
would require support.  
1031.  Peru highlighted possible support stru ctures in the following 2 sectors: i) Manufacturing: 
Peru's National Industrial Development Policy (PNDI), which is currently being drafted, observes that 
the manufacturing sector was characterized by limited competitiveness. This is reflected in the low 
production values for complex and value -added goods. In fact, the structure of the manufacturing 
sector has not shown significant changes over the past 60 years. The exports of medium and high 
technology manufacturing goods amounted to a mere 10.3% in 2019.  The PNDI therefore aims to 
expand contributions of the manufacturing sector to 14% of national GDP by 2030. In this sense, 
Peru highlighted that future Aid-for-Trade support could focus on manufacturing. The policy 
document furthermore identified textiles  and clothing, agrochemicals, and chemicals as viable 
sectors in this regard; ii) Agriculture: The agriculture sector contributes significantly to the 
generation of direct employment, income and GDP in Peru. However, agricultural productivity has 
regional,  income and scale -based variances. For  instance, Peru's National Agricultural Census 
(CENAGRO) highlighted those 2,260,973 producers were involved in agricultural activities. 
Approximately 2,213,500 of these producers owned nearly 38.7 million hectares of land. On a 
geographical level, approximately 15.8%, 63.6% and 20.6% of these lands were located on the 
coast, mountains, and jungle respectively. Furthermore, nearly 97% of the agricultural work force 
were involved in small -scale, family  - oriented agraria n farming. Of those involved in such methods, 
88% were involved in subsistence agriculture, 10% practised intermediate farming methods and 
only 2% consolidated modern consolidated methods.  Therefore, given the sector's importance, it 
can be seen that it i s critical the development of the economy and for the improvement of the quality 
of life of the population, primarily those residing in rural regions.  
1032.  St. Lucia  noted that Aid -for-Trade support was needed across all productive sectors. This 
need has incre ased given the impact of the pandemic, and the Government's need to redirect already 
limited resources towards new priority areas concerning health, education and social safety nets . 
1033.  Uganda pointed to the " Voluntary  National Review Report on the Implementation of the 2030 
Agenda for Sustainable Development " for sectoral perspective on Aid-for-Trade support.  
1034.  No South -South responded provided additional information on sectors in which Aid-for-Trade 
support should focus  on as to support objectives.  
1035.  Two regional economic communities provided perspectives on sectors in which Aid-for-Trade 
support is needed.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1036.  TradeMark East Africa  noted as part of its Green Corridor approach, it is looking to work 
with regional Governments  and the Private Sector to identify priority sectors and activities for a 
green transition. These can include logistics, climate smart value chains and exports, certifications 
for traceability and green infrastructure financing.  
1037.  The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat  highlighted that it considered agro -processing to 
fall under its selection of agricultural sector activities.  
1038.  Several donors also gave additional information on the sectors in which Aid-for-Trade support 
should focus on as to support Aid-for-Trade objectives.  
1039.  Asian Development Bank stated that Aid for Trade could be used to promote capacity 
building in trade policy and regulations designs.  
1040.  Australia  highlighted that all developing countries and LDCs have unique circumstances and 
needs. As su ch, the economic sectors on which future Aid -for-Trade support should focus upon will 
vary from country to country and region to region. Australia thus noted that all indicated sectors 
would benefit from Aid -for-Trade support to varying degrees depending o n partner needs.  
1041.  Canada  noted two sectors that could be further supported to attain sustainable development 
objectives: i) infrastructure development, particularly improving the adoption of efficient, accessible 
green technologies in the energy and transp ortation sectors; and ii)  digitalization of developing 
countries, especially the promotion of the digital infrastructure.  
1042.  European Union  indicated that sectors are targeted based on country -specific factors that 
are only identified after proper analysis driven by local demand and ownership. Nevertheless, the 
following objectives remain fundamental in virtually all partner countries: i) achi eving diversification; 
ii) moving into (green) industry while promoting decent work creation; and iii)  Promoting value -
added service provisions. The European Union also argued that services sector has been an 
underestimated area of support. Aid for Trade c an often provide important benefits in terms of both 
job creation and greening the economy. For  instance, it can help to scale down environmental 
footprints and enable transitioning in other sectors by providing green skills, green finance, green 
transport  services.  
1043.  Hungary  pointed to water management as an activity benefitting from Aid-for-Trade support.  
1044.  Korea  highlighted that entrepreneurship in partner countries and the capabilities of the 
private sector need to foster  prior to Aid-for-Trade support.  
1045.  Norway  underlined clean energy as a sector benefitting from Aid-for-Trade support.  
1046.  Sweden  noted that sectors were highly relevant and that pinpointing specific ones would 
require additional analysis.  
1047.  The World Bank  stated that Aid for Trade needs to address  all sectors highlighted as they all 
are potentially at play in sustainability pursuits. Specific attention needs to be provided to 
agriculture, forestry and industrial activities.  
Categories of Aid -for-Trade Support to advance the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development  
1048.  Looking ahead, 41 out of 53 partners who responded to the question (41) indicated that 
agricultural sector/category required Aid-for-Trade support to advance the environmental dimension 
of sustainable development. In addition, 4 0 (75%) and 38 (71%) partners (40) pointed to "trade 
development" and "energy supply and generation infrastructure" as an important Aid-for-Trade 
category moving forward. Meanwhile, 26 out of 33 donors (79%) indicated that "trade policy and 
regulations" an d "trade development" were important pillars of Aid-for-Trade support to advance 
the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
1049.  From a regional perspective, 88% of African partner responses (22) pointed to "Industry" as 
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  development. Twenty -one African respondents (84%) also highlighted  energy supply and generation 
infrastructure as a field requiring Aid-for-Trade support moving forward. Meanwhile, trade related 
infrastructure and trade policy were listed as key Aid-for-Trade categories by Asian, Pacific and LAC 
respondents. Meanwhile, t wenty four of the 29 LDC respondents pointed to transport infrastructure 
and energy supply and generation infrastructure as Aid-for-Trade categories requiring additional 
support moving forward.  
Regions and Groups: Categories of Aid -for-Trade Support to adv ance the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development  
Region  Sector  Number 
of 
responses  Percentage share 
per region  
Africa  Industry  22 88% 
Energy supply and generation infrastructure  21 84% 
Agriculture  21 84% 
Transport and storage infrastructure  20 80% 
Trade facilitation  19 76% 
Trade development  19 76% 
Communications infrastructure  19 76% 
Asia Trade -related infrastructure  8 73% 
Regional trade agreements (RTAs)  7 64% 
Multilateral trade negotiations  7 64% 
Trade education/training  7 64% 
Energy supply and generation infrastructure  7 64% 
Agriculture  7 64% 
Industry  7 64% 
Pacific  Trade policy and administrative management  6 100%  
Trade facilitation  6 100%  
Trade development  6 100%  
Transport and storage infrastructure  6 100%  
Communications infrastructure  6 100%  
Energy supply and generation infrastructure  6 100%  
Agriculture  6 100%  
LACS Trade policy and regulations  7 78% 
Trade development  7 78% 
Building productive capacity  7 78% 
Travel and tourism  7 78% 
Building productive capacity  6 67% 
Trade related adjustment  6 67% 
Trade -related infrastructure  5 56% 
Group        
UN 
SIDS Trade development  9 100%  
Energy supply and generation infrastructure  9 100%  
Agriculture  9 100%  
Travel and tourism  9 100%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Trade related adjustment  9 100%  
 Trade policy and regulations  8 89% 
Trade policy and administrative management  8 89% 
LDC Transport and storage infrastructure  24 83% 
Energy supply and generation infrastructure  24 83% 
Agriculture  24 83% 
Trade facilitation  23 79% 
 Trade development  23 79% 
Communications infrastructure  23 79% 
Industry  23 79% 
LLDC Trade facilitation  9 75% 
Trade development  9 75% 
Trade -related infrastructure  9 75% 
Communications infrastructure  9 75% 
Energy supply and generation infrastructure  9 75% 
Industry  9 75% 
Transport and storage infrastructure  8 67% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Categories of Aid -for-Trade Support to advance the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development  
 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information of the categories of Aid -for-Trade support to advance the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development  
1050.  Several partners provided additional comments on the categories of Aid-for-Trade support 
needed to advance the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
1051.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  noted that Aid-for-Trade support could be used to 
promote investments required to develop the trade sector.  
1052.  Indonesia  indicated that it is currently devising a circular economy policy, under the umbrella 
of low carbon development. The implementation of circular economy practices in five priority sector s 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  will be based on a study conducted by the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas, the 
UNDP and Denmark. Targeted sectors include food and beverages, construction, textile, electronic, 
and retail (with focus on plastic packaging). Together, th ese sectors contribute to 33% of Indonesia 
GDP and employ more than 43 million people as of 2019. Changes can be expected to bring 
economic, social, and environmental benefits. Furthermore, Indonesia encourages the development 
of a circular economy agenda in non -sectoral areas such as eco -industrial parks, sustainable tourism, 
and sustainable cities.  
1053.  Madagascar  highlighted that each of the listed priority points must be considered to 
guarantee its connectivity with international value chains.  
1054.  Mali noted two  additional categories for support: i) community capacity building; and  
ii) creation of blue and green jobs.  
1055.  Peru pointed to the National Digital Transformation System document and the Digital 
Confidence Framework identify interoperability, digital identit y, digital signatures and the exchange 
of electronic documents as crucial aspects for trade. Given that all the listed aspects require constant 
training, Peru observed that Aid-for-Trade support should consider education and training in trade 
as additional  support categories.  
1056.  No South -South respondent gave additional information on the categories of Aid for Trade in 
which support should be focussed as to advance sustainable development.  
1057.  One regional economic community or transport corridor provided additio nal information on 
the categories of Aid for Trade in which support should be focussed as to advance sustainable 
development. The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat  noted that as highlighted  by the AsDB, 
gender mainstreaming was the lowest in infrastructure projects, hence there is a potential to improve 
this aspect moving forward to achieve better women's economic empowerment . 
1058.  Many donors provi ded additional insights on the categories of Aid-for-Trade support needed 
to advance sustainable development.  
1059.  Asian Development Bank  pointed to control, enforcement, legislation and regional 
coordination as additional support areas.  
1060.  Canada highlighted tha t infrastructure, clean tech solutions and transitions to low carbon 
energy solutions were areas where it has expertise and where it can help advance Aid -for-Trade 
priorities. This is evident in Canada's support to the implementation of the AfCFTA. The aim  of this 
support measure is to increase environmentally friendly intra -African trade flows in goods and 
services by, for example, conducting a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the agreement 
to examine potential entry points and opportunities for  climate change considerations. Canada's 
support will enhance the implementation of inclusive, environmentally friendly and complementary 
reforms, action plans and frameworks by national governments and the Regional Economic 
Communities (RECs), in the cont ext of the AfCFTA Agreement.  
1061.  European Union  indicated that the most relevant areas for partners were context -specific, 
and that prioritization will be based on proper analysis and consideration of development 
effectiveness principles. Integrating environme ntal sustainability in trade policy and regulation was 
nevertheless important to ensure a conducive policy environment in which trade and environmental 
policies are coordinated. Working improving the green potential of on trade -related infrastructure 
by, for example ensuring access to renewable energy and energy  - efficient transportation, was also 
equally important. Building productive capacity for businesses to be able to make a green 
transportation was equally critical. This will however depend on access to green finance, compliance 
with sustainability standards,  understanding market dynamics of green products, etc. More 
generally, environmental sustainability needs to be integrated across the board in Aid for Trade. All 
EU programmes and interventions already need to have an environmental assessment which are 
undertaken according to EU guidelines for integration of environment and climate change in 
cooperation . Moreover, Article 8.8 of the NDICI -Global Europe regulation provides that  "Programmes 
and actions under the instrument shall mainstream the fight against climate change, environmental 
protection . Those  programmes and actions shall be based on a comprehensive multi -disciplinary 
analysis of context, capacities, risks and vulnerab ilities, integrate a resilience approach . They shall WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  be guided by the principles of 'do no harm' . The guiding questions in the present annex to the Action 
Document (AD) are to be used primarily to support the drafting of the AD by the Lead and/or 
Responsib le Service to ensure mainstreaming of key cross -cutting issues linked to policy and 
programmatic priorities. Article 25.5 states that Appropriate environmental screening, including for 
climate change and biodiversity impacts, shall be undertaken at the lev el of actions . Comprising, 
where applicable, an environmental impact assessment, including the impact on climate change, 
ecosystems and biodiversity, for environmentally sensitive actions, in particular for major new 
infrastructure."  
1062.  Russian Federation  reflected that its categories for Aid-for-Trade support will depend on 
recipient country needs and priorities.  
1063.  Sweden  noted that sustainable development and environmental aspects were integral parts 
of Swedish Aid -for-Trade cooperation. Therefore, the enviro nmental dimension of sustainable 
development will be important part of all the AfT categories.  
1064.  The World Bank  indicated that all of the listed categories were relevant in various country 
contexts. Aid -for-Trade funding for large ticket infrastructure was perhaps less prevalent, as project 
lending for such activities were typically handled separately from trade transactions, even as they 
are critical to a country's strengthened trade performance.  
1065.  UNCTAD  highlighted that trade related regulations such as TBT s were important to achieve 
environmental objectives though at the same time they account for a significant share of trade costs. 
UNCTAD wished to note that it was important to have good regulations.  
Source s of Aid-for-Trade financing for the environmental  dimension of sustainable 
development  
1066.  The European Union and the World Bank were listed as top Aid-for-Trade sources, in regard 
to the environmental dimension of sustainable development, by 33 of the 50 partner countries who 
responded to the question. The  UNDP was also listed as a priority source, with 31 (62%) referring 
the institution as an Aid-for-Trade source.  
Partner Country perspective: Donors providing Aid-for-Trade financing for the 
environ mental dimension of sustainable development  
Donor  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share  
European Union  33 66% 
World Bank  33 66% 
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)  31 62% 
Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN (FAO)  23 46% 
Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF)  22 44% 
World Trade Organization (WTO)  21 42% 
United States  20 40% 
Germany  18 36% 
Japan  18 36% 
Global Environment Facility (GEF)  18 36% 
International Trade Centre (ITC)  18 36% 
African Development Bank (AfDB)  17 34% 
United Kingdom  16 32% 
Climate Investment Funds (CIF)  16 32% 
EU Institutions  16 32% 
International Monetary Fund (IMF)  15 30% 
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)  14 28% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  14 28% 
Asian Development Bank (AsDB)  12 24% 
International Labour Office (ILO)  12 24% 
Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)  11 22% 
Canada  9 18% 
France  9 18% 
Switzerland  9 18% 
Australia  8 16% 
Belgium  7 14% 
Korea  7 14% 
The Netherlands  7 14% 
Denmark  6 12% 
New Zealand  6 12% 
Inter-America Development Bank (IDB)  6 12% 
UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific 
(UNESCAP)  6 12% 
Unsure  6 12% 
Spain  5 10% 
Kuwait (KFAED)  5 10% 
Turkey  5 10% 
Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA)  5 10% 
Luxembourg  4 8% 
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)  4 8% 
Italy 3 6% 
Norway  3 6% 
Portugal  3 6% 
United Arab Emirates  3 6% 
Caribbean Development Bank (CDB)  3 6% 
OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID)  3 6% 
Finland  2 4% 
Sweden  2 4% 
Arab Fund (AFESD)  2 4% 
New  Development Bank  2 4% 
Azerbaijan  1 2% 
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)  1 2% 
Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB)  1 2% 
Silk Road Fund  1 2% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
1067.  Meanwhile , China and India were listed as top South -South Aid-for-Trade providers by 
20 (44%) and 17 (38%) of the 45 partners who responded to the question.  
South -South Partners   Number of responses  Percentage share  
China  20 44%  
Unsure  17 38%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  India  13 29%  
South Korea*  10 22%  
United Arab Emirates  8 18%  
Brazil  5 11%  
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia  5 11%  
South Africa  5 11%  
Egypt  4 9% 
Kuwait  4 9% 
Singapore  4 9% 
Turkey  3 7% 
Israel*  2 4% 
Nigeria  2 4% 
Qatar  2 4% 
Venezuela  2 4% 
Algeria  1 2% 
Chile*  1 2% 
Cuba  1 2% 
Indonesia  1 2% 
Malaysia  1 2% 
Mexico*  1 2% 
Chinese Taipei  1 2% 
Thailand  1 2% 
Tunisia  1 2% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
1068.  Regional economic communities who responded to the question noted that the European Union 
and the United States were top Aid-for-Trade sources, in regard to the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development.  
Regional Economic Community perspective: Donors providing Aid-for-Trade financing for 
the environmental dimension of sustainable development   
Donors  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share  
European Union  3 100%  
United States  3 100%  
Denmark  2 67%  
France  2 67%  
The Netherlands  2 67%  
Inter -America Development Bank (IDB)  2 67%  
International Trade Centre (ITC)  2 67%  
World Bank  2 67%  
Belgium  1 33%  
Canada  1 33%  
Finland  1 33%  
Germany  1 33%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Ireland  1 33%  
Japan  1 33%  
Norway  1 33%  
United Kingdom  1 33%  
African Development Bank (AfDB)  1 33%  
Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA)  1 33%  
Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF)  1 33%  
Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN (FAO)  1 33%  
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)  1 33%  
International Monetary Fund (IMF)  1 33%  
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)  1 33%  
United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)  1 33%  
UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  1 33%  
World Trade Organization (WTO)  1 33%  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the source for Aid-for-Trade financing for the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development  
1069.  Various partners gave additional information on the donors most important for Aid-for-Trade 
finance for the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
1070.  The Democratic Republic of Congo noted that it needs the support of international partners 
to ensure a successful transition. This was important given the strategic nature of its natural 
resources. The DRC's tropical forest cover - encompassing 60% of the Congo basin – is the second 
largest tropical massif in the world with respect to surface area. Combined with its freshwater 
resources (which represents half of the continent's reserves) and rich biodiversity, it means that the 
DRC bears a real responsibility for building a better future, not only for its domestic population, but 
also for the whole of humanity. Conscious of its responsibilities, the DRC was ready to contribute to 
global efforts to meet sustainability challenges. This commitment must however find its place within 
a renewed a nd balanced international partnership, one whose ambition must be rooted in a lucid 
analysis of the challenges faced and their structural causes. The DRC's commitment to sustainable 
development has recently been reaffirmed with: i) the work on REDD+; ii) t he integration of the 
fight against climate change as one of the four pillars of the Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy; 
and iii) The creation of a national strategy for sustainable development.  
1071.  Guatemala pointed to UNCTAD and USAID as key development p artners.  
1072.  Indonesia  indicated that the UN Partnership for Action in Green Economy (PAGE) was also a 
key partner.  
1073.  Mali highlighted that as per its National Policy for the Protection of Environment (PNPE), the 
financing of environment projects and/or program s was based on external resources. These are 
mainly funds from: i) international environmental mechanisms and initiatives such as Global 
Environmental Facility, Adaptation Fund, Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global Mechanism (GM) 
(ii) bilateral and mult ilateral aid from technical and financial Partners, (iii) local authorities and (iv) 
non-governmental organizations.  
1074.  St. Lucia  indicated that grants were typically received from the; i) Chinese Taipei; ii) JICA; 
iii) The Caribbean Development Bank; iv) Eu ropean Development Bank (EU); v) UNEP; vi) The United 
Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF); and vi) Mexico. Concessionary loans were sourced 
from multilateral development agencies such as the Caribbean Development Bank, World Bank (IDA) 
and non -traditional funding agencies such as the EXIM Bank of Chinese Taipei. Other financing 
mechanisms explored include loans from commercial lending institutions, bonds, tax revenues and WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  treasury bills/treasury notes. Other trade related technical assistance incl udes support from sources 
such as the ITC, WTO, and various UN departments.  
1075.  St. Vincent & The Grenadines  noted that it also receives funding from Norway, through the 
Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).  
1076.  Vanuatu  pointed to China as a major sourc e for Aid for Trade. Additionally, India was 
referenced as an emerging source for Aid-for-Trade funding.  
1077.  No South -South respondent lent further insights on donors most important for Aid-for-Trade 
finance for the environmental dimension of sustainable deve lopment.  
1078.  No regional economic community or transport corridor gave additional information on the 
donors most important for Aid-for-Trade finance for the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development.  
Destination of Aid-for-Trade financing for the en vironmental dimension of sustainable 
development  
Donor  Perspective: Destination for Aid -for-Trade financing for the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development  
1079.  Ethiopia was listed by the highest number of donors as a destination  for environment -focussed 
Aid for  Trade by 11 of the 25 donors (44%) who responded to the question. Egypt, Ghana, Kenya 
and the Kyrgyz  Republic were also highlighted as key partner destination for such aid.  
Donors  Number of 
responses  Percentage share  
Ethiopia  11 44%  
Egypt  10 40%  
Ghana  10 40%  
Kenya  10 40%  
Kyrgyz Republic  10 40%  
Bangladesh  9 36%  
Colombia  9 36%  
Indonesia  9 36%  
Mozambique  9 36%  
Tunisia  9 36%  
Ukraine  9 36%  
Burkina Faso  8 32%  
Cambodia  8 32%  
Côte d'Ivoire  8 32%  
Georgia  8 32%  
Lao People's Democratic Republic  8 32%  
Morocco  8 32%  
Nigeria  8 32%  
Peru  8 32%  
Uganda  8 32%  
Viet Nam  8 32%  
Albania  7 28%  
Benin  7 28%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Bolivia, Plurinational State  7 28%  
Bosnia and Herzegovina  7 28%  
Jordan  7 28%  
Madagascar  7 28%  
Rwanda  7 28%  
Senegal  7 28%  
Tajikistan  7 28%  
Tanzania  7 28%  
Uzbekistan  7 28%  
Armenia  6 24%  
Ecuador  6 24%  
Guatemala  6 24%  
Mali  6 24%  
Mongolia  6 24%  
Myanmar  6 24%  
Nepal  6 24%  
Papua New Guinea  6 24%  
South Sudan  6 24%  
Turkey  6 24%  
Brazil  5 20%  
Burundi  5 20%  
Costa Rica  5 20%  
Democratic Republic of Congo  5 20%  
El Salvador  5 20%  
Fiji 5 20%  
Guinea  5 20%  
Guinea -Bissau  5 20%  
Haiti  5 20%  
Honduras  5 20%  
India  5 20%  
Mexico  5 20%  
Moldova  5 20%  
Nicaragua  5 20%  
Pakistan  5 20%  
Paraguay  5 20%  
South Africa  5 20%  
Sri Lanka  5 20%  
Timor -Leste  5 20%  
Zambia  5 20%  
Afghanistan  4 16%  
Angola  4 16%  
Cameroon  4 16%  
Comoros  4 16%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Cuba  4 16%  
Djibouti  4 16%  
Dominican Republic  4 16%  
Gabon  4 16%  
Guyana  4 16%  
Kazakhstan  4 16%  
Lebanon  4 16%  
Liberia  4 16%  
Malawi  4 16%  
Malaysia  4 16%  
Montenegro  4 16%  
Namibia  4 16%  
Niger  4 16%  
Palau  4 16%  
Panama  4 16%  
Philippines  4 16%  
Sierra Leone  4 16%  
Solomon Islands  4 16%  
Somalia  4 16%  
Thailand  4 16%  
Togo  4 16%  
Turkmenistan  4 16%  
Yemen  4 16%  
Zimbabwe  4 16%  
Algeria  3 12%  
Argentina  3 12%  
Belarus  3 12%  
Chad  3 12%  
China  3 12%  
Cook Islands  3 12%  
Eswatini  3 12%  
Kiribati  3 12%  
Maldives  3 12%  
Marshall Islands  3 12%  
Mauritania  3 12%  
Mauritius  3 12%  
Micronesia  3 12%  
Nauru  3 12%  
Niue  3 12%  
Samoa  3 12%  
Tonga  3 12%  
West Bank and Gaza Strip  3 12%  
Belize  2 8% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Botswana  2 8% 
Cabo Verde  2 8% 
Central African Republic  2 8% 
Congo  2 8% 
Eritrea  2 8% 
Iran 2 8% 
Jamaica  2 8% 
Lesotho  2 8% 
Macedonia  2 8% 
Seychelles  2 8% 
Suriname  2 8% 
Syrian Arab Republic  2 8% 
The Gambia  2 8% 
Tokelau  2 8% 
Vanuatu  2 8% 
Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of  2 8% 
Antigua and Barbuda  1 4% 
Brunei Darussalam  1 4% 
Chile  1 4% 
Grenada  1 4% 
Iraq 1 4% 
Saint Kitts and Nevis  1 4% 
Saint Lucia  1 4% 
Sao Tome and Principe  1 4% 
North Macedonia (The former Yugoslav Republic of 
Macedonia)  1 4% 
Trinidad and Tobago  1 4% 
Uruguay  1 4% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
South -South Perspective: Destination for Aid -for-Trade financing for the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development  
Donors  Number of responses  Percentage share  
Afghanistan  2 50%  
Lao People's Democratic Republic  2 50%  
Lebanon  2 50%  
Mongolia  2 50%  
Thailand  2 50%  
Tunisia  2 50%  
Viet Nam  2 50%  
Albania  1 25%  
Antigua and Barbuda  1 25%  
Bangladesh  1 25%  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Benin  1 25%  
Bosnia and Herzego vina 1 25%  
Burundi  1 25%  
Cambodia  1 25%  
Cameroon  1 25%  
Chad  1 25%  
Cuba  1 25%  
Ethiopia  1 25%  
Georgia  1 25%  
Guinea  1 25%  
Haiti  1 25%  
India  1 25%  
Jamaica  1 25%  
Kazakhstan  1 25%  
Kyrgyz Republic  1 25%  
Malaysia  1 25%  
Mauritania  1 25%  
Mexico  1 25%  
Montenegro  1 25%  
Morocco  1 25%  
Mozambique  1 25%  
Myanmar  1 25%  
Namibia  1 25%  
Niger  1 25%  
Pakistan  1 25%  
Papua New Guinea  1 25%  
Saint Kitts and Nevis  1 25%  
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines  1 25%  
Senegal  1 25%  
Somalia  1 25%  
Suriname  1 25%  
Tajikistan  1 25%  
Timor -Leste  1 25%  
Trinidad and Tobago  1 25%  
Uganda  1 25%  
Ukraine  1 25%  
Uzbekistan  1 25%  
Vanuatu  1 25%  
Yemen  1 25%  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional information on the developing and least  develop ed partner countries that are 
provided Aid -for-Trade financing for the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development  
1080.  Several donor respondents provided additional information o n partners countries that were 
provided with Aid-for-Trade financing for the environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
1081.  The Asian Development  Bank noted that it provides funding for all its developing member 
countries.  
1082.  The European Union  wished to note that the countries highlighted in its response was likely 
to be an underestimation as they were identified through an internal EU delegation survey, which 
many country delegations did not have the capacity to respond. The countries listed played ho st to 
EU projects, which respondents believe exemplified Aid for trade on the environmental dimension.  
1083.  Hungary  indicated that its response was based on projects implemented in 2019 and 2020.  
1084.  The Inter -American Development Bank  indicated Bahamas and Barbad os as major 
destinations for its Aid-for-Trade financing.  
1085.  The Islamic Corporation for Insurance and Export Credit  noted that it served 47  Member 
Countries, spanning from Suriname in Latin America to Indonesia in East  Asia. Since its inception in 
1994, it has been committed to supporting the development of Member Countries. As the official 
export credit and investment insurance arm of the Islamic Development Bank Group, ICIEC strived 
to reduce the risk of doing business for prospective trade partners, busin esses and investors looking 
to expand into its Member Countries.  
1086.  The Netherlands  highlighted that its support programmes were funnelled through 
multilateral and regional programs, which mostly targeted SME and sustainable value chain support. 
The focus reg ions were east Africa, west Africa, and MENA.  
1087.  Norway  highlights the Sub -Saharan countries and LDCs as priority partners. Moreover, 
Aid-for-Trade funding was provided through trust funds.  
1088.  Slovenia  noted that Serbia was also a developing partner receiving Aid-for-Trade funding.  
1089.  Sweden  indicated that it provided various kinds of Aid-for-Trade-related environmental 
support, to a significant number of partner countries. In addition, it was a major donor to global 
organizations working on trade topics and involved in operations in numerous countries. It was 
therefore somewhat difficult to pinpoint  exact countries where Aid -for Trade financing was provided. 
Moreover, Sweden's regional Aid-for-Trade support also prioritized the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development.  
1090.  Switzerland noted that its 13 priority countries through SECO were: i) Albania; ii)  Colombia; 
iii) Egypt; iv) Ghana; v) Indonesia; vi) Kyrgyz Republic; vii) Peru; viii) Serbia; ix)  South Africa; x) 
Tajikistan; xi) Tunisia; x ii) Ukraine; and xi ii) Vietnam. SECO's inter ventions focus on advanced 
developing countries (middle -income countries), where a large proportion of the population lives in 
extreme poverty. Through complementary measures and global programmes, SECO is also active in 
other less developed countries such  as Nepal, Burkina Faso or Myanmar.  
1091.  The United Nations Industrial Development Organization  highlighted that it was not a 
donor. Rather, its cooperation was extended to a broad range of developing and least developed 
countries based on the availability of p roject funding. The countries it had selected were in fact 
countries with which UNIDO has started ambitious and comprehensive in the form of Programmes 
for Country Partnership (PCP). All of these PCPs have a prominent environmental dimension.  
1092.  UNDP  noted th at it was a development organization with activities at the global, regional and 
country level, working in close to 170 countries and territories. Its projects around the world may 
involve trade components but administers lack the tools to monitor such com ponents.  
1093.  The United States  referred to its Trade Capacity Building  dashboard.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1094.  The World Bank pointed that it was  a global development institution with a portfolio that 
spans all continents.  
South -South partners who are the most important source of Aid-for-Trade financing for 
the environment dimension of sustainable development   
Additional information on the South -South partners who are the most important source 
of Aid-for-Trade financing for the environment dimension  of sustainable development  
1095.  Several partner developing countries provided additional information on South -South partners 
who were an important source of Aid-for-Trade financing for the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development.  
1096.  Comoros  pointed to Morocco and Oman as key South -South partners . 
1097.  Indonesia  indicated that it has conducted a series of meetings with Singapore to discuss 
potential cooperation on low carbon development and circular economy initiative to collectively work 
towards SDGs goals. Collaborations will be explored especially in the field of green economy, circular 
economy, green industry, renewable energy, and waste management (including food waste, 
electronic waste, plastic/packaging waste, etc.).  
1098.  Mali noted that the support lent by the highlighted South -South partners were mainly 
focussed on building capacity for environmental managers.  
1099.  Peru highlighted collaborative project with Brazil "Strengthening of Capacities for the 
Improvement and Recovery of Amazonian Soils" as an example of South -South initiative prioritizing 
the environmental development of sustainable development.  
1100.  St. Lucia  noted  that grants were typically received from the Chinese Taipei, JICA, the 
Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), European Development Bank (EU), UNEP, UK/CIF, and Mexico. 
Concessionary loans are sourced from multilateral development agencies such as the CDB, WBG -
IDA and non -traditional funding agencies such as the EXIM Bank of Chinese Taipei. Other financing 
mechanisms explored include loans from commercial lending institutions, bonds, tax revenues and 
treasury bills/treasury notes. Other trade related technical s upport measures were received through 
the ITC, WTO and various UN departments.  
1101.  No regional economic community or transport corridor provided additional information on 
which South -South partners were the most important source of Aid -for-Trade financing for the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development.  
1102.  A few donors provided additional comments on the South -South and Triangular cooperation 
partners they associated with in order to provide financing for sustainable development . 
1103.  The International Trade  Center  indicated that it has received funding from a number of 
the listed cooperation partners for technical assistance projects.  
1104.  UNDP  noted that it promoted and leveraged South -South cooperation modalities to support 
sustainable development around the wo rld across programmatic areas. Such cooperation was 
diverse and covers programmes across signature solutions. For example,  UNDP is currently: 
i) working with Rwanda to support the expansion of the "Youth Connekt" programme in Africa; 
ii) Cooperating with C olombia and Belize on seaweed cultivation; iii) Collaborating with Benin to 
support shea production in Benin.  
1105.  Japan  highlighted Ghana, Cambodia, Kenya, Cote d'Ivoire, Colombia, Zambia, Senegal, 
Panama, Peru and Jordan as additional South -South and triangul ar cooperation partners.  
1106.  Korea  highlighted that it promotes sustainable development in developing countries through 
the "Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 " (P4G) initiative, in which it curr ently 
serves as co -chair. The P4G was a global platform aimed at accelerating the implementation of the 
Paris Agreement and the attainment of SDGs. It brings together 12  partner countries, 8 of which 
were developing countries on the OECD DAC list. Korea ha s been engaging in a range of dialogues WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  with these countries in an effort to promote green growth and sustainable development. Korean 
flagship projects with P4G includes a food upcycling project that utilizes beer by -products to produce 
sustainable food pr oducts such as energy bars. This project, led by the Korean and Indonesian 
private sectors, seeks to reduce food waste while simultaneously providing highly nutritious food 
products to the Indonesian market. Korea also participates in meetings of the 4  Asian development 
authorities (Korea, Japan, China, and Thailand) since 2010. In the meeting, development authorities 
discuss major issues of international development cooperation in order to increase cooperation on 
development projects.  
1107.  The European Union  noted that it was one of the leading donors promoting South -South 
Cooperation (SSCP) and Triangular Cooperation (TrC) worldwide. EU's programs facilitate SSC and 
TrC by: i) funding actions between partner countries; ii) promoting Technical Assistance and 
Capacity Building (TACB) from one partner country to another; iii) promoting the exchange of 
knowledge and expertise between peers; and iv) the creation of networks between partner countries. 
Furthermore, the updated EU AfT strategy seeks to expand engagement  with advanced developing 
countries, including through South -South and triangular cooperation, and in areas of mutual interest 
such as regional integration, regional value - chains, trade facilitation and exchange of best practices. 
The EU and its Member St ates were also active in Upper Middle Income Countries and Territories 
(UMICs) where projects look to promote regional integration, trade facilitation, exchange of best 
practices and sustainable regional value chains. EU Aid for Trade in UMICs is more conc entrated on 
banking and financial services which received 26% of all cumulative commitments over the period 
2010-2019. This is compared to 3% for LDCs and 12%  for LMICs. Non -trade development related 
productive capacity encompassed 37% of all commitments t o UMICs compared with 25% for LDCs 
and 24% for LMICs.  
1108.  EBRD  highlighted its donor support for small businesses  as an example of a project involving 
South-South and triangular cooperation.  
Aid-for-Trade financing received as part of triangular cooperation projects  
1109.  Thirteen of the 51 partner developing countries that replied to the question (25%) indicated 
that they received Aid-for-Trade financing as p art of triangular cooperation projects. One regional 
economic community member out of the 3 that answered the question indicated the same. 
Meanwhile 1 out of 4 South -South respondents (25%) indicated that they provided Aid-for-Trade 
financing as part of tr iangular cooperation projects.  
1110.  Through a regional lens, it can be seen that 7 out of the 25 African partner respondents (28%) 
received Aid-for-Trade funding through triangular cooperation. Three of the 9 UN SIDS respondents 
meanwhile suggested that they r eceived Aid-for-Trade funding as part of triangular cooperation 
projects.  
Regions and Group: Aid -for-Trade financing received a s part of triangular cooperation 
projects  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Pacific  2 33% 
LACS 2 29% 
Africa  7 28% 
Asia 2 18% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
UN SIDS  3 33% 
LLDC 4 33% 
LDC 8 28%  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Aid-for-Trade financing received as part of triangular cooperation projects  
  
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on whether Aid -for-Trade financing was received as part of 
triangular cooperation projects  
1111.  A few partner respondents provided additional insights on whether Aid-for-Trade financing 
was received as part of triangular cooperation projects.  
1112.  Bhutan  pointed to financing received from the EIF as an example of funds from a triangular 
cooperation project.  
1113.  Comoros  noted that it has not yet received Ai d-for-Trade funding for tr iangular cooperation 
projects. On the other hand, an agreement in principle on the financing of a project on a "Reverse 
flow" approach between the AFTIAS of the IsDB, Morocco and the Comoros has been established.  
1114.  Democratic Republic of Congo  observed that the Ministry in charge of the Environment 
suffered from financial, material, institutional, human and technical capacity deficits in all 
environmental sub -sectors (forestry, nature conservation, etc.). Thus, as part of an institutional 
reform, the Ministry 's organisational structure was modified in 2009 in order as to improve efficiency. 
This involved the reduction of Directorates from 24 to 12. Moreover, despite the existence of 
numerous strategic documents and action plans environmental field, funding def icits have limited 
the implementation of large -scale environmental actions. Most of the actions carried out in the 
environmental field have been financed by international cooperation, and have focused on forest 
and biodiversity conservation. This is for in stance through capacity building and sustainable 
management of natural resources at the local level. Projects include; i) the Central Africa Regional 
Program for the Environment (CARPE) financed by USAID; ii) the National Environment, Forest, 
Water and Bio diversity Program (PNEFEB) supported by the World Bank; iii) the Biodiversity and 
Forest Maintenance Program (PBF) financed by the German Cooperation (GIZ); iv) and the National 
Policy Support Project for Forest and Biodiversity Conservation and Management  (PSCBM) supported 
by the European Commission.  
1115.  Indonesia  noted that it has received Aid -for-Trade financing from GIZ -Germany for the 
purpose of Vocational Education.  
1116.  Vanuatu  noted that it has received World Bank support for projects also involving others s uch 
as Australia, NZ, China, and the United States.  
1117.  One regional economic community lend further information on whether Aid-for-Trade financing 
was received as part of triangular cooperation projects. The West Africa Economic and Monetary 
Union  noted that  funding was also received through the Africa Regional Trade Facilitation Program 
(FEAO) and the West Africa Competitiveness Program (WACOMP) . 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Aid-for-Trade projects or programmes for sustainable trade or development, green 
growth or circular economy showcase d as an example of best practices  
1118.  Various partner respondents showcased local Aid-for-Trade projects or programmes 
prioritizing sustainable trade or development, green growth or circular economy . 
1119.  Bangladesh  referenced two initiatives: i) Th e "Export Diversification for Jobs" (EC4J) project 
financed by the World Bank; and ii) The Export Diversification and Competitiveness Development 
Project which was funded by the WTO EIF.  
1120.  Bhutan  highlighted two projects that are being conducted in coordinat ion with the EIF; 
i) Strengthening Institutional and Human Capacity for Trade Promotion and Development; and ii)  E-
Infrastructure for Trade and Services Development (E4T).  
1121.  Cambodia  indicated that the "Trade development Support Program" (TDSP) was the most  
successful Aid -for-Trade program at the Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia. Nearly 29  sub projects 
were implemented by various line ministries and entities under the TDSP framework. According to 
the project's closing report, TDSP was rated as being of satisfa ctory implementation, with a 
disbursement rate of 96%. The project evaluation report indicated that TDSP was: i) highly relevant 
for Cambodia; ii) Effective; iii) Modestly efficient; iv) likely to be sustainable; and v) with high 
likelihood for economic an d social impacts. The overall assessment was the Program supported 
important reforms in Cambodia and initiated the process of developing a sound and efficient trade 
and industry regime. The TDSP was broad -based and covered almost all the integral component s of 
trade and industry. Cambodia furthermore highlighted that it had not implemented Aid-for-Trade 
projects or programs focusing on green growth or circular economy practices. Therefore, in the 
future, it wishes to implement sustainable trade projects wit h interested partners in the areas of 
green logistics, industrialisation/manufacturing, services and industrial revolution 4.0.  
1122.  The Democratic Republic of Congo noted that funding deficits has severely limited actions 
to combat land degradation. Very few specific projects have been developed in the DRC in this area.  
However, some agricultural or forestry projects or forestry projects have indirectly addressed this 
problem. These include the "Mampu" and "Ibi Batéké" projects carried out in the areas around  
Kinshasa, which have enabled the restoration of degraded land through the establishment of efficient 
agro-forestry systems.  
1123.  Equatorial Guinea  pointed to the project "The Promotion of Sustainable and Ecological 
Agriculture in Equatorial Guinea: Reinforcin g Production and Marketing Capacities and Promoting 
Sustainable and Ecological Agriculture" as an example of a related Aid-for-Trade initiative. The 
3-year project, worth around USD 1.4 million was spearheaded by the UNDP and the Ministry of 
Commerce and Promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises, with support lent by the Ministry of 
Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry and Environment. By applying sustainabl e agroecological production 
methods and post -harvest innovations in coordination with the EIF, the project stands to expand the 
productive capacity of Equatorial Guinea. The goal is to: i)  introduce innovative systems and enable 
transfer of technologies in  production and trading systems of selected sectors (animal and 
vegetable); and ii) promote secure income channels through strengthened agricultural value chains 
and an inclusive and participatory approach to learning. The project would directly benefit mo re than 
300 agro -entrepreneurs in both regions of the country, Beneficiaries will be divided into 10 women, 
youth and mixed groups of 30  people, and 25 extension technicians, government officials. The 
project is aligned with all the programmatic/political instruments of the country, mainly in its new 
Strategic Plan 2035. More information about the project can be garnered by contacting Mr. Expedito -
Genaro Osâ Coordinator of the EIF -EG project at egeosa@hotmail.fr . 
1124.  Fiji highlighted the  " Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Program " (PHAMA 
Plus) as an example of a relevant Aid-for-Trade initiative. Supported by the Australian and New 
governments, it provided practical and targeted assistance to help Pacific -island countries manage 
regulatory aspects associated with primary and value -added exports. This  encompasses gaining 
access for products into new markets and helping to manage issues associated with maintaining and 
improving existing trade. Core countries assisted through PHAMA Plus are Fiji, Papua New Guinea, 
Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuat u. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1125.  Kiribati  indicated that the UNDP, partnering with local actors, has developed sustainable trade 
practices for local handicraft, agriculture, and marine products. The  project has been piloted in 3 
islands and was beneficial to local products with export potential. Kiribati noted that enhancing trade 
requires supporting funds for programs such as training and awareness initiatives and an Open 
Integrated Market (OIM), especially for pacific partners.  
1126.  Lesotho  noted that it was working in coordination with t he UNDP to formulate a Green Value 
Chains project. Rapid assessments and baseline studies are currently ongoing to collect information 
on sustainable value chains. This will be useful to support the design, packaging and implementation 
of a programme that promotes development of digital and green technologies.  
1127.  Madagascar  stated that it is reflecting on the preparation of a project document for the 
development of agricultural value chains that consider sustainable development, green growth and 
the circular e conomy. This process has already started for a few years,  but the reflection is in 
progress.  
1128.  Mali pointed to its hybrid rural electrification systems as an example.  
1129.  Mauritius  noted that the Solid Waste Management Division was currently in the process of 
recruiting a Transaction Adviser to perform feasibility studies on establishing compost plants to 
handle local green wastes. The project was still at the preparation stage but might fit sustainable 
trade, green growth and circular economy principles as foll ows the reduce, reuse and recycle 
concept. If successful, it can also promote the export of Mauritian composts internationally.  
1130.  Myanmar  highlighted the "Myanmar Services Trade Enhancement Project" funded by the EIF. 
The aim of the project was to: i) captu re information regarding services trade and services 
investments in easily usable portals; ii) establish the ecommerce strategical framework and the 
related action plan; iii) strengthen the capacity of National Implementation Unit.  
1131.  Papua New Guinea  noted that while it currently does not have any ongoing sustainability -
related projects directly addressing to the Aid -for-Trade initiatives.  
1132.  Peru pointed out that the topics of sustainable development, ecological growth and the 
circular economy were priorities for Peru's International Technical Cooperation. Moreover, the 
Peruvian Agency for International Cooperation has been working on circular economy issues with 
the European Commission, Canada, Germany, and Spain.  
1133.  Samoa highlighted the Green Climate Fund's " Vaisigno catchment project " (GCF  - VCP) which 
also involved training on the " Project Level Grievance Redress Mechanism " (PL-GRM) process.  
1134.  Sao Tome & Principe  pointed to its "Trade -Related Institutional Capacity Building" project  
1135.  Senegal highlighted the mango sector before COVID -19 effects as an example.  
1136.  Uganda  noted that it has adopted a climate -centric economic model, through ong oing 
development of the Uganda Green Growth Development Strategy  (UGGDS). The  UGGDS seeks to 
strengthen the technical and institutional capacity for the development of: i) a national Greenhouse 
Gas (GHG) inv entory system; ii) nationally appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs); iii) and systems 
for measuring, reporting and verification (MRV). A number of cross -sectoral barriers to a green 
growth transition have been identified and will be addressed as part of a  green transition.  
1137.  Zambia pointed to the strengthening Climate Resilience Project , which aims to: i)  strengthen 
national instituti onal frameworks for climate resilience; and ii) improve the adaptive capacity of 
vulnerable communities in the Barotse sub -basin of the Zambezi floodplain.  
1138.  No South -South respondent showcased Aid-for-Trade projects or programmes for sustainable 
trade or de velopment, green growth, or circular economy.  
1139.  Two regional economic communities provided information on their Aid-for-Trade projects or 
programmes for sustainable trade or development, green growth, or circular economy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1140.  TradeMark East Africa  wished to sho wcase its Green Corridor Approach, which was piloted 
with the Green Port Programme  in Mombasa  
1141.  The West Africa Economic and Monetary Union highlighted several Aid-for-Trade-based 
projects or programmes prioritizing sustainable trade or development, green growth or circular 
economy initiatives; 1) Project to strengthen the effectiveness of systems and mechanisms for the 
sustainable management of pastoral and fishery resources . The WAEMU Commission, through its 
Department of Agriculture, Water Resources and the Environment, was leading the highlighted 
project to strengthen the effectiveness of devices and mechanisms for the sustainable management 
of pastoral and fisheries resour ces. Currently, the contribution of livestock and fisheries to food 
security and macroeconomic indicators such as GDP was currently compromised by multiple 
constraints, including: a) social and environmental constraints related to nomadic livestock , the 
effects of climate change and the poor literacy of breeders; b) the watering/feeding constraints 
marked by a diet based largely on natural pastures and watering dependent on wells, deep boreholes 
and cistern wells with traditional dewatering techniques; and  c) constraints linked to the 
overexploitation of fishery resources, which is exacerbated by weakness in the systems for regulating 
access to fishery resources. Sadly, such constrains as above may ultimately lead to a depletion of 
pastoral and fishery reso urces. Therefore, the main objective of the project was to strengthen the 
effectiveness of systems and mechanisms for the sustainable management of pastoral and fishery 
resources. Specific objectives include: a) strengthen mechanisms for consultation and n egotiation 
of management agreements; b) harmonize and apply legislation on fishing and aquaculture; 
c) strengthen monitoring, control and monitoring capacities and cooperation in fisheries 
management; d) strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation fr ameworks on pastoral 
resources; e) disseminate technologies for the commercialization of agro -industrial by -products and 
fodder varieties; f) strengthen national and regional capacities in the assessment and sustainable 
management of food; and g) strengthe n national and regional capacities and systems for collecting, 
analyzing and sharing data on pastoral and fishery resources. Expected results as part of this project 
are: a) harmonization of fisheries and aquaculture legislation as a prerequisite for ensur ing a 
sustainable balance between available resources and their level of exploitation; b) strengthening 
monitoring, control and follow -up capacities to deal with unregulated and undeclared illegal fishing 
in WAEMU member states; c)  strengthening of coopera tion between Member States for better 
management of cross -border transhumance; d)  establishment of cross -border livestock markets to 
improve trade between the Sahelian countries and coastal areas of WAEMU; e) strengthening of 
state cooperation for the expl oitation of fish stocks; and f) strengthening national and regional 
capacities and systems for the collection, analysis and sharing of data and information on fisheries 
resources; 2) Program for the harmonization of veterinary pharmaceutical legislation wi thin WAEMU: 
The program is led by Commission, through its Department of Agriculture, Water Resources and the 
Environment. The liberalization of African economies has been accompanied by state withdrawal 
from various sectors of the economy. The veterinary d rug sector has not escaped this change. The 
primary consequence of this has been the multiplication of operators, the diversification of the 
sometimes -dubious origins of the products and, more generally, a drop in the quality of the products 
made available  to breeders.  In general, 50 to 70% of veterinary products consumed in Africa do 
not pass -through authorized channels. In the UEMOA zone, the turnover of the illegal market was 
estimated to be around 35% of the market for veterinary drugs in this sub  - region. Furthermore, 
according to studies carried out by the Inter -State School of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine of 
Dakar, 21% to 67% of veterinary drugs marketed in Sub  - Saharan Africa did not meet quality 
standards. Faced with this situation and given the weak capacities Member States, a regional 
approach appeared to the best option undertake necessary reforms in the field of veterinary 
medicinal products. Therefore, the WAEMU Commission, within the framework of the Agricultural 
Policy of the Unio n (PAU), undertook a vast program for the harmonization of veterinary 
pharmaceutical legislation within the WAEMU space. This reform benefited from the technical support 
of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), through the National Agency for Vet erinary 
Medicine (ANMV) of France. The program became operational in March 2006, with the adoption of 
regulatory texts establishing four regional mechanisms. These are: (a) regulatory systems 
represented by the WAEMU Veterinary Committee, an advisory body responsible for coordinating 
regulatory action; (b) centralized authorization mechanisms for the marketing of veterinary 
medicinal products; (c) regional mechanisms for the quality control of veterinary drugs and (iv) 
surveillance mechanisms for veterinary  drugs. Such systems aim to improve the quality of veterinary 
medicinal products as to preserve animal health and public health. The project seeks to contribute 
to the improvement of animal and citizenry health by: a) improving the institutional and regula tory 
framework governing the quality of veterinary drugs; b) strengthening the capacities of veterinary 
services in terms of monitoring the veterinary drug market; c)  strengthening the quality control of WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  veterinary drugs; d) improving national access to in formation and knowledge on veterinary medicinal 
products. The expected results of the programme are: i) harmonized regulatory and legislative texts 
on veterinary medicinal products; and ii) the implementation of a unified system for marketing 
authorization  for veterinary medicinal products based on the recommendations of the Regional 
Committee for Veterinary Medicines (CRMV). This system has enabled the WAEMU Commission to 
issue four hundred and forty -two community marketing authorizations for veterinary me dicinal 
products to pharmaceutical industries. It has helped to establish a network of laboratories with 
necessary equipment, analytical materials and training for the quality control of veterinary drugs. 
Finally, the program has helped found a regional sy stem providing direct support to Member States 
as fight against the sale of illegal medicines on Community territory.  
1142.  Donors showcased various  Aid-for-Trade projects or programmes prioritizing sustainable trade 
or development, green growth or circular econ omy. 
1143.   African Development Bank  noted that it will deploy resources within the framework of its 
ten-year Climate Change and Green Growth Strategy (2021 -2030) as to position Africa's financial 
industry at the forefront of a low -carbon and climate -resilient transition.  
1144.  Australia  highlight ed those impacts of climate change, including severe cyclones, flooding 
and storm surge, were threatening the integrity of infrastructure across the Pacific islands. 
Therefore, it was taking a proactive, evidence -based approach to managing the risks posed by 
climate change in the Pacific, including with reference to current climate projections developed under 
Australia's Pacific climate science and information services. For  instance, Australian support for the 
redevelopment of the Gizo Market  in the Solomon Islands was designed to withstand wind speeds 
of a Category 5 cyclone and resist sea level rises. The project, worth AUD3.5 milli on, includes a sea 
wall to protect the market and includes reinforced beams to withstand high wind speeds. The market 
site was raised to take account of 2055 sea level rise projections. The facility is also now more secure 
for women traders to sell their m arket products, helping them to engage in the formal economy, 
and improve their livelihoods and the health of their families. Women producers were consulted 
closely in the redevelopment, and the architects were instructed to ensure the design met their 
needs. The  design includes a sustainable water supply, sanitation facilities, ramps for disability 
access and an affordable, secure clean energy supply. The Gizo Market was also equipped to enable 
women producers' resiliency as to get back on their feet quick ly and re -engage with livelihoods. The 
market was a good practice example of how to design and construct facilities in the Pacific as to help 
transform climate change and natural disaster resilience. The Indonesia -Australia Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership Agreement Economic Cooperation Program "Katalis"  was a unique, five -year 
(2021 -25) government -backed business development program that supports the economic 
partnership between Australia and Indonesia. It aims to enhance trade and sustainable development 
outcomes. Katalis complements existing Australian development program activities with a 
commercially oriented approach, prioritizing gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) in all 
activiti es. It provides market insights, education, technical advice, policy reform, and workplace 
skills exchange. The project also syncretized complementary strengths of Australia's green 
technology with Indonesia's ambition to manufacture electric vehicles. Fur thermore, a study 
commissioned by Katalis into Electric Vehicle manufacturing was evaluating the opportunity for 
collaboration between Australia's resource and green tech industries and Indonesia's automotive 
sector. This includes commercial partnership op portunities in minerals supply and processing, 
battery and vehicle manufacturing, technology platforms, and charging infrastructure. This approach 
matches Indonesian car manufacturing capabilities, inputs, and vision with Australian inputs, skills, 
and con nections to drive a mutually beneficial bilateral commercial partnership. Australia also 
highlighted the " Increasing Resilience in Tong a with Renewable Energy " initiative and the project to 
establish solar mills to increase rural resilience in Vanuatu .  
1145.  Canada  noted that it  was currently coordinating with Jordan on projects supporting renewable 
energy, recycling, and solid waste management systems, while promoting women's economic 
empowerment. Such projects were examples of best practices in addressing sustainable 
developmen t issues.  
1146.  Czech Republic  highlighted municipal waste sorting machines installed in Batumi, Georgia. 
The aim is to help Georgia build circular economy and sustainable environment infrastructure by 
sorting old paper and plastic.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1147.  European Bank for Reconstruc tion and Development  pointed to its "Apples to Mongolia" 
initiative, which aims to tackle fresh food shortages by creating trading links and regional integration 
between SMEs. Though Mongolia lies in the heart of Asia, neighbouring Central Asian countries have 
never been major contributors to its fruit market. One of the reasons for this was because cheaper 
and available transportation alternatives, such as railway, were not well suited for carrying foods 
with a short shelf life. As a result, some of the mo re demanding fruits such as cherries, berries and 
other tropical fruits are more expensive and not as readily available in Mongolia as they are 
elsewhere. According to data from the General Authority of Customs office, Mongolia imports most 
of its fruits f rom far off locations such as Northern Macedonia, Serbia and Poland through air freight. 
In fact, fruit imports to Mongolia on average for more than 8000 km by truck to reach Mongolia. To 
facilitate regional integration and bridge this issue, EBRD arranged  business to business meetings 
with fruit producers from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyz Republic. The meetings brought 
together potential buyers and suppliers to help exchange information on available fruit varieties, 
prices as well as logistical soluti ons such as packaging and storing. Over the course of these business 
matching meetings, participants discovered that diverging fruit standards were one of the main 
culprits of the supply chain limbo. Although Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan offer a wide select ion of 
high-quality fruits, Mongolian consumers have grown accustomed to European and American 
branding. The "Apples to Mongolia" initiative therefore highlighted key areas for fruit importers to 
improve on, leverage and expand their regional business oppo rtunities, while making the products 
cheaper and more diverse for Mongolia.  A number of prominent fruit producers in Central Asia have 
already joined partnerships with Mongolian fruit importers. A case in point is the Mongolian fruit 
importer "ERA  Fruits LLC", who in June 2021, contacted Uzbekistan's "SHKO PIR Export" to bring 
the first shipment cherries and watermelons worth 20 tonnes. Previously, cherries were almost an 
exotic fruit for Mongolian consumers, with a hefty tag of USD 15 per kg. This new com mercial 
exchange levelled the playing field by increasing supply and decreasing prices and prompted 
additional cherry shipments from Uzbekistan. Furthermore, ERA fruits is currently negotiating with 
fruit producers from Kyrgyz Republic to bring berries to Mongolia and diversify its offering. In 
addition, through this initiative, the Mongolian Wool Cashmere Association and Kazakhstan's light 
industry will sign a memorandum of understanding towards closer cooperation. Apples paved way 
for cherries, which in t urn has inspired newfound partnership that bolster regional integration.  
1148.  European Union  highlighted 10 examples of its Aid-for-Trade initiatives: 1)  A dedicated 
policy dialogue on green transition was established with Ukraine in February 2021. The dialogue 
focuses on: a) climate governance architecture; b) Nationally Determined Contributions; c) green 
transition financing; d) the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism; e)  the Energy Efficiency Fund, f) 
hydrogen technologies; g) just transitions for coal  and European industry; and h) Ukraine's forestry 
strategy. Ukraine has been supported by the EU via various programmes such as EU4Climate and 
EU4Environment, numerous projects on energy efficiency (such as the flagship Energy Efficiency 
Fund) or the E5P m ulti-donor programme; 2) The Ship to Shore Rights Southeast Asia was a multi -
country, multi -annual initiative of the European Union (EU) and the International Labour 
Organization (ILO). The EUR 10 million worth project, covering the period 2020 -2024, promo tes a 
multi-stakeholders and integrated approach to support the fundamental principles and rights at work 
to address major gaps. The "Combatting Unacceptable Forms of Work in the Thai Fishing and 
Seafood Industry" in Thailand was the flagship project, comp lementing the dialogues on IUU and 
triggering the EU -Thailand labour dialogue. It supported the process of ratifications by the Royal 
Thai Government of the ILO's Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188) and Protocol of 2014 to 
the Forced Labour Conventi on (P029), with Thailand becoming the first country in Asia to do so. 
Other major achievements of this project include: a) the deployment of an additional 180  newly 
trained labour inspectors around Thailand; b) the rolling out of the Good Labour Practices 
programmes by leading seafood -processing associations; c) and the strengthening of the workers' 
voice and representation. The project's end term report found that more migrant workers entered 
the workforce through regular migration channels; salaries incre ased in the order of 28  per cent for 
fishers surveyed and 15 per cent for seafood workers; and housing conditions were improved over 
the last five years. A follow -up regional action was launched in 2020, focusing on the angle of labour 
migration in the fis hing sector; 3) The CAPFISH Capture  – Post Harvest Fisheries Development 
Project in Cambodia aims to encourage inclusive post -harvest fisheries development: a) by 
strengthening the institutional capacity of competent authorities; and b)  supporting the 
development of post -harvest fisheries through skills development, food safety system 
implementation, matching investment support and building business support mechanisms for 
research, development and innovation. The project includes activities that support the  private sector 
comply with international standards and market requirements. It will also support the fisheries 
administration with: a) the inspection of food safety standards and requirements related to WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Cambodian Quality Seal; b) develop standards and/or technical regulations for official control of fish 
and fishery products; c)  establish residue limits for fish and fishery products based on the existing 
legal framework and Codex; d) and strengthen capacity of national laboratories through training on 
ISO 17025 and support on laboratory management system; 4) "Disrupting illicit supply chains of 
wildlife in Asia" is a regional project that leverages civil society partnerships to increase the 
effectiveness of Government actions. Worth EUR 7 million, it brings  together state and non -state 
actors as to increase trans -boundary coordination on policy reforms and actions to combat wildlife 
trafficking between Myanmar, Cambodia, Lao PDR and China. This is through CSO -Government 
partnerships. The project also facilit ates the coordination and collection of information and 
intelligence between CITES checkpoints, protected areas and wildlife crime units. Furthermore, in 
Lao PDR, it is helping to increase the effectiveness of law enforcement responses to illegal wildlife 
trade, through capacity building, intelligence analysis support, and trans -boundary cooperation in 
tackling wildlife trafficking with neighbouring countries, in particular Vietnam; 5)  The EU Reducing 
Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation Faci lity (EU -REDD) supports countries in 
designing, implementing and monitoring REDD+ strategies and monitoring the fulfilment of zero -
deforestation commitments. Supported by the EU, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, and the 
Netherlands fund, it collaborates wi th a broad range of stakeholders in the public, private civil society 
domain. In 2020, the facility supported nine countries (Colombia, Ecuador, Indonesia, Lao PDR, 
Vietnam, Cameroon Cote d'Ivoire, Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo); 6) The EU For est 
Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade Facility (FLEGT) supports the implementation of an action 
Plan with a focus on voluntary partnership agreements that that forms the EU's response to the 
problem of illegal logging and the trade in associated timber  products. The FLEGT is funded by the 
EU and the governments of Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and the UK; 
7) The SWITCH -ASIA programme, launched in 2007, has achieved more than a decade of progress 
on Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) in 24 countries in the Asian continent. The 
programme's success were possible due to joint efforts of the three SWITCH -Asia components: a) 
regional policy advocacy; b) the SCP facility; and b) a grant programme. Through SWITCH -Asia, 
nearly  EUR 300 million has been invested towards promoting SCP in Asia and Central Asia. Nearly 
130 regional projects, of which 22 were newly active as of 2020, have been facilitated over a period 
of 14 years. Over 500 Asian and European non -for-profit partners,  about 100 private sector 
associates and 80,000 Asian MSMEs have been supported; 8) The SwitchMed initiative was launched 
in 2013 to accelerate the SCP shift in the Southern Mediterranean region  (Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, 
Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine and Tuni sia), notably through the promotion of circular economy 
approaches. The initiative's Phase I period extended over 2013 -2018 with a budget of 
EUR 24 million. Phase II of the initiative, which commenced in 2018 with a EUR 22 million 
endowment, aims to accele rate circular economy practices in the Southern Mediterranean by 
changing the way goods and services are produced and consumed. In order to achieve this, the 
initiative; a) provides tools and services directly to the private sector; b) supports an enabling  policy 
environment; and c) facilitates exchange of information among partners and key stakeholders. The 
SwitchMed initiative is aligned with the New Circular Economy Action Plan adopted by the European 
Commission. As such, measures for mainstreaming susta inable products and empowering 
consumers and public buyers presented in the Action Plan have a strong focus on the sectors that 
use the most resources and where the potential for circularity is high. These include sectors such as 
plastics, textiles, and fo od; 9) The SWITCH Africa Green project, launched in 2013, supports 
stakeholders in Africa achieve sustainable development by enabling a transitioning to an inclusive 
green economy based on SCP practices. It provides opportunities for the private sector to move to 
more resource -efficient, environmentally sound business practices that increases profitability, 
creates green jobs and reduces poverty. The  initiative targets four high -priority sectors: agriculture, 
manufacturing, integrated waste management and t ourism. It also focuses on five thematic cross -
cutting areas: a)  energy efficiency; b) labelling and standards; c) water efficiency; d) eco -innovation 
and sustainable trade. The programme also consists of three components - green business 
development, poli cy support and a networking facility. It is active in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Ghana, 
Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa, and Uganda. 10) The EU4Environment Programme, launched in 
2019, helps 6 eastern partnership countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgi a, Moldova and 
Ukraine) preserve natural capital and increase environmental well -being. It supports environment -
related actions, unlocks opportunities for greener growth, and sets mechanisms to better manage 
environmental risks and impacts. The EU4Environm ent also helps these countries implement 
Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) in SMEs activities, promote green products, 
encourage greener public procurement and eco -labelling, and reinforce compliance assurance.  
1149.  France  noted that it was curre ntly funding a project to control a fruit fly spread  in West Africa 
under its Commercial Capacity Building Programme (PRCC). As context, F rance noted that the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  horticultural production sector contributes to the food balance of millions of consumers in West Africa 
and represents an important source of foreign exchange and employment for low -income countries. 
However, the export earnings of the  sector, especially in the Economic Community of West African 
States (ECOWAS) region was handicapped by non -compliance with European Union phytosanitary 
standards. This was particularly the case following pulp infestations of phytophagous flies. 
Intercepti ons at EU borders lead to heavy losses for producing countries in West Africa. Ten of the 
15 ECOWAS Member States were therefore particularly concerned by the mango trade in the sub -
region and towards the European area. France therefore supported a regiona l program in West Africa 
to control these flies to strengthen the compliance of horticultural products with European 
phytosanitary standards. This initiative has made it possible to reduce losses on production exported 
to the European Union and therefore t o improve the income of market gardeners.  
1150.  Germany  highlighted the Sustainable Agriculture Supply Chains Indonesia (SASCI) project 
which works on strengthening deforestation -free agricultural supply chains for renewable raw 
materials. Financed by the Feder al Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and 
carried out by the Deutsche Gesellschaft Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the project 
addresses capacity shortcomings prevalent among small farmers in the palm oil and rubber sectors 
and ai ms to enhance their access to global markets. Simultaneously, SASCI aims to contribute to 
forest protection and sustainable forest management by reducing harmful climate emissions and 
improving the livelihood of impoverished, rural communities. The project  takes a holistic ecosystem 
approach. It integrates governmental institutions, civil society, the private sector, and national 
initiatives to strengthen their capacity to implement conflict resolution mechanisms.  
1151.  The Inter American Development Bank   pointe d to its Amazon Initiative , which seeks to 
foster socio -environmentally sustainable and inclusive economic development models in the Amazo n 
region. The USD 600 million facility, which includes USD 279 million worth of investment funds from 
the Green Climate Fund (GCF), was launched in March 2021 by the Secretary Generals of the IaDB, 
GFC and the Amazonian Cooperation Treaty Organization. Thi s multistakeholder platform seeks to 
catalyse private funds to bio -businesses to help increase climate resilience, reduce emissions, 
promote ecosystems and biodiversity, and improve local livelihoods. Given that these bio -businesses 
are perceived to have a  high-risk profile, they will be assisted by funds in the form of loans, grants 
and equity. Approved bio -businesses are structured under differing bioeconomic value chains such 
as sustainable agroforestry, native palm cultivation, non -timber forest product s, native timber, 
aquaculture, and community -led nature tourism. Expected results of the program include: i) 
Reducing 6.2 million tonnes of CO2 (tCO2) annually and 123.4 million tCO2 over a 20 -year lifespan 
of investments; ii)  Enhancing carbon stocks of fo rests; iii) Leveraging an additional USD 719.1 
million by raising USD 319.1 million in co -finance (with GCF) and an additional USD 400 million in 
private capital; iv) increase resilience and adaptation of more than 670,000 direct and indirect 
beneficiaries  in six countries (Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Suriname and Peru); v) create 
institutional capacity and a framework for markets to value the fundamental role of natural capital 
in business; and v i) create a foundation to enable profitable, scalable,  and climate -friendly 
production models in which private actors will be willing to participate and co -create in. IaDB also 
referenced Costa Rica's " Green Growth Platform " as a  Member program that promotes greener 
production and sustainable export diversification. The program facilitates interaction among different 
actors to support the efforts of the companies that undertake green initiatives. Through seed capital 
(non-reimburs able funds), MSMEs from the agricultural, food, industry or services sectors are able 
to access finance to transform their production processes. More than 250 companies, of which 46% 
were led by women, have benefited from this initiative. More than 1,500 t onnes of CO2 have been 
avoided and exports have increased by more than 20% as a result.  
1152.  International Trade Centre  made references to its "GreenToCompete" strategy which seeks 
to support developing countries seize the opportunities of a green transition. The circular economy, 
climate resilience and biodiversity play a key role under this strategy. Furthermore, through its work 
on resource efficiency and circular production, ITC has supported more than 400  companies improve 
their environmental footprint ove r the past 3  years. Additional case stories are available here and 
here.  
1153.  Korea noted that its Economic Development Co -operation Fund (ECDF) plans to disburse USD 
252 million to modernize railways linking Luxor and High Dam in Egypt. Installing electronic 
interlocking systems along 224 km of railways will help enhance Egyptian rail sa fety and energy 
efficiency. The project is also expected to revitalize Egypt's tourism industry and improve the 
logistics environment. Furthermore, in 2021, Korea -ECDF joined international efforts to support WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  sustainable, resilient growth in Colombia by pro viding USD 100 million as to support recovery 
activities in the context of the health emergency caused by COVID -19. The  program would reinforce 
Colombia's 10 policy tasks, which includes the objective of strengthening the Colombian 
Government's ability to plan, manage, and finance climate action. It will also support sustainable 
forestry management, energy transitions, and will provide further consultations on low - and 
zero-emissions vehicle technologies.  
1154.  Slovenia  indicated its support to a project titled " Inclusive and sustainable development of 
the tomato value chain in Egypt",  which was implemented in cooperation with UNIDO. Several  
Slovenian companies took part and co -financed the project.  
1155.  Sweden  highlighted its support to the International Trade Centre (ITC), and more specifically 
to the latter's work on GreentoCompete and its SheTrades program. In  addition, Sweden also 
supported t he EIF work relating to the environment and climate. Examples include the EIF's recent 
support for sustainable waste manage ment in Tuvalu , as well as the creation of an e-waste policy  in 
Rwanda. Sweden also provided support to the EIF's thematic project, " Aligning Climate and Trade 
Policy for LDCs and Graduates " which was conducted in coordination with the Overseas Development 
Institute (ODI)  
1156.  Chinese Tai pei pointed to two case stories which highlighted its Aid-for-Trade support for 
sustainable development: 1) Project for the Strengthening of Marketing Capacity in Family Farming 
in Guatemala - In cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food of Guatemala 
(MAGA), Chinese Taipei looked to strengthen the commercial development of 30 farmer 
organizations involving 1,000 farmers. The main aims are to: a) provide technical assistance for 
agricultural products to meet target market requirements;  b) provide capacity building on joint 
marketing and logistics arrangements and c) enhance access to crop market information for farmers. 
Meanwhile, the objectives of the project are to: a) establish a traceability platform for farmer 
organizations benefit ing from the project; b) hold 10 activities with exporters and MAGA to enhance 
awareness and publicity regarding the traceability issue; c) provide 24 consultancies per year for 
each farmer  organization to lend expertise on pest control, soil nutrition, f ertilizer management and 
post-harvest techniques; d) help 30  distribution centres obtain the sanitary licenses required for 
operations and assist farmer organizations formulate marketing plans; e)  establish a digital platform 
for farmers and buyers to fill  market gaps and gain access to important crop production forecast 
models and information of top export crop markets; 2) Banana Productivity Improvement Project in 
St. Lucia - The banana industry in St. Lucia was devastated by tropical storm Matthew in Sep tember, 
2016. Thus, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Production, Fisheries and Rural Development in St. 
Lucia requested technical assistance to help increase farm productivity and revitalize the banana 
industry as to create job opportunities and improve f armers' revenue. The average banana 
production in St. Lucia was 12.5 tons/hectare, lower than the international standard of 25 
tons/hectare. Therefore, this project helps to improve banana production yield through technical 
support. The main project compon ents include a) Improve the infrastructure of banana cultivation; 
(b) Promote the dwarf banana variety; and (3) Improve cultivation management skills. The project 
also provides consultations for farmers on traceability cultivation, packaging and post -harve st 
processing to pass Global GAP certification which will indirectly assist to promote banana exports.  
1157.   Netherlands  noted that the Netherlands Trust Fund V  (NTF V ) programme was approved in 
July 2021 and will  run until June 2025. The programme was based on a partnership agreement 
signed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Netherlands and the ITC. It will also be jointly 
implemented with the Dutch Centre for the promotion of exports from developing countr ies (CBI). 
NTF V's ambition was to contribute to rebuilding back better in the targeted countries, with a focus 
on MSMEs in the digital technologies and agribusiness sectors. The programme covers both sectors 
in Ethiopia, Ghana, Senegal. It also targets mu lti-country approaches in Ivory Coast, Benin, Mali and 
Uganda. NTF V also includes a follow -up project to support the tourism industry in Myanmar.  
1158.  UNCTAD  pointed to its Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Pollution  (SMEP) 
project, which facilitates research and related interventions aiming to reduce the environmental 
health and socio -economic impacts of the manufacturing sector in target countries.  SMEP also 
addressed plastic pollution, one of the most pressing challenges facing circular economy. Research 
and possible interventions include: (i) Developing and testing technology -based solutions and 
cleaner production methods to reduce pollution gener ated by manufacturing activities; 
(ii) Identifying the most suitable policies and business models that could facilitate and encourage 
uptake across target areas; and (iii) Generating evidence and identifying solutions for reducing WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  plastic pollution. Togeth er with UNECA, UNCTAD implements a project on Green Value Chains in 
Africa. The project strengthens intra -regional value chains for environmentally friendly products and 
identifies and addresses related non -tariff measures to facilitate trade.    "  
1159.  UNIDO  highlighted the SwitchMed Program  which was funded by the European Union, led by 
UNIDO and implemented with UNEP, the Mediterranean Action Plan/Barcelona Convention, and the 
Regional Activity C entre for Sustainable Consumption and Production. The Program has already 
recorded significant benefits in its first phase (completed in 2019) and is continuing with a second 
phase active in 8 south Mediterranean countries. In phase I, the implementation o f  UNIDO's Transfer 
of Environmentally Sound Technologies (TEST) methodology  helped 7,125 industrial enterprises 
save 200,00 tons of CO2 emission s, 3.5 million m3 of water, 707 GWh of energy, and about 34,000 
tons of raw materials annually. Such savings were monetarily valued at nearly EUR 42 million per 
year. In addition, these enterprises have added over 30,000 high -quality industrial jobs and 
committed EUR 87 million worth of additional investments. Furthermore, UNIDO's   Global Eco -
Industrial Parks Programme  (GEIPP) promotes industrial symbiosis, resource efficiency and circular 
economy. Funded by SECO, the program currently operates in 7 countries -  Colombia, Egypt, 
Indonesia, Peru, South Africa, Ukraine, and Viet Nam. Under this initiative, industrial park s willing 
and committed to transition to Eco -Industrial Parks (EIP) were assisted to implement resource 
efficient and circular practices. The aim was to reach and surpass the performance targets described 
in the International Framework for Eco -Industrial Parks , developed jointly by UNIDO, the World Bank 
Group, and GIZ.    
Policies addressing the environm ental dimensio n of sustainable development which also 
support progress on gender equa lity and/or women's economic empowerment  
1160.  Forty two of the 53 partner developing countries that replied to the associated question (79%) 
indicated that their policies addressing the environmental dimension of sustainable development 
also supports progress on gender equality and/or women's economic empowerment. On a similar 
vein, 28 of the 36 donor respondents (78%)  indicated that cooperation and development policies 
addressing the environmental dimension of sustainable development also supports progress on  
gender equality and/or women's economic empowerment Three out of the (4) regional economic 
communities and 1 South -South partner (33%) indicated the same.  
1161.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with 22 of the 25 respondents indicating 
their policies addressing the environmental dimension of sustainable development also supports 
progress on gender equality and/or women's economic empowerment. Nearly 90% of LACS (8)  also 
indicated the same. Meanwhile, 8 out of 9 SIDS respondents (89%) and 24 ou t of 29 LDC 
respondents indicated that policies addressing the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development also supports progress on gender equality and/or women's economic empowerment  
Regions and Groups: Policies addressing the environmental dimens ion of sustainable 
development which also support progress on gender equality and/or women's economic 
empowerment  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
LACS 8 89% 
Africa  22 88% 
Pacific  5 83% 
Asia 6 55% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
UN SIDS  8 89% 
LDC 24 83% 
LLDC 9 75% 
Source:  OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Policies addressing the  environmental dimension of sustainable developm ent which also 
support progress on gender equality and/or women's economic empowerment   
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on the policies addressing the envi ronmental dimension of 
sustainable development which also support progress on gender equality and/or women's 
economic empowerment  
1162.  Bangladesh noted that all its national plans and policies include women empowerment as a 
key objective.  
1163.  Burkina Faso  highlighted two policies that address women's economic empowerment: i)  The 
gender Policy of the Women's Affairs Ministry; and i i) The Gender Strategy of the Trade Ministry  
1164.  Colombia  observed that given its role as party to the UNFCCC, it has ratified commitments 
to achieve gender mainstreaming at all levels of climate change management. This is in accordance 
with the parameters of the UNFCCC's chapter on Gender and Climate Change. Colombia highlighted 
that it was imperative to move towards: i) gender equality in climate change management; ii) 
respond to the call by the UNFCCC to increase the ambition of gender mainstreaming in the u pdate 
of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs); and iii) include gender equality in policies, plans, 
programmes and projects oriented towards climate change management. More information on 
Colombia's commitments can be found here. 
1165.  Comoros  noted that the EIF was currently running a domestic project that focussed on the 
development and promotion of domestic tourism, with a f ocus on sustainability. The interventions 
primarily target women and youth.  
1166.  The Democratic Republic of Congo  stated that the Constitution of 18 February 2006 
recognized the right to education, work, culture, health, decent housing and the right to protecti on 
and development of vulnerable groups and all minorities. Moreover, Article 14 of the Constitution 
expresses DRC Congo's commitment to abolish discrimination against women in all areas and 
activities. It also establishes parity between men and women in l ocal, provincial and national 
institutions. Furthermore, the Labour Code removed employment restrictions based on marital 
authority and the Family Code has been revised to introduce provisions for greater gender equality.  
1167.  Cote D'Ivoire  indicated that its N DP 2021 -2025 included women's empowerment objectives.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1168.  Equatorial Guinea  indicated that women empowerment and sustainability were referenced 
in the 2035 Agenda. The topic was also relevant in current national policies.  
1169.  Guatemala  noted that its national development plan: "K'atun, Our Guatemala 2032", 
constitutes a long -term national development policy based on the SDGs. Among the activities of this 
plan are gender equality and women empowerment.  
1170.  Indonesia  observed that it currently employs gende r responsive climate budget tagging to  
prioritize women empowerment in the budgeting process of Ministries. Currently, there were 
7 priorities for the current fiscal year: i) infrastructure; ii) SSTC; iii) gender; iv) climate mitigation; 
v) climate adapta tion; vi) stunting; and vii) education. All programs tagged under climate action 
were analysed using Gender Analysis Pathways (GAP). If the analysis finds gender issues within the 
program, a Gender Budget Statement (GBS) was made and the said program would  be co -tagged 
under gender, in addition to its previous tagging of climate mitigation or adaptation. Indonesia noted 
that this mechanism is currently implemented by 18 ministries responsible for climate action. It has 
also been rapidly increasing the volum e and value of gender responsive programs. Furthermore, the 
Ministry of Environment and Forestry – in charge of climate issues  - has received "mentor level" 
status by the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection. This is the highest level, 
given to ministries/local governments who demonstrate a strong commitment to gender 
mainstreaming within their programs and policies. In fact, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry 
has enacted Minister Regulation No.  P.31/MenLHK/SETJEN/SET.1/5/2017 on Gende r Mainstreaming 
in Environment and Forestry Sector.  
1171.  Madagascar  highlighted that it has implemented investment compatibility assessments for 
environmental issues. A consideration of gender issues was part of this process.  
1172.  Mali pointed to the PNPE and PNG as two policy documents outlining women's empowerment 
and sustainability objectives.  
1173.  Mexico referenced its Conservation Program for Sustainable Development (PROCODES), 
which supports gender equality and women empowerment. PROCODES establishes that the 
beneficiaries of the program will be able to obtain up to 17% of the total contributions by the 
Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas  (CONANP) for the financing of affirmative actions 
with a gender perspective. This ensures that women who participate in the projects and training 
courses can do so wi thout affecting their daily work.  
1174.  Niger noted that its policies were more focussed on women's economic empowerment than 
on gender equality.  
1175.  Peru pointed to the following policy documents that prioritize womens economic 
empowerment within the environmenta l dimension: i)  The 2015 National Strategy on Climate 
Change , which adopts gender and interculturality priorities  in climate change objectives; ii) the 
National Environmental Education Policy , approved by Supreme De cree No. 012 -2012 -ED, 
incorporates gender equality as one of its cross -cutting approaches in the leadup to 2030;  
iii)hTe General Guidelines to identify and prom ote eco -businesses and bio -businesses  lists the 
participation of women and men under equal conditions as key objective; iv) The National Plan for 
Family Farming for 2019 to 2021  and the National Strategy for Family Farming 2015 - 2021 seek to 
guide State intervent ion in support of family farmers, both on the basis of sustainability and within 
the framework of social inclusion.  
1176.  St. Lucia  noted that through environmental dimension of sustainable development and the 
participation of women were not stated as key object ives within the Medium Term Development 
Strategy, they were listed as key concepts towards achieving the overall development objectives. 
Other relevant climate and environment focused policies include;  i) Climate Change Adaptation 
Policy  : the National Environmental Policy and National Environmental Management Strategy; and 
the c) National Adaptation Plan .   
1177.  Uganda  highlighted its revised Water and Sanitation Gender Strategy  (2018 - 2022) which 
echoed the water and environment sector's commitment towards the promotion of Gender Equality 
and Women Empowerment (GEWE) in the Country. It demonstrates the Sector's resolve to eliminate 
gender inequalities among men, women, boys, girl s, and other vulnerable groups.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1178.  Vanuatu  referred the recommendations of the Trade Policy Framework Update (TPFU)  for 
2019 to 2025.  
1179.  Zambia  pointed to the rev iew of the National Policy on Climate Change of 2016  and the draft 
of its 8th National Development Plan as examples of policy documents addressing women's economic 
empowerment and sustainable development.    
1180.  One South -South partner provided additional inf ormation on the policies addressing the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development, while supporting women empowerment 
Indonesia  observed that it currently employs gender responsive climate budget tagging to 
prioritize women empowerment in the budg eting process of Ministries. Currently, there were 
7 priorities for the current fiscal year: i) infrastructure; ii) SSTC; iii) gender; iv) climate mitigation; 
v) climate adaptation; vi) stunting; and vii) education. All programs tagged under climate action  
were analysed using Gender Analysis Pathways (GAP). If the analysis finds gender issues within the 
program, a Gender Budget Statement (GBS) was made and the said program would be co -tagged 
under gender, in addition to its previous tagging of climate mitig ation or adaptation. Indonesia noted 
that this mechanism is currently implemented by 18 ministries responsible for climate action. It has 
also been rapidly increasing the volume and value of gender responsive programs. Furthermore, the 
Ministry of Environm ent and Forestry – in charge of climate issues  - has received "mentor level" 
status by the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection. This is the highest level, 
given to ministries/local governments who demonstrate a strong commitment to gender 
mainstreaming within their programs and policies. In fact, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry 
has enacted Minister Regulation No. P.31/MenLHK/SETJEN/SET.1/5/2017 on Gender Mainstreaming 
in Environment and Forestry Sector.  
1181.  Two regional economic  communities provided additional information on policies addressing 
the environmental dimension of sustainable development while supporting women empowerment.  
1182.  TradeMark East Africa noted that it supports Member Governments and other regional 
economic comm unities, such as the East African Commission, improve their; i) climate change policy 
frameworks; and ii) collection mechanisms for  GHG emission data as to improve their negotiating 
position for carbon credits.   
1183.  West African Economic and Monetary Union  highlighted Framework of Priority Actions 
(CAP 2025) for additional information on policies targeting both objectives,  
1184.  Various partner respondents presented additional information on policies addressing the 
environmental dimension of sustainable development  and progress on gender equality and/or 
women's economic empowerment.  
1185.  Asian Development Bank  indicated that the  ADB -TSCFP was actively working towards the 
promotion of sustainable practices in international trade and the implementation of policies with  
gender equality and women empowerment emphasis among developing countries member banks. 
Examples of projects with empowerment objectives include the Plastik Sulit: Accelerating Circu lar 
Economy for Difficult Plastics in Indonesia  initiative and the CAREC Gender Strategy   
1186.  Australia  noted that its "Partnerships for Recovery" policy recognises COVID -19's effects on 
inequ alities and the hardships faced by already vulnerable groups. Australia highlighted that women 
were shouldering much of the economic burden of COVID -19. They were more vulnerable to 
economic insecurity during crises due to an increase in unpaid domestic la bour. They often hold less -
stable jobs, rely on the informal economy for their livelihoods, and may not be part of policy -making 
processes. The core action areas of the PfR  are therefore underpinned by a strong emphasis on 
protecting the most vulnerable, especially women and girls.  Australia's Investing in Women program  
complements the PfR by helping Indo -Pacific countries respond to the economic i mpacts on women 
of the COVID -19 crisis. For example, under the program, funds are being redirected to an emergency 
relief and resilience facility to support women owned small and medium -sized enterprises in 
Southeast Asia. Australia is also supporting a gr oup of female market vendors in Fiji with a taxi 
delivery service for their fruit boxes as to help sustain their businesses until social gathering 
restrictions are lifted and major fruit and vegetable markets re -open. Additional references include 
the Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Strategy  of 2016, Partnerships for Recovery and 
gender equality , Pacific regional â€“ empowering  women and girls , Climate Change Action  Strategy.   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1187.  Austria  noted that though it did not have a policy focussing on women's empowerment and 
sustainability, it was referenced in individual projects.  
1188.  Canada  highlighted that the FIAP places gender equality and women and girl empowerment 
at the heart of international assistance efforts. The policy views women and girls as powerful agents 
of change to advance action on c limate change, environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, 
pollution and other environmental concerns. FIAP recognizes that environment and climate action 
will be most effective when women and girls play an active role in designing and developing strateg ic 
responses to climate change and environmental issues. In doing so, it focuses on: i)  supporting 
women's leadership and decision -making in all aspects of climate change mitigation and sustainable 
natural resource management; ii) ensuring climate -related and nature positive planning, policy -
making; iii) financing the particular needs and challenges of women and girls; iv)  supporting 
employment and business opportunities for women in climate and natural -resource sectors (e.g., 
renewable energy, bio -economy) . Canada noted that it also recognizes the need to mainstream 
environment and climate considerations across all sectors of Canadian international assistance. This 
was critical to achieve sustainable poverty reduction to close gender gaps. Notably, Canada's  FTAs 
address the environmental dimension of sustainable development and also support progress on 
gender equality and/or women's economic empowerment. The Canada -EU Comprehensive Economic 
and Trade Agreement (CETA), for example, was one of the most advance d and inclusive trade 
agreements that Canada has ever negotiated. It was an agreement that will improve free and fair 
trade between the EU and Canada as to provide high standards for consumers, workers and the 
environment. CETA reflects Canada's inclusive approach to trade by: i) fostering sustainable and 
inclusive economic growth; ii) effectively promoting labour and environmental standards; and iii) 
ensuring that the benefits and opportunities flowing from trade and investment were more widely 
shared amon gst under -represented groups such as women and SMEs. Such an approach was 
currently being used in Canada's FTA negotiations with Indonesia, ASEAN and Mercosur.  Notably, 
labour provisions in Canada's free trade agreements have a long history of promoting g ender 
equality. This was mainly accomplished through an enforceable provision that commits Parties to 
eliminate discrimination in employment and occupation, thus supporting the goal of promoting 
equality of women in the workplace. More recent Labour chapte rs such as the Canada -US-Mexico 
Agreement include an obligation for each Party to implement policies to protect workers against 
employment discrimination on the basis of sex (including with regard to sexual harassment), 
pregnancy, sexual orientation, gende r identity, and caregiving responsibilities. Such labour 
provisions also encourage the adoption of programs and policies that address barriers to the full 
participation of women in the workforce, including through job -protected leave for 
childbirth/adoptio n and family care responsibilities, and protect against wage discrimination.     
1189.  European Union  referenced the NDICI -Global Europe Regulation, which includes specific 
ambitions on environment, gender equality and women's economic empowerment.  
1190.  Germany  pointed to the BMZ " Development Policy Action Plan on Gender Equality 
2016-2020", which formulates efforts to make global supply chains responsive to gender equality 
and econological sustainable. An update to this act ion plan is forthcoming.  
1191.  Inter American Development Bank  highlighted that it has continued to make it easier for 
LAC countries to accelerate pandemic recovery, while simultaneously addressing critical, 
longstanding issues, such as climate change and gende r inequality . Of all projects approved in 2021 , 
nearly 70% included one or more components to tackle climate change, while 75%  addressed 
gender issues.   
1192.  Ireland  observed that its " Policy for International Development: A Better World " includes a 
commitment to de velop a new Oceans Funding initiative as to explore the potential of the blue 
economy, for developing countries including SIDS. This also holds a gender dimension, for 
ex: through greater employment for women in fish value chains.  
1193.  Italy  indicated that its triennial development strategy  supports progress on gender equality 
and/or women's economic empowerment the environmental dimension of sustainable deve lopment  
1194.  Japan  highlighted the following excerpt from its Development Cooperation Charter  "…Japan 
will take advantage of its own experience, expertise and technology as well as lessons lear ned in 
order to provide assistance to realize "quality growth" and poverty eradication. From this WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  perspective, Japan will provide necessary aid to secure the foundations and the driving force for 
economic growth. Its scope includes: i) the development of i ndustrial infrastructure and industries 
through improvements in such areas as infrastructure, finance and trade and investment climate; 
ii)  sustainable cities; iii) introduction of information and communications technology (ICT) and high 
technology; iv) p romotion of science, technology and innovation; v) research and development; vi) 
economic policy; vii) vocational training and industrial human resources development; viii) 
employment creation; and ix) the promotion of agriculture, forestry and fisheries t hat includes the 
development of food value chains. At the same time, Japan will provide assistance necessary to 
promote people -centered development that supports basic human life, taking full account of the 
importance of human and social development. It en compasses health care, safe water and 
sanitation, food and nutrition, quality education for all, disparity reduction, empowerment of women, 
culture and sports that brings about spiritual affluence.  Stable development through quality growth 
will not be ach ieved unless the rights of individuals are guaranteed, people can engage in economic 
and social activities with a sense of safety, and the society is managed equitably and stably. With a 
view to solidifying the foundations for such development, Japan will provide assistance so as to share 
universal values such as freedom, democracy, respect for basic human rights and the rule of law as 
well as to realize a peaceful, stable and secure society…In this context, Japan will address challenges 
such as: actions ag ainst climate change including the creation of a low carbon society and adaptation 
to adverse effects of climate change; infectious diseases control; promotion of universal health 
coverage; mainstreaming disaster risk reduction; disaster risk reduction and  post-disaster recovery 
measures; conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of resources from forests, farmlands 
and oceans; promotion of a sound water cycle; environmental management and other 
environmental -related initiatives; responses to dem ographic challenges including an aging 
population; food security and nutrition; sustainable access to resources and energy; closing the 
digital divide… In the international community today, various non -governmental actors play an 
increasingly important rol e in the development of developing countries. With this recognition, 
collaboration between JICA and other agencies responsible for other official funds such as the Japan 
Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEX I), and the 
Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) 
will be strengthened. The government will also enhance mutually beneficial partnerships with various 
actors so as to serve as a catalyst for mobiliz ing a wide range of resources, including the private 
sector"   
1195.  Korea  noted that in the process of joining the GCF and EIA,  the Korean International 
Corporation Agency (KOCIA) has stringent social and environmental impact assessments for project 
developmen t implementation. As such, any agents who submit project proposals should also include 
a screening checklist for environment and gender equality.  
1196.  Norway  referenced its Action Plan for Women's Rights and Gender Equality in F oreign and 
Development Policy 2016 -2020, which sets the framework for Norway's international gender equality 
efforts.  A new action plan is currently under progress. In addition, Norway's " International Strategy 
to Eliminate Harmful Practices 2019 -2023" also builds on the action plan's objectives. In this strategy 
outline, one of  the five thematic priority areas is the elimination of vi olence and harmful practices 
targeting girls and women. The strategy also builds on previous action plans and strategies for efforts 
to combat female genital mutilation and is one of several measures set out in the national Action 
Plan to Combat Negative S ocial Control, Forced Marriage and Female Genital Mutilation 2017 -2020.    
1197.  Slovenia  indicated that environment protection and gender equality were mainstreamed 
throughout its development cooperation. In fact, environment and gender equality impact 
assessments were mandatory criteria in the Methodology for the selection of projects. This w as 
prescribed by the "Decree on implementing development cooperation and humanitarian aid of the 
Republic of Slovenia". Projects that simultaneously address both policies have better prospects to 
be selected for financing.  
1198.  Sweden  noted that its developmen t cooperation was founded on the basis of the 2030 
Agenda, The Addis Ababa Action Agenda and the Paris Agreement.  These agreements and plan 
tackle climate change by addressing both the environmental dimension of sustainable development 
and women's economi c empowerment.  Sweden noted that there several strategies lead SIDA's work 
and priorities. One such strategy of particular relevance was the Swedish Strategy for " Global 
development cooperation in sustainable economic development ", which states that SIDA's activities 
were to contribute to the following objective s: i) strengthened conditions for fair and free trade; ii) 
improved conditions for private sector development, sustainable business as well as responsible and WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  sustainable investments and innovation; iii) increased productivity and sustainable production in  
agriculture, forestry and fisheries, including food security and iv) women's economic empowerment  
1199.  United Kingdom  noted that though it was currently not offering specific programmes 
targeting the environmental dimension of sustainable development and gende r equality, all its 
initiatives cover different aspects of the 2 issues. Projects looking to tackle these issues in a more 
coordinated way are nevertheless in an early stage of development. For example our forthcoming 
Standards Partnership programme will i nclude i) a green trade element;  ii) solutions to navigate 
environmental regulations; and iii) improve partner countries' ability to measure emissions in 
production chains as to harness exports to more regulated markets.  
1200.  UNIDO  pointed to a project titled  "The Economic Empowerment of Women in Green Industry " 
which aims to conduct national studies to n help policymakers and practitioners establish policy 
frameworks  that integrate gender into green industry policies. More information on UNIDO's women 
empower initiatives can be found here.  
1201.  UNDP  observed that i t followed two approaches for advancing gender equality as per its 
Gender Equality Strategy. These include: i) specific interventions and; ii) programmes focused on 
empowering women and mainstreaming gender in all programmatic areas.  
1202.  United States  pointed to the USAID's Initial Environmental Examination  for additional 
information on how its mandatory environmental compliance process es involve gender issues.  
1203.  The World Bank  noted that the support it extends to developing countries aims to address 
gender gaps. To maximize the benefits for women, trade interventions need to be evaluated to 
account for their different impacts on women, and to eliminate "pink tariffs" and other i mplicit biases. 
Research on gender equality and trade has been held back by limited data and a lack of 
understanding of the connections between trade and women in their different roles in society 
(workers, consumers, and decision makers). Support to develo ping countries will help them identify 
and seize opportunities through which women can gain from trade in a post -COVID -19 world. It will 
also advocate for greater openness in key sectors such as services and digital trade, that can further 
create powerful opportunities for women to reap the benefits. The World Bank also pointed that it 
intends to address trade facilitation measures through a gender lens. Trade facilitation measures 
are often assumed to be non -discriminatory and apply to all traders in their  design. However, these 
measures may not necessarily impact or benefit all traders in similar ways. There is a global lack of 
data on how trade facilitation interventions impact traders by gender at the firm level. There is also 
a global vacuum of knowledg e on the proportion of cross -border traders who are women. Few 
countries, if any, can easily confirm the number of women that undertake cross -border trade. There 
is a growing body of research on why fewer women than men participate in cross -border trade. 
Women, for example, tend to have more : i) family obligations; ii) less access to finance; iii) lower 
literacy levels and knowledge of cross -border trade regulations and procedures; iv) higher export 
costs as owners of smaller firms; and v) exclusion from d istribution networks. The WBG has 
undertaken work across different countries to help confirm specific trade facilitation obstacles traders 
face by gender.    
Aid-for-Trade projects that combine the objectives of women's economic empowerment 
and environment ally sustainable development  
1204.  Thirty -seven of the 52 partner developing countries that replied to the question (71%) 
indicated that their Aid-for-Trade projects combine the objectives of women's economic 
empowerment and environmentally sustainable developme nt. Similarly, 26 of the 34 donor 
respondents (76%) highlighted that their existent Aid-for-Trade projects combined the dual 
objectives of women's economic empowerment and environmentally sustainable development. Half 
of the regional economic community res pondents (2) indicated the same, while no South -South 
partner highlighted the presence of Aid-for-Trade projects combining the objectives of women's 
economic empowerment and environmentally sustainable development.  
1205.  Across all regions, Africa records the hi ghest share with 22 of the 25 respondents (88%) 
indicating that existent Aid-for-Trade projects combine the objectives of women's economic 
empowerment and environmentally sustainable development.. Meanwhile, 7 out of 9 SIDS WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  respondents (78%) and 22 out of 29 LDC respondents indicated combine the objectives of women's 
economic empowerment and environmentally sustainable development  
Regions and Groups : Aid-for-Trade projects that combine the objectives of women's 
economic empowerment and environmentally sust ainable development  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  22 88% 
Pacific  4 67% 
LACS 5 63% 
Asia 6 55% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
group  
UN SIDS  7 78% 
LDC 22 76% 
LLDC 9 75% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Aid-for-Trade projects  that combine the objectives of women's economic empowerment 
and environmentally sustainable development  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information on Aid-for-Trade proje cts that combine the objectives of wome n's 
economic empowerment and environmentally sustainable development  
1206.  Benin cited two currently ongoing EIF initiatives: i) a support project for the development of 
the Shea Value Chain for the Promotion of Women's Ent repreneurship; ii) a regional support program 
for the inclusive commercial development of the shea sector in West Africa  
1207.  Bhutan highlighted two Enhance Integrated Framework (EIF) projects that  combine the 
objectives of women's economic empowerment and su stainable development: i) Strengthening 
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  institutional and human capacity for trade promotion and development (In Tier 1, Phase 2); and 
ii) Infrastructure for trade and services development (E4T).  
1208.  Colombia  pointed to drafted Gender Safeguard Guidelines for the Implementation of a 
National Survey  as an example of a project combining empowerment and sustainable development 
objectives.  
1209.  The D emocratic Republic of Congo pointed that slow progress was witnessed with respect 
to empowerment over the past decades. The DRC's fertility rate has fallen from 7.3 to 6.3  children 
per woman between 1990 and 2007, while the use of modern contraception only  increased from 4% 
to 6.7% of women over the same period. However, the DRC wished to point that the Millennium 
Development Goal of eliminating gender disparities at all levels of education by 2015 could be 
reached by 2022.  
1210.  Cote D'Ivoire  highlighted the ITC's She Trades initiative as a project combining both listed 
objectives  
1211.  El Salvador   noted that the women's economic empowerment and environmentally 
sustainable development were prioritized in the agriculture and tourism sector.  
1212.  Equator ial Guinea  highlighted that EIF and the Equatorial Guinean Ministry of Social Affairs 
carries out projects with such priorities.  
1213.  Guatemala   pointed to the SIDA -financed Economic Empowerment Project for Indigenous 
Youth and Women as an example of an initiat ive covering both objectives. Furthermore, in the  
celebration of the Bicentennial celebration of Guatemalan Independence, the Ministry of Economy 
awarded recognitions to women entrepreneurs from all over the country for their dynamism and 
innovation in pr oductive areas. A UN-Women study  which attempts to define a conceptual framework 
on women entrepreneurship was also cited.   
1214.  Indonesia  indicated that it there were no specific Aid -for-Trade project combining both 
objectives to date. Indonesia indicated its willingness to conduct projects that specifically promote 
the two aspects, in particular within the key sectors of: i) land & agriculture; ii) sustai nable energy; 
iii) green industry; iv) marine & coastal industry; v) sustainable waste management; vi)  circular 
economy; vii) water; and viii) health.  
1215.  Madagascar  stated that such a cross -cutting issue was addressed, though in a small scale, 
in phase 2 of a n EIF project. Nevertheless, there were no full -fledged projects that deals with the 
empowerment of women. A few years ago, Madagascar wish to develop a project within the 
framework of ITC -Shetrades but it did not come to fruition.  
1216.  Mali spot lighted the " Women and Renewable Energies " project as an example.  
1217.  Mauritius noted that the Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management Division and 
Climate Change, together with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welf are, may wish to 
collaborate on such projects in the future.  
1218.  Moldova  highlighted the following document  as a reference for its initiatives.  
1219.  Nepal  pointed to the following two projects as examples: i) an EIF initiative focussing on 
e-Commerce Capacity Building for Women -led SMEs in South Asia; and ii) The EU-Nepal Trade and 
Investment Program  focussing on strategic road connectivity and trade improvement Project. 
Further infor mation on Nepal's trade improvement projects can be found here.  
1220.  Pakistan highlighted the ITC's Growth for Rural Advancement and Susta inable Progress  
(GRASP) project as an example of an initiative covering both objectives.   
1221.  Peru noted that it was conducting trade policy training and administering projects with 
women empowerment and sustainability in mind. In addition, support for Peruvi an SMEs was 
provided with assistance from the European Commission.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1222.  St. Lucia  highlighted a project  undertake n by UN -Women, in collaboration with the FAO, 
which focuses on the link between Women's Economic empowerment and environmentally 
sustainable development      
1223.  Uganda  noted that the  effects of environment degradation were experienced by both men 
and women. Uganda also highlighted a recent study that analysed " Womens' Right to Participation 
in Environmental Decision -Making in Uganda ". It analysed the adequacy of environmental and 
human rights legal frameworks to ensure the realization of women’s right to participation in Ugandan 
environmental decision -making. Uganda moreover wished to note tha t gender equality on the other 
hand was a development objective in its own right, and sustainable  development strategies ought 
to aim to foster women's empowerment and effective  participation. This entailed women and men 
were supposed to be involved as p artners in  formulating and implementing strategies.  
1224.  Vanuatu  noted that all its donor funded projects were required to fulfil such objectives.  
1225.  Zambia  made references to the " Strengthening Climate Resilience in Zambia " project, which 
aimed to support "Participatory Adaptation" as a key objective. Participa tory adaptation would be 
driven by, for instance, the strengthening of adaptive capacity of vulnerable rural communities in 
the Barotse sub -basin, with focus on women empowerment.  
1226.  Two regional economic communities provided additional information on whether  their 
Aid-for-Trade projects combine the objectives of women's economic empowerment and 
environmentally sustainable development  
1227.  The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat  indicated that the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development was not well mains treamed in the regional Pacific Aid -for-Trade agenda as 
of yet. This dimension could be further considered for the next iteration of the Pacific Aid -for-Trade 
Strategy. It was noted that the same holds for the gender dimension. It was necessary to better 
reflect women's economic empowerment, from a trade and economy context, in future Aid -for-Trade 
projects and priorities.  
1228.  TradeMark East Africa  observed that was working with small cross -border traders, mostly 
women, around border enclaves to create trading  zones or markets. Circular economy and 
community engagement practices would be practiced here as to enable green transport nodes.  
1229.  Several donors also provided additional information on whether Aid-for-Trade projects 
combine the objectives of women's econo mic empowerment and environmentally sustainable 
development  
1230.  Asian Development Bank highlighted the Accelerating Gender Equality in East Asia for an 
Inclus ive and Green Recovery  project as an example of an initiative covering women empowerment 
and sustainable development objectives. It involved a knowledge and support technical assistance 
(TA) programme, which will help the China and Mongolia develop options  for promoting a gender 
inclusive green recovery following the COVID -19 pandemic. This meant a recovery focused on 
transitioning toward a climate -resilient and nature -driven future that emphasizes gender inclusion 
to maximize outcomes for both women and th e environment.  
1231.  Australia  noted that it conducted a range of regional and bilateral Aid -for-Trade activities 
that combine both women's economic empowerment and environmentally sustainable objectives. 
Some examples include; i) Gender Ineq uality of Risk Program for Solomon Islands  -Solomon Islands 
remains one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to the impacts of climate change and 
natural disasters. This program, implemented by UN Women and UNDRR, to help integrate climate 
change risks within its community -based disaster risk management protocols. It helps ensure that 
women's rights are properly considered during disaster preparedness, response, and recovery; 
ii) The Tina River Hydropower project : co-funded by Australia, will provide secure, affordable power 
for businesses and households in Honiara. The project will help to meet 100 per cent of Solomon 
Islands emi ssions reduction target under the Paris Agreement; iii) The Strongim Bisnis program  - an 
Australian initiative, the program  works with the Solomon Islands Government and the private 
sector to support inclusiv e growth and resilience in the cocoa, coconut and tourism sectors. Women's 
labour force participation and empowerment are prioritized in this program. Furthermore, it actively 
identifies commercial opportunities to promote improved environmental and social  outcomes; WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  iv) The Pacific Horticulture and Agricultural Market Access Programme  (PHAMA Plus) – The 
programme supports the development of climate change resilient farming practices for root crop 
farmers, including women farmers, in the Solomon Islands; v) The Australian -funded Climate and 
Oceans Support Program in the Pacific Phase 2  (COSPPac)) – The initative sup ports Solomon Islands 
Meteorological Service to provide climate and ocean monitoring and prediction services. These 
services can help farmers, including women plan planting and harvesting cycles, and prepare for 
disasters such as droughts and tropical cycl ones by providing vital information on weather events 
such as tides, currents, wind and waves;  vi) Australian Climate Finance Partnership  (ACFP) - an 
Australian Go vernment initiative managed by the Asian Development Bank, the ACFP provides up to 
AUD 140 million to accelerate private sector investment in low emission, climate -resilient solutions 
for Pacific island countries and Southeast Asia. The support enables the  provision of concessional 
finance, equity, guarantees, and local currency solutions to bridge private sector finance as to enable 
high demonstration impact projects that would not otherwise have occurred. The ACFP aims to 
partially offset the incremental costs associated with climate proofing infrastructure and agricultural 
systems. In addition to climate outcomes, it will catalyse much needed private investment in support 
of COVID -19 economic recovery across the region. Projects will also promote gender e quality and 
better economic opportunities for women and girls; vii) South Asia Regional Trade Facilitation 
Program  – The program is co -funded  by Australia and World Bank and involves several projects. 
One such project focusses on the "Buddhist Circuit", which covers South Asia's Buddhist destinations. 
These destinations cut across some of the region's poorest areas, where one quarter of the loc al 
population lives below the poverty line and lacks access to basic services, mobility, and alternative 
sources of income. About 85 per cent of the wealth generated by foreign tourists visiting these 
destinations remains abroad or ends up leaving the regi on. Women were disproportionately affected, 
due to for instance negligible female labour participation rates at Buddhist sites. The rapid unplanned 
growth of Buddhist destinations in the past 10 years has also led to significant environmental 
challenges. E xpansions in sites like Sarnath have led to a loss of 60 per cent of green coverage, and 
a reduction in 80 per cent of the catchment area of its water bodies. This has precipitated in a shift 
in the ratio of green to built areas, from 80:20 to 50:50. These  challenging social, physical, and 
environmental conditions, along with the competing use of already strained local services by tourists, 
are leading to resentment among residents and a degradation of visitors' experiences. The Buddhist 
Circuit project is thus developing a framework for public and private sector investment that is 
underpinned by sustainable urban planning, with the aim of supporting inclusive development that 
helps create jobs for local women, supports local goods and service providers, pro motes 
environmental preservation, cultural heritage, and religious value, and encourages higher -spending 
tourists.    
1232.  Austria  observed that the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) contributes to the  Africa 
focused water initiative " Achieving Gender Equality through Climate Resilient Development of Water 
Infrastructure Investments "  managed by the Global Water Partnership Organisation (GWPO).  With 
a 5-year funding horizon over 2020 -2025, the initiative aims to promote gender -transformative 
planning, decision making and institutional development for climate resilient water investment s in 
Africa. This was important as across the continent, investment and institution building through water 
and climate change adaptation projects were typically not gender responsive or gender 
transformative. The project will include the following activiti es: i)  mobilise political commitment for 
gender -transformative action; ii) develop a business case for institutional change in decision making 
and finance of gender -sensitive water investments; iii)  increase women's individual agency, decision 
making power , choices and access to information; iv) develop gender -transformative water 
investment index; v) undertake social and gender analysis to assess opportunities, risks and impact 
of interventions on vulnerable groups disaggregated by sex, age and socio -econo mic class; 
vi) accelerate preparation and implementation of local projects, enhancing access to water 
investments; and vii) establish gender responsive Monitoring & Evaluation systems.  
1233.  Canada  highlighted that through its USD 2.65 billion international clim ate finance 
commitment in 2016 -2021, Canada has contributed USD 350 million (since 2015) to the Green 
Climate Fund (GCF). Canada has also helped steer the update the Gender Policy and Action Plan 
through the GCF Board. The updated policy makes gender asses sments and gender action plans a 
requirement at the project level. It recognizes the importance of gender considerations in terms of 
impact and access to climate funding. Furthermore, Canada's new USD 5.3 billion climate finance 
commitment will continue to  advance climate action that supports women's economic empowerment. 
In line with Canada's FIAP, at least 80% of climate finance projects in the USD  5.3 billion climate 
finance commitment will integrate gender equality considerations. This is in recognition  of the fact 
that women and girls are powerful agents of change. Canada has also contributed USD 1.6 million WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 215 - 
 
  over 2021 -2023 to the InsuResilience Global Partnership's Centre of Excellence on Gender Smart 
Solutions  . Funds will be used to enhance the implementation of inclusive and gender -transformative 
approaches to the Cl imate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI) sector. This will include 
support for capacity -building initiatives for the greater financial inclusion and participation of women 
and other marginalized groups. In addition the Asia-Pacific Partnership of Canada provided training, 
research and mentoring to MSMEs in developing APEC economies  of Indonesia, Vietnam, the 
Philippines and Peru. Resea rch and information on management best practices were diffused as to 
help provide an enabling environment for MSME growth, poverty reduction, green sustainable 
growth, and women economic empowerment. For example, 60 women entrepreneurs from these 
APEC econ omies completed a 12 -month Mentoring Women in Business Programme. All 60 women 
entrepreneurs reported that their participation had increased their business confidence and 
leadership skills, and that they could apply the knowledge they had gained in marketi ng strategy, 
finance, and sales management in their businesses. The women entrepreneurs reported positive 
improvement in knowledge and practical application of new skills in improving their respective 
businesses. Additionally, Canada's APEC focussed suppor t benefits more than 400 MSMEs through 
in-person capacity -building activities, research outputs and MSME toolkits published online. The 
project w ebsite  is also used by entrepreneurs and policy -making entities.  Canada has also been an 
active supporter of the ITC's SheTrades initiative, an innovative project that provides women 
entrepreneurs with a unique platform to connect to markets and to help c orporations include more 
women entrepreneurs in supply chains. The initiative addresses multiple barriers for women to 
access markets, finance, digital technologies, and business development services. Canada also 
supports the ITC's cross -cutting focus on c limate change and environment, which are highlighted in 
its new strategic plan to strengthen local capacities to mitigate and adapt to changing climate 
conditions, promote nature -positive practices in value chains and to preserve and restore 
biodiversity. Canada's support enhances the ITC's efforts to help small businesses limit their 
environmental footprint through the implementation of efficient business practices, and circular 
production cycles. This includes ITC's Standards Map  website and database and Sustainability Map 
to enhance transparency on sustainability standards and make them more attainable for MSMEs. 
The grant provided represents Canada's long -term institutional support to the International  Trade 
Centre (ITC).   
1234.  European Union  noted that women's economic empowerment and environmental 
sustainability were two of the priorities of the EU. Both objectives have been mainstreamed in all EU 
actions. Some examples include: i) The Promotion of Sustai nable Ethiopian Agro -industrial 
Development (PROSEAD) in Ethiopia – covering the period 2019 to 2025 and endowed with EUR  45 
million), the project aims to generate entrepreneurial and job opportunities for women in agro -
processing and related sectors. It w ill also provide these stakeholders with targeted and customised 
training in basic skills, food technology and business skills. The enhancement of the skills of youth 
and women in the parks and their catchment areas and the improvement of decent employment  
conditions are one of the expected results of the programme; ii) Bottom Up  - Promoting a 
sustainable cotton & garment value chain from Ethiop ian cotton to European consumers – covering 
the period 2019 -2022 with EUR 1.5 million of funding, the programme aims to contribute to a 
sustainable, inclusive and transparent value chain that generates business growth, improves working 
conditions, and prom otes labour and environmental standards and responsible purchasing practices 
in Ethiopia and Europe. The objective is to promote and advocate for the adoption of responsible 
social and environmental practices benchmarked with international standards in Eth iopia by 14 
cotton & garment producers. The initiative also looks to promote transparency and responsible 
purchasing practices along the value chain, including among 175 EU businesses, and promoting 
responsible buying behaviour of 1.2 million consumers in the Netherlands, Denmark and Germany. 
By sharing relevant experiences, government institutions will support these practices and convert 
them into applicable policies respecting labour rights, particularly for female workers; iii) The 
Responsible Supply Chains in Asia Programme  - Implemented by ILO and OECD with financing worth 
EUR 1.5 million, the programme aims to further sustainable and inclusive economic, social and 
environmental p rogress by integrating responsible business practices into the operations of 
multinational companies and their supply chains. Active in selected industrial sectors in six Asian 
countries (China, Japan, Myanmar, Thailand, Philippines, and Vietnam), it takes  a multifaceted 
approach, with the aim of promoting respect for human rights, and labour and environmental 
standards. Over the period 2018 -2021 the programme has worked with almost 10,000 professionals 
from 2,244 businesses, of which 1,226  were SMEs and 10 18 multinational enterprises (MNEs). It 
has contributed to the creation of a seafood think tank in Vietnam, a tripartite working group in the 
Philippine's agricultural sector, and a task force on promoting socially responsible and sustainable 
business in a uto parts supply chains in Thailand.   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1235.  Germany  highlighted  that  it  is supporting sustainability aspects in the implementation of 
EU Economic Partnership Agreements. The measures of this project support women traders to take 
up opportunities to trade und er the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and the 
South African Development Community. It will also focus on key developments in the European 
Union, most notably the implications of the EU Green Deal (EGD).  
1236.  Inter -American Development Bank pointed to some examples of relevant projects:  
i) Empowerment of Women Participation in Energization with Clean Energy ; ii) Adoption of Clima te-
Smart Technologies in Agricultural MSMEs Led by Women ; iii) Women's Economic Empowerment 
(WEE) -Driven Productivity and Sustainability in Agrobusiness .  
1237.  Ireland  observed that it women's economic empowerment and the environmental dimension 
of sustainable development were covered in its to the ITC.  
1238.  Japan  provided additional references  to a JICA -funded GCF project focussing on climate 
resilience in Timor -Leste.  
1239.  Korea noted that a KOICA -ITC collaborative project on strengthening natural disaster 
resilience and competitiveness of agri -businesses in Uganda includes both women's economic 
empowerment and sustainable development as objectives. The project aims to enhance women's 
participation rate in smart farm for responding to climate change.   
1240.  Norway indicated that its Aid -for-Trade commitments and disbursements include women's 
economic empo werment. ITC's SheTrades was given as an example.    
1241.  Slovenia  pointed to NGO projects that concentrate on women's economic empowerment in 
Serbia  and Rwanda  as examples.   
1242.  Sweden  noted that SIDA views trade as central to strengthen women's economic 
empowerment and mainstream gender and support. For instance, within its Aid-for-Trade portfolio, 
SIDA has supported an FAO project on climate resilient livelihood opportunities for women economic 
empowerment in Uganda . Furthermore, SIDA supports the EIF and their work to help empower 
women through trade, most recently through its " Empower Women, Power Trade " (EWPT) initiative 
launched in 2019. The EWPT has two workstreams; i) mainstreaming women's empowerment 
principles in national policies and regulatory ecosystems; and ii) building the pro ductive capacity of 
women -led MSMEs, and enhancing their ability to move up the value chain and tap into regional and 
international markets. SIDA also supports ITC-SheTrades , which see ks to connect three million 
women entrepreneurs to market by 2021. The initiative also contributes to the EIF' EWPT program. 
SIDA also supports ISO in its development of voluntary standards. In this work, ISO integrate both 
environmental and gender dimensi ons, and develop gender inclusive standards.     Furthermore, 
SIDA supports the World Bank's Umbrella Facility for Gender Equality ( UFGE), which finances 
research, impa ct evaluations and data to help policy makers and practitioners close gender gaps in 
countries and sectors. The UFGE has financed work in over 90 countries, influencing policies and 
programs and changing how companies work  
1243.  Switzerland  highlighted that its  development cooperation promotes both environmentally 
friendly, gender equal  and gender responsive trade policies. This is refle cted in its Aid-for-Trade 
support to other countries. Climate and resource efficiency  were also prioritized. Project examples 
include: i) Sustai nable Tourism in Morocco  -  This project supports the provinces of Azilal and Bani 
Mellal in the development of sustainable tourism, by accompanying local actors in the 
implementation of a coordination platform for the development of sustainable tourism, t he 
enhancement of tourist attractions and regional production. This also includes support to 
cooperatives of local products and handicrafts, with a specific focus on female social enterprises. 
The project also looks to upgrade accommodations (especially of  those that are female led), by 
introducing environmentally friendly heating methods. It also seeks to expand the training of 
qualified professionals in the tourism sector.  The objective of the project is to reduce poverty, 
generate income opportunities, and create new jobs and improve existing ones, especially for young 
people and women.    WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1244.  UNDP  indicated that according to its Gender Equality Strategy , it follows two  approaches for 
advancing gender equality: i) specific interventions and programmes focused on empowering women 
and ii) mainstreaming gender in all programmatic areas.  
1245.  United States  highlighted the USAID's Climate Change Policy  as an additional reference.  
Additional  information  
1246.  Several partners provided additional information on the sustainability dimension.    
1247.  Bangladesh  submitted that Aid -for-Trade support was needed for export diversification and 
domestic capacity building, including women empowerment.  
1248.  Benin  noted that it is imperative to continue and strengthen the interventions of the Enhanced 
Integrated Framework (CIR) Program  in order to pursue dynamic analyzes of obstacles to trade in 
order to propose and offer the appropriate tools for guiding policies and measures in favor of 
inclusive trade in Africa at the service of Sustainable Development.   
1249.  Cambodia  highlighted that its Mini stry of Commerce implemented two policies which address 
the environmental dimension. Those policies are Cambodia Trade Integration Stra tegy 2019 -2023 
and E-Commerce Strategy  in which environment is considered. Currently the Ministry of Commerce 
is implementing a project called Go4eCAM  which gives priority to women -led SMEs to participant in 
digital economy and e -commerce in Cambodia. The overall objective of the project is to increase 
econo mic opportunities for Cambodian SMEs to participation in the Digital Economy. The project 
outcome is to accelerate the adoption of Business to Business to Customers (B2B2C) and Business 
to Customers (B2C) e -commerce for domestic and cross -border trade by C ambodian SMEs, with a 
focus on digitalization of MSMEs, support to provincial SMEs and participation of women -owned 
SMEs. Another key information is that women -led SMEs are encouraged to participate in two main 
programmes under Go4eCAM. One is Incubation Programme  and second is Small Grant Programme  
(Innovation Challenge). C ambodia would like partners to support any projects that could further 
promote the sustainable trade and development, especially projects that link to promote Cambodia 
priority sectors such as tourism, agriculture, agro -processing, and environmentally frie ndly products.  
1250.  Congo DR noted that in order to ensure the legality of timber trade in European markets, the 
DR Congo is negotiating a voluntary partnership agreement  with the European Union under  the 
FLEGT initiative  on forest law enforcement, good governance and trade. A structuring dimension of 
the institutional framework of the forestry sector in the Congo DR is its integration into a new 
sub-region al dynamic in Central Africa. This is being put in place through a number of initiatives, 
including the Central African Forestry Commission (COMIFAC) , the Conference on Central African 
Dense and Moist Forest Ecosystems (CEFDHAC) , and the Congo Basin Forest Partnership (CBFP) . 
1251.  Equatorial Guinea  highlighted the sustainability of value chains in the national strategic 
sectors [as sectors where support for sustainable trade or development is needed].  
1252.  Fiji mentioned that support is needed to build climate resilient transport infrastructure, 
promote interconnectivity, diversification of production, incre ase productivity, enable deployment of 
clean technologies that promote energy efficiency as well as job creation.  
1253.  Guatemala  submitted that it is necessary to agree on this issue [on where support for 
sustainable trade or development is needed] with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources 
(MARN) . 
1254.  Guinea Bissau  mentioned [the need for] support for the agriculture and artisanal fishing 
sector dominated by women [as sectors where support for sustainable trade o r development is 
needed].  
1255.  Lesotho  indicated that supply side constraints and inadequate productive capacity in sectors 
such as agriculture, tourism and ICT are still very much prevalent in Lesotho as a least developed 
country. Aid -for-Trade resources are n eeded to finance infrastructural developments in energy, ICT, 
roads, etc. Productive capacity financing is also very much needed in sectors such as agriculture, 
tourism and creative industries and technology.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1256.  Madagascar  noted that they are seeking special and reinforced support in the area of circular 
economy.  
1257.  Mali made reference to the support that promotes the development and deployment of 
environmentally friendly technologies [as areas where support for sustainable trade or development 
is needed]  
1258.  Nepal  noted sustainable production practices, less use of chemical fertilizer, [and] green 
infrastructure [as areas where support for sustainable trade or development is needed].  
1259.  Pakistan  submitted that the government's vision of "clean and green" development req uires 
shift from linear model of industry to circular model. Pakistan needs technical and financial aid in 
making this transition. Additionally, inclusion of all genders and class strata in domestic (regulated 
and formal) trade is an area where aid is also  required.    
1260.  Samoa  referred to PACER Plus Rapid Needs Assessments (RNA) – Samoa Country specific 
report .  
1261.  Senegal  made mention to improving access to market s [as areas where support for 
sustainable trade or development is needed].  
1262.  Togo submitted that the country has a National Gender Equity and Equality Policy  and its 
National Action Plan  since 2011. The update of this document is intended to be in line with new 
gender orientations, and a key reference for future development actions. As such, it will have 
effective tools that will provide concrete responses to the challenges of gender promotion and will 
enable Togo to promote the empowerment of women and increase their participation at all levels of 
development, in accordance with the objectives contained in the PND,  in particular in its axis 3. 
Furthermore, with the Decentralization and Local Governance Program (Pro DeGoL) , Togo provides 
support for the promotion of increased participation of women and young people in the management 
of local public affairs.  
1263.  Uganda  noted that the Uganda Gender Policy (UG P) aims at establishing a clear framework 
for identification, implementation and coordination of interventions designed to achieve gender 
equality and women's empowerment in Uganda. The policy requires sector ministries to translate 
the UGP into sector spe cific strategies and activities, build capacity, monitor, evaluate and commit 
resources for implementing the activities among others.  
1264.  Zambia  mentioned that the government requires support to implement climate resilience 
projects in the following sectors: 1 . Agriculture; 2. Livestock; 3. Fisheries and aquaculture; 4.  Forest 
Management and sustainable beneficiation; 5. E -commerce and digitization; and 6.  Tourism.  
1265.  Several donors also provided information focussed on the given section.  
1266.  African Development Bank  submitted that the Bank formulated the 2021-2025 Gender 
Strategy  for gender equality and women and girls empowerment that aims at transforming the 
continent's key sectors into  grounds  of  accessible  opportunities where women, girls, men and 
boys, regardless of their background, enjoy equal access and control ov er productive resources and 
benefit from supportive infrastructure and services to thrive.  
1267.  Australia  noted that sustainable and inclusive recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic, along 
with prosperous trade, requires investing in gender equality, women's econo mic empowerment, and 
sustainable development. Systemic and structural inequalities, along with barriers to women's full 
and equal engagement in all aspects of trade, are impediments to economic prosperity and 
sustainable development. Accordingly, gender ma instreaming and gender equality goals are 
necessary for efficient, effective, and equitable Aid for Trade.  
1268.  Sweden  submitted that from a Swedish perspective, Aid for Trade has and will continue to 
take an approach where sustainable trade is an integral part  of the development cooperation.  
1269.  United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  reported that UNIDO 
and Finland organized a side event on 19 March 2021 on " Women's leadership for climate -neutral WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  and circular Industries " in the framework of the 65th session on the Commission for the Status of 
Women . The event centred on the trajectories and innovative  business models of four women 
entrepreneurs, who focus on areas such as green building design, biogas, wastewater management 
and climate -smart investment. The event also discussed how financing institutions, governments 
and international organizations can  support women entrepreneurs and the necessity to eliminate 
gender -based barriers and biases in this field to ensure everyone can contribute to a more 
sustainable, greener future. Following the UNIDO -Finland side -event at the 65th session of the 
Commission  of the Status of Women, UNIDO published in April 2021 an opinion piece on " Women in 
cleantech are key levers for an inclusive recovery ". As part of the Regional Academy on the United 
Nations (RAUN) , UNIDO supported university students in writing and publishing a paper and policy 
brief on barriers faced by women entrepreneurs in the cleantech sector and how to overcome them. 
The research team conducted interviews with stakeholders and entrepreneurs engaged in UNIDO's 
Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP)  as a basis for the article and policy brief.  
1270.  United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  noted that it was important to supp ort 
countries to adopt and implement rules for responsible, environmentally sound trading practices that 
support sustainable development. It is important to build capacities of policy makers to integrate 
sustainable development into trade policy at all lev els and reflect this in the countries drive to 
increase volumes of trade and diversify exports.  It is also important to support governments in 
formulating and implementing incentive programmes encouraging sustainable practices of 
businesses/private sector . Providing a variety of incentives allows a business to choose the 
compensation that best meets their needs and helps them be more sustainable.    
 
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  SECTION 3: DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY, SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND TRADE  
Digital connectivity reflected as a pr iority in  national  sustainable development 
strategy(ies), policy(ies), or  plan(s)  
1271.  Forty-one (41) out of 53 partner developing countr ies (80%) replying to the self -assessment 
questionnaire indicated that digital connectivity is reflected as a priority in their national sustainable 
development strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s) development strategies. Along  the same line, 29 
donors (83%) also highlighted that digital connectivity is reflected as a priority in sustainable 
development strategy (ies), policy(ies), or plan(s). All three regional economic communities (100%) 
and two South -South partners (50%) replying to the self -assessment questionnaire indicated the 
same.  
1272.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with 19 respondents (79 %) indicating that 
digital connectivity is reflected as a priority in their national sustainable development strategy(ies), 
policy(ies), or plan(s) development strategy. Seventy -nine percent of LDC respondents and 73% of 
LLDC respondents also indicated tha t digital connectivity is reflected as a priority in their national 
sustainable development strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s) development strategy.   
Regions and Groups: Digital connectivity i s reflected as a priority in national sustainable 
developmen t strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s)  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  19 79% 
Asia 9 82% 
Europe  1 100%  
LACS 5 63% 
Pacific  6 100%  
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
group  
LDC 22 79% 
LLDC 8 73% 
UN SIDS  8 89% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M& E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Digital connectivity i s reflected as a priority in  national sustainable development 
strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s)  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information provided by respondents on digital connectivity reflected as a 
priority in national sustainable de velopment strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s)  
1273.  A number of developing countries gave additional information on how digital connectivity is 
reflected as a priority in th eir national sustainable development strategy, policy(ies), or plan(s).  
1274.  Bangladesh  made reference to Vision 2021  and Digital Bangladesh policy , targeted to 
increase digital connectivity in the country.  
1275.  Benin  indicated that this priority is outlined in the various Government Action Programs . 
Specifically, it is a question of accelerating massive investments for the development of quality 
digital infrastructures and services.  
1276.  Cambodia  indicated t hat its Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has certain policies  
related to digital connective ity. 
1277.  Colombia  noted that as a consideration of digital connectivity in some strategies, policies 
and/or plans related to sustainable development, the following can be referenced: – The National 
Plan for Adaptation to Climate Change  and its Communications Strategy  seeks to implement digital 
connectivity to communicate in a clear way, the advances in adaptation to climate change to different 
audiences in the  country, promoting the use of Information and Communications Technology tools; 
– CONPES Document 4058  - public policy to reduce disaster risk conditions and adapt to clima te 
variability phenomena - The Action and Monitoring Plan of the Policy includes a series of actions 
related to data connectivity to make available climatic, hydrometeorological and meteomarine 
information, existing at national level, to support decision m aking; the opening of data and its 
interoperability, as well as the generation of new technologies for early warnings, and the 
interrelation of climate variability data between IGAC, DANE, UPRA among other entities generating 
information to make them avail able to the public. – CONPES Document 3934  - Green Growth Policy 
- this policy indicates the need to develop an information management strategy for green growth, 
which includes updating the Environmental Information Policy Guidelines and the Protocol for Data 
and Information Management of the Environmental Information System f or Colombia (SIAC). It also 
seeks to strengthen the management of water resources in the agricultural sector and the 
development of tools for water monitoring in mining areas, through the strengthening of information 
instruments to improve management. – National Circular Economy Strategy  – the strategy includes 
as its target audience entrepreneurs, innovators, startup developers, information technology and 
telecommunications companies, creative ce ntres and innovation laboratories, who stimulate the 
development of innovation and information platforms towards the circular economy; Likewise, digital 
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  connectivity is reflected within its objectives, particularly in promoting a culture of citizenship in 
circular economy through mass communication programmes. The above are some examples of 
planning instruments and tools with content linked to digital connectivity, data interoperability or 
the use of Information and Communication Technologies to achieve the  objectives.  
1278.  Congo DR  submitted that a new Ministry has been created in the current government.  
1279.  Equatorial Guinea  reported that a cable system has been designed to be a fast and direct 
path, using industry leading 100G transmission technology which offers a design capacity of 
32 Terabyte per second (Tb/s) through a 4 -fiber pair configuration. CEIBA -1 is the name given to 
the submarine cable infrastructure deployed between the c ities of Malabo and Bata with a total 
length of 287 km. The system is equipped with 4 fibre optic pairs through which it can transmit a 
multi-circuit capacity of 10 Gb/s up to a capacity greater than 1Tb/s. Another submarine cable 
system, CEIBA -2, in operation since March 2017, connects the cities of Malabo and Bata in Equatorial 
Guinea with Cameroon. It was indicated that CEIBA -2 is a state -of-the-art cable infrastructure that  
fulfils two objectives: a) it protects the link between Bata and Malabo, currently operated through 
the CEIBA -1 submarine cable, and b) it also acts as a second international connection point for 
Equatorial Guinea.   
1280.  Indonesia  made mention to their National Medium Term Development Plan 2020 -2024, 
emphasising the 5th National Priority on Strengthening Infrastructure to Support Economic and Basic  
Services Development, under Digital Transformation Priority Program . 
1281.  Madagascar  reported that its e -commerce sector is beginning to be structured. Although the 
texts are not yet complete, most of the laws protecting users already exist. It remains mainly to 
promulgate the law on the accreditation of certification centers for electron ic signatures, the 
implementing decrees establishing the CMIL (Malagasy Computing and Freedoms Commission) for 
the protection of personal dat a, and the CIRT (Computer Incident Response Teams) for digital 
security. The strategy for the development of this sector is also to be launched, and the  human 
capacities for its development to be strengthened.  
1282.  Mali recalled the following goals of their National Policy for the Development of the Digital 
Economy (PNDEN) Mali 2020 : - Continue and intensify the deployment of digital infrastructure for 
transmission, data centers and access networks; - Carry out the laying of 4,500 km of additional 
fibre optic cable to complete the connection of the eight regiona l capitals and the interconnection to 
the seven neighbouring countries; - Develop, share digital infrastructures and pool infrastructures 
between the different types of networks for new achievements.  
1283.  Mauritius  referred to Paragraph 60 of the Government Programme 2020 -2024, stating that 
the "Government will also introduce relevant legislation to consolidate cyber security, encourage 
online and cashless transactions, promote an ope n data culture and further democratise access to 
high-speed internet. It will invest further to digitalise public services and create an e -Mauritius’’  
1284.  Mexico  made reference to their National Development Plan 2019 -2024, which states that the 
installation of wireless internet throughout the country will be essential to combat marginalization 
and poverty and for the integration of deprived areas into productive activities.  
1285.  Moldova submitted a link to their Digital Moldova 2020 strategy . 
1286.  Pakistan made reference to the E-commerce policy  that it adopted in 2019.  
1287.  Peru highlighted that in their Project of the  Strategic Plan of National Development 2050 , the 
National Objective 2 is established to raise the levels of competitiveness and productivity with decent 
employment based on the sustainable use of resources, human capital, the intensive use of science 
and technology, and the digital transformation of the country. In this regard, policy guideline 4 on 
accelerating digital transformation for the generation of value in society seeks the incorporation and 
the use of digital technologies in the social, productiv e and organizational spheres, and the 
systematization and analysis of data to generate economic, social and value effects for people, whose 
access, use and appropriation is carried out in an ethical and safe manner. On the other hand, it was 
noted that the  General Government Policy 2021 -2026, approved by Supreme Decree No. 164 -2021-
PCM, has established in numeral 8 of article 3 that one of its axes is referred to as “8. Government WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  and digital transformation with equity”. Additionally, it wa s pointed out that the Peruvian State, 
through Legislative Decree No. 1412 , approved the Digital Government Law,  and through the 
Emergency Decree No. 006 -2020, the constitution of the National System of Digital Transformation  
which is like a functional system of the Executive Power, made up of a set of principles, norms, 
procedures, techniques and instruments through which the activities of the publ ic administration are 
organized and the activities of companies, civil society and academia are promoted, aimed at 
achieving the country's goals in terms of digital transformation. The Presidency of the Council of 
Ministers through the Secretariat of Government and Digital Transformation  is the governing body 
of this National Digital Transformation System. Finally, it was highlighted that through Emergency 
Decree No. 007 -2020, the Digital Trust Framework  was created, which aims to establish provisions 
to strengthen the security and trust of consumers and people in general in the digital environment.  
1288.  St. Lucia  noted that while there is no national sustainable development strategy at this time, 
the Medium -Term Development Strategy  and National Services Policy  both cite digital connectivity 
as a key area for development both as a stand -alone sector and as an enabler to other key sectors.  
1289.  St. Vincent and the Grenadines  submitte d that presently, there is no national sustainable 
development strategy, however, digital connectivity is reflected in the National economic and social 
development plan . Strategic objective 1.7. The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 
implemented a national broadband network during the period 2018 -2020 and is in the process of 
upgrading the legal and regulatory framework for electronic communications. In this regard, the 
Government has set 2022 for the passage of the draft Electronic Communications Bill  as well as new 
regulations such as consumer protection geared at improving the quality of services offered by 
Telcom companies.  
1290.  Zambia  indicated that the government has created the Ministry of Science and Tech nology to 
promote sustainable digital economy.  
1291.  No South –South questionnaire respondents provided additional information on how digital 
connectivity is reflected as a priority in their sustainable development strategy(ies), policy(ies), or 
plan(s).  
1292.  Several regional economic communities gave additional information on how digital 
connectivity is reflected as a priority in their sustainable development strategy(ies), policy(ies), or 
plan(s).  
1293.  Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS)  made mention to the Draft 2050 Strategy for 
the Blue Pacific Continent , which includes a thematic area on Technology and Connectivity. Here, 
the Strategy requires to "improve digital platforms that enhance government and private sector 
service delivery" whilst "deter[ring] cyber -crime".  
1294.  TradeMark East Africa (TMEA)  submitted that they have a very large component of their 
programmes related to automation of trade agencies (customs systems, standards, cargo tracking, 
single windows, online information portals) as well as programmes promoting e -commerce.  
1295.  West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU)  indicated that the foundation of 
WAEMU's treaty establish coordination of national sectoral policies, through the implementati on of 
common actions and possibly common policies, particularly in the field of telecommunications. As 
such, issues relating to the digital economy are taken into account across the board in the various 
Union Programs and specifically in the Digital Econom y Development Program and the Common 
Market and Free Movement Programme. In the case of the Common Market and Free Movement 
Programme, this involves the development and adoption of texts on the dematerialization of 
commercial and customs operations. This s upport should enable countries to seize the many 
opportunities offered by digital technology, particularly in the context of trade, and to take full 
advantage of them. In this context, the WAEMU Commission has launched a study intended to lay 
the foundatio ns for the realization of the dematerialization process. The objective of this study was 
to develop a community framework regulating the dematerialization of customs and commercial 
procedures and formalities and to organize the transition from physical pap er support for documents 
to digital/electronic support in community trade. This study was validated in December 2019 by the 
Member States and includes a draft regulation which is submitted to the Union authorities for 
adoption. The effective implementation  of the reform proposed by the Commission should improve WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  the efficiency of control services while ensuring the security of data transmissions and logistical 
flows. Optimization of costs and limitation of physical checks carried out by administrations on 
documents and/or goods is also expected. In the case of the digital economy development program, 
this involves, among other things, adopting community texts relating to the digital economy and 
mobilizing resources for the construction of missing links and in ter-state fiber relief optical.  
1296.  Various donors also provided additional information on how digital connectivity is reflected as 
a priority in their national (or otherwise) sustainable development strategy(ies), policy(ies), or 
plan(s).  
1297.  Australia  noted that  digital connectivity is highlighted to varying degrees and according to 
partner circumstances and needs in Australia’s regional and bilateral COVID -19 Dev elopment 
Response Plans . 
1298.  Canada  submitted that digital connectivity is essential to achieve the Sustainable 
Development Goals (SDGs) . International Telecommunication Union (ITU).  Canada's membership 
and contributio ns to the ITU, the UN specialized agency for telecommunications and information and 
communications technologies (ICTs), is part of Canada's efforts to promote connectivity around the 
world. Canada provides an annual financial contribution to the ITU in the  amount of approximately 
$4.808 million, which helps support ITU operations and activities, including in the areas of digital 
connectivity. Increased connectivity and access to ICT is essential to achieve the Sustainable 
Development Goals (SDGs).  
1299.  Chinese T aipei  noted that they are developing a products trace system (iFarm) . 
1300.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)  noted that digital 
connectivity is reflected as part of the three main priorities identified in the Strategic and Capital 
Framework 2021 -2025. 
1301.  European Union  (EU)  noted that digitalisation is  one of the five priorities of the current 
European Commission. Similarly, promoting digital alliances and technologies is one of the five pillars 
upon which the development cooperation of the European Commission is based. Also, the NDICI -
Global Europe Regulation  states that the Instrument shall promote the use of digitalisation as a 
powerful enabler for sustainable development and inclusive growth. For instance, it notes as an area 
of cooperation under inclusive and sustainable economic growth and decent employment, that the 
EU should work towards promoting accessible, affordable, inclusive, reliable and secure digital 
connectivity and strengthening the digital economy; promoting digital literacy and skills; fostering 
digital entrepreneurship and job creation; promoting the use of digital technologies as an enabler 
for sustainable development; addressing cybersecurity, data privacy and other regulatory is sues 
linked to digitalisation; Moreover, the Global Gateway Communication  foresees massive investments 
in infrastructure and including for (digital or digi talised) connectivity. There are also regional 
strategies that put digital connectivity among priorities, e.g. EU Strategy on Euro -Asian Connectivity 
(2018) . The EU Strategy on Central Asia (2019)  also brings on the digital connectivity dimension, 
and this is also reflected in the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo -Pacific (2021)  and in the EU 
comprehensive strategy for Africa (2020) , priority area 2.  
1302.  Germany  noted that digital transformation is considered a cross -cutting theme in their 
Aid-for-Trade strategy. Internet connectivity is also listed as a key f actor in the areas of "work and 
employment" and "equal opportunities" in the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation 
and Development (BMZ) position paper " Digital technologies for Development ". 
1303.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) , on behalf of Islamic 
Development Bank’s Group (IsDB)  reported that the IsDB Group is supporting enterprise 
innovation and tech nological readiness to encourage the introduction of new digital technologies to 
reconfigure existing manufacturing processes of MCs firms to allow them to become effective and 
competitive players in nationally important value chains. The Islamic Corporati on for the Insurance 
of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) is monitoring closely all digitalization activities that would 
have a positive impact on trade and investments. ICIEC is also exploring how it can benefit from 
blockchain technology to develop it s operations and connectivity with clients all over the world.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1304.  Japan  highlighted that science and technology innovation is one of the priority issues in the 
SDGs Implementation Guidel ines and is a priority issue in the SDGs Action Plan 2021 . 
1305.  Korea  submitted that KOICA’s strategic plan 2021 -2025 stipulates reinforcing digital 
accessibility as one of its strategic objectives and performance goals. Strategic Objective 
1.3. Expanding green & digital infrastructures in partner countries. Performance Goa l 
1.3.2.  Reinforcing governance and digital accessibility using digital technology. This objective and 
performance goals are not only intended to facilitate digital accessibility in the partner countries but 
also improve government transparency through usi ng digital devices such as Apps and software for 
the ordinary citizens or for related government personnel.  
1306.  Netherlands  made reference to their Digital Agenda for Foreign Trade and Development 
Cooperation . 
1307.  Norway  highlighted the existence of Norad's strategy  (its Section for Innovation works with 
SDG 9), and the White Paper on digital transformation and development policy . Referr ing to the 
Section on Innovation, connectivity is seen as the first, necessary step towards digital 
transformation. While Norway has some initiatives supporting connectivity, connectivity is not their 
main focus. Norway’s main priority is on digital public  goods and supporting digital inclusion efforts. 
Norway realised that its development co -operation was not fully capitalising on the potential of new 
technologies, due to a fragmented, uncoordinated approach to digitalisation. To deliver sustainable 
result s in the long term and beyond the scope of individual projects, Norway set out to develop a 
strategy for digital transformation in development policy. Following consultation with academia and 
private and public sector actors, a set of eleven guidelines tar geting Norway’s own administration 
were developed and included in the Digital strategy for Norwegian development policy (2018).  These 
guidelines are designed to help integrate established best practices into all programmes. The 
strategy also outlines how to make digitalisation a part of Norway’s thematic priorities, where a 
broader, more elaborate and politically inclusive approach is nee ded. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs 
presented the “Digital transformation and development policy” white paper to parliament, which 
defined the greatest barriers to digitalisation (i.e. access, regulation, digital competence and 
inclusion of marginalised g roups), along with opportunities and risks in certain focus areas. The 
ministry would be accountable for a total of 72 measurable goals and action points outlined in the 
paper. Each of the steps in the policy -making process was accompanied by communication s activities 
to inform internal and external stakeholders of progress, to ensure buy -in across the ministry and 
raise awareness and understanding of the role of digitalisation in Norway’s development cooperation. 
Norway and Norad is also a part of the boar d to the Digital Public Goods Alliance, participating in the 
establishment of this multi -stakeholder initiative with a mission to accelerate the attainment of the 
sustainable development goals in low - and middle -income countries by facilitating the discove ry, 
development, use of, and investment in digital public goods.  
1308.  Russian Federation  mentioned that digital connectivity as an area for development 
assistance is covered by the priority areas set out in the Russian State Concept on International 
Development Assistance . There is no separate policy document on development assistance in the 
area of digital connectivity.  
1309.  Sloveni a made reference to its Development Cooperation Strategy . 
1310.  Sweden  highlighted their Policy framework for development cooperation and humanitarian 
assistance , which under section "free and fair trad e and sustainable development" it says: "Sweden 
will contribute towards people living in poverty, particularly women, having access to and benefiting 
from increased digitalisation."  
1311.  Switzerland  in their response submitted that the Swiss Strategy on International Cooperation  
appreciates digitalisation as an important driver of sustainable development. Digital isation is 
systematically taken into account in Switzerland’s development cooperation activities and is used as 
a means to an end (i.e. to solve a specific development challenge). Switzerland engages in GovTech 
(improving the performance of public institut ions and services), E -Trade (promoting international 
trade through digital solutions), Skills (fostering skills development in the digital environment) and 
FinTech (increasing the competitiveness of the private sector through new models of financing).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1312.  United Kingdom reported that digital connectivity is mentioned in their Integrated Review  
and in the forthcoming International Development Strategy . Furthermore, they acknowledge that 
progress must be made in this area first before unlocking other potential.  
1313.  United States  submitted a link to the USAID Digital Strategy . 
1314.  United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) noted that the 
15th session of UNCTAD took place between 3 and 7 October 2021, under the theme “F rom Inequality 
and Vulnerability to Prosperity for All”. The Conference saw member States forge and adopt a 
covenant, the Bridgetown Covenant , to address a number of priorit ies of utmost urgency to the 
timely attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals, including the digital divide. The Covenant, 
which sets the basis for UNCTAD’s work until its next Ministerial Conference, calls for strengthening 
the work on assisting dev eloping countries to enhance their readiness to engage and integrate into 
the digital economy, thus contributing to the closing of the digital divide. For example, the Covenant 
in particular calls UNCTAD to "support landlocked developing countries, most no tably on … digital 
connectivity" . In doing so, the Covenant reinforces UNCTAD’s mandate to work on enhancing 
development gains from the digital economy, which is carried out through the E-Commerce and 
Digital Economy (ECDE) Programme . "Connectivity is a big equalizer”  - connectivity enhances 
participation in economic activities by people of all groups thereby inducing positive impact upon 
SDG1 (no poverty) and SDG10 ( no inequality). In trade, connectivity has determined the survival of 
producers, exporters and importers.  
1315.  United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)  reported that the UNDP Strategic Plan  
identifi es three enablers necessary to realize the objectives of the plan in assisting partner countries 
in realizing the SDGs. These enablers are development finance, strategic innovation and 
digitalization. In addition, UNDP adopted a Digital Strategy  which institute a holistic approach to 
digital transformation through two pathways. Pathway 1 focuses on using digital technologies to 
improve partners’ experience and solve development challenges. T hrough this pathway, UNDP aims 
at innovation in delivery, co -creation, collaboration and advocacy. Pathway 2 uses digital 
technologies to improve the quality, relevance and impact of UNDP’s work, while improving the 
efficiency of UNDP’s operational systems  and internal processes. The purpose through this pathway 
is knowledge sharing, improved data usage and greater efficiency.  
1316.  United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  referred to paragraph 
65 of the UNIDO Medium -term programme framework 2022 –2025: Integration and scale -up to build 
back better , which reads as follows: "Working with UNIDO, developing countries explore how to best 
tap into 4IR tec hnologies to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy, optimize resources use, 
implement circular models and reduce industrial emissions. Importantly, UNIDO’s experience 
provides countries with a systematic approach to climate -related issues in indust ry, to ensure that 
all industrialization approaches are climate - positive and to harness the potential of productive 
activities, including agro -value chains and SMEs, in providing climate adaptation solutions."  
1317.  World Bank Group (WBG)  submitted that digiti zation is creating new trade opportunities by 
giving access to remote and foreign markets to firms of all sizes in any location, and by lowering 
trade costs and expanding the variety of goods and services that can be traded. New technologies 
are having a t ransformative effect on international trade by powering "digital trade". While global 
digital trade is currently dominated by high -income countries, developing countries are increasingly 
engaging in digital trade as exporters of high -value digital services . For instance, a Bangladeshi firm 
Augmedix  offers remote assistance to medical doctors in the USA. These doctors wear smart glasses 
allowing their Bangladesh -based assistants to "witness" patient consultations and create associated 
medical records and interact with the doctors in real -time, saving U.S. doctors about two hours a 
day of administrative duties. Establishing a conducive environment for digital trade, however, 
remains a complex endeavour. The foundations of digital trade rest on a modern telecommunications 
infrastructure, a favourable business environment, and an educated population. In addition, digital 
trade requires specific enabling conditions that build on those foundations: 1) businesses require 
specific digital skills and entrepreneurship to engage in digital trade; cross -border transactions need 
effective electronic payment systems; 2) a sound regulatory framework should strengthen trust in 
digital markets and provide tools for remote transactions, including cross -border data governance, 
platform regulation, online consumer protection, and digital documentation signature; and 3) goods 
sold across borders through e -commerce need efficient trade facilitation and logistics suited to e -
commerce deliverie s. Global digital trade would benefit from substantial and clear international rules. 
Trade agreements have been at the forefront of global digital governance, featuring the first binding WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  international rules on cross -border data flows. Rules on digital tra de are growing in both scope and 
depth, as well as in importance in trade negotiations, at global, regional, and bilateral levels. This 
offers opportunities for developing countries to bring their digital development concerns to 
international fora. However , negotiating and ultimately implementing rules on digital trade requires 
coordination and expertise from policymakers, as well as a strong and vocal domestic digital sector 
that can identify the precise challenges they face, and potential solutions from t he international 
community.  
National strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for di gital connectivity  
1318.  Thirty -nine (39) out of 53 partner developing country governments (74%) and 20 donors 
(56%) that replied to the self -assessment questionnaire indicated that they have national 
strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s) for digital connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, 
etc.). Three  regional economic communities (75%) and two South -South partners (50%) replying 
to the self -assessment questionnaire indicated that they have regional/Aid -for-Trade strategy(ies), 
policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity (includ ing digital economy, e -commerce, etc.).  
1319.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with 17 respondents (68%) indicating that 
they have national strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity (including digital 
economy, e -commerce,  etc.). Sixty -nine percent of LDC respondents and 83% of LLDC respondents 
indicated that they have national strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity 
(including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.). Seventy -eight percent of Small Island Developing 
States (UN SIDS) also indicated the same.  
Regions and Groups: Existence of national strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital 
connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.)  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  17 68% 
Asia 9 82% 
Europe  1 100%  
LACS 7 78% 
Pacific  5 83% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 20 69% 
LLDC 10 83% 
UN SIDS  7 78% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Existenc e of national strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity 
(including digital economy, e -comm erce, etc.)  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information provided by respondents on national strategy(ies), policy(ies) or 
plan(s) for digital connectiv ity (including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.)  
1320.  A number of developing countries gave additional information on whether they have national 
strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, 
etc.).  
1321.  Bangladesh  noted several such policies: Vision 2021 and Digital Bangladesh ; National Digital 
Commerce Pol icy 2018 ; National AI Policy ; National Blockchain strategy , etc. 
1322.  Benin  made reference to their National Digital Security Strategy Sector Policy Statement . 
1323.  Burkina Faso  reported that they are developing a national e -commerce promotion strategy . 
1324.  Cambodia  has mentioned that the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has certain 
policies  related to digital connectivity.  
1325.  Colombia  noted that the National Development Plan (NDP) 2018 -2022 "Pact for Colombia, 
Pact for Equity" con tains 12 cross -cutting pacts and nine regional pacts. One of the cross -cutting 
pacts is Pact VII called "Pact for the Digital Transformation of Colombia: Government, businesses 
and households connected to the knowledge era". This pact contains the whole -of-government 
approach to the digital transformation of the country and therefore defines Colombia's current 
National Digital Strategy (NDS) . Specifically, this pact defines two lines of work: - "Colombia se 
conecta: massification of broadband and digital inclusion of all Colombians", this line has the 
following objectives: I. Create the enabling conditions for the massification of ICTs, II. Accelerate 
digital social inclusion and III. Empower citizens and households in the digital 
environment.  - Towards a digital society and Industry 4.0: for a more  efficient, effective and 
transparent relationship between markets, citizens and the State", this line establishes the following 
objectives: I. Promote the digital transformation of public administration, II. Promote the 
development and management of talen t for digital transformation, III. Promote sectoral digital 
transformation, and IV. Driving territorial digital transformation. From the point of view of 
connectivity, in accordance with the regulatory framework and policy objectives in terms of 
connectivi ty, Colombia implemented the Vive Digital I and II Plan , the National Fibre Optic Plan  and 
the National High Speed Connectivity Plan . Following the National Developme nt Plan (NDP) 2018 -
2022, the ICT Plan 2018 -2022 was defined, which formulated strategies to massify access to ICTs 
and to improve the quality of commun ications services. Although it is not as such a regional 
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  approach, the strategies formulated include the following: - Issuance of CONPES Document 3968 
Declaration of Strate gic Importance of the project for the development, massification and access to 
the national Internet , through phase II of the Internet access demand incentives initiative, whose 
objective is to promote the affordability of fixed Internet service for low -income households through 
demand incentives for a period of 36 months in order to develop habits and skills in the use of ICTs. 
- Issuance of CONPES Document 40 01 Declaration of Strategic Importance of the National Project 
for Universal Access to Information and Communication Technologies in Rural or Remote Areas , with 
the aim of promoting digital inclusion in rural areas by offering public Internet access to gua rantee 
access to connectivity over a long -term horizon (up to 8.6 years), thereby promoting continuous 
processes of use and exploitation of the service. From the point of view of digital development and 
society, national policies have been defined for its promotion in the country in an institutionally 
articulated manner. These policies include: i) CONPES 3975: Digital Transformation and Artificial 
Intelligence ; ii) CONPES 3988: Technologies for Learning ; iii) CONPES 3995: Digital Trust and 
Security ; and CONPES 4012: Electronic Commerce . In CONPES 3975, 3995 and 4012, in the 
justifications section or in the diagnosis elaborated in these documents, it can be found that the 
policy o bjective contemplates a territorial approach and in some of the actions proposed, this is 
developed in this way. On the other hand, it is important to highlight public policies that were built 
within the framework of the pandemic and that have a regional v ocation. Presidential Directive 02 
of 2020 (measures to address the contingency generated by COVID -19, based on the use of 
information and communication technologies) emphasised the need to use digital tools for the 
development of work, social and educatio nal activities to prevent the proliferation of the virus, since 
one of the most effective measures to confront COVID -19 worldwide has been physical distancing. 
In this context, the list of administrative acts issued within the framework of Decree 417 of 20 20 
(by which a State of Economic, Social and Ecological Emergency is declared throughout the national 
territory) includes measures aimed at strengthening the supply of telecommunications services. 
Finally, in the same vein, Law 2108 of 2021 has been issued , which represents a major change 
regarding the provision of Internet service, declaring it an essential and universal public service.  
1326.  Comoros  submitted that the country has a Comoros 2028 digital strategy  which focuses on 
strengthening the legal and institutional framework, promoting the use and dissemination of ICTs, 
pooling infrastructure and capitalizing on investments, and diversifying the secto r beyond 
communications. Their vision is to make Comoros "an information society, actor of the digital 
revolution" by 2030.  
1327.  Congo DR  reported that [a national strategy, policy or plan for digital connectivity] is still 
being developed by the newly created  Ministry.  
1328.  El Salvador  noted that reforms have been carried out to implement electronic commerce, 
electronic signature, and digitization of procedures.  
1329.  Ethiopia  submitted that while it is in a preliminary stage, they have the policy, proclamations 
but the system is still not fully implemented.  
1330.  Guinea Bissau highlighted that they don't yet [have a national policy document for digital 
connectivity], but they are engaged in the development of the regional strategy led by Economic 
Community of West African Stat es (ECOWAS) on electronic commerce.  
1331.  Indonesia  noted that national strategies, policies, and plans for digital connectivity, including 
digital economy, e -commerce, etc., are stipulated under Presidential Regulation No.  85/2021 
concerning the Government Work Plan . 
1332.  Madagascar  referred to their 1) Law on the accreditation of electronic signature certification 
centers - Implementing decrees establishing the Malagasy Commission for Computing and Liberties 
(CMIL)  for the protection of personal data, and the CIRT for digital security; and 2)  their Strategy 
for digital development, which is being launched.  
1333.  Mali made a reference to their National Policy for the Development of the Digital Economy 
(PNDEN) Mali 2020 . 
1334.  Mexico  reported that it has a National Digital Strategy , which is defined as the action plan of 
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  technologies, including broadband and Internet services, by incorporating them into the daily lives 
of people and the Federal Public Administration, in order to achieve a Welfare State.  
1335.  Moldova  submitted a link to their Digital Moldova 2020 Strategy . 
1336.  Nepal  referred to the National Strategy on Development and Use of E -commerce in Nepal  
2019, the Digital Nepal framework , and National Information and Communication Technology Policy 
2015. 
1337.  Pakistan  made reference to E-commerce policy of Pakistan 2019 . 
1338.  Peru submitted that a National Digital Transformation Policy  is in the design process. This 
policy establishes the following priority objectives: 1. Guarantee quality Internet access for all 
citizens. 2. Link the digital economy to the reactivation and competitiveness of the country's 
production processes. 3. Develop empa thetic digital services with citizens in the Public 
Administration 4. Strengthen the digital talent of all citizens produce digital technologies and take 
advantage of their benefits 5. Encourage a culture of innovation and safe, ethical and intelligent 
management of data, digital technologies and artificial intelligence. In addition to this, there is the 
General Policy of the Gov ernment 2021 -2026, approved by Supreme Decree No. 164 -2021-PCM, 
which has established in nume ral 8 of article 3 that one of its axes is referred to as “8. Government 
and digital transformation with equity”. Also, it should be noted that the Peruvian State approved 
the following regulations: a) Legislative Decree No. 1412, Legislative Decree that a pproves the 
Digital Government Law, which aims to "(...) establish the governance framework of the digital 
government for the adequate digital identity management, digital services, digital architecture, 
interoperability, digital security and data, as well  as the legal regime applicable to the transversal 
use of digital technologies in the digitization of processes and the provision of digital services by 
Public Administration entities at all three levels of government." b) Emergency Decree No. 006 -
2020, ha s established the National Digital Transformation System (SNTD) , which is a Functional 
System of the Executive Power, made up of a set of princ iples, rules, procedures, techniques and 
instruments through which the activities of the public administration are organized and the activities 
of companies, civil society and academia are promoted, aimed at achieving the country's objectives 
in terms of d igital transformation. c) Emergency Decree No. 007 -2020 has established the Digital 
Confidence Framework , whose purpose is: The  purpose of this Emergency Decree is to establish the 
measures that are necessary to guarantee the trust of people in their interaction with digital services 
provided by public entities and private sector organizations in the national territory. In this se nse, 
the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, through the Secretariat of Government and Digital 
Transformation, is the governing body of this National System of Digital Transformation and of 
matters of digital government and digital trust.  
1339.  Philippines  mentioned that there are three plans that could be referred to in relation to the 
Philippines’ digital connectivity. These are the following: The Philippine Digital Transformation 
Strategy 2022 embodies “the strategy to be adopted by the government in its p ursuit of digital 
transformation that will greatly improve Philippine governance, socio -economic development and 
services to the people.” Moreover, it traces the evolution of the Philippine Digital Transformation 
Strategy. Moreover, the e-Government Masterplan 2022  "serves as the blueprint for a harmonized 
government information system". The Masterplan has four objectives: optimize government 
operations, engage citizens, transform services, and empower government employees. Lastly, the 
e-Commerce Philippines 2022  was launched in January 2021. The roadmap outlines government and 
private sector strategies to advance the growth of e -commerce. It emphasizes the relationship 
between and among speed, structure, security, and sales.  
1340.  Samoa  submitted a link to their Communications Sector Plan 2017/18 – 2021/22.  
1341.  Senegal  noted that an e -commerce strategy has already b een developed and validated.  
1342.  Sri Lanka  submitted that [a national strategy, policy or a plan] is currently being formulated.  
1343.  St. Lucia  reported that a national policy for digital connectivity is currently being finalized and 
will be available in the first quarter of 2022. This is an update of the previous policy which had 
reached maturity in 2018. The new policy is closely linked to the Medium Term Development 
Strategy  and the National Competitiveness Strategy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1344.  St. Vincent and the Grenadines mentioned that there is an outdated National ICT S trategy 
and Action 2010 -2015. However, under the Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP) , they 
are currently in the procurement process for consultancy services to develop a national digital 
transformation strategy which will address the areas outlined.  
1345.  Uganda  submitted a link to a news article, which explains that Uganda has secured $200 
million to Accelerate Digital Transformation and Inclusiveness . 
1346.  Zambia  submitted that it has created an e -government platform to include all relevant 
agencies for ease of doing business, and Zambia is also  in the process of developing an e -commerce 
strategy.  
1347.  Several regional economic communities gave additional information on whether they have a 
regional strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity (including digital economy, 
e-commerce, e tc.).  
1348.  Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS)  mentioned that a Pacific E -commerce Strategy 
and Roadmap  was endorsed by Pacific Islands Forum Trade  Ministers in August 2021.  
1349.  TradeMark East Africa (TMEA)  submitted a link to ICT for Trade . 
1350.  West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU)  made reference to their Priority 
Action Framework (CAP 2025)  - Partnership document for the acceleration of digital transformation 
within the community space. Furthermore, in terms of results in the field of the digital economy, the 
main achievements concern in particular: - the identification of 20 Priority Digita l Public Services 
(SPNP) to be offered to citizens and businesses of the Union; - the identification of two missing inter -
state fibre optic links and seven inter -state fibre optic backup links to be built to secure the regional 
network and promote traffic;  - the creation of a website  of the Committee of National 
Telecommunications Regulators of WAEMU Telecommunications (CRTEL) online, including the 
Regional Observatory of Telecommunications.  
1351.  One South –South questionna ire respondent ( Colombia ) provided additional information on 
whether they have Aid -for-Trade strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity 
(including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.). Colombia noted that they have programs with 
specific partners.  
1352.  Various donors also provided additional information on whether they have an Aid -for-Trade 
strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) for digital connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, 
etc.).  
1353.  Asian Development Bank (ADB) mentioned that under the CAREC program, a new strategy 
was endorsed at the CAREC Ministerial Conference . The Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program 
(TSCFP) , in partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce, is engaged in a series of 
efforts to advocate for the domestic adoption of The Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records 
(MLETR) , developed by the U nited Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).  
1354.  Australia  submitted that digital connectivity is not directly mentioned in the Partnerships for 
Recovery (PfR) policy . However, digital connectivity, digital trade, e -commerce and digital economy 
more broadly are directly addressed in various regional and bilateral COVID -19 Development 
Response Plans  under the PfR.  Investments in digital connectivity support PfR objectives by creating 
new avenues for trade, including access to global value chains. They can help to accelerate eco nomic 
recovery and resilience and to promote inclusive development. Australia is working with partner 
governments, the private sector and other development partners on a range of capacity building 
activities in this area. In the Indo -Pacific, e -commerce is  emerging as a new avenue for businesses 
to access new trade opportunities, especially for small businesses and women traders. Australia 
believes digital connectivity delivered through Aid -for-Trade programs can play a valuable role in 
helping countries to  address priority constraints such as: 1)  weak infrastructure; 2) low levels of 
inclusive access to ICT and finance; 3) lack of policy and regulatory frameworks; 4) lack of skills and 
safe and reliable e -payment platforms; and 5)  inefficient trade facilita tion and logistics. Therefore, 
Australia’s E -commerce Aid -for-Trade Fund  (AUD 5.5 million, 2018 -2022) provided support to the 
private  sector, governments, academia and think tanks to help build e -commerce capabilities in WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Southeast Asia and the Pacific, with a view to promoting the participation of SMEs/MSMEs and 
women. One of the four key thematic priority areas of the PIFS’ Pacific Aid -for-Trade Strategy 
(PAfTS)  is e-commerce. Australia supported the development of an important regional initiative, the 
Pacific E -commerce Strategy and Roadmap , and provided funding for implementation of priority 
activities. Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu have benefitted from Australian supp ort to strengthen e -
commerce related policy settings and regulatory frameworks. This complements Australia’s digital 
connectivity investment in undersea cables in the region, which provide faster, more affordable, and 
reliable communications, essential to conducting and promoting trade. Through Australia’s Market 
for Development Facility (MDF) , Fiji is building its Outsourcing Services industry, estimated to be 
worth AUD 65 million annually. As part of its support under the regional trade and development 
agreement PACER Plus , Australia is also supporting the roll out of ASYCUDA World  in six Pacific island 
countries which helps facilitate efficient cross -border e -commerce for goods. The Memorandum of 
Understand ing (MoU) between Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) on Cooperation in Information 
and Communications Technology  is also an example of Australia’s support for regional connectivity. 
The MoU commits Australia and PNG to work collaboratively to enable the digital economy, ensure 
digital safety and build capacity for the ICT sector in PNG. Australia has also provided support to the 
Economic Research Institute of ASEAN and East Asia  to improve ASEAN regional economic 
integration, with the goal of sustainable and inclusive economic growth in ASEAN. Through this 
program, Australia has supported officials’ participation in an SME Digital Economy Summit and 
supported online training modules for officials on the basics of e -commerce, including modules on 
the ASEAN Agreement on Electronic Commerce  and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnersh ip 
(RCEP)  provisions on e -commerce. Australia’s AUD 13.5 million Partnership with the United Nations 
Development Program in Cambodia is accelerating e -commerce uptake by MSMEs. Through Phase 
two of ASEAN -Australian Develo pment Cooperation Program , Australia is also funding the 
development of a work plan for the implementation of the ASEAN Agreement on Electronic 
Commerce. Lastly, Australia in their submission referred to the ASEAN and Southeast Asia Regional 
COVID -19 Development Response Plan . 
1355.  Austria  noted that there is no specific policy, rather individual initiatives. For instance, the 
SDG Strategy of the Global Compact Network  Austria has assisted companies since 2016 in 
implementing the SDGs. This multi -stakeholder network raises awareness of the 2030 Agenda while 
giving companies  helpful orientation in implementing the SDGs and devising intersectoral next -
practice solutions. The SDG Compass developed within the Global Compact is available to companies 
as a practical implementation guide.  
1356.  Canada  submitted that the ITU is part of Ca nada's efforts to promote connectivity around the 
world. Within the ITU there are a number of programs that Canada has supported which focus on 
digital connectivity and facilitating inclusive access to ICT, including for women and girls. See here 
and here. The Growth That Works For Everyone action area provides support to increase the capacity 
of the poorest and most vulnerable, p articularly women and youth, to engage in economic activities 
through: - technical assistance provided to stakeholders to develop and offer financial literacy, digital 
technology and skill development programs that respond to the need of the most vulnerabl e, 
particular women and; -technical assistance provided to stakeholders to develop and offer financial 
literacy, digital technology and skill development programs that respond to the needs of 
entrepreneurs, MSMEs and farmers, particularly women.  
1357.  Chinese Ta ipei noted that their AID strategy  includes ICT themes.  
1358.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)  submitted a link to their 
flagship programmes . 
1359.  European Union  (EU) referred to the EU Aid -for-Trade strategy  which notes that 
digitalisation is an enabling factor for accessing external markets and for integration into global value 
chains. Digital innovation h as already demonstrated its potential to offer solutions to local problems, 
reduce trade costs and offer new business opportunities. Technological trends help innovative SMEs 
enter the market. EU Aid for Trade will encourage investment in digital technolog ies and services, 
computerisation, e -Government and e -commerce logistics, as well as on technical assistance for 
governments to establish policies and favourable frameworks to cross -border e -commerce. In 
addition, there are regional cooperation strategies that involve digital connectivity among their 
priorities, like the EU Circular Economy Action Plan . 
1360.  Finland  noted that it has internal documents on this question, but  not a public one.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1361.  France  highlighted that digital connectivity had not been included in the 2009 French Aid for 
Trade Strategy.  
1362.  Germany  mentioned that German DC  supports the expansion and use of new technologies 
and design of the legal framework for digit al trade (including e -commerce and data transfer). This 
expands access to information and communications technologies (ICT), particularly in the least 
developed countries. In addition, Germany  promote s fair and sustainable trade through online 
platforms, b oth for goods and for digital services.  
1363.  Inter -American Development Bank (IDB)  made reference  to their Integration and Trade 
Sector Framework Document . 
1364.  International Islamic Trade Fin ance Corporation (ITFC) , on behalf of Islamic 
Development Bank’s Group (IsDB)  noted that for e -commerce, ITFC is collaborating with 
international organization (UNCTAD), to firstly improve the national readiness to engage in 
e-commerce and enhance capacity to formulate supportive public policies. These interventions are 
focusing on 7 key policy areas of particular relevance to e -commerce development: 1) Ecommerce 
readiness assessment and strategy formulation 2) ICT infrastructure and services 3) Trade logist ics 
and trade facilitation 4) Payment solutions 5) Legal and regulatory frameworks 6) E -commerce skills 
development 7) Access to financing. In this regard, it's worth mentioning that ICIEC provides 
supports for digital connectivity in Member Countries as i t is among the key priority sectors that 
helped Member Countries carry their economic activities online during COVID -related lockdown 
periods.  
1365.  International Trade Centre (ITC)  submitted a link to their Digital Transformation for Good  
Strategy. This strategy is currently under review – the implications are reflected in ITC's Strategi c 
Plan 2022 -25. 
1366.  Japan  quoted the Development Cooperation Charter , which says: "…Japan will provide 
assistance necessary to secure the foundations and the driving force for economic growth. Its scope 
includes: […] introduction of information and communications technology (ICT) and high 
technology …". 
1367.  Netherlands  mentioned that a number of their Aid -for-Trade activities focus on Digital 
Economy and E -commerce, such as Netherlands' support to th e UNCTAD work on E -commerce & 
Digital Economy . 
1368.  Norway  noted that there was nothing on digitalisation in the A4T White Paper from 2013.  
1369.  Slovenia  submitted that in its Development Cooperation Strategy , it places attention to digital 
entrepreneurship, pro motion of digital education and new digital skills, but not to digital connectivity.  
1370.  Switzerland  in their response submitted that the topics of digital connectivity, e -commerce 
and the digital economy are addressed in Switzerland's strategy on international cooperation . 
1371.  United Kingdom submitted that they do not have a specific strategy, but rather ever y 
programme has a digital connectivity objective. Much like gender, where they mainstream women’s 
economic empowerment through all programmes and not one specific programme. All programme 
teams must make take a view of the digital impact of their programme  and monitor this throughout 
implementation. In addition to this, several programmes across Foreign, Commonwealth & 
Development Office (FCDO) are specifically aimed at increasing digital connectivity (through 
improved infrastructure) and supporting e -comme rce platforms for those in developing and least 
developed countries.  
1372.  United States  made a reference to USAID Digital Strategy 2020 -2024 and the Policy for 
Trade Capacity Building . 
1373.  UNCTAD  (DTIC) noted that the ECDE Programme  has its five -year wor k plan (2019 -2023), 
which sets out all activities and work areas , including cross -cutting actions (gender and governance) 
under the Programme, following UNCTAD’s mandate. ICT infrastructure and s ervices, including 
digital connectivity, is one of the seven policy areas identified under the eTrade for All initiative . WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Through eTrade Readiness Assessments , UNCTAD help developing countries especially LDCs to 
assess the opportunities and challenges faced in these areas and develop action plan for strategy to 
enhan ce the digital development.  
1374.  United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)  reported that it does not have an Aid -
for-Trade strategy for digital connectivity. UNDP's Digital Strategy  is the ove rarching framework for 
UNDP’s work in this area, including enhanced support to e -commerce as a resilience tool for SMEs 
in response to the COVID -19 pandemic.  
1375.  United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)  provided a link to their 
E-commerce Training Academy  and to UNIDO Strategic Framework for the Fourth Industrial 
Revolution 2022 –2030. 
1376.  World Bank Group (WBG)  indicated that a particular priority of their trade support concerns 
the development of enabling regulatory frameworks for digital trade. WBG support to developing 
countries is needed to: (i) enhance understanding of the regulato ry frameworks for digital trade 
currently in place; (ii) assess regulatory practices for the different pillars of digital trade regulations, 
including the institutional requirements needed to ensure the adequate implementations of such 
regulations; and (ii i) consider how the policy interests and concerns of developing countries can be 
best addressed in international rules on digital trade.  
Sectors in which digital connectivity could best support the transition to sustainable 
development  
1377.  Services was identified as a top sector in which digital connectivity could best support the 
transition to sustainable development, as stated by 50 partner developing countries (94%), and all 
four RECs (100%). While 94% of donors also identified Services top sector, th ey also indicated 
Industry (88%) and Agriculture (75%) as prevalent sectors in which digital connectivity could best 
support the transition to sustainable development. The same applies for the responses received from 
South -South partners.  
1378.  In the case of LD Cs and LLDCs groups, Services was also identified as a top sector, and 
Industry and Agriculture as runners -up. Eight out of nine UN SIDS countries accorded equal 
importance to Services, Industry, Agriculture and Fisheries (89%).  
Regions and Groups: Sectors in which digital connectivity could best support the 
transition to sustainable development  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  Services  25 100%  
Industry  22 88% 
Agriculture  19 76% 
Fisheries  12 48% 
Forestry  9 36% 
Mining  7 28% 
Other  1 4% 
Asia Services  10 91% 
Industry  7 64% 
Agriculture  6 55% 
Fisheries  2 18% 
Forestry  1 9% 
Europe  Services, Industry, Agriculture, 
Forestry  1 each  100% each  
LACS Services  8 89% 
Industry, Agriculture  7 each  78% each  
Forestry  5 56% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Fisheries  4 44% 
Mining  3 33% 
Other  1 11% 
Pacific  Services, Industry, Agriculture, 
Fisheries  5 each  83% each  
Forestry  2 33% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC Services  28 97% 
Industry  24 83% 
Agriculture  21 72% 
Fisheries  12 41% 
Forestry  7 24% 
Mining  5 17% 
Other  1 3% 
LLDC Services  12 100%  
Industry  10 83% 
Agriculture  7 58% 
Forestry  5 42% 
Fisheries  4 33% 
Mining  3 25% 
UN SIDS  Services, Industry, Fisheries, 
Agriculture  8 each  89% each  
Forestry  3 33% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Sectors in which digital connectivity could best support the transition to sustainable 
development  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional  information provided by respondents on sectors in which digital connectivity 
could best support the transition to sustainable development  
1379.  A number of developing countries gave additional information on sector(s) where digital 
connectivity can best support a transition to sustainable development and the circular economy.  
1380.  Cambodia  made reference to - Digital Economy and the Fourth Industrial Revolution  (IR 4.0) , 
and - E-commerce sector [ as additional sectors in which digital connectivity can best support the 
transition to sustainable trade and the circular economy].  
1381.  Colombia  mentioned that a very high potential is seen in the selected sectors due to the 
realities of the country's agricultural and food production, its natural capital (in a position of 
conservation and protection) and the development of modern and efficient productive industries. 
The following can be highlighted: - Agro-climatic roundtables ; - Early warnings ; - Use of ICTs in the 
protection of biological diversity ( link 1 , link 2 ); - Strengthening the business sector in climate risk 
management . 
1382.  Comoros  submitted a link to their National Digital Development Agency's website ANADEN . 
1383.  Congo DR  mentioned finance, customs, transport, and communication [as additional sectors 
where digital connectivity could best support the transition to sustainable development in the 
country].  
1384.  Indonesia  noted that its government is aiming to make Indonesia the world's food barn by 
2045. To achieve this vision, the government has formulated several policies to maintain the stab ility 
of the national food security chain. One of them is empowering the digitization of MSMEs as a form 
of digital transformation. With technology, local Indonesian start -ups have emerged to take on the 
role of providing specialized solutions in funding a nd training for farmers and fishermen to use 
technology, as well as connecting local fishermen to a wider market using digital technology.  
1385.  Madagascar  noted in particular the trade in services (tourism, intellectual services) and the 
trade in goods in the f ield of agriculture and fishing [where digital connectivity could best support 
the transition to sustainable development].  
1386.  Mali mentioned the following: - The introduction of ICT can boost agricultural productivity by 
using sensors to monitor relative humi dity and soil fertility. - The use of probes to measure the 
density of fish or fishery resources . - The automation of the means of industrial and agricultural 
production . - The development of electronic commerce.  
1387.  Mauritius  submitted that the Economic Development Board (EDB) platform  can facilitate ease 
of doing business for attracting potential investors in the field of recycling. They further noted  that 
the private sector has initiated collaborations regarding sustainability . 
1388.  Pakistan  noted tha t weather forecasting  is shared with farmers on their cellular devices. 
Market and price information  are also provided using the same channel.  
1389.  Peru submitted that in accordance with the design of the National Digital Transformation 
Policy , the impact of the strategic use of digital technologies is felt in al l sectors and areas of the 
economy.  
1390.  Senegal  submitted that several electronic platforms have been developed.  
1391.  St. Lucia  reported that digital connectivity is seen as a cross cutting issue and enabler for all 
sectors [that they have marked as important in th e questionnaire, which are the following: 
agriculture, fisheries, forestry, industry, and services)].  
1392.  St. Vincent and the Grenadines mentioned Agriculture and Services – Trade Facilitation [as 
additional sectors in which digital connectivity can best suppo rt a transition to sustainable trade and 
the circular economy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1393.  Togo  noted agro -food clusters , agribusiness and agro -processing [as additional sectors in 
which digital connectivity can best support the transition to sustainable trade and the circular 
economy ]. 
1394.  Uganda  noted that Ugandan Digital Acceleration Project -GovNet (UDAP -GovNet)  supports the 
implementation of the governments’ flagship initiative, GovNet, which contributes to the objectives 
of Digital Uganda Vision  and the Digital Transformation Program  under the National Development 
Plan III . The project's aim is to develop shared platforms for ministries, departments, and agencies 
to efficiently deliver digitally enabled public services to citizens and businesses throughout th e 
country. These digital platforms will create the foundations for better resilience and economic 
recovery by boosting the effectiveness of government e -services that can be delivered remotely, in 
a paperless and cashless manner, reducing the need to trave l for government services.  
1395.  Vanuatu  made reference to their policies website  and EIF website . 
1396.  Several regional economic communities gave additional information on the sector(s) in which 
digital connectivity can best support a transition to sustainable trade and the circular economy.  
1397.  TradeMark East Africa (TMEA)  submitted that digital c onnectivity could best support the 
transition to sustainable development in these additional sectors: trade agencies in Government, e -
commerce for regional value chains, and locally produced products.  
1398.  West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU)  highlighted trade (e -commerce), 
customs procedures, financial sector, logistics and transport, public administration sector, and 
cooperation between member states as additional sectors where digital connectivity would best 
support the transition to sustai nable development in the region.  
1399.  No South –South questionnaire respondents provided additional information on the sector(s) 
in which digital connectivity can best support a transition to sustainable trade and the circular 
economy.  
1400.  Various  donors also provi ded additional information on the sector(s) in which digital 
connectivity can best support a transition to sustainable trade and the circular economy.  
1401.  Australia  noted that sectors where digital connectivity could best support the transition to 
sustainable development will vary according to a development partner’s specific circumstances and 
needs.  
1402.  Canada  added [other sectors where digital connectivity would best support the transition to 
sustainable development:] education; addressing the rural/urban divide ; access to markets for small 
holder farmers; access to e -health services. Greater financial inclusion for women, and equal access 
to capital, markets, digital technology and business development services will help more women in 
developing countries realiz e more opportunities to contribute to their own economic success and the 
economic success of their communities. Digital transformation is occurring in all sectors, and will 
enable all sectors to support the transition to sustainable development. From the p erspective of 
Canada's involvement at the ITU, health, education and, accessibility (including people with 
disabilities and special needs) are key.  
1403.  European Union  noted that the response to this question will be context -specific depending 
on the existing s tructure as well as economic, political and digitalization challenges and opportunities 
in the particular country. When prioritising between interventions, and before the design and roll -
out of them, a thorough analysis of the main local constraints is use d. Nevertheless, while increased 
digital connectivity could improve productivity, job creation and a move towards sustainable 
development in all sectors, some stand out more than others. In particular, the service sector entails 
IT services, digital financ ial access and not least e -commerce readiness which all are enablers for 
competitiveness in other sectors.  
1404.  Germany  noted that most (if not all) sectors profit from digital connectivity. Reliable, secure, 
affordable, and resource -efficient Internet access i s the foundation for sustainable digital 
transformation and the prerequisite for a digital and data economy.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1405.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC),  on behalf of Islamic 
Development Bank’s Group (IsDB)  mentioned MSMEs and Financial Innovat ion [as sectors where 
digital connectivity would best support the transition to sustainable development and a circular 
economy].  
1406.  Korea  further added public sector (government), education and renewable energy as 
additional sectors where digital connectivity  would best support the transition to sustainable 
development and a circular economy.  
1407.  Norway noted that they are not solely focusing on connectivity, but on access, content, and 
capacity strengthening as well.  
1408.  Sweden  added that digital connectivity in all sectors can support the transition to sustainable 
development. However, to provide a reasonable and well thought -through answer on what sectors 
to support specifically would require a substantial and not least a context -specific analysis.  
1409.  UNCTAD  mentioned that "connectivity is a big equalizer" – connectivity enhances participation 
in economic activities by people of all groups thereby inducing positive impact upon SDG1 and 
SDG10. In trade, connectivity has determined the survival of producers, exporters and  importers. 
The UNCTAD Creative Economy Program  addresses the transformative impact of digitalization upon 
the creative sectors in developing countries. At UNCTAD15, the Creative Industries and Trade 
Digitalization Forum  discussed how the creative sector could progress with digital transformation 
continues. International trends, tech nological advances and global processes play a key role in 
shaping the creative economy, as follows. Digitalization offers both opportunities and new challenges 
for the creative sector. On the one hand, the internet has made it possible to distribute creat ive 
work online. On the other hand, digital platforms rarely generate substantial remuneration for 
content creators and capture a significant share of revenue generated. A global digital divide persists 
with repercussions on the creative economy’s ability to be truly inclusive. Moreover, the gains in 
social linkages and cohesion created by face -to-face cultural experiences or the act of creation itself, 
might be lost with digitalization. These challenges raise issues related to the historical imbalances 
and asymmetries in the global creative and tech economies and their current impacts, rebuilding of 
the creative sector after COVID -19, the future of work, e -commerce platforms as well as terms of 
trade, gaining access to global distribution networks, building  digital skills and capacity, among 
others. On the impact of services upon trade and sustainable development, UNCTAD continues to 
examine the impact of connectivity upon improving financial inclusion of marginalized group, which 
would positively impact wom en’s economic empowerment.  
1410.  World Bank Group (WBG)  submitted that agriculture, industry and services play a key role 
[for digital connectivity supporting the transition to sustainable development].  
Issues where digita l connectivity would offer most promise in the move to sustainable 
development  
1411.  E-commerce was identified as a top issue where digital connectivity would offer most promise 
in the move to sustainable development, as stated by 51 out of 53 respondents to the partner 
country questionnaire (96%). This was followed by e -government (87%), e -learning (83%), and e -
logistics (74%) as the next top three issues indicated by the partner developing countries. Donors, 
on the other hand, referred to e -government as a top issue (77%), foll owed by e -commerce (74%) 
and e -learning (71%). The two top issues identified by regional economic communities are e -
government (100%) and e -commerce (75%). South -South partners gave equal importance to e -
government, e -commerce and e -learning (75% each).  
1412.  In the case of LDCs, LLDCs, and UN SIDS, e -commerce fared complete support for all these 
group countries (100% each). Common runners -up include e -government for LDCs (90%) and 
LLDCs (75%), while for UN SIDS, equal importance was accorded to e -government, e -healthcare 
and e -learning (89%).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 239 - 
 
  Regions and Groups: Issues where digital connectivity would offer most promise in the 
move to sustainable development  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  E-commerce  24 96% 
E-government  23 92% 
E-logistics  20 80% 
E-learning  19 76% 
E-civil service, E -healthcare, 
Transport information systems  17 each  68% each  
Digital contents  14 56% 
Home energy management systems, 
Smart energy grids  11 each 44% each  
Smart work  10 40% 
Real-time navigation, Telepresence  9 each 36% each  
Innovation and technology for 
gender equality  8 32% 
Smart motors  5 20% 
Other  1 4% 
Asia E-commerce  10 91% 
E-government, E -learning  9 each 82% each 
Transport information systems  7 64% 
E-civil service, E -healthcare, E -
logistics  6 each 55% each 
Real-time navigation  3 27% 
Smart energy grids, Smart work  2 each 18% each 
Innovation and technology for 
gender equality  1 9% 
LACS E-commerce, E -learning  9 each 100%  each 
E-government, E -healthcare, E -
logistics, Telepresence  7 each 78% each 
E-civil service, Innovation and 
technology for gender equality, 
Smart work  6 each 67% each 
Digital contents, Real -time 
navigation, Transport information 
systems  4 each 44% each 
Smart energy grids  3 33% 
Home energy management systems  2 22% 
Smart motors  1 11% 
Pacific  E-commerce  6 100%  
E-government, E -healthcare, E -
learning  5 each 83% each 
Digital contents, E -logistics, Smart 
energy grids, Transport information 
systems  4 each 67% each 
Home energy management systems, 
Smart work  3 each 50% each 
E-civil service, Real -time navigation  2 each 33% each 
Innovation and technology for 
gender equality, Smart motors, 
Telepresence  1 each 17% each 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC E-commerce  29 100%  
E-government  26 90% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  E-learning  21 72% 
E-logistics  20 69% 
E-healthcare, Transport information 
systems  19 each 66% each 
E-civil service  18 62% 
Digital contents  16 55% 
Smart energy grids  11 38% 
Real-time navigation, Smart work  10 each 34% each 
Home energy management systems, 
Telepresence  8 each 28% each 
Innovation and technology for 
gender equality  7 24% 
Smart motors  5 17% 
Other  1 3% 
LLDC E-commerce  12 100%  
E-government  9 75% 
E-logistics  8 67% 
E-civil service, E -learning  7 each 58% each 
Digital contents, Transport 
information systems  6 each 50% each 
E-healthcare, Smart work  5 each 42% each 
Home energy management systems, 
Innovation and technology for 
gender equality  4 each 33% each 
Real-time navigation, Smart energy 
grids, Telepresence  3 each 25% each 
Smart motors  2 17% 
Other  1 8% 
UN SIDS  E-commerce  9 100%  
E-government, E -healthcare, E -
learning  8 each 89% each 
Digital contents, E -logistics, Smart 
energy grids  7 each 78% each 
E-civil service, Smart work, 
Transport information systems  5 each 56% each 
Home energy management systems, 
Real-time navigation  4 each 44% each 
Telepresence  3 33% 
Innovation and technology for 
gender equality, Smart motors  2 each 22% each 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 241 - 
 
  Issues where digital connectivity would offer most promise in the move to sustainable 
development  
 
Source : OECD/WTO AfT M&E  exercise (2022)  
Additional information provided by respondents on issues where digital connectivity 
would offer most promise in the move to sustainable development  
1413.  A number of developing countries gave additional information on the issues where digital 
connectivity would offer most promise in the move to sustainable development.  
1414.  Congo DR  noted finances in the digital payment area as an area where digital connectivity 
would offer most promise in the move to sustainable development.  
1415.  Indonesia  reported that i t is the largest archipelagic country with a dispersed population. 
Therefore, the provision of services with the help of digitalization will have an impact on mobility 
efficiency. This will reduce energy consumption for people's transportation which will a ffect the 
consumption of unsustainable fossil fuels. With the unequal distribution of locations for government 
public service providers, health services, education services with the location of the beneficiaries, 
digital technology helps the rural populati on to get services that are easily found in urban areas, but 
very difficult to find in rural areas. E -commerce economic activities, which are currently very often 
found in urban areas, can be distributed to rural areas with the help of digital connectivity . 
1416.  Madagascar  highlighted that remote intellectual service in the form of subcontracting is 
booming in Madagascar, particularly with the involvement of young people leaving computer schools. 
Currently, there are projects of federations of small and medium -sized enterprises around a digital 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 242 - 
 
  platform to help them improve their visibility, their (solidarity) marketing and their positioning on 
the external market.  
1417.  Mali mentioned - increase in the performance of the administration; - establishment of good 
governa nce; - improvement of procedures and methods of management of public 
affairs;  - restoration of trust between the administration and users; - increase in the tax 
base;  - securing the means of exchange [as additional issues where digital connectivity would o ffer 
most promise in the move to sustainable development].  
1418.  Moldova  pointed out to e -government procurement, e -banking (financial sector), e -textiles 
industry, e -signatures, etc [as additional issues where digital connectivity would offer most promise 
in the move to sustainable development].  
1419.  St. Lucia  noted that the Draft National Policy for Digital Connectivity touches on all of the 
areas identified with projects currently ongoing in most areas.  
1420.  Uganda  submitted a link to the Voluntary National Review Report on the Implementation of 
the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development . 
1421.  Vanuatu  submitted that the National ICT policy  is currently being developed to be launched 
this year. Vanuatu also submitted a link for other related policies.  
1422.  One reg ional economic communities gave additional information on the issues where digital 
connectivity would offer most promise in the move to sustainable development.  Pacific Islands 
Forum Secretariat (PIFS) reported that digital connectivity can help monitoring  activities with a 
potential to deplete natural resources such as fisheries, forestry, and mining. Sustainable small -scale 
tourism can be enabled by digital connectivity. Digital connectivity can provide tools to farmers 
processors in remote rural areas to  pursue sustainable agriculture and agro -processing practices.  
1423.  No South –South questionnaire respondents provided additional information on the issues 
where digital connectivity would offer most promise in the move to sustainable development.  
1424.  Various donors  also provided additional information on the issues where digital connectivity 
would offer most promise in the move to sustainable development.  
1425.  Asian Development Bank (ADB)  submitted green manufacturing or global value chains 
(SDTC -RCI), digital traceability of products and materials, remote sensing for environmental 
monitoring (SDTC -ENV), smart tech (like water -saving) (EAPF) as additional issues where digital 
connectivity would offer most promise in the move to sustainable development.  
1426.  Australia  noted that service delivery, economic transactions, logistics and energy use can 
involve relatively large carbon footprints. Therefore, moving to digital approaches could promote 
better accessibility, efficiency, and sustainability.  
1427.  Canada  submitted that in the area of gender equality , digital connectivity would allow women 
to balance childcare/unpaid care work with economic opportunities in part by removing 
transportation related ba rriers to women’s economic participation. Increased access to digital 
content, e -civil service, e -commerce, e -government, innovation and technology would help address 
gender equality. Under -Served Populations  - E-civil service and E -government would assist  in 
reaching underserved populations, while digital content and e -commerce for sustainable livelihoods. 
It was also noted that digital transformation is occurring in all sectors and is being directed by market 
forces. The sectors with the greatest ability to adopt digital technologies as well as those with the 
most potential promise are more rapidly adopting. From the perspective of ITU, health, education 
and, accessibility (including people with disabilities and special needs) are key. As part of the $200 
million, eight years (2020 -2028) support to Grand Challenges Canada (GCC) , specific elements of 
the work being undertaken enable technology transfer from Canada to low - and middle -income 
countries. In additio n, global access requirements for innovators funded by GCC will also be 
negotiated as part of this funding arrangement. This program supports innovators to develop and 
transition -to-scale innovations that improve the health, human rights, and well -being of  women, 
adolescents, and children in low - and middle -income countries, including conflict -affected areas. This 
program also aims to increase gender -responsive and locally driven health products and services, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 243 - 
 
  especially for the most marginalized and vulnera ble populations. Examples of Canadian innovations 
implemented in low - and middle -income countries include predictive machine learning for maternal, 
newborn and child health in Rwanda; tablet -based interventions to improve family planning access 
for HIV pos itive women in Cambodia; focused ultrasound for the treatment of uterine fibroids in 
Egypt; electricity -free cold chain for vaccine delivery in India; biodegradable mosquito traps in 
Brazil; and digital virtual support for COVID -19 patients in Kenya. Any i ntellectual property created 
with funding from Grand Challenges Canada should be made broadly accessible to and affordable in 
the relevant context. Innovators may apply for and maintain intellectual property protection for 
funded solutions, but must admini ster their rights in a manner that will not impede achievement of 
access and affordability in these settings. Generally, ownership and control of intellectual property 
remains with the funding recipient, subject to applicable laws and policies.  
1428.  European Un ion (EU) mentioned that the response to the question will be context -specific 
depending on the existing structure as well as economic, political and digitalization challenges and 
opportunities in the particular country. When prioritising between interventi ons, and before the 
design and roll -out of them, a thorough analysis of the main local constraints is carried out.  
1429.  Germany  submitted that Smart Development Approac hes of the German Ministry for 
Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) include Digital platforms (business to business, 
business to customer, government to citizen), e -Learning as a digital platform, e -government/ 
GovTech, and telemedicine platforms. On e of the goals of the digital strategy of the BMZ is to support 
e-commerce through fair digital work. Blockchain for transparency of global supply chains.  
1430.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC),  on behalf of Islamic 
Development Bank’s Group  (IsDB)  highlighted di gitisation and taxation. For example, the Arab 
states have concerns about the impact on their tax regimes of digital commerce which can impact 
upon both their direct and indirect taxation systems. It is clear that global international  income tax 
rules are not ‘fit for purpose’ in the modern digital global economy. Aid for Trade Initiative for the 
Arab States (AfTIAS) 2.0 Program  will utilise the Resear ch & Surveys Facility to extend the 
knowledge base on the taxing rights on income generated from cross -border activities and how this 
should be allocated among countries and on the fundamental aspects of the international tax system 
(“profit allocation” an d “nexus” rules).  
1431.  International Trade Centre (ITC) noted digitization of value chains, enabling transparency 
on inputs, production and transportation [as issues  where digital connectivity would offer most 
promise in the move to sustainable development].  
1432.  Sweden  wrote that its development cooperation does not look at any issues in isolation as to 
how promising these are in a move towards sustainable development. Wh at can be mentioned here, 
however, is that when dealing with digital connectivity as a way to support a move towards 
sustainable development, it is important to put inclusion and human rights perspective as an integral 
part of these endeavours.  
1433.  Switzerland  highlighted another issue where digital connectivity would offer promise in the 
move to sustainable development, as Artificial Intelligence (AI) for M&E, for example, to halt 
deforestation and valuate natural capital.  
1434.  United States  submitted a link to the eTrade for Business Alliance . 
1435.  UNCTAD noted that its upcoming study “Digitalization of services: What does it imply to trade 
and development?” dis cusses how connectivity can transform the modes of cross -border services 
supply. As consumers of e -healthcare and e -education, developing countries could benefit in their 
progress in meeting SDG 3 (Health) and SDG4 (Education). However, this could potentia lly 
"eradicate" domestic producers and delivery of such services. Through Services Policy Review , 
UNCTAD supports developing countries examine services policy framew orks that would support 
countries’ long -term objective of economic diversification and sustainable development in all three 
dimensions.  
1436.  UNIDO  explained that digital connectivity offers promise for climate neutral industry and 
circular economy. Developing c ountries can best tap into Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy, optimize resources use, implement circular 
models and reduce industrial emissions.  
1437.  World Bank Group (WBG) submitted that all [areas they ticked] are relevant across various 
country settings, with e -government, e -learning, e -healthcare, smart energy grids, smart 
mobility/transportation and smart work being particularly important.  
Existence of Aid -for-Trade project s for digital connectivity t owards sustainable 
development and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or circular economy)  
1438.  Only 13 out of the 53 partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire (25%) indicated that they have Aid -for-Trade proje cts for digital 
connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or 
circular economy). Twenty -one of them answered negatively (41%), while 17 respondents (33%) 
were unsure of the existence of Aid -for-Trade project for  digital connectivity.  
1439.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest number of total responses, however, the majority 
of the respondents (60%) indicated that they do not have an existing Aid -for-Trade project for digital 
connectivity towards sustainable d evelopment and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or 
circular economy). On the other hand, however, the majority of Latin America and the Caribbean 
countries responding to the questionnaire (63%) indicated that there is an existing Aid -for-Trade 
projec t for digital connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally sustainable 
growth.  
1440.  Fifty-four percent per cent of LDC respondents and 64% of LLDC respondents also indicated 
that they do not have Aid -for-Trade project for digital connecti vity towards sustainable development 
and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or circular economy).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Regions and Groups: Existence of Aid -for-Trade project s for digital connectivity towards 
sustainable development and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or circular 
economy)  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  2 8% 
Asia 3 30% 
Europe  0 0% 
LACS 5 63% 
Pacific  3 50% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per 
group  
LDC 4 14% 
LLDC 0 0% 
UN SIDS  4 44% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
Existence of Aid -for-Trade project s for digital connectivity towards sustainable 
development and/or environmentally sustainable growth ( or circular economy)  
 
Source : OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information provided by respondents on the existence of Aid -for-Trade project s 
for digital connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally 
sustainable growth (or circular economy)  
1441.  Several developing countries provided additio nal information on the existence of Aid -for-Trade 
project for digital connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally sustainable 
growth (or circular economy) as an example of best practice.  
1442.  Bangladesh  referred to its Info Sarker project . 
1443.  Cambodia made mention of their E-Commerce Strategy , developed with the aim to build  the 
ecosystem of e -commerce in Cambodia to flourish. Cambodian MSMEs have grown and diversified 
their domestic and cross -border e -commerce sales of products and services based on a robust, 
supportive and conducive e -commerce ecosystem and a Cambodia -owned  and managed 
marketplace which the Ministry of Commerce is developing a Business to Business to Consumer 
(B2B2C) Marketplace called " CambodiaTrade " with the aim to expand export of Cambodian -made 
products to the global market.  
1444.  Congo DR  noted that the new Ministry intends to prepare such a project [on digital 
connectivity].  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 246 - 
 
  1445.  Fiji provided a link to the Pacific Regional E -Commerce Strategy and Roadmap . 
1446.  Mauritius  highlighted that its Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate 
Change  is implementing th e Consumer Information System which is a digital platform to inform the 
public about environment -friendly and sustainable products. The public can change their 
consumption patterns by choosing the most eco -friendly product for consumption.  
1447.  Pakistan  noted that the Digital Youth Summit 2019  under the World Bank in Khyber 
Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province drew around 10,000 youth in the conference and had companies like 
Facebook and civil society groups such as Media Matters for Democracy  and the Digital Rights 
Foundation  in attendance. It has pivoted Pakistan’s digital industry to KPK province.  
1448.  St. Lucia  listed Digital Government Programme (Digigov) , Government Island Wide Network 
Project (GI Net) , and the Caribbean Regional Communication Infrastructure Program (CARCIP)  [as 
examples of Aid -for-Trade projects for best practice in digital connectivity towards sustainable 
development and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or circular economy)].  
1449.  Togo  highlighted its new Capacity Building Project for the Development of Electronic 
Commerce in Togo (PRoCET, 2022 -2026) , which is scheduled to be launched in the coming months. 
This project is fed by the natio nal diagnosis of the situation of e -commerce and the ongoing reforms 
on digitalization. Its implementation will significantly impact Togo's digital infrastructure and global 
connectivity for sustainable development and a certain digital transition.  
1450.  One reg ional economic communit y provided additional information on the existence of Aid -for-
Trade project for digital connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally 
sustainable growth (or circular economy) as an example of best practice. West  African Economic 
and Monetary Union (WAEMU)  submitted that the WAEMU Commission, through the Department 
of Enterprise Development, Mines, Energy and Digital Economy, leads the Regional Program for the 
Development of the Digital Economy  to contribute to the increase of the use of digital services in 
economic and social activities in the WAEMU space. The specific objectives of this program are: 1. 
Strengthen the governance of the digital economy sector; 2. Improve user access to digital s ervices; 
3. Increase the supply of digital services; 4. Develop innovation, research and build capacity. The 
main expected results are: A legislative and regulatory framework adapted to technological 
developments is implemented; The effectiveness of mechan isms regulation of the digital economy 
sector is improved; Population confidence in the use of digital technology is strengthened; The 
economic accessibility of digital services is improved; The coverage and availability of infrastructure 
are improved; The  provision of digital services is increased; - Mechanisms for the promotion of 
Digital Service Providers are implemented; - The capacities of professionals in the creation, 
distribution and promotion of digital content are strengthened; Technical cooperati on between 
training institutes on Telecommunications/ICT is strengthened. The Regional Program for the 
Development of the Digital Economy, which is being implemented, has made it possible to obtain 
the following results: - a draft legislative and regulator y framework is available and under discussion 
in the Member States; - Twenty Priority Digital Public Services (SPNP) have been chosen to be 
provided by the Member States within a period of twelve to eighteen months; - Five draft community 
texts aimed at pr omoting digital uses are in the process of being adopted; - Technical support 
Member States to digitize three SPNPs,  - Financial support for Member States to implement "digital 
box" pilot projects to fight against the digital divide; - Definition of main a nd emergency inter -state 
fiber optic links.  
1451.  No South –South questionnaire respondents provided additional information on the existence 
of Aid -for-Trade project for digital connectivity towards sustainable development and/or 
environmentally sustainable growt h (or circular economy) as an example of best practice.  
1452.  Various donors provided additional information on the existence of Aid -for-Trade project for 
digital connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or 
circular  economy) as an example of best practice.  
1453.  Asian Development Bank (ADB)  made reference to several ongoing projects for digital 
connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or 
circular economy) as examples of best p ractice: 1) Sustainable Tourism Development Project  for 
Mongolia; 2) Climate -Resilient and Sustainable Livestock Development Project , also for Mongolia; WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  and 3) Inner Mongolia Sustainable Cross -Border Development Investment Program , for People's 
Republic of China (PRC).  
1454.  Canada  referred to DOT - Digital Livelihoods: Youth and the Future of Work at Scale  and 
Daring to Shift: Young Women at the Centre of Inclusive Growth  [as two examples of Aid-for-Trade 
projects for digital connectivity towards sustainable development and/or environmentally 
sustainable growth].  
1455.  Chinese Taipei  [referred to several proj ects for digital connectivity towards sustainable 
development and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or circular economy) as examples of best 
practice ]: 1) Project for ICT in Education in St. Lucia , 2) Intelligent Bus Management and Monitoring 
System Project for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , 3) St. Kitts and Nevis Land Administration 
Information System Project , 4) Belize Motor Vehicle Registration and License System Project , and 
5) Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS) project for Saint Vincent and 
the Grenadines . 
1456.  Czech Republic referred to 2021 Bosnia and Herzegovina's "Improvement of customer 
services of SMEs through Czech know -how transfer in the field of modern technologies and 
automated communication". Within the project a modern automated communication technology 
device called "Chatbot" was established. This way the needed know -how and equi pment was 
transferred to the Foreign Trade Chamber of Bosnia and Herzegovina in order to help to improve 
performance and services of local small and medium sized enterprises.  
1457.  European Union  (EU) explained that in terms of Aid for Trade, digital connectivit y and 
environmental issues, one important achievement has been the launch of the Open Timber Portal . 
This open data platform provides reliable information on forest producers, facilitating in turn the 
enforceme nt of the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) . It is established based on the legality grid 
developed by national actors as part of the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA)  process between 
the producer country and the European Union. A VPA is a legally binding trade agreement between 
the EU and a timber -exporting country outside the EU. A VPA aims to ensure that all timber and 
timber products destined for the EU market from a partner country comply with the laws of that 
country. The launch of the Digital for Development (D4D) Hub  in December 2020 as a global multi -
stakeholder platform marks a tur ning point in the EU’s international partnerships to support a 
human -centric and green digital transformation. The D4D Hub bundles the multitude of digital 
initiatives by European actors for unparalleled coordinated impact. To this date, eleven EU  Member 
States (Germany, Belgium, France, Estonia, Luxembourg, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, the Netherlands, 
Lithuania, and Finland) have signed a Letter of Intent to cooperate under the D4D  Hub towards a 
single European digital development strategy . The D4D Hub will form regional branches in Africa, 
Asia, Latin America and th e Caribbean, as well as in the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood and include all 
relevant stakeholders from their respective regions. To strengthen digital innovation networks in 
Africa and promote intercontinental dialogue between African and European innovators  and 
policymakers, the African European Digital Innovation Bridge (AEDIB)  will create important 
opportunit ies for employment and pave the way for economic growth and recovery. Initiated by EU 
Member States (France, Belgium, and Germany) and the European Commission, the AEDIB will 
establish a PanAfrican network of Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs) . This network will encourage joint 
ventures between Africa and Europe and provide technical innovation expertise and exper imentation 
for small and mid -size enterprises and start -ups. AEDIB will connect information and 
communications technology professionals, investors, academia, incubators, and national, regional 
and local authorities. By facilitating access to financing for African DIHs and mutual learning and 
joint solution development, AEDIB will help solve technological and entrepreneurial challenges, of 
which climate -smart agriculture is one of three to be noted. A special focus on reaching and including 
youth and women w ill be incorporated through the Digital and Entrepreneurial Skills Academy . The 
partners in the AEDIB cover more than 80  countries, of which over 30 have already established DIHs 
(ca. 300 European DIH to date), with the vision to ultimately establish DIHs in every country, 
facilitating the creation of a single market for digital innovation in Africa and Europe. The Sustainab le 
Business for Uganda (SB4U) platform  is a structured inclusive discussion platform between European 
and Uganda public and private sector stakeholders that identify, prioritize, and recommend 
consensus and fact -based solutions to the improvement of Uganda ’s Trade and Investment 
environment. This was established in line with the Africa -Europe Alliance for Sustainable Investment 
and Jobs . The Platform is an innov ative mechanism to engage public and private actors in Uganda 
and the EU to strengthen the investment climate, particularly concerning the green economy. One 
of three aims is to strategically engage the national government on key constraints, remedies and WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  opportunities for sustainable and green investment. EU support to the platform is provided through 
the "Inclusive Green Economy Uptake Programme – GreenUP " (2019 -2022; EUR 45 million) and 
"Promoting Inclusive Green Economy – PIGE" project  (2019 -2022; EUR 60 mil lion). Similar initiatives 
to promote digitalisation are being launched in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as Asia and 
the Pacific. In Latin America, for example, the EU has been supporting digital transformation for 
more than 20 years, from incre asing connectivity access (both infrastructure and Technical 
Assistance and Capacity -building (TACB)) and supporting the social, educational and economic 
transformation.  
1458.  Germany  made a reference to Make-IT Initiative , which supports the establishment of local 
and digital innovation ecosystems for inclusive and sustainable development in the partner countries 
of German Development Cooperation, thus enablin g local actors to participate in the global economy. 
The regional programme Make -IT in Africa  believes in the catalytic power of African innovation and 
digital technologies for green and inclusive deve lopment. In close collaboration with digital 
visionaries like start -ups, innovation enablers and political partners, the project empowers African 
innovation ecosystems. African digital visionaries develop innovative digital solutions that can have 
signific ant impact on the lives of people and their environment – for example, to make cities, health 
systems and agricultural supply chains more sustainable and accessible. On the road to 
breakthrough, they face challenges like access to skills and markets as wel l as a lack of networks 
and enabling conditions. Make -IT in Africa believes only a collaborative and systemic approach can 
overcome these obstacles. Together with partners from the public and private sector, civil society 
as well as universities a strong f oundation for digital innovation is co -created by empowering 
innovation ecosystems. The common goal is to make these innovation ecosystems future -ready —to 
build a resilient environment for digital visionaries and their partners. So, they can create impactf ul 
change in Africa —socially, environmentally, and economically. Deutsche Gesellschaft für 
Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH implements the project on behalf of the German 
Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) with a pan -African focus. After 
a successful first phase the project started into its second phase in October 2020 and is expected to 
run until end April 2024. The total volume of the project is 23.8  million euros. GovStack  – Together 
with Estonia, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL) , 
the EU Commission, Smart Africa, as well as the World Bank, GSMA and SAP, the BMZ is cooperatin g 
to digitize public administration in partner countries. By specifying and developing open and 
interoperable ICT building blocks, such as components for digital identities (identification and 
authentication) or electronic payment services (payment), GovSt ack promotes digital public goods 
and infrastructure. In doing so, it expands secure access to digital services and thus supports more 
inclusive and citizen -centric societies.  
1459.  Inter -American Development Bank (IaDB)  mentioned that digital connectivity has h elped 
Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) countries’ economies to continue functioning. IaDB’s platform 
ConnectAmericas  provides support to LAC countries to carry out trade and investment activities. In 
2021, the IaDB hosted a series of investment -promotion forums in Belize, Brazil, Ecuador and Miami, 
as well as 12 trade promotion forums, which drew almost 100,000  participants. The events 
generated $55 billion in expected business deals. In 2022, the IaDB plans  to hold another round of 
investment and trade forums in Jamaica, Panama and Paraguay, among other countries. Another 
example is Costa Rica’s Green Growth Platform  is a program that pr omotes greener production that 
fosters sustainability and export diversification. This program facilitates interaction among different 
actors to support the efforts of the companies that undertake green initiatives. Through seed capital 
(non-reimbursable f unds), MSMEs from the agricultural, food, industry or services sectors are able 
to access to finance to transform its productive process. More than 250 companies have benefited, 
46% of them are led by women, more than 1,500 tonnes of CO2 have been avoided and exports 
have increased by more than 20%.  
1460.  International Trade Center (ITC)  submitted that it has joined forces with Farmer Connect  
to digitalize  the coffee supply chain of women -owned small and medium -sized enterprises in 
Rwanda.  
1461.  Japan  pointed out that the government has funded projects in the Federal Republic of Somalia 
and Palestine through International Trade Centre (ITC). The Somalia project focuses on capacity 
building and creating market linkages for digital services for returnees  and internally displaced 
people. The Palestine project  focuses on technical and vocational training on digital channels for 
youth.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1462.  Korea  noted that Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF)  committed USD  35 million 
in 2021 to improve the digital connectivity of public institutions and households in El Salvador. The 
objective is to improve connectivity access through investment in resilient digital infrastructure and 
reduce the digital skills and competencies gap in connected public sites.  
1463.  Netherlands  in their submission showcased the UN CTAD work on E-commerce and Digital 
Development  for the promotion of digital trade for sustainable development, including technical 
assistance for eTrade Readiness Assessments  and implementation of the recommendations , suppor t 
to the eTrade for All initiative  and the eTrade for Women initiative . The UNCTA D-led eTrade for 
Women initiative is creating regional networks to help women digital entrepreneurs access the 
resources needed to succeed and contribute to sustainable development.  
1464.  Sweden  noted that the Swedish Inter national Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA)  
supports the International Trade Centre (ITC), and that it works on GreenToCompete  and SheTrades . 
Digitalisation of certain trade processes as such is a step towards a more sustainable 
development/sustrainable growth. ITC’s GreentoCompete Hubs responded with integrated solutions 
and tools for MSMEs to better understand the benefits of  sustainable business practices and build 
their capacity to implement resource efficient and inclusive business strategies. The 
GreenToCompete Hubs act as one -stop shops for MSMEs to develop and implement green business 
practices, increasing access to gree n finance and international markets for sustainable products. The 
ITC SheTrades Initiative, through its diverse network of partners, ramped up its support to women 
entrepreneurs during the pandemic. It strengthened women’s inclusion in supply chains, enhan ced 
information access, facilitated the use of digital technologies and tools, provided skills development 
and capacity building, and launched tailored financial products to support women entrepreneurs. In 
addition, Sweden/SIDA supports the World Customs O rganisation in its work of modernising customs 
agencies in 12 countries in sub -Saharan Africa. Digitalisation and connectivity are key parts of this 
support for instance since digitalisation of customs agencies increases the userability, shortens 
administr ative lead -times and decreases the risk of corruption.  
1465.  United Kingdom  had submitted that the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office 
(FCDO's) Growth Gateway  is a single access point for businesses to the UK government’s offer on 
trade, finance, and investment. The  Growth Gateway is a business support service that brings 
together what the UK government offers for trade, finance, and investment between the UK and 
African countries.  
1466.  United States  made reference to Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP)  
and to the fact that USAID has launched a new project  to increase digital connectivity in the 
Philippines.  
1467.  UNCTAD noted that digitalization of services has significantly positive impact upon consumers 
of low -income countries if they are effectively co nnected to internet. However, this fully opens the 
domestic services market to foreign services suppliers, the impact of which could be positive or 
negative, depending on a country's policy framework. UNCTAD  also submitted a link to its Trade 
Information Portal in East Africa  and to the UNCTAD e -learning platform on Trade Facilitation . 
1468.  UNIDO  made reference to Circular Economy, Impact Financing and Industry 4.0 . 
1469.  World Bank Group (WBG)  submitted a link to the Digital Economy for Africa Initiative . 
COVID -19 pandemic as an accelerator for the move to digital economy  
1470.  Fifty (50) out of 53 partner developing country governments that replied to the 
self-assessment questionnaire (94%) i ndicated that COVID -19 pandemic has acted as an accelerator 
for the move to digital economy in their country, the same applying to the majority of donors as 
well (89%). All four responses from regional economic communities and four from South -South 
partner s fully agree (100%) that the pandemic has acted as an accelerator for the move to digital 
connectivity.  
1471.  Across all regions, Africa records the highest share with 24 respondents (96%) indicating that 
COVID -19 pandemic has acted as an accelerator for the mo ve to digital economy. Ninety -seven WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 250 - 
 
  percent of LDC respondents and 92% of LLDC respondents indicated that COVID -19 pandemic has 
acted as an accelerator for the move to digital economy.  
Regions and Groups:  COVID -19 pandemic as an accelerator for the move to  digital 
economy  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  24 96% 
Asia 10 91% 
Europe  1 100%  
LACS 8 89% 
Pacific  6 100%  
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 28 97% 
LLDC 11 92% 
UN SIDS  9 100%  
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
COVID -19 pandemic as an accelerator for the move to digital economy  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information provid ed by respondents on COVID -19 pandemic as an accelerator 
for the move to di gital economy  
1472.  A number of developing countries provided additional information on the impact of the 
pandemic on the uptake of the digital economy.  
1473.  Bangladesh  noted that e -commerce [was] accelerated during COVID -19 pandemic.  
1474.  Colombia  submitted that during COVID 19's attention to the crisis, ICTs have enabled new 
ways of executing government, business and individual activities. Many of the social care 
mechanisms  have been able to continue their development through online interaction and have 
become a tool to fight inequality in sectors such as education and health. This can be seen in the 
increase in the Digital Ownership Index (CNC) from 0.23 in February 2020 to  0.39 in November 
2020. Preventive isolation measures decreed by the national government have increased internet 
traffic in the country. According to Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC)  studies, towards 
the beginning of the quarantine in March 2020, traffic increased by around 38.5%, while between 
March and December of that year, traffic exceeded the annual average of around 2.3  billion GB, with 
a peak of 2.652 billion GB during the mont h of August. This widespread increase in traffic leads to 
increased download speeds, with traffic increasing by 75% in the period from March 2020 to April 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  2021, and average mobile and fixed internet download speeds increasing by 3.4% and 14.5%, 
respectivel y. A People Media study found that Colombians now spend more time online, from an 
average of 9 hours before the pandemic to 10 hours, making it one of the countries where people 
spend the most time online. The same study also found that 48% of people start ed to consider digital 
channels for shopping, making e -commerce increasingly relevant for consumers in Colombia. 
According to figures from the Ministry of ICT, the number of digital transactions made in Colombia 
increased from 136 million to 405 million in  the period 2018 -2020. Finally, according to the National 
Survey of Quality of Life in Colombia , the percentage of people who use a special ised programming 
language increased between 2019 and 2020, from 11.8% to 27.4%, and the percentage of people 
who use the internet for procedures with government entities (national, departmental or municipal) 
increased from 7.6% to 10.7%.  
1475.  Comoros  noted that  the pandemic has significantly contributed to the emergence of some e -
commerce companies.  
1476.  Congo DR  noted the regular use of teleconferencing to participate in meetings, as well as 
gatherings or international training via the internet, following travel res trictions as a result of the 
COVID -19 pandemic.  
1477.  Equatorial Guinea  highlighted that the restrictions adopted by governments to contain the 
pandemic have forced many to consider that the world is already becoming digital, and Equatorial 
Guinea has not been e xempted. They realize that the pandemic has given rise to the heyday of the 
digital economy and surely there is no turning back.  
1478.  Grenada  noted that it [the pandemic] has forced many MSMEs to offer their services through 
online platforms.  
1479.  Guinea  Bissau  highlighted teleworking and e -commerce [as areas where the pandemic has 
had an impact on].  
1480.  Indonesia , referring to a World Bank study , "direct and indirect VAT revenue potential from 
taxing the dig ital economy in Indonesia”, the behavioural change from offline to online activity has 
accelerated adoption of digital technologies, which can be expected to be enduring. Estimates from 
industry indicate that 93 percent of new adoptees expect to stay with at least one of the new digital 
services post -COVID -19. If true, this would imply a major boost to Indonesia’s internet economy 
which, at an estimated US$44 billion in gross merchandise value, is not only the largest in Southeast 
Asia, but also the fastest  growing.  
1481.  Madagascar  mentioned that the restrictions imposed by the pandemic have made it possible 
to develop digital solutions such as webinars, online sales, etc.  
1482.  Mali noted that videoconference meetings have replaced face -to-face meetings. Online 
commer ce has increased. Exporters have started to take more interest in online sales. 
Administrations have achieved economies of scale on travel through teleworking.  
1483.  Mauritius  reported that businesses and other institutions have embarked on digitizing their 
operations in order to facilitate their employees to work from home. The public sector has also 
emphasized the work from home principle which requires access to a digital platform.  
1484.  Mexico  recognizes that the pandemic accelerated the digitalization, and that th rough the 
Digital Transformation they can achieve a strong, sustainable and inclusive economic recovery, 
without leaving anyone behind. For this to happen, they need to join and redouble efforts, identify 
regional differences and especially ensure that tho se people who have been historically excluded 
from technological changes, are taken into account by identifying their needs in order to benefit 
from the opportunities offered by digital transformation. Discussing opportunities , since the COVID -
19 pandemic began, and to date, a large part of economic and social activities have been carried 
out mainly by digital means, turning digital transformation into the engine of economic growth, by 
providing them with great opportunities, such as: a) the ability to cont inue with their work activities, 
through telecommuting, b) sell goods and/or services to different markets through different digital 
platforms, that is, using electronic commerce, c) Acquire new skills, through online courses, d) 
increase productivity by i mproving their production processes, e) making use of big data and new WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  technological tools such as the Internet of Things [IoT] and cybersecurity. Discussing challenges , 
the digital transformation also brought great challenges, especially in the Latin Amer ican region, 
where the degree of development, adoption and use of Information and Communication 
Technologies is still low, so they must work in a coordinated manner to face the challenges that 
digital transformation entails, such as: a) having an adequate infrastructure, b)  promote the 
development of digital skills, and c) work with micro, small and medium -sized companies to develop 
technologies and business models that allow them to achieve their digital transformation.  
1485.  Peru agrees that the health emergenc y caused by COVID -19 has increased and accelerated 
the use of digital technologies, and with it the use of the Internet; According to their National 
Institute of Statistics and Informatics (NISI) figures, only in the first quarter of this year, the 
populat ion between 6 and 18 years of age that accesses the Internet increased by approximately 
7 percentage points more than the previous year. Likewise, public entities have accelerated the 
digitization of public services and processes.  
1486.  Philippines  made a refere nce to the World Bank's publication titled Philippines Digital 
Economy Report 2020: A Better Normal Under COVID -19 - Digitalizing the Philippine Economy Now . 
The report provides a thoro ugh analysis of the obstacles to digitalization and identifies key reforms 
and policy measures that could help the Philippines harness the potential of the digital economy.  
1487.  Sri Lanka  submitted that while there is no data to make a conclusive announcement i n this 
matter, some observations on the move towards a digital economy has been observed.  
1488.  St. Lucia  reported that the pandemic has exposed private and public sector vulnerability in 
providing goods and services or generating revenues through lack of online  presence and inability 
to transact digitally. Provided opportunities for entrepreneurs in delivery and other services which 
also necessitated a digital dimension. In early periods of the pandemic and lockdowns, broadband 
capacity inefficiencies were expos ed as demand grew. Broadband service providers have since 
responded and accelerated plans for further investment in systems upgrade.  
1489.  Uganda  highlighted that most of government meeting is being conducted online and 
government services are being delivered on line (e.g passport and national identity card).  
1490.  Zambia  noted that many services have seen an increase in the utilization of electronic/digital 
means of supply. For example, education services and public services have recently seen an increase 
in being provided electronically.  
1491.  Several regional economic communi ties gave additional information on the impact of the 
pandemic on the uptake of the digital economy.  
1492.  Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS)  has submitted that according to the Pacific 
Business Monitor , the percentage of Pacific business providing to online sales to face COVID -19 
impact has increased from 22% in May 2020 to 35% in November 2021.  
1493.  West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) submitted  that as an illustration, 
the study of the impact of COVID -19 on Small -Scale Cross -Border Traders (SSCBTs) carried out 
within the framework of the Regional Trade Facilitation Program in West  Africa (TFWA)  has shown 
that the health crisis has led to a disruption in cross -border trade activities. This disruption has 
resulted in a drop in demand; difficulties in accessing points of sale (market); supply difficulties; 
scarcity of inputs/products as a result of the measures taken by States to stem the pandemic, in 
particular the closing of borders; containment of populations; curfews, movement restrictions; and 
quarantines of entire cities and regions. This disruption affected the profitability of SSCBTs activities 
which resulted in lower revenues. The reduction in financial resources has led to difficulties in 
accessing and paying suppliers. Beyond commercial activities, it is the living conditions of households 
in these SSCBTs that have been under  pressure, commercial activities being the main source of 
income. Majority of SSCBTs with declining income and household size are eligible for the cash 
transfer program but, due to lack of awareness or targeting criteria, have had difficulty accessing 
benefits financial resources and credits granted, in particular through transfer programs. In response 
to the drop in income, SSCBTs had to diversify their source of income to be resilient to this shock to 
their main activity. In the event of such a crisis, th e possibilities of remote transactions would be an WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  alternative for traders. Openness to digital services could facilitate activities by improving business 
opportunities and facilitating payment transactions.  
1494.  No South –South questionnaire respondents provide d additional information on the impact of 
the pandemic on the uptake of the digital economy.  
1495.  Various donors provided additional information on the impact of the pandemic on the uptake 
of the digital economy.  
1496.  Austria submitted that [the pandemic has acted a s an accelerator for the move to digital 
economy] in the same way as it happened in industrialized countries.  
1497.  Canada  noted that from the perspective of Canada's involvement at the ITU, more than 
accelerating the move to a digital economy, COVID -19 has high lighted the enormous challenges 
resulting from the inequity in access to, and use of Information and Communications Technologies 
(ICTs) in developing and least developed countries. Digital trade plays an important role in gender 
empowerment in both develop ing and least developed countries as it helps to increase financial 
independence and job opportunities for women. A 2018 PayPal Inc. study  found that digital trade/e -
commerce tools play a pivotal role in closing revenue gaps and increasing the earnings potential of 
women entrepreneurs. However, a digital divide continues to exist where women entrepren eurs 
using digital platforms face barriers, such as securing capital/investors. It is crucial for governments 
to involve women entrepreneurs and investors in policy making around digital trade.  
1498.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)  provid ed a link to a news 
article , whereby EBRD has facilitated two trial transactions between National Bank of Greece  and 
Citi on the digital trade finance network Contour.  
1499.  European Union  (EU) noted that promoting e -commerce or digitalisation as part of Aid for 
Trade is a significant enabling factor for economic development.  According to the World Economic 
Forum (WEF), over 60% of global GDP expected to be digitised by 2022, and an estimated 70% of 
new value created in the coming decade is forecast to be based on digitally enabled platforms. 
COVID -19 has accelerated digitalis ation beyond the most ambitious predictions, and has, as 
estimated by McKinsey, compressed five years of progress within the space of three months. The 
process of exponential digitalisation has, however, further benefitted those countries, firms and 
skilled workers at the forefront who are ready to take advantage of new opportunities, thus posing 
a risk for an increased digital divide. Nevertheless, there has accordingly been a significant increase 
in demand and political willingness to engage in important digitalisation reforms. With the 
implementation of our cooperation, and thanks to the close policy and political dialogue we hold with 
our partner countries, the EU has been able to adapt quickly to the new demands in terms of 
supporting the digital transf ormation. As such, many of our programmes were amended at the 
beginning of the pandemic to reallocate priorities, activities and funds to support increasing 
digitalisation. A digital push has therefore taken place in the conceptualisation also of our coope ration 
and how we can better support partner countries in this endeavour. Besides the already explained 
relevance of digitalisation as a Commission priority inside the EU but also within our external 
relations, and the recognition in the NDICI Global Europ e Regulation, the EU has launched many 
relevant initiatives (such as the D4D) and programmes to support digitalisation. For example, the 
EU regional programme " Leveraging digital finance to increase resilience of ACP countries " (2020 -
2024, EUR 14 million) aims to contribute to the deployment of digital finance solutions at the scale 
and speed necessary to deepen financial inclusion and a ccelerate economic recovery from COVID -
19, to make economies and societies more resilient to external shocks. In Indonesia, the " ARISE+ 
Indonesia Trade Support Facility " (2019 -2022, EUR 15 million) is supporting the engagement with 
the private sector through the establishment of an electronic interface for ASEAN business councils, 
trade associations and chambers of commerce to engage with the relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies 
and ASEAN Member States and discuss issues of  trade facilitation, regional economic integration and 
intra-ASEAN trade. This has proven particularly timely to ensure continued engagement, in a secure 
and confidential environment, during the COVID -19 pandemic when physical meetings and 
consultative opp ortunities became more complex or impossible.  
1500.  Germany  noted that the pandemic demonstrated the central importance of digital 
transformation for economic development. Digitalization offers a key to future -oriented economic 
activity, to counter (youth) unemployment and to improve the quality of work. Their obs ervation is WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  that many ad -hoc solutions have been adopted. Many solutions did a decent job so far but need to 
be integrated into respective IT environments in the longer term. Interoperability is a major issue 
and more effort will be needed.  
1501.  Inter -American Development bank (IaDB)  submitted that while the pandemic has been 
an accelerator of digitalization, it has also highlighted, and sometimes even exacerbated, the region’s 
structural problems (unemployment, poverty, inequality, corruption) in the context of  limited fiscal 
space. Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) has come a long way, but the region is still lagging. 
In 2020, a third of LAC households did not have Internet access, and this number rises to 63% in 
rural areas, and those that are connected su ffer from problems of quality and cost. There is also a 
scarcity of Internet -ready devices. For example, penetration of smartphones is 69%  and of 
computers is 66%. In the most vulnerable households, the Internet is often accessed through a cell 
phone, whic h generally is shared among household members to do schoolwork, work, make 
purchases, etc. Even during the pandemic, 50% of Latin Americans still commuted to access a public 
service in person – and another 20% reported not being able to access an essential  public service 
because the specific office was closed during the lockdown and that service was not available online. 
Half of the population does not have access to a bank account or debit card, and only one country 
has the digital medical record fully imp lemented. Their region does not only need more connectivity, 
it also has to be more secure. Half of the countries in the region do not have a national digital 
strategy and 60% of countries do not have cybersecurity strategies. The IDB " Vision 2025, Reinvest 
in the Americas " builds on the understanding that taking full advantage of the immense potential of 
digital transformation requi res strategic thinking, an integral and long -term vision of what is to be 
accomplished, and the capacity to foresee and overcome important barriers related to poor 
connectivity, weak governance, lack of digital talent and infrastructure, and outdated regulation. On 
trade facilitation, particularly on  Customs, practically all LAC countries implemented measures  that 
accelerated digitization due to the pandemic. In general, the measures focused on simplifying 
procedures, adjusting systems to be able to receive information and documents electronically, 
implementation of virtual a nd remote inspections, development of virtual foreign trade audits. The 
pandemic served to propel with greater impetus digital transformation initiatives, already underway, 
or to awaken interest in developing them in those countries that did not have them contemplated. 
Some of the initiatives that have gained strength are the traceability of goods and vehicles remotely 
with technology devices, the use of tools and technologies for remote control, the development and 
strengthening of platforms for interactio n with the private sector (FTSW, PCS), and initiatives aimed 
at improving the management of e -commerce flows considering new technologies for data analysis 
(advanced analytics, machine Learning, big data), and for traceability, system interoperability and 
data management making use of blockchain.  
1502.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) , on behalf of Islamic 
Development Bank’s Group (IsDB)  submitted that the lack of reliable internet has been especially 
challenging during the COVID -19 pandemic  with the need for populations to conduct everyday 
activities online. The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) 
has insured a number of telecom equipment transactions in member countries (e.g.  Indonesia and 
Uzbekista n) which supports digital connectivity. The project is supporting the government’s effort to 
accelerate internet and telecommunication infrastructure development within the country. ICIEC’s 
intervention contributes multiple benefits to citizens of the Memb er Country, including reducing 
inequalities with regard to internet access and, in turn, increasing access to digital education and 
remote employment opportunities.  
1503.  Japan, referring to their projects, noted that the International Trade Centre (ITC) reports  that 
enhancing digital economies has become more critical since the COVID -19 severely damaged the 
traditional economy and employment there. Thus, the government of Japan focuses on projects 
which improve the digital skills of targeted people. Moreover, th e COVID -19 pandemic has made 
face-to-face medical treatment severely restricted. Many developing countries thus made decision 
to accelerate online medical treatment and drug prescriptions. These changes have created a space 
where a lot of health -tech compa nies including start -ups find ample opportunities to develop 
innovative medical services. In light of this background, Japan International Cooperation Agency 
(JICA) is now collaborating with Japanese and local start -ups that are ready to offer their innova tive 
solutions with digital technology to contribute to the socio -economic issues in the healthcare sector 
through the support of proof -of-concept on the ground and subsequent full -scale deployment.  
1504.  Korea  highlighted that it's very likely that the pandemic  has accelerated to the move to digital 
economy in Korea, considering that due to the pandemic, the demands for contactless services has WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  significantly increased in society at large. Therefore, the Korean government has also adopted plans 
for increasing dig ital Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects.  
1505.  Portugal  noted that it is perhaps too early to assess if it [the pandemic] has had a specific 
impact on partner countries.  
1506.  UNCTAD (DITC)  submitted that since the outbreak of the new coronavirus disease 
(COVID -19) pandemic, UNCTAD, in collaboration with eTrade for all partners, has played a critical 
role in raising awareness on the opportunities emerging from the crisis through increasing the uptake 
of e-commerce and digital solutions. At the same time, UN CTAD has voiced concerns about the risk 
of rising digital inequalities, particularly in LDCs. [they also made a reference to several publications 
which present more information about the impact of the pandemic on the uptake of the digital 
economy: link 1 , link 2 , and link 3 .] 
1507.  UNIDO  submitted a link to: 1) Empowering SMEs of Developing Countries through 4IR 
Technologies -Artificial Intelligence , 2) Standards and Digital Transformation: Good Governance in a 
Digital Age , and 3) COVID -19: Digital Transformation & Industrial Recovery . 
Areas where the COVID -19 pandemic has exposed shortcomings in digital connectivity  
1508.  Insufficient or uneven internet coverage  was identified as a top area where COVID -19 
pandemic has exposed shortcomings in national digital connectivity, as stated by 46 respondents to 
the partner country questionnaire (87%). The same area was identified by the majority of South -
South partners (7 5%). The second and third top area identified by partner developing countries are 
poor digital skills and IT literacy (79%) and inadequate network infrastructure, including broadband 
capacity  (77%).  
1509.  Donors, on the other hand, identified inadequate network infrastructure including broadband 
capacity  as the top area where the pandemic has exposed shortcomings in national digital 
connectivity (88%). This is followed by insufficient or uneven internet coverage , poor access to 
internet services  and poor digital skills and IT literacy  as three equally important areas where the 
pandemic has exposed the abovementioned shortcomings (84% each).  
1510.  In the case of LDCs, both inadequate network infrastructure including broadband capacity  and 
insufficient or uneven internet coverage  were identified as areas where the pandemic has exposed 
shortcomings in their national digital connectivity (90%). LLDCs, on the other hand, identified 
insufficient or uneven internet coverage  and poor access to internet services  as two equally 
important areas where the pandemic has exposed shortcomings in their national digital connectivity 
(92%).  
Regions and Groups : Areas in which the COVID -19 pandemic has exposed shortcomings 
in digital connectivity  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  Insufficient or uneven internet 
coverage; Poor access to internet 
services  22 each  88% each  
Inadequate network infrastructure 
including broadband capacity  20 80% 
Poor digital skills and IT literacy; 
Trade facilitation and logistics issues  19 each  76% each  
Digital payments issues  18 72% 
National digital connectivity strategy 
needs to be developed/updated; 
Slow, expensive or unreliable 
internet services  17 each  68% each  
National e -commerce development 
strategy needs to be 
developed/updated; Rules relating to 
e-commerce need updating  16 each  64% each  
Lack of access to trade finance  12 48% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Digital gender divide  1 4% 
Asia Inadequate network infrastructure 
including broadband capacity; Poor 
digital skills and IT literacy  10 each  91% each  
Insufficient or uneven internet 
coverage  9 82% 
Poor access to internet services; 
Slow, expensive or unreliable 
internet services; Trade facilitation 
and logistics issues  7 each  64% each  
Digital payments issues  6 55% 
Lack of access to trade finance; 
National digital connectivity strategy 
needs to be developed/updated  5 each  45% each  
Rules relating to e -commerce need 
updating  4 36% 
National e -commerce development 
strategy needs to be 
developed/updated  3 27% 
Digital gender divide  1 9% 
LACS Insufficient or uneven internet 
coverage  9 100%  
Poor digital skills and IT literacy  7 78% 
Inadequate network infrastructure 
including broadband capacity; Poor 
access to internet services  6 each  67% each  
Digital payments issues; National 
digital connectivity strategy needs to 
be developed/updated; Rules 
relating to e -commerce need 
updating  4 each  44% each  
National e -commerce development 
strategy needs to be 
developed/updated; S low, expensive 
or unreliable internet services  3 each  33% each  
Trade facilitation and logistics issues  2 22% 
Lack of access to trade finance  1 11% 
Pacific  National e -commerce development 
strategy needs to be 
developed/updated; Rules relating to 
e-commerce need updating  6 each  100% each  
Digital payments issues; Insufficient 
or uneven internet coverage; Lack of 
access to trade finance; National 
digital connectivity strategy needs to 
be developed/updated; Poor digital 
skills and IT literacy  5 each  83% each  
Digital gender divide; Inadequate 
network infrastructure including 
broadband capacity; Poor access to 
internet services; Slow, expensive or 
unreliable internet services; Trade 
facilitation and logistics issues  4 each  67% each  
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC Inadequate network infrastructure 
including broadband capacity; 
Insufficient or uneven internet 
coverage  26 each  90% each  
Poor access to internet services; 
Poor digital skills and IT literacy  24 each  83% each  
Trade facilitation and logistics issues  22 76% 
Slow, expensive or unreliable 
internet services  21 72% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Digital payments issues; National 
digital connectivity strategy needs to 
be developed/updated  20 each  69% each  
Rules relating to e -commerce need 
updating  19 66% 
National e -commerce development 
strategy needs to be 
developed/updated  17 59% 
Lack of access to trade finance  15 52% 
Digital gender divide  4 14% 
LLDC Insufficient or uneven internet 
coverage; Poor access to internet 
services  11 each  92% each  
Inadequate network infrastructure 
including broadband capacity; Poor 
digital skills and IT literacy  9 each  75% each  
Digital payments issues; Rules 
relating to e -commerce need 
updating; Slow, expensive or 
unreliable internet services; Trade 
facilitation and logistics issues  7 each  58% each  
National digital connectivity strategy 
needs to be developed/updated; 
National e -commerce development 
strategy needs to be 
developed/updated  6 each  50% each  
Lack of access to trade finance  5 42% 
Digital gender divide  1 8% 
UN SIDS  Insufficient or uneven internet 
coverage; Poor digital skills and IT 
literacy; Rules relating to e -
commerce need updating  8 each  89% each  
Digital payments issues; Inadequate 
network infrastructure including 
broadband capacity; Lack of access 
to trade finance; National e -
commerce development strategy 
needs to be developed/updated; 
Trade facilitation and logistics issues  7 each  78% each  
National digital connectivity strategy 
needs to be developed/updated; 
Poor access to internet services; 
Slow, expensive or unreliable 
internet services  6 each  67% each  
Digital gender divide  4 44% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Areas where the COVID -19 pandemic has exposed shortcomings in digital connectivity  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information provided by respondents on areas where the COVID -19 pandemic 
has exposed shortcomings in d igital connectivity  
1511.  A number of developing countries gave additional information on the areas in which their 
countries are facing most significant challenges in relation to digital connectivity.  
1512.  Colombia  reported that the COVID -19 pandemic has exposed gaps  in national digital 
connectivity in the areas outlined above. Below are some figures that describe the most important 
challenges in relation to digital connectivity (Figures from the Survey of Information and 
Communication Technologies for Businesses (ENTIC) , in 2019 fo r businesses and households  in 
2020): - In Colombia there is still some way to go regarding household and personal connectivity: 
according to the ENTIC in 2020, 56.5% of households have access to fixed or mobile internet. Low 
connectivity is particularly prevalent in rural  and remote areas of the country: the indicator of access 
to fixed or mobile internet in the rural sector is 23.9%, while in the capital cities it is 66.6%. - In 
terms of people (aged 5 years and over), 69% use the Internet anywhere and from any device; 
however, in capitals it is 78% and in populated centres and dispersed rural areas it is only 43%. - 
These connectivity services should go hand in hand with the development of digital skills, focused 
on rural areas: of the total number of people aged 5 years and older who use a computer (14.5 
million people), 58% know how to use basic mathematical formulas in a spreadsheet (Excel, Open 
office calc, etc.), however, in the rural sector this percentage drops to 45.9%. - The percentage of 
enterprises that have or use a platform to receive requests or orders via e -commerce is low: in the 
commerce sector it is 24.2%, in industry 27% and in services 35.7% on average. This indicator 
should be increased as a result of the pandemic for the next 2020 measurement. - Few co mpanies 
have a systems or ICT development, operation or maintenance area or manager in commerce and 
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  industry: 29% of the total number of companies in the commerce sector and 30.9% in industry. In 
services, the percentage is 61.6% on average.  - Few companie s in the productive sector use 
technological tools for their activities: only 1.5% of companies in the commerce sector use Robotic 
Process Automation (RPA) systems applied to the commercial or marketing area. In industry it is 
1.8% and in services 4.9%. On ly 7.4% of companies in the commerce sector use data analytics 
processes, 9% in industry and 21.3% in services.  
1513.  Congo DR  reported that regular power outages have greatly weakened digital connectivity.  
1514.  Guinea Bissau  noted that they have no law or regulation  on electronic commerce [as an 
additional shortcoming in their national digital connectivity].  
1515.  Madagascar  noted additional areas where COVID -19 pandemic has exposed shortcomings in 
its national digital connectivity. These include the digital divide in terms of infrastructure, broadband 
internet access, and digital security in terms of electronic payment.  
1516.  Mali made mention to: - Non-operational electronic certification and signature service (which 
handicaps the development of exchanges and electronic commerce); - Inadequate broadband 
connection infrastructure; - Poor coverage and insufficient connection access infrastructure; - 
Insufficiency in the legislative and regulatory mechanisms in terms of connectivity and electronic 
exchange; and - Insufficient human resources.  
1517.  Peru noted that internet coverage is a challenge that they have as a state. By 2021, only 
52.5% of all households have internet access and from this statistic, only 20% of households in rural 
areas are part of it. So, after the pandemic, this great challenge h as become evident, such as 
promoting digital connectivity at the national level. To that extent, they submitted that they have 
been working in coordination with public, private and academic actors to determine a joint strategy.  
1518.  St. Lucia  noted that in digital payment issues , the business community is 80% MSMEs, most 
of whom do not have an online presence other than social media and are unable to transact business 
digitally. Inadequate broadband capacity  – apparent in early phases of the pandemic but has bee n 
adequately addressed by service providers with additional efforts ongoing. Uneven internet coverage  
– lack of or inadequate access for poor and vulnerable communities and households. Poor digital 
skills – learning curve for students, teachers and other p rofessionals in the use of various online 
platforms. MSMEs require training in online presence and transactions. Rules relating to e -commerce  
– accelerated DigiGov project and Government's ability to provide services and transact business 
online. Also adde d impetus to develop/ratify legislation and policies for connectivity and e -
commerce. Trade facilitation  - increased importance of the need to introduce single window platform.  
1519.  Several regional economic communities gave additional information on the areas where the 
COVID -19 pandemic has exposed shortcomings in regional digital connectivity.  
1520.  Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS)  submitted that the Pacific Regional E -commerce 
Strategy provide further details on the key challenges and opportunities facing t he region to improve 
digital trade readiness. The Pacific Regional E -commerce Strategy and Roadmap  outlines the Pacific 
consensus on priority reg ional actions to increase digital trade readiness. It focuses on the seven 
key policy areas found in the UNCTAD’s E -Trade Readiness Assessment  metho dology. These include 
(1) National Ecommerce Readiness and Strategy Formulation; (2) ICT Infrastructure and Services; 
(3) Trade Logistics and Trade Facilitation; (4) Legal and Institutional Framework; (5) Electronic 
Payment Solutions; (6) E -commerce Skill Development; and (7) Access to Finance for E -commerce. 
To achieve its vision the Pacific Regional E -commerce Strategy and Roadmap identifies 54 Priority 
Measures, the agencies responsible for their implementation and, where possible, their cost. 
Implementi ng the costed measures will require about USD 55 million (excluding the cost of 
infrastructure -related measures) thus signalling that significant support is required if e -commerce 
readiness is to advance through regionalism.  
1521.  TradeMark East Africa (TMEA)  noted last mile distribution [as an additional area where the 
pandemic has exposed shortcoming in digital connectivity]. TMEA has signed a partnership 
agreement with the regional postal services to collaborate on this.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1522.  No South –South questionnaire respondent s provided additional information on the areas in 
which the COVID -19 pandemic has exposed shortcomings in relation to digital connectivity.  
1523.  Various donors provided additional information on the areas where the COVID -19 pandemic 
has exposed shortcomings in relation to digital connectivity.  
1524.  Canada  noted concentration in value -creation and capture in the digital economy [as 
additional area where the pandemic has exposed shortcomings in its country's digital connectivity]. 
See UNCTAD Digital Economy Report 2021 . Cybersecurity has been increasingly exposed as a 
vulnerability from the beginning of the pandemic. COVID -19 has highlighted digital divides between 
and within countries by gender, ag e, and location. And, the real -world consequences of online 
dis/misinformation, pandemic related and otherwise, driven by both platform concentration and 
inadequate data literacy. Canada recognizes that the pandemic has exposed shortcomings in digital 
connectivity in all of the above -mentioned areas [referring to the boxes they ticked in the 
questionnaire].  
1525.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)  referred to the EBRD 
Transition Report 2021 -22 "System upgrade: Delivering the digital dividend" . 
1526.  European Union  noted that all of the above -mentioned challenges [in the questionnaire] 
have been observed, but the extent of which differs between coun tries. 
1527.  Germany  reported that there is a huge diversity among countries, but from a global 
perspective for all areas there are unmet development needs in some countries.  
1528.  Inter -American Development Bank (IaDB)  made reference to question 31 [of the 
questionna ire]. 
1529.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) , on behalf of Islamic 
Development Bank’s Group (IsDB)  noted that in ICT infrastructure and services , affordable and 
reliable ICT infrastructure is of paramount importance to e -commerce. In partic ular, universal 
coverage of high -speed broadband, regular upgrading of infrastructures and reduced artificial 
regulatory barriers should be pursued. In trade logistics and trade facilitation , an effective and 
competitive national and international trade en vironment is vital for achieving effective e -commerce. 
Effective trade logistics and cross -border facilitation measures are key for the fulfilment of goods -
related e -commerce.  
1530.  Norway  mentioned social safety nets and digital public infrastructure that other  service 
providers can build on top of for better service delivery (such as digital ID systems, civil registration 
and vital statistics (CRVS), etc.) [as areas where the pandemic has exposed shortcomings in their 
country's digital connectivity].  
1531.  UNCTAD submitted that COVID -19 pandemic has demonstrated some important limitations 
of today’s digital connectivity environments : those who are less connected have been les s able to 
take advantage of ICT's potential. Higher demand for connectivity has put greater pressure on 
communications networks and services. Increased demand has given greater urgency to measures 
intended to increase bandwidth and extend connectivity to u nderserved communities. Other affected 
areas include digital gender divide, digital payments issue, and lack of access to trade finance. Digital 
gender divide  – "Women shaping the digital economy"; E -trade for Women. Digital payments issue  
– "Financial inc lusion for development ". Lack of access to trade finance  - UNCTAD Trade Finance 
under COVID -19.  
1532.  UNIDO  noted that the 2021 Vienna Discussion Forum , organized by UNIDO, UNODC, Finland, 
Norway and Sweden, addressed digital inclusion and cyber equality to explore challenges and 
opportunities for gender equality and women’s empowerment in the context of digitalization.  
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  SECTION 4: NATIO NAL POLICIES FOR WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT  
Economic empowerment as a priority in national development strategy(ies)  
1533.  The 2022 AfT M&E discusses  in section four  how women's  economic empowerment is being 
integrated into national and regional policy frameworks. Forty-nine (49) of the 53 answers (91%) 
to the partner country questionnaire stated that economic empowerment is a priority in their national 
or regional development st rategies.  
1534.  All respondents from the  Africa n region  and the Pacific  (100%) , and the majority of 
respondents from Asia (73%) and LACS (89%) stated that women's economic empowerment is a 
policy priority.  Along  the same lines, the majority of LDCs (90%) and LLD C (92%) and all 
respondents from UN SIDS (100%) replied that women's economic empowerment is a priority 
objective in their national development strategies, policies or plans.  
Regions and Groups : Women's economic empowerment is a priority in national 
develo pment strategies  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  25 100%  
Asia 8 73% 
Europe  1 100%  
LACS 8 89% 
Pacific  6 100%  
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 26 90% 
LLDC 11 92% 
UN SIDS  9 100%  
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
Women's economic empowerment is a priority in national, regional, Aid -for-Trade or 
South -South development strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s)  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Regions and Groups : Top categories of strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) in which 
women's economic empowerment is included as an objective  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  National development strategy, 
policy or plan  22 88% 
National export strategy, policy or 
plan; National gender equality 
strategy, policy or plan; Women's 
economic empowerment's strategy, 
policy or plan  14 each  56% each  
National trade development 
strategy, policy or plan  13 52% 
Aid-for-Trade strategy, policy or plan  6 24% 
Other  3 12% 
Asia National development strategy, 
policy or plan  7 88% 
Women's economic empowerment's 
strategy, policy or plan  5 63% 
National gender equality strategy, 
policy or plan  3 38% 
Other  2 25% 
National export strategy, policy or 
plan; National trade development 
strategy, policy or plan; Aid -for-
Trade strategy, policy or plan  1 each  13% each  
Europe  National development strategy, 
policy or plan  1 100%  
Other  1 100%  
LACS National development strategy, 
policy or plan  6 75% 
National gender equality strategy, 
policy or plan; Women's economic 
empowerment's strategy, policy or 
plan 5 each  63% each  
National export strategy, policy or 
plan; National trade development 
strategy, policy or plan  3 each  38% each  
Other  2 25% 
Aid-for-Trade strategy, policy or plan  1 13% 
Pacific  National development strategy, 
policy or plan  5 100%  
National trade development 
strategy, policy or plan  3 60% 
Women's economic empowerment's 
strategy, policy or plan; Aid -for-
Trade strategy, policy or plan  2 each  40% each  
National export strategy, policy or 
plan; National gender equality 
strategy, policy or plan  1 each  20% each  
Other  0 0% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC National development strategy, 
policy or plan  24 92% 
National trade development 
strategy, policy or plan  15 58% 
National gender equality strategy, 
policy or plan; Women's economic 
empowerment's strategy, policy or 
plan 14 each  54% each  
National export strategy, policy or 
plan 12 46% 
Aid-for-Trade strategy, policy or plan  5 19% 
Other  3 12% 
LLDC National development strategy, 
policy or plan  11 100%  
National gender equality strategy, 
policy or plan; National trade 
development strategy, policy or plan  6 each  55% each  
National export strategy, policy or 
plan; Women's economic 
empowerment's strategy, policy or 
plan 5 each  45% each  
Other  2 18% 
Aid-for-Trade strategy, policy or plan  1 9% 
UN SIDS  National development strategy, 
policy or plan  8 100%  
National trade development 
strategy, policy or plan  5 63% 
National export strategy, policy or 
plan; Women's economic 
empowerment's strategy, policy or 
plan; Aid -for-Trade strategy, policy 
or plan  3 each  38% each  
National gender equality strategy, 
policy or plan  2 25% 
Other  1 13% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Top categories of strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) in which women's economic 
empowerment is included as an objective  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional information provided by respondents: Partner country responses  
1535.  Bangladesh  made reference to the 8th Five Year Plan 2021 -2026 and the Perspective Plan 
2021-2041.  
1536.  Benin  stated that the first strategic objective of the National Development Plan 2018 -2025 is 
to develop healthy, competent and competitive human capital. One of the important effects of this 
objective is to reduce social and gender inequalities and, above all, promote and support women's 
socio-economic and political roles. Considerations to women's economic empowerment are also 
included in the National Trade Development Policy (PNDC) and the Government Action Programs.  
1537.  Cambodia referred to  the Master Plan on Gender and Climate Change 2018 -2030 and the 
Five Year Strategic  Plan For Strengthening Gender Mainstreaming and Women’s Empowerment  as 
national plans to support women's economic empowerment.  
1538.  Comoros made reference to the Emerging Comoros Plan (PCE) .  
1539.  Colombia  stated that the women's economic empowerment is a key aspect in the Gender 
Equity Policy formulated in 2013. A second phase is currently being formulated. In addition, the 
National Development Plan includes a specific c hapter on gender equity and a particular line of action 
for the women's economic empowerment. This is also a central objective that is incorporated 
transversally in other sectoral and inter -sectoral policies and programmes such as the economic 
reactivation  policy or the employment mission that issues recommendations on aspects of 
employment promotion. The same goes for the programmes carried out by the Vice -Presidency of 
the Republic and the Presidential Advisory Office on Equity for Women, which have defin ed concrete 
strategies for the promotion of women's employment in decent working conditions, particularly in 
high-potential and non -traditional sectors for women, and their participation in the country's 
business development through the promotion of entrep reneurship and the strengthening of women's 
enterprises. It also highlights sectoral policies and plans that promote women's participation in non -
traditional sectors such as transport and infrastructure, mines and energy, and the green economy. 
Colombia ha s also set the achievement of gender equity as a central objective in the framework of 
the strategy for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, defining specific 
indicators and targets related to women's employability, the income gap and a ccess to technology. 
Women's economic empowerment is also promoted through national strategies to strengthen policy -
making processes and development plans at the territorial level.   
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  1540.  Colombia also indicated that the National Development Plan 2018 -2022 "Pact for Colombia, 
Pact for Equity", includes the XIV Pact for Gender Equity for Women. This includes line B "Education 
and economic empowerment for the elimination of gender ga ps" in the world of work. One of its 
objectives is the design of strategies for equal participation of women in the labour market. The 
strategies include the promotion and strengthening of labour equity and the conditions that favour 
the insertion of women  in the workplace. Actions to close the digital divide are highlighted through 
specific programmes for women in the appropriation of ICTs; the redesign and scaling up of the 
Equipares seal (labour equity policies within companies – not only in large compan ies but also at the 
level of the public sector and associations and cooperatives in the rural sector); and the promotion 
of the participation of women's enterprises in business development, where there are specific 
indicators related to the insertion of wo men in productive inclusion routes and the accompaniment 
of women's enterprises through specialised programmes that strengthen their business models and 
prepare them to expand into domestic and international markets.  In addition, line G of the XIV Pact 
for Gender Equity for Women relates to rural women as agents of transformation of the countryside. 
It is stipulated to guarantee the inclusion of rural women in the processes of social and productive 
planning, the provision of agricultural extension services , and access to credit, leading to equitable 
rural development, for which one of the strategies to highlight is the promotion of income generation 
for rural women through an improvement in the agricultural extension service, access to financial 
instruments  and the conditions of employability and entrepreneurship.  
1541.  Colombia mentioned that the Conpes 161  of 2013 also relates to gender equity and women's 
economic empowerment. It proposes  a specific axis of economic autonomy and access to assets, 
with strategies aimed at providing opportunities and conditions to promote economic autonomy, and 
access to productive factors such as land.  Conpes 161 also defines the indicative action plan  for the 
period 2013 to 2016, which includes a list of actions, responsible entities, and indicators of 
compliance and progress.  Colombia explained that the National Government approved the 
Guidelines of the National Public Policy on Gender Equity for Women  in 2012. This aims to guide the 
structuring and implementation of actions during the next 10 years to contribute to the effective 
enjoyment of w omen's rights in Colombia.  
1542.  Colombia's NDP 2018 -2022 established the formulation of the second phase of the Gender 
Equity Policy for Women, which is currently under construction. This policy proposes a specific axis 
of social and productive development whe re actions are specified for the elimination of discriminatory 
practices against women in the labour market, business development and foreign trade and to 
promote entrepreneurship and women's businesses, the closing of the digital divide, and access to 
assets, among others. Other public policies that have incorporated gender issues are also 
highlighted. Particularly, in relation to the issue of economic empowerment, such as  CONPES 4011 
of the National Entrepreneurship Policy . It proposes, among other things, the implementation of a 
strategy for the provision of comprehensive technical assistance for the creation of viable business 
models and the productive development of women' s businesses, as well as financing for this 
segment. In addition, the creation by decree of the Fondo Mujer Emprende, whose objective is to 
finance and strengthen the capacities of women's enterprises, should also be highlighted. CONPES 
4023, the policy for the reactivation revitalisation and sustainable and inclusive growth, defines the 
implementation of mechanisms for the generation of income for rural women, with an empha sis on 
the sustainability of rural enterprises. It also establishes the development of human capital with 
training programmes in high potential areas.  
1543.  Democratic Republic of  Congo  (DRC)  stated that despite some progress made over the 
last five years, parti cularly in the legal arsenal, there is still a long way to go for gender equality in 
the DRC. Observation of the facts shows that the situation of women is worrying and requires high -
level advocacy and the implementation of courageous reforms. The inclusio n of gender in national 
policies and strategies and their implementation have led to a reduction in the gaps between men 
and women. However, significant inequalities persist in all areas of national life. Moreover, violence 
against women is decreasing but still remains a concern. The main challenges to be met in the area 
of gender are, among others, (i) integrating gender into development policies, programmes and 
projects in all areas; (ii) promotion of women's leadership and participation in decision -makin g 
bodies; and  (iii) elimination of gender -based violence including child marriage and harmful practices.  
1544.  DRC indicated five sectoral objectives: (1) strengthen human and institutional capacities, 
which includes (i) improved management of human, financial  and material resources; and 
(ii) strengthening the management of cooperation and partnership; (2) reduce gender inequalities 
and combat gender -based violence in families and communities, which includes (i) promotion of the WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  prevention of violence against w omen and girls; (ii) setting up integrated multi -sectoral care services 
for survivors; and (iIi) setting up integrated multisectoral services for survivors, etc.; (3)  strengthen 
the economic power and empowerment of  women, which includes (i) capacity buil ding for women's 
empowerment; and (ii) advocacy for the implementation of laws in favour of women, etc.; (4) 
promote family stability, which includes (i) promotion of family protection; and (ii) restoration of 
family, ethical and cultural values, etc.; and  (5) promote the rights of the child, which includes (i) 
promotion of gender and protection of children's rights; and (ii) fight against violence against 
children, etc.  
1545.  DRC also mentioned that DRC Constitution and the National Strategic Development Plan re fer 
to women's economic empowerment.   
1546.  Dominican Republic referenced the Recovery Needs Assessment for the Impacts of COVID -
19 as part of its strategy to support women's economic empowerment.  
1547.  El Salvador  made reference to the Fideico miso para la Recuperación Económica de las 
Empresas Salvadoreñas  (FIREMPRESA) and the National Digital Agenda .  
1548.  Guatemala  made mention  the Strategic Agenda for the Economic Empowerment of Women 
2019 (Presidential Secretariat for Women - SEPREM -); Guatemala Country Strategy 2020 -2024; 
National Development Plan K'atun: Our Guatemala 2032. Guatemala added that the economic 
empowerment of in digenous women is an important factor for the country's economic recovery 
caused by the COVID -19 pandemic. Guatemala further stated that it has support programs for 
women exporters. There is a union committee of the Guatemalan Association of 
Exporters  - GEXPORT -, which supports this initiative. Likewise, the K'atun Plan contemplates gender 
equity and the development of women in the economic sphere of the country.  
1549.  Guinea Bissau  stated that women's economic empowerment is included in the strategy of 
decentral isation and promotion of participatory development with the establishment of municipal 
councils representative of local communities. This includes the participation of women and young 
people.  
1550.  Indonesia  stated that issues of gender equality and women's eco nomic empowerment are 
included in the National Long -term Development Plan 2005 -2024. Presidential Instruction 
No. 9/2000 on Gender Mainstreaming on National Development mandates ministries and local 
government to implement gender mainstreaming as developme nt strategies. Further, the Joint 
Circular Letter of Minister of Development Planning, Minister of Finance, Minister of Home Affairs 
and Minister for Women's Empowerment on Acceleration of Gender Mainstreaming Strategy 
mandates gender -responsive planning a nd budgeting in the program formulation within ministries 
and local government. Also, Indonesia's Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection is 
currently drafting the Law on Gender Equality. The draft gives particular focus on gender 
mainstreamin g in the executive, judiciary, and legislative bodies and private sectors. The draft is 
currently under an in -depth review of inter -ministerial committees responsible for law enactment. 
In parallel, Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning is currently finishing the National 
Strategy of Gender Mainstreaming, which will become operational tools to strengthen the 
implementation of gender mainstreaming strategy, including gender -responsive planning and 
budgeting.  
1551.  Lesotho stated that the National Strategic Development Plan II  has a dedicated chapter on 
cross-cutting issues that include gender strategies to empower women and youth.  
1552.  Madagascar  referenc ed the National Gender and Development Action Plan 2004 -2008 that 
provides women's empowerment in the development process. Since then, the implementation of the 
Action Plan has continued with successive regimes with different levels of achievement. Current ly, 
Madagascar's Emergence Plan aims to strengthen women's empowerment and improve women's 
protection against gender -based violence. Madagascar also mentioned that each project  supported 
by the EIF includes consideration of gender issues and supporting wom en's empowerment and young 
people in the development process.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1553.  Mali referred to  the National Gender Policy 2011  as a policy supporting  women's economic 
empowerment. This policy recalls Mali's international engagements for promoting gender equality 
and aims to implement them.   
1554.  Mauritius  referenced the National Export Strategy 2017 -2021, which provides a framework 
to enhance long -term exp ort competitiveness and includes gender components. Moreover, Mauritius' 
legal framework is conducive for women to participate in economic activities. National institutions 
have been actively implementing various initiatives that support gender equality an d women's 
economic empowerment. Mauritius also mentioned its support for the Buenos Aires Declaration on 
Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment. Mauritius has made progress in delivering on its 
commitment to gender equality in trade by actively engaging wo men in policy consultations, 
including gender concerns in trade agreements, collecting gender -disaggregated data on socio -
economic indicators and building the ministry's capacity responsible for trade on gender issues.   
1555.  Mexico  stated that of its trade pol icy objectives is inclusion, of which the inclusion of women 
in the economy and their participation in international trade is part. This objective is formulated in 
the Planning Law and the General Law for Equality between Women and Men and is also reflecte d in 
the National Development Plan and the National Program for Equality between Women and Men 
issued by each federal and state administration.    
1556.  Nepal  referenced the Nationa l Planning Commission  and the National Gender Equality Policy 
2021 to support women's economic empowerment.  
1557.  Pakistan  mentioned  multiple policies and plans that support women's economic 
empowerment. For instance, the E -Commerce Policy envisions women's empowerment in this 
evolving trade dimension. Also, the Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF - 2021)  includes gender 
mainstreaming as part of its objectives. In addition, Pakistan has developed a dynamic national 
socio-economic registry/ database (the Benazir Income Support Program in Pak istan (BISP)), which 
identifies the least empowered women in the society and enrolls them in the programme as 
beneficiaries and provides conditional and unconditional cash transfers for their economic 
empowerment. This database is also used for programs li ke of Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship, 
Ehsaas Nashonoma Program (Nutrition Program under Life Cycle Approach), Waseela Taleem 
Program (Education for the beneficiaries). Women beneficiaries to these programmes are selected 
through objective criteria based on robust questionnaires and Proxy Means Test.  
1558.  Paraguay  highlighted  the National Development Plan Paraguay 2030 , IV National Equality 
Plan 2018 -2024 and the Seed Capital Woman Entrepreneur Programme  as plans to support women's 
economic empowerment.  
1559.  Peru referenc ed the Law on equal opportunities between women and men (Law No. 28983) , 
which aims to establish the regulatory, institutional and public policy framework at the national, 
regional and local levels. This law intends t o guarantee women and men exercise their rights to 
equality, dignity, free development, well -being and autonomy, and prevent discrimination in all 
spheres of life (public and private) and promote full equality.  
1560.  In addition, Peru's National Gender Equality Policy (DS NÂ° 008 -2019-MIMP)  addresses 
structural discrimination against women as a central problem in Peru since it generates inequality, 
limits the exercise of fundamental rights and development opportunities for women, reproduces 
socially and transmits from generation to generation throughout the history of the country. To 
address these issues, the policy has six priority objectives:  (i) reduce violence against women, 
(ii) guarantee the exercise of women's rights  to sexual and reproductive health,  (iii) guarantee 
women's access and participation in decision -making spaces, (iv) guarantee the exercise of women's 
economic and social rights, (v) reduce the institutional barriers that hinder equality in the public and  
private spheres between men and women, and (vi) reduce the incidence of discriminatory socio -
cultural patterns in the population. In particular, the priority objective (iv) on the exercise of 
women's economic and social rights is determined by the followi ng guidelines: (1)  implement the 
National Care System with a gender approach for people in situations of dependency, (2) increase 
women's access to and control of natural, productive and patrimonial resources, (3) strengthen the 
formal employment of women,  and (4) implement measures to ensure the exercise of women's 
social rights.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1561.  Furthermore, the main objective of the Technical guidelines to promote the economic 
autonomy  of women in their diversity (DS NÂ° 196 -2021-MIMP)  is to establish provisions that allow 
public institutions and private companies to implement strategies that promote the capacities of 
women in their diversity to generate their income and decide on it, w ith equal opportunities and 
respect for their labour and social rights. The Technical Guidelines provide eight specific guidelines: 
(i) participatory diagnosis on the economic autonomy of women; (ii) information management on 
women's autonomy; (iii) job tr aining for women; (iv) job banks for women; (v)  promote women's 
economic enterprises; (vi) design and implement actions for labour gender equality; (vii) promote 
the reconciliation of family life and paid work; and (viii) promote the equal rights of women to land 
ownership, access and control of natural resources (water and forest), financial and other economic 
assets.  
1562.  Philippines  stated that the Updated Phi lippine Development Plan 2017 -2022 aims to increase 
female labour force participation by creating more jobs and economic opportunities. Also, the 
Philippine Plan for Gender and Development (1995 -2025)  is a national plan that addresses, provides, 
and pursues full equity and deve lopment for men and women. This strategy includes facilitating the 
implementation of the Philippines' international engagements on women's empowerment, such as 
Sustainable Development Goals.     
1563.  Senegal  mentioned having a law on gender parity.  
1564.  Sri Lanka stated that women's economic empowerment is a key focused area in the National 
Policy Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour . In addition, women's econo mic empowerment is a core 
area under the special priorities of the State Ministry of Women and Child Development, Pre -School 
& Primary Education, School Infrastructure & Education Services . It is also a prior ity in the vision 
and mission statement of the State Ministry and Women's Bureau of Sri Lanka. The latter is the key 
responsible agency for women's economic empowerment of the State Ministry. Hence, the inclusion 
of objectives and activities for women's ec onomic empowerment is a mandatory part of the Annual 
action Plan of this Ministry as well as the Women's Bureau of Sri  Lanka. The State Ministry is the 
premier organisation responsible for formulating country -level guidelines and developing policies 
relate d to women's economic empowerment.  
1565.  Sri Lanka stated that measures had been developed to support women's economic 
empowerment. For instance, a policy aims to invest at least 25% of the provisions on state projects 
to uplift the economy for women and ensure their participation in labour force s. In addition, Women 
and Child Development Units were established at district and divisional levels to mobilise women 
supervising and follow up action by the Ministry. Sri Lanka has also developed a women -friendly and 
supportive model village programme.  
1566.  Saint Lucia provided an excerpt from its Medium Term Development strategy outlining 
ongoing policy formulations regarding the gender aspect in sustainable development. Saint Lucia is 
currently undertaking a gender mainstreaming project which will: Enable t he development of a 
nationally -owned gender mainstreaming strategy to support inclusion among all citizens; Build 
capability in gender mainstreaming, budgeting and planning as part of the National Sustainable 
Development Plan and Saint Lucia's vision for i nclusion; and Prepare Saint Lucia's Ministries, 
Departments and Agencies to pivot towards a transparent and data -driven culture that utilises 
gender analysis as part of medium -term development planning. The project will contribute to SDG 
goals 5 and 10. Th e institutional strengthening offered under this project will encourage the use of 
a gender perspective in policy development, thereby ensuring they are realised equitably among 
women, men, girls and boys. Also, National Services Policy  and Action Plans (The Development of a 
Gender -Responsive and Results -Based Services Sector Policy , Strategy  and Action Plan  For Saint 
Lucia), focuses on the gender divide and the inclusion of women as a key policy consideration. The 
National Trade Export Strategy  outlines gender imbalances within targeted export sectors that it 
seeks to address as part of the implementation . 
1567.  Togo  stated that  the National Development Plan includes many programmes with women's 
economic empowerment components. For instance, the National Fund for Inclusive Finance (FNFI) 
and the multifunctional platforms aim to strengthen the public -private dialogue in order to mobilise 
more resources to support these gender -focused initiatives, which include a monitoring and 
evaluation mechanism with specific indicators.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1568.  Uganda  referenced the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP) , an initiative 
of the Government of Uganda that is aimed at improving access to financial services for women and 
equipping them with skills for enterprise growth, value addition and marketing of their products and 
services. This programme is implemented a s a Rolling Programme under the Ministry of Gender, 
Labour and Social Development (MGLSD) and is intended to empower Ugandan women for economic 
development. The Programme is designed to address the challenges women face in undertaking 
economically viable e nterprises, including limited access to affordable credit, limited technical 
knowledge and skills for business development, limited access to markets, and information regarding 
business opportunities. This programme is included in the Third National Development Plan 2020 -
2025. Uganda also referenced the Environment and Natural Resources Sub -Sector Gender 
Mainstreaming Strategy 2016 -2021, which supports women's economic empowerment.  
1569.  Vanuatu  indicated that women's economic empowerment is included in the following policies: 
the National Sustainable Development Plan  (NSDP) 2016 -2030 under the Society Pillar; The Trade 
Policy Framework Update (TPFU)  2019-2025 under chapter 9: Trade and Sustainable Development 
section 9.5 Women's Economic Empowerment; and the National Gender Equality Policy 2015 -2019  
1570.  Zambia  referenced many instruments and policies supporting women's economic 
empowerment. For instance, the Gender Equity and Equality Act No. 22 of 2015  provides for 
women's empowerment as a key to achieving gender equity and equality. Zambia's Government 
Gazette Notice No. 1123 of 2021 mandates the Gender Division to implement Women Economic 
Empowerment Programs. The Decentralization Policy has also prioritised women's econom ic 
empowerment programs and has devolved empowerment funds to constituencies. In addition, the 
draft 8th of the National Development Plan provides for women's economic empowerment 
programmes as a key intervention for the promotion of equity and equality in  national development.   
1571.  Zambia mentioned the National Gender Policy, which highlights the following key objectives 
for women's economic empowerment:  (1) to reduce extreme poverty and destitution among 
vulnerable groups, especially women and girls;  (2) t o promote equality and equity in access to 
economic opportunities for men and women, in both formal and informal labour sectors; (3) to 
promote equitable access and control to productive resources for both women and men;  and (4)  to 
enhance the participati on of women in tourism, commerce, trade and industry.  
Additional information provided by respondents: Donor response s 
1572.  Thirty -four (34) of the 36  respondents (94%) to the donor questionnaire stated that economic 
empowerment is a priority in the AfT and development strategy.  
1573.  African Development Bank  (AfDB)  referenced the Gender Strategy  formulated by the Bank 
and aims to strengthen women's economic position in the productive sectors of the continent. The 
Bank also indicated that women's economic empowerment is included in all policies and strategies 
developed by t he Bank.  
1574.  Asian Development Bank  (ADB)  stated that gender inclusivity is central in projects and 
technical assistance activities supported by safeguard compliance systems. ADB has a series of 
gender initiatives aimed at ensuring the application of policies  related to the subject across partner 
banks in developing countries: enhancing human resource policies to attract, retain and promote 
more women in banks. Women's economic empowerment is one of five pillars and priority areas of 
the Strategy 2030 Operational Priority 2: Accelerating Progress in Gender Equality 2019 -2024. ADB 
reaffirmed its commitment to support gender equality through  gender -inclusive project designs in 
at least 75% of its sovereign and non -sovereign operations by 2030. The Strategy 2030 aims to 
contribute to the efforts of accelerating gender equality outcomes in the region in five areas: (i) 
economic empowerment, (ii ) human development, (iii) decision -making and leadership, (iv) time 
poverty reduction, and (v) resilience to external shocks. In addition, specific interventions include 
Gender Action Plans, such as the Mongolia: Developing Economic Cooperation Zone Project .  
1575.  Australia  mentioned  that the economic impact of COVID -19 has left many countries in the 
region in economic crisis. Women have faced greater economic insecurity and are more likely than 
men to engage in sectors experiencing job losses because of the pandemic. They are also more likely 
to be unpaid family workers or to work in the informal sector. The Australian Government's 
internationa l development response to COVID -19, Partnerships for Recovery  (PfR;), identifies gender WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  equality as a cross -cutting objective and seeks to better target the needs of women and girls in the 
Indo-Pacific. Australia has been working closely with partners in the Indo -Pacific to focus on women's 
economic empowerment along with other major aspects of gender equality. Under PfR, Australia has 
pivoted its existing development programs to respond to the needs of women and girls in the Indo -
Pacific. This has included, for example, Australia's Investing in Women program  redirecting funds to 
support women's SMEs in Southeast Asia to adapt their businesses to manage the impacts of COVID -
19, ensuring their continued operation and contributing to the trade and economic resilience of local 
economies.   
1576.  Women's economic empowerment also features in Australia's Pacific Regional COVID -19 
Development Response Plan . In the Pacific, Australia partners with UN Women on the Markets for 
Change program  in Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu to make markets safer, healthier and more 
accessible. During COVID -19, the program adapted to include hygiene measures to ensure markets 
remained open and COVID -safe. Australian funding for Women's World Banking  enabled adaptation 
of activities in South -East Asia to support women's resilience and continued participation in the 
economy during the COVID pandemic, particularly through digital banking. For example, women's 
access to government social protection payments in Indonesia was ensured, and these account s are 
being used to improve women's financial capability. Women's economic empowerment is also one 
of the goals of  Australia's Gender Equal ity and Women's Economic Empowerment Strategy , which 
focuses on women's access to the use and control of resources, decent work, and entrepreneurship. 
It also emphasises women's decision -making and leadership in business, aims to ensure better 
integration of gender equality in trade and investment, including trade agreement negotiations, and 
engagement with the private sector.  Australia also made reference to the South Asia Regional Trade 
Facilitation Program  and the Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development .   
1577.  Austria  stated that the Austrian Development Cooperation (ADC) had la unched a policy paper 
on Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women and Girls in 2017. Its key objective was 
implementing the EU Gender Action Plan II in Austria 's Development Cooperation, which includes 
women and girls' empowerment as part of the three pillars. Austria indicated that following the 
adoption of the EU Gender Action Plan III in 2021, the policy document on Gender Equality and the 
Empowerment of Women and Girls Implementing the EU Gender Action Plan II 2016 –2020 will be 
updated. In addition, the Austrian Development Bank's Strategy 2019 -2023 will anchor gender 
equality as a cross -sector issue throughout the s trategic cycle. All business activities will be 
structured in such a way as to avoid discrimination and specifically empower women. These activities 
are described in the Gender Action Plan.  
1578.  Canada  referred to  Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy , which includes an 
action area focused on growth that works for everyone through which Canada advances women's 
economic rights and leadership, promotes inclusive markets and entrepreneurship, and promotes 
resilience and financial security. In addition, Canada referenced the Str ategic Plan 2018 -2019 of the 
Trade Commissioner Services, which includes the area of Business Women in International Trade.  
1579.  Canada also mentioned that Global Affairs Canada's trade and development policy guidance 
considers trade as playing an important ro le on women's empowerment and gender equality by 
increasing opportunities for women's labour force participation, protecting labour rights, reducing 
prices for goods and services, facilitating knowledge and technology transfer, and increasing access 
to val ue chains by enterprises owned by women, Indigenous peoples and other marginalised 
persons. By bringing down barriers to women's economic empowerment, Canada's integrated 
approach to trade and development helps individuals and enterprises – particularly th ose led by 
women — to become more competitive, innovative, and green. Canada continues to promote and 
advance inclusive trade and gender equality through enhanced bilateral, regional and multilateral 
engagement and participation in international economic fo rums, such as the World Trade 
Organization (WTO), the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Asia -
Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), G7 and the G20. Canada draws on its membership in key 
multilateral organisations and regional groups –including the United Nations (UN), multilateral and 
regional banks, the G7, the G20, the Commonwealth, La Francophonie, APEC, Pacific Alliance and 
others – to champion gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.  
1580.  Chinese  Taipei  referenced  the Capacity Building Project for Microfinance Ecosystem Focusing 
on Grassroots Women in Eswatini , including women's economic empowerment.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1581.  Czech Republic  stated that women's eco nomic empowerment is a cross -cutting priority in 
the Czech development cooperation strategy 2018 -2030.  
1582.  Euro pean Bank for Reconstruction and Development  (EBRD)  mentioned the  Strategy 
for the Promotion of Gender Equality .  
1583.  European Union  (EU) stated that promoting gender equality is a key priority for the  EU, 
stemming from the founding EU Treaties, which specify gender equality as a fundamental EU value 
and objective. The EU Global Strategy highlights gender equality and women's empowerment as 
cross-cutting priorities for all policies, and this is reinforc ed in the European Consensus on 
Development, which cuts across the entire 2030 Agenda while underlining the need to mainstream 
gender perspectives in all actions. The EU also referenced the EU Gender Equality Strategy 
2020-2025, which highlights women's economic empowerment as one of the key areas in EU 
external actions.  
1584.  The EU indicated that the EU's Aid for Trade Strategy  will help fulfil the EU's renewed and 
expanded commitment to gender equality and, in particular, women's economic empowerment. It 
calls for systema tic gender analysis of every Aid-for-Trade project in order to promote women's 
economic empowerment. As operational guidance for all external actions, the third EU Action Plan 
on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment in External Action 2021 -2025 (GAPIII) , approved 
in November 2020, identifies women's economic empowerment as one of the five pillars to close the 
gender gap. Special emphasis is given to crea ting equal opportunities for women in trade.  
1585.  The EU also indicated that all EU policies recognise women empowerment in all its dimensions. 
Therefore, all trade -related EU policies include references to women's economic empowerment and 
gender equality. Wome n's economic empowerment is also included in the EU Trade Policy Review , 
adopted in early 2021, which states, among other things, that the Commission will also carry out  
work to develop a better understanding of the gender equality implications of various parts of trade 
policy and inform actions for improved gender awareness in trade policy, including in Aid for Trade.   
1586.  France  stated that within the framework of the Unit ed Nations 2030 Agenda, and with a view 
to achieving SDG 5, France has decided to significantly strengthen its action, at the strategic and 
operational levels, in order to integrate equality between women and men and the systematic 
consideration of gender,  both transversally and specifically, at the heart of its action in terms of 
solidarity development policy.  
1587.  Germany  referenced the German Aid for Trade Strategy, which includes gender equality as 
part of the guiding principles. Gender equality is also a co mponent of the BMZ 2030 Reform Strategy , 
the German Development Policy.  
1588.  Inter -American Development Bank  (IDB)  stated that implementing the IDB's Vision 2025 
enables it to pl ay a key role in empowering women and other vulnerable groups. IDB mentioned 
that Latin America and the Caribbean is some of the most unequal regions in the world, and that 
applies to gender inequality as well. Women earn less while working more hours than  men. Although 
very entrepreneurial, women have less access to credit. The COVID -19 pandemic has exposed and 
even widened these gaps. Empowering women and other vulnerable populations who bear most of 
the burden of the health and economic crisis will resul t in a much faster recovery from the COVID -
19 shock.  
1589.  IDB indicated the intention of the IDB Group to address these challenges by designing 
incentives to promote programs primarily focused on gender equality and women's empowerment 
to co-finance women -based initiatives; seeking ways to increase financing that supports women -led 
businesses; and fostering policies that increase access to credit for women's entrepreneurial efforts 
and improve access to financial systems for women across all economic strata in the region. The 
IDB also mentioned that as part of these efforts, the IDB Group intends to reinforce its 
mainstreaming efforts and challenge itself to develop a gender -based business pipeline of projects 
and be a leader in supporting innovative and inclusi ve projects to promote economic empowerment 
of marginalised groups.     
1590.  IDB stated that the reconfiguration of global value chains could also support or facilitate more 
inclusive schemes to integrate women -owned or women -led firms, or firms owned or led by  diverse WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  groups (indigenous peoples, Afro -descendants, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ+  individuals, and 
migrants) into these supply chains. More information about the IDB's vision here. IDB also i ndicated 
that it is essential to have clear indicators that promote and facilitate the inclusion of a gender 
perspective in trade and integration operations. IDB added that the greatest challenge in devising 
these indicators is data availability on women -led or women -owned SMEs in the region. To overcome 
this information gap, the IDB Group, acting through ConnectAmericas for Women, is capturing and 
analysing gender -disaggregated data in the region's business community and data on the business 
profile of wom en-led enterprises. This information is intended to be systematised and periodically 
published to continue with the important effort of ensuring that trade operations impact gender 
equity, with predefined quantitative and qualitative activities and indicat ors reflecting what is being 
sought in terms of trade and gender. More information about the project here.  
1591.  IDB referenced the Vision 2025 , which outlines the new Administration's priorities to advance 
the implementation of the Institutional Strategy for the 2021 -2025 period. This includes women's 
economic empowerment. The priorities respond to the challenges that Latin America and the 
Caribbe an face and will continue to face in the years to come, and a path to come out of the crisis 
with more sustainable growth and resilience. IDB also indicated that the Integration and Trade Sector 
Framework  includes a gender perspective. IDB has also established a Gender Action Plan for 
Operations (GAP)  and this is one of its main instruments for translating institutional commitments 
to gender equality and empowerment into a ction.   
1592.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC ) stated that the IsDB Group has 
made significant advancements to mainstream women's empowerment and development in all of its 
operations and have committed to giving targeted support to address  the specific needs of women 
and girls within the Bank's Strategic Preparedness Response Program to alleviate the impact from 
COVID -19 in its Member Countries. ITFC also indicated that IsDB will further advance its ability to 
address the needs of women in its Member Countries through the implementation of its Women's 
Empowerment Policy and Action Plan by investing in facilitating women's and girls' access to services 
and resources in high impact sectors. These actions will focus on supporting the conditions  necessary 
for women -owned and women -led micro, small and medium -sized enterprises, women 
entrepreneurs, farmers, traders and those in the informal sector.   
1593.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  stated that women's economic empowerment is a key 
priority of the  ITC Strategic Plan. ITC indicated that gender is incorporated into its work as follows: 
(1) ITC's Mainstreaming Guidelines provide a clear, five -step approach (i.e., prioritise, define, 
design, rate, and review) for project managers to develop gender obje ctives into their projects. 
Resources and training manual are provided to project staff; (2) A dedicated focal point collaborates 
with Project Design Task Force and project managers ; (3) Dedicated outputs in selected large ITC 
programmes; (4) Results fram ework on how SDGs includes reporting on SDG  5 and provide 
corporate outcome and output indicators and mainstream gender through sex -disaggregated 
indicators ; (5) UN System -wide Action Plan (UN -SWAP), which is a high performing organisation in 
2020. ITC al so indicated that women's economic empowerment is included in the Public procurement 
policy and the Cooperatives policy.  
1594.  ITC also referenced the SheTrades Initiative, a flagship programme on trade and women's 
economic empowerment. It aims to create a supp ortive ecosystem for women entrepreneurs and to 
support women directly by providing skills and trade opportunities. SheTrades seeks to shape the 
global trade agenda through the Buenos Aires Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic 
Empowerment, engage with  the private sector and large corporates in various sectors, including 
gender -lens investors, offer global tools and methodologies, such as SheTrades.com, and set up 
strong in -country partnerships, such as SheTrades Hubs.  
1595.  ITC mentioned that SheTrades help s government institutions through inclusive data and policy 
reforms through SheTrades Outlook . ITC indicated that SheTrades Outlook is an innovative policy 
tool that helps policymakers assess, monitor and im prove the policy ecosystem for women in trade. 
It provides an evidence -base on the progress made by countries towards promoting gender equality 
through trade. ITC stated that based on the results from SheTrades Outlook, it had provided direct 
technical ass istance to governments in developing countries to undertake gender -responsive policy 
reforms.  
1596.  ITC added that ITC SheTrades Initiative had supported more than ten countries 
(i.e., Bangladesh, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Mauritius, Nigeria, Sierra Leo ne, Uganda, WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 273 - 
 
  and Zambia) across 14 different topics: Access to finance regulations for women; Gender -responsive 
public procurement (revising or developing Policies, Regulations, and Acts); Advocacy for COVID -19 
Economic Stimulus package for women -owned busi nesses; Gender -mainstreaming into the AfCFTA 
National Implementation Strategy; Definition of "women -owned business"; MSME Policy Gender -
responsive implementation plan; Gender -mainstreaming in the National Export Development 
Strategy; Advocacy for COVID -19 Economic stimulus package for women in tourism; Gender -
mainstreaming into National Export Strategy; Gender -mainstreaming in the Trade Facilitation 
Reform Agenda; Gender -mainstreaming into the National Trade Policy; and Gender -mainstreaming 
in the Cooperati ves Policy     
1597.  ITC indicated its support to the trade and gender agenda at the multilateral level, for example 
co-chairing the IGC Trade Impact Group and the development of a gender -lens framework to support 
the WTO Informal Working Group on Women in Trade , as well as regional level, through support to 
women under the African Continental Free Trade Area. ITC also developed a new business survey 
methodology to better understand challenges and opportunities faced by women -led businesses in 
international trade .    
1598.  Ireland  referenced the Policy for International Development, A Better  World , which includes 
a commitment to creating a new funding initiative for Women's Economic Empowerment.  
1599.  Italy  stated that women's economic empowerment is a crucial priority of its Development 
Cooperation strategy .     
1600.  Japan indicated that the Development Cooperation Charter  provides for assistance necessary 
to promote people -centred de velopment that supports basic human life, taking full account of the 
importance of human and social development. It encompasses health care, safe water and 
sanitation, food and nutrition, quality education for all, disparity reduction, women's empowerment,  
culture and sports that brings about spiritual affluence.  
1601.  Korea stated that the Korean government contributed 10 million dollars to Women 
Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We -Fi) and is actively working as a member of the Governance 
Committee. In additio n, KOICA Mid -Term Strategy for Gender Equality includes the economic 
empowerment factor as one of its three main pillars. In addition, economic empowerment for gender 
equality is the first target in the strategy, and it is affiliated with some sub -programs  and indicators. 
It is also aligned with the organisation's umbrella results framework and other strategies. Korea 
indicated that the priority of gender equality set up by the strategy is highly considered when Korea 
takes a procedure of developing, design ing and screening new projects.  
1602.  New Zealand  highlighted  that its Gender Action Plan for International Development 
Cooperation  informs all development programming. The Action Plan outlines a number of key 
priorities, including advancing women's economic empowerment.      
1603.  Norway  referenced the policy document from 2013, which include women's economic 
empowerment. Norway  reiterated its answers to questions 38 and 39.  
1604.  Portugal  stated that gender -equality crosscuts almost all of its incumbent bilateral 
programmes and policies and is an integral part of its Development Cooperation Strategy.  
1605.  Russian Federation  stated that wom en's economic empowerment is an area for 
development assistance covered by the priority areas to boost economic activity in recipient 
countries and socio -economic projects realisations, as set out by the Russian State Concept on 
International Development A ssistance. Russian Federation referenced the 2017 -2022 National 
Strategy for Action for Women as the key policy document on the topic.  
1606.  Slovenia  stated that gender equality had been mainstreamed through Slovenian 
Development Cooperation. Slovenia added tha t impacts on gender equality are a mandatory criterion 
in the Methodology for selecting projects, as prescribed by the Decree on implementing development 
cooperation and humanitarian aid of the Republic of Slovenia.  
1607.  Sweden  stated that Swedish Internationa l Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) does not 
have an Aid -for-Trade strategy/policy/plan. However, Sida provides support for women's economic WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  empowerment in its trade portfolio and mainstreams gender in all of its development programming. 
Sweden added t hat women's economic empowerment is also included as an objective in Strategy 
for Sweden's global development cooperation in sustainable economic development . Gender equality 
and women's economic empowerment is also key component of the Swedish strategy for exports 
and investments  (2019). Moreover, strengthening women's economic empowerment is also included 
as a goal in Sweden's feminist trade policy .     
1608.  Switzerland  stated that gender equality and women's economic empowerment are two 
transversal themes in Switzerland's international cooperation strategy and added t hat this is 
systematically considered in all development activities. SECO recognises gender equality as a 
universal right and prerequisite to economic growth and sustainable prosperity. Switzerland 
indicated that gender equality is a key development issue.  SECO's approach follows two principles: 
(1) the principle of not harm ensures that no development program supports factors that 
unintentionally perpetuate or reinforce gender inequalities, and (2) gender equality is smart 
economics, meaning that promoting  gender equality enhances economic efficiency through higher 
participation of women in the workforce. Switzerland explained that productivity raise at the level of 
individuals and companies contributes to sustainable prosperity at the national level. Switz erland 
added that promoting gender equality is thus not only the right thing to do but also the smart thing 
to do. More information about Switzerland's vision here. Switzerland referenced the National gender 
equality strategy . 
1609.  UNCTAD  mentioned  that DITC had developed a large portfolio of  capacity building activities 
devoted to women's economic empowerment which includes online courses on trade and gender 
targeting stakeholders from developing and least developed countries; country and regional studies 
on the impact of trade liberalisation  and regional integration on women; trainings targeting specific 
vulnerable groups, such as women cross -border traders. UNCTAD also indicated that its Trade 
Facilitation strategy includes women's economic empowerment. UNCTAD referenced its Trade, 
Gender and Development Programme  and its project on Informal cross -border trade for women's 
empowerment, economic development and regional integration in Eastern and Southern Africa . It 
also added references to three studies: East African Community Regional Integration: Trade and 
Gender Implications , Gender -sensitive policy recommendations to support women cross -border 
traders i n Malawi, the United Republic of Tanzania and Zambia , and International Trade, 
transparency and gender equality The case of the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations 
(PACER) Plus  
1610.  UNIDO  referenced the UNIDO Medium -term programme framework 2022 -2025: Integration 
and scale -up to build back better , including a specific focus on gender, youth and "leave no one 
behind". It also mentioned the following policies and strategies with a women's economic 
empowerment component: the 2020-2023 UNIDO gender equality and womenâ€™s empowerment 
strategy , the 2019 UNI DO Gender Policy , and the Inclusive and sustainable industrial development 
(ISID) . More information about UNIDO's vision here and UNIDO's project on gender equality here.  
1611.  United King dom stated that gender equality and women's economic empowerment is 
integral to the UK's forthcoming International Development Strategy. The UK added that it has long 
been a champion for women's economic empowerment since gender is mainstreamed throughout 
the UK's programme approval process. The UK's new International Development Strategy will set 
out how it intends to practice multidisciplinary change for more sustainable and inclusive outcomes, 
including by integrating environmental, political and social outcomes into The UK's approach for 
building markets and trade to ensure changes are more robust, resilient and durable. The UK 
provided the example of setting standards for clean and green technologies that accelerate 
development outcomes or building gend er analysis into the core of the UK's investment approach.  
1612.  The UK referenced the UK's Integrated Review of Development, Diplomacy and Defence, which 
outlines the UK's ambition to promote gender equality by working with women's rights organisations 
to tack le the discrimination, violence and inequality that hold women back. The UK mentioned that 
it intends to use aid spending diplomacy to pursue the goal of getting 40 million more girls into 
school in low - and middle -income countries by 2025, starting with t he Global Partnership for 
Education summit in 2021. The UK will also promote women's economic empowerment at the WTO, 
G7, OECD, the UN and World Bank, and free trade agreements (FTAs). The UK added that the 
Integrated Review has directly informed the forth coming International Development Strategy, where 
the UK's commitment to women's economic empowerment will be reiterated.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1613.  United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  submitted  that gender equality is one 
of the signature solutions in UNDP Strategic Plan 2022 -2025. UNDP reiterated UNDP's Gender 
Equality Strategy to be updated soon to align with the new strategic plan. UNDP indicated that 
gender equality is mainstreamed across UNDP's programmes. In Africa, UNDP support s creating an 
enabling environment to foster and facilitate women entrepreneurship by removing barriers to 
women engaged in intra -African trade, notably through an initiative aiming at influencing and 
supporting the development of the Women in trade Protoc ol under the AfCFTA. UNDP added that 
this initiative is part of the project on advancing gender equality and women's empowerment, which 
aims to support regional economic commissions, AUC, and other regional partners by enhancing 
their capacity to advocate and support their Member States to fulfil their gender equality and 
women's empowerment commitments.   
1614.  UNDP referenced the Regional Programme in Central Asia, in which UNDP works in partnership 
with UN Women and regional partners, such as the Regional Coop eration Council, to advance gender 
equality, strengthening women's economic empowerment in leadership and decision -making, and 
addressing structural, gender, and other forms of discrimination and inequalities. This programme 
also aims to adverse gender soc ial norms, especially in the gendered division of labour and unpaid 
domestic and care work, digital and financial gender gaps as integral requirements for green and 
digital transition in the region. UNDP also indicated that consultation is ongoing for form ulating a 
new gender equality strategy adapted to the new Strategic Plan for the period 2022 -2025.  
1615.  United States referenced the Women's Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment Act of 
2018, which provides that gender analysis must be used to shape all strategies, projects, and 
activities, including trade activities. The US National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality  is also 
intended to advance the full participation of all people –including women and girls —in the United 
States a nd around the world. The United States also referenced the USAID Gender Equality and 
Women's Empowerment Policy  and added that the USAID Economic Growth Policy  includes 
consideration to women's economic empowerment and trade. In addition, the USAID's Program 
Cycle  integrates gen der equality and female empowerment. The following policies also integrate 
women's economic empowerment: USAID Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Policy , 
USAID Anti -Harassment Policy , Digital Strategy , Private Sector Engagement Policy , Employment 
Framework and Playbook .  
1616.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  stated that the gender dimension o f trade policies affects women 
and men differently, and even affects groups of women differently. The joint 2020  WBG-WTO 
flagship report Women and Trade: The Role of Trade in Promoting Women's Equality shed light on 
the linkages between trade and trade pol icy and gender equality. On its surface, trade policy is 
gender neutral. For example, no country imposes tariffs or non -tariff measures by gender; but a 
closer look at the gender dimension of trade policies revealed important differences in how trade 
policies affect women and men –and even in how those policies affect different groups of women. 
Women hold a disproportionate number of jobs in the clothing sector and make most clothing 
purchases as family members. Tariffs on garments remain stubbornly high co mpared to tariffs on 
other manufactured goods. This disparity amounts to a "pink tariff ” hurting female consumers across 
the world and keeping women in developing countries from broader export opportunities and better 
jobs.     Support to developing countr ies will aim to address the gender gap. To maximize the benefits 
for women, trade interventions need to be evaluated to account for their different impacts on women 
and to eliminate "pink tariffs" and other implicit biases. Research on gender equality and trade has 
also been held back by limited data and a lack of understanding of the connections between trade 
and women in their different roles in society (workers, consumers, and decision makers). Support 
to developing countries will help them identify and seize opportunities through which women can 
gain from trade in a post -COVID -19 world and will also advocate for greater openness in key sectors 
such as services and digital trade, that can further create powerful opportunities for women to reap 
the benefit s.  
1617.  World Bank Group added that trade facilitation measures will also be addressed through a 
gender lens. Trade facilitation measures are often assumed to be non -discriminatory and apply to 
all traders in their design; however, these measures may not neces sarily impact or benefit all traders 
in similar ways. There is a global lack of data on how trade facilitation interventions impact traders 
by gender at the firm level. There is also a global vacuum of knowledge on the proportion of cross -
border traders wh o are women. Few countries, if any, can easily confirm the number of women that 
undertake cross -border trade. There is a growing body of research on why fewer women than men 
participate in cross -border trade. Women, for example, tend to have more family ob ligations, but WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  also face challenges related to access to finance, have lower literacy levels and less knowledge of 
cross-border trade regulations and procedures, face higher export costs as owners of smaller firms, 
as well as exclusion from distribution ne tworks.  The WBG has undertaken work (Trade Facilitation 
and Gender Studies) across different countries to help confirm the specific trade facilitation obstacles 
traders face by gender.    
1618.  World Bank added that it aims to progressively embed a gendered len s in its county operations 
and dialogue, sensitizing clients to the need for trade to be inclusive in design and operationalization 
and developing monitoring and evaluation metrics to measure gendered impacts wherever feasible.  
Strategies to ensure non-discrimination with respect to conditions o f employment or 
occupation (including through t he provision of flexible work arrangements)  
1619.  A total of 8 7 respondents answered this question. Forty-two (42) of the 48 respondents (88%) 
to the partner country qu estionnaire stated that their national policies for women's economic 
empowerment strategy seek to ensure non -discrimination with respect to conditions or employment 
or occupation (including through the provision of flexible work arrangements).  
Regions and  Groups : Existence of strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) that seek to 
ensure non -discrimination with respect to co nditions of employment or occupation 
(including through the provision of flexible work arrangements)  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  22 88% 
Asia 8 100%  
Europe  1 100%  
LACS 6 86% 
Pacific  4 67% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 23 88% 
LLDC 9 82% 
UN SIDS  6 67% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Existence of strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) that seek to ensure non -discrimination 
with respect to conditions of employment or occupation (including through the provision 
of flexible work arrangements)  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional  information provided  by respondents: Partner country responses  
1620.  Bangladesh  stated that non -discrimination policy is the key to every policy document.  
1621.  Benin noted  that the national guide requires systematically taking into account gender in 
developing different policies and strategies.  
1622.  Colombia  highlighted  that the Equipares programme as part of the NDP 2018 -2022 is based 
on a strategic alliance between the National Government, headed by the Ministry of Labour and the 
United Nations Developme nt Programme. The objective is the elimination of wage and employment 
discrimination against women, promotion of a culture of equal conditions for women, and the 
participation of women in tripartite commissions in the world of work, prevention, elimination  and 
punishment of all forms of violence against women, which, as mentioned in the previous question, 
has been redesigned and scaled up not only at the level of large companies but also in SMEs, the 
rural sector and the public sector. One of the eight dime nsions of the Equipares programme is related 
to the reconciliation of personal, family and working life with co -responsibility, including leave, 
working hours and services and support. This is how good practices have been identified, for example 
in terms o f flexible working hours, reduced Friday working hours, breastfeeding rooms, voluntary 
extension of maternity and paternity leave and gradual return, time -use checkbooks (balance days, 
birthdays off, first day of school, etc.), as well as the strengthening  of work -life balance committees, 
teleworking, tailor -made wellbeing programmes, and homework distribution boards. More 
information  here.   
1623.  Fiji referenced the 5-year and 20 -year National Development Plan , which promote and 
support women's access to education, fulfilling employment and career advancement. It also 
provides for adeq uate remuneration for women who choose to have children and support women to 
continue to advance their careers if that is their wish. The National Plan also expects the spouse or 
partner to share home duties in caring for children and household work. Fiji also indicated its support 
for women's health and decisions regarding family planning and sexual and reproductive health to 
be shared and respected. In addition, access to health and other social services will be improved 
and available as required. In addi tion, women will be included and consulted in all planning for future 
development projects, and their input will be translated into tangible project outcomes.  
1624.  Gabon  stated that   new regulations have been adopted and signed to take this issue into 
account b y the ministry in charge of labour.  
1625.  Guinea Bissau  referenced the Terra Ranka National Plan, which seeks to ensure employment 
non-discrimination.  
1626.  Indonesia  stated that it put in place equal pay for equal job policies in which salary should 
not be differenti ated based on sex as long as they are doing an equal job. In addition, women have 
access to 3 months of paid maternity leave to ensure they are able to take care of their babies 
properly during their early years. Indonesia also indicated that parental leav e is given in certain 
cases.  
1627.  Mali cited the Development Policy Industrial providing in axis 1.5, point 6 "Rereading of the 
Labor Code to take into account women's night work and positive discrimination in favour of women 
with equal skills". Mali also refer enced the National Gender Policy 2011 , which recall Mali's 
commitments for gender equality at the national, international and African level.  
1628.  Mexico referenced the Agreement between Mexico, the United States, and Canada, which 
contains the labour chapter (23). These provisions eliminate discr imination in employment, promote 
equality for women in the workplace, protect against wage discrimination and provide work licenses. 
This chapter aims to eliminate discrimination in employment and promote equality for women in the 
workplace. Mexico also re ferenced the specific objective of eliminating gender -based discrimination 
of the PROIGUALDAD and Norm 025 (NMX -025).  
1629.  Nepal referenced the  National Gender Equality Poli cy 2021 , of which strategies 4,  5 and 
6-regarding the elimination of gender -based discrimination in employment.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1630.  Pakistan  stated that legal steps had been taken to ensure non -discrimination with respect to 
conditions of employment or occupation. These incl ude the formation of the Woman Ombudsman 
and the adoption of the Workplace Harassment Act and the Protection of Women Against Violence 
Act.  
1631.  Peru referenced Guideline 6 (i.e., design and implement actions for gender equality in the 
workplace) of the Techni cal Guidelines to promote the economic autonomy of women in their 
diversity (DS No. 196 -2021-MIMP). This includes specific actions, such as promoting good business 
practices in terms of gender equality and non -discrimination in the workplace. For example, these 
practices regard having objective selection tests, pre -established evaluation guidelines, structured 
interview guides and evaluation indicator sheets related to the position for which one is applying in 
order to avoid the probability of bias on the p art of the interviewer and adequately measure the 
skills, professional career and skills requested in the call, safeguarding equal opportunities and 
treatment. It also provides for avoiding questions of a personal or private nature, such as marital 
status,  maternity, breastfeeding, and sexual orientation.    
1632.  Philippines mentioned  the Updated Philippine Development Plan 2017 -2022 as including 
non-discriminati on in employment.    
1633.  Sri Lanka indicated the following actions are undertaken to support gender equality in 
employment: (1) Providing Child Care facilities for working mothers, including daycare facilities of 
government premises; (2) taking initial steps t o introduce flexible working opportunities for women; 
(3) Discussing in a forum to obtain recommendations for creating flexible working opportunities for 
young working mothers and drafting a policy paper; (4) ensuring maternity care leave for women 
(women working for the government have 84 working day leave); (5) promoting self -help groups; 
(6) increasing women's participation in the promotion of entrepreneurship awareness and the 
provision of facilities to initiate self -employment; and (7) integrating the work from home concept 
during Covid -19 pandemic.  
1634.  St. Lucia  stated that the strategies, policies or plans identified in previous questions are in 
congruence with the Equali ty of Opportunity and Treatment in Employment and Occupation Act 
2000, which seeks to ensure non -discrimination in education and employment in Saint Lucia.  
1635.  Vanuatu  referred to the National Gender Equality Policy. Additional information is available 
here.  
Additional  information provided  by respondents: Donor responses  
1636.  Twenty -nine (29) of the 33 respondents to the donor questionnaire stated that their national 
policies for women's economic empowerment strategy seek to ensure non -discrimination with 
respect to conditions of employment or occupation (including through the provision of fle xible work 
arrangements).  
1637.  Australia  stated that " The  Gender Equality and Women's Economic Empowerment Strategy "  
is designed to support ini tiatives that eliminate discrimination against women and girls, including in 
relation to employment. Aligning with the strategy, Australia's Invest ing in Women program   is 
helping to promote policies, practices and culture around work and workplaces to be more conducive 
to women's safety, incomes, and career advancement in  the Indo -Pacific. Further examples include: 
Australia's Market Development Facility  (MDF) program in Fiji, which has positively impacted 
women's empowerment, not only increasing economic opportunities for women, but also addressing 
the complex issues of agency and, in some  cases, the frequently overlooked constraint that women 
in Fiji face - time poverty. Addressing this directly through interventions designed to reduce 
workloads has allowed women to use their saved time to rest more, help children with education, 
and manag e other crops. Through thoughtful design, MDF has also developed community -based 
models with Fijian companies that ensure women's efforts are amply rewarded. As they have 
continued to earn income, they have contributed to sustained high quality services fo r tourists, 
increased investment in the well -being of their families, and increased contributions to their 
community obligations.  Australia referred to its investment in the ILO -IFC Better Work Programme 
, which hel ps improve labour standards and reduce gender discrimination in garment factories in 
developing countries, in partnership with the private sector. Australia's contribution currently 
focusses on Cambodia, Indonesia, Pakistan and Vietnam, and helps to extend  and deepen the focus WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  on gender equality issues in the workplace, such as sexual harassment, the gender wage gap, and 
women's leadership and meaningful participation in decision -making. Further details are available in 
answer to question 49.   
1638.  Asian Develo pment Bank  (ADB)  referenced the ADB 's Trade and Supply Chain Finance 
Program (TSCFP), including the objective to ensure non -discrimination in employment. ADB added 
that this is also included in the policies promoted and implemented across member banks. The ADB 
OP2 Social Development also supports decent and productive work for women through gender 
assessment of the future of work and employment, social protection initiat ives, and inclusive 
business.   
1639.  Austria stated that according to its Gender Action Plan, OeEB has committed to integrate 
gender lens into all investment activities (i.e., "Gender Lens Investing"). Gender Lens Investing is 
the intentional integration of gen der analysis into financial analysis to achieve gender equity that 
benefits women and girls. Austria also added that promoting better access to capital for 
women -owned/led businesses and for gender -equitable workplaces where women work in leadership 
positi ons and meet their needs is key.  
1640.  Canada  noted  that its projects with partners seek to ensure non -discrimination. One example 
of a project that pursued gender equality is the following: Canada provided $250M in a repayable 
contribution to establish the Canadian Climate Fund for the Private Sector in the Americas with the 
Inter-American Development Bank. This fund has supported 23 renewable energy projects, where a 
third of projects have mainstreamed gender considerations. In addition, in a wind project i n 
Argentina, the use of performance -based incentives led a company to create a gender awareness 
training programme for senior managers and to approve a gender action plan.  Women were hired, 
and internships were offered by the company to female undergraduat es in science, technology, 
engineering and mathematics (STEM), and there were improved working conditions for all women.     
1641.  Canada [also]  indicated that its Feminist International Assistance Policy explicitly commits to 
helping address unpaid care work an d the disproportionate proportion of care shouldered by women 
and girls around the world. Canada also mentioned that at the Generation Equality Forum (June -
July 2021), Prime Minister Trudeau announced that Canada will commit $100 million in new funding 
for stand -alone programming to address issues in unpaid and paid care work in low - and middle -
income countries in which Canada provides international assistance. This program will recognise, 
address and reduce the unequal distribution of unpaid and paid care work and ensure that unpaid 
and paid care workers are represented and have their voices heard and their rights supported and 
protected. It is intended to address a root cause of global inequality and help increase women's 
ability to participate in the econ omy, education, and public life, thus fostering gender equality, 
women's economic empowerment, and gender -responsive economic response and recovery.  
1642.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)  referenced the EBRD’s 
Strategy for the Promotion of Gender Equality  and the EBRD Social and Environmental Policy , both 
of which aim to ensure no n-discrimination in employment.  
1643.  European Union  (EU) indicated that its fundamental pillar is the welfare state where 
respect to conditions of employment or occupation are embedded in all Eu's policies and actions. 
Specifically, and related to the EU Aid for Trade Strategy , it calls for EU Aid for Trade to take due 
account of the four pillars of the Decent Work Agenda (i.e., standards and rights at work, 
employment cre ation and enterprise development, and social protection and social dialogue). It also 
calls for EU's Aid for Trade to build on the broadened possibilities offered by 'new generation' of FTAs 
concluded by the EU to support labour rights and the Decent Work Agenda, through the binding 
social and environmental provisions contained in the Trade and Sustainable Development chapters.  
1644.  The EU added that the systematic gender analysis of every Aid-for-Trade project in order to 
promote women's economic empowerment includes considering the objectives on access to decent 
work for women of all ages as stated in the EU Gender Action Plan III (2021 -2025) . In addition, the 
EU Gender Equality Strategy  states that the Commission will continue to actively promote gender 
equalit y through its trade policy, including through its active engagement on the issue in the World 
Trade Organization. The Commission will continue to gather gender -disaggregated data to ensure 
that trade -related aspects of gender are adequately addressed in tr ade agreements and consider 
gender impact in trade initiatives. The EU also indicated that the EU Gender Action Plan III (2021 -WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  2025) recognises that women and men in all their diversity should have equal opportunities, equal 
access to employment, decent wo rk, and equal pay for equal work to be economically secure 
independent. It calls for EU action to contribute to promoting decent work, equal pay and labour 
rights, and women's transition to the formal economy, among others, by reducing labour market 
segreg ation, boosting women's leadership and increasing their bargaining power in economic and 
household decision -making and social dialogue, in sectors with a majority of women workers, 
including domestic work, as well as in the non -traditional sector.  
1645.  Germany  stated that the Cross -sectoral strategy "Gender Equality in German Development 
Policy" and the BMZ 's Development Policy Action Plan on Gender Equality 2016 -2020 (update 
forthcoming) seek to ensure non -discrimination in employment.  
1646.  Inter -American Developme nt Bank  (IDB)  indicated that the IDB Group works to design 
and fund policies to, among others, expand women's economic opportunities by increasing labour 
force participation, closing income and gender gaps between men and women, and improving 
women's acces s to more productive and better -paid jobs and occupations. More information about 
Vision 2025 here. IDB also stated that the enormous impact created by the pandemi c on the labour 
market and women's employment required the IDB Group to accelerate actions aimed at recovering 
employment from a gender perspective. In increasing the pace of these actions, the IDB Group 
created an Employment Action Framework with a Gender Perspective  to recover, create, and 
transform employment in the region, emphasising women's employment.   
1647.  Japan referenced the Development Cooperation Charter, wh ich indicates that Japan will 
provide necessary assistance to secure the foundations and the driving force for economic growth. 
Its scope includes vocational training, industrial human resources development, and employment 
creation.      
1648.  Korea stated that non-discrimination in employment is not fairly included in Korea's 
strategies. Korea recalled that the KOICA Mid -term Strategy for Gender Equality includes a target 
for women's economic empowerment. It is aligned with SDG 8.3.1 (i.e., indicators for measur ing 
the proportion of informal employment in non -agriculture employment, by sex). With this means, a 
project which deals with women's economic empowerment -overall or partly - must monitor its 
progress of any changes in this proportion. However, Korea noted  that not all projects related to 
economic empowerment take this indicator. Some do not apply the concept of women's economic 
empowerment perspective, or others take another indicator to measure the progress in gender 
equality, for example, regarding the p roportion of women in managerial positions (i.e., SDG5.2.2) . 
1649.  Sweden  stated that the Strategy for Sweden's global development cooperation in sustainable 
economic development also includes the following objectives: improved conditions for productive 
employme nt and decent work and improved conditions for social protection systems. Sweden also 
indicated that in all Sida's support, gender mainstreaming is consistently integrated. Programs and 
projects receiving financial support are intended and aimed at shiftin g gender roles and conditions 
for women and men to enjoy equal and non -discriminatory conditions in all sectors. Regarding 
employment and occupation, Sida drives partners to shift and advocate for non -discrimination in the 
workplace, both in formal and inf ormal settings. For example, Sida's global support to the 
International Labour Organization contributes to the 'Women at Work' initiative, which focuses on 
strengthening the gender perspective in a number of work -related areas, such as increasing women's 
work, access to quality work, equal pay for equal work, a better balance between paid work and 
unpaid care work, and to counteract violence and harassment in working life. The initiative works 
on a global, regional and national level through advocacy work a nd capacity -building initiatives. The 
ILO has developed knowledge materials on social security systems for mothers in working life and 
the importance of increasing protection for workers in the informal economy and a series of technical 
briefs on combating  violence and harassment in working life. Swened mentioned that Sida's support 
has been central to enabling the ILO's advocacy work for countries' ratification and implementation 
of a number of international conventions and recommendations related to gende r equality and non -
discrimination. More information about ILO's initiatives here.  
1650.  UNCTAD  stated that through the country and regional studies conduct ed by the Division on 
International Trade and Commodities (DITC), UNCTAD regularly analyses women's participation in 
the labour market and include policy recommendations. For instance, UNCTAD referenced Teaching 
material on trade and gender Volume 1: unfolding the links Module 4E trade and gender linkages: 
an analysis of least developed countries , Teaching material on trade and gender Volume  1: unfolding WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  the links Module 4D trade and gender linkages: an analysis of Central America , and Women 
producers of Kiribati and their participation in inter -island and international trade .  
1651.  United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  provided the example of the UNDP's 
Aid for Trade in Central Asia, which specifically targets the right to work as per the International 
Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, Art.6.1. UNDP indicated that one of the project's 
main goals is to support governments to create decent jobs focusing on productive employment that 
support good living standards and social and economic integration. The project puts special attention 
to ensuring that jobs are formalised. The project also ensures that participating businesses 
implement safe labour standards as per ILO recommendations.  
1652.  United States referenced the Engendering Industries Approach , which includes best practices 
framework for increasing gender equality in male -domina ted industries. More information on the 
framework here. As part of this approach, USAID partners with companies to design interventions 
that improve gende r equality within their organisations. Through the programme Engendering 
Industries, USAID is partnering with 41 organisations spanning 27 countries. More information about 
the partners of the programme here. 
Collection of data on women's economic empowerment in relation to trade and 
development  
1653.  Thirty -one (39) out of 50 respondents  to the partner country questionnaire (62%) indicated 
that their government collects data on women's economi c empowerment in relation to trade and 
development . 
Regions and Groups : Government collection of data on women's economic 
empowerment in relation to trade and development  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  15 65% 
Asia 8 73% 
LACS 6 67% 
Pacific  2 40% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 17 61% 
LLDC 6 50% 
UN SIDS  3 38% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Do governments/institutions collect data on women's economic empowerment in 
relation to trade and development?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided  by respondents: Partner country responses  
1654.  Bangladesh referenced  available information here.  
1655.  Benin stated that dat a collection on women's economic empowerment is now carried out 
systematically to support the debates between the Government, the Social Partners and the 
Development Partners whenever the need arises.  
1656.  Colombia  stated that the Microbusiness Survey conducted  by DANE captures information on 
economic units with no more than 9 persons employed in the country. It allows for the 
characterisation of micro -businesses by the sex of the owner and the sex of the employed (more 
information on the survey can be found here). For its part, the Registro Ãšnico Empresarial y Social 
(RUES)  recently included the gender variable in its form, which now allows for the characterisation 
of formal enterprises in the country (whether sole proprietorships or other types) according to the 
sex of their legal representative. In addition, thanks to the approval of Law  1413 of 2010, the care 
economy and unpaid work  within the household were introduced into the System of National 
Accounts, allowing the country to know the contribution of unpaid work, developed primarily by 
women, within the national economy.  In addition, the Law on Entrepreneurship established that the 
Government must advance the definition of women's enterprises, which is already defined and must 
be incorporated by the entities in the various administrative records (more information on the 
account is available here). 
1657.  Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)  stated that  the main challenges in the field of gender 
are, among others, (i) mainstreaming gender in develo pment policies, programmes and projects in 
all areas; (ii) promotion of women's leadership and participation in   decision -making bodies; and 
(iii) elimination of gender -based violence including child marriages and harmful practices.  
1658.  El Salvador   stated th at [additional]  information is available  here.  
1659.  Guinea Bissau  referenced the Strategy for the Development of Trade and exports of Guinea 
Bissau, which include data collection on women's economic empowerment.  
1660.  Guatemala  stated that  data collection on women's economic empowerment is done through 
workshops, training and meetings with groups of women producers, a record is kept on this issue.  
1661.  Mali referenced the periodic reports of the Ministry in charge of women and  data from 
women's NGOs. More information about the reports here.  
1662.  Mexico stated that the National Institute of Geography and Statistics conducts the following 
gender -disaggregated surveys that provide indicators on gender, trade and development:  National 
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  Survey on Productivity and Competitiveness of Micro, Small and Medium Ent erprises; Survey on 
Business Financing; and National Survey on Occupation and Employment. Mexico also indicated that 
the Ministry of Economy maintains a list of its programs on gender issues when data exists.   
1663.  Nepal stated that Nepal conducts the Voluntary National Review of SDG and implements a 
budget code for gender empowerment to collect data on women's economic empowerment.  
1664.  Pakistan  referenced the Benazir Income Support Program, the National Socio -Economic 
Registry, and the National Council for  Social Welfare to collect data on women's economic 
empowerment.  
1665.  Peru referenced the Gender Inequality Index (GDI), which is an indicator of inequality. It 
measures gender inequalities in three important aspects of human development: i) reproductive  
health, which is measured by the maternal mortality rate and the adolescent fertility rate, 
ii) empowerment, which is measured by the proportion of parliamentary seats held by women and 
the proportion of adult women and men aged 25 and over who have completed a t least secondary 
education; and iii) economic status, expressed as participation in the labour market and measured 
by the labour force participation rate of women and men aged 15 and over.  
1666.  In addition, Peru mentioned the thematic indicators on economic autonomy and gender gaps 
(INEI) . The National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) annually publishes the Gender 
Gaps Report  in which a series of relevant indicators are reported for the analysis of gender gaps at 
the national level (latest publication 2020).  
1667.  Sri Lanka  stated that the informat ion obtained through surveys for the women's economic 
empowerment and the questionnaire on the income status of women with economic difficulties at 
the village level (especially regarding female head -household and widow data). Sri Lanka also 
collects infor mation on women who have obtained microfinance loans.  
1668.  St. Lucia  stated that efforts are being made to collect data on the number of women who 
own registered businesses and employment disaggregated. However, St. Lucia indicated that there 
are ongoing challe nges with regard to gender -disaggregated data collection and trade data collection 
in general. Most of this is related to a large informal sector and high percentage of MSMEs.    
1669.  Uganda  referenced the Opportunities for Ugandan women’s economic empowerment during 
COVID -19 recovery  and the COMESA's pr ogramme activities on trade liberalisation .  
1670.  Vanuatu  stated that data collection is still an issue due to capacity constraints and funding 
issues. However, the department  of statistics is trying to improve this the Eleventh European 
Development Funding (1 1th EDF).  
Additional  information provided  by respondents: Donor responses  
1671.  Twenty -five (25) of the 36 respondents  (69%)  to donor questionnaire stated that their 
government or relevant institution collects  data on women's economic empowerment in relation to 
trade and development.  
1672.  Australia  stated that the monitoring, reporting and accountability requirements of its 
overseas development assistance require the provision of quantitative data and qualitative 
information on activities undertaken, participation, and results. Australia continually monitors its aid 
program investments (including Aid -for-Trade investments) to ensure they effectively integrate 
gender provisions through our monitoring performance fram ework. For example, of Australia's 
Aid-for-Trade investments in the 2019 -2020 financial year, 78 per cent effectively addressed gender, 
performing on par with the entire aid program. Australia referred to the presentation by Australia's 
Australian Gender Equality Ambassador to WTO Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender ", 16 
July 2021).  
1673.  Canada  indicated that Global Affairs Canada collec ts project and institutions data on FIAP Key 
Performance Indicators and Complementary Performance Indicators for women's economic 
empowerment. Canada has a results -based management approach specific to its international 
assistance titled "Architecture for Results of International Assistance" (ARIA), with the aim to roll up WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  strategically selected project and program results information into more meaningful evidence -based 
corporate level results. At the project and country program level, Canada has a robust r esults -based 
management methodology and extensive guidance available.  
1674.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)  indicated that it collects 
data on women's economic empowerment, notably through the Women in Business Programme .  
1675.  European Union  (EU) referenced the Joint Staff Working Document " Objectives and 
Indicators to frame the implementation of the Gender Action Plan III ", which  complements the joint 
communication to the European Parliament and the Council's Gender Action Plan III "An ambitious 
vision on gender equality and women's empowerment for EU External actio n", by providing a set of 
objectives and indicators to monitor progress in the implementation of GAP III and measure its 
results at country, regional and international levels.  
1676.  France  stated that it relies on cross -data on trade and gender collected in int ernational bodies 
(including OECD and OECD), as well as on impact studies carried out both ex -ante and ex -post by 
the European Union in under its trade agreements.  
1677.  Germany  stated that one of the strategic objectives of the Development Policy Action Plan on  
Gender Equality 2016 -2020 was to improve the availability and use of gender -disaggregated data 
that are up -to-date, reliable and of high quality.  
1678.  Inter -American Development Bank  (IDB)  stated that it is essential to have clear 
indicators that promote and facilitate the inclusion of a gender perspective in trade and integration 
operations. IDB mentioned that the greatest challenge in devising these indicators is the availability 
of data on women -led or women -owned SMEs in the region. To overcome this inform ation gap, the 
IDB Group, acting through ConnectAmericas for Women, is capturing and analysing gender -
disaggregated data in the region's business community and data on the business profile of women -
led enterprises. This is conducted as part of the Integration and Trade Sector Framework Document .  
1679.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  stated that ITC results framework includes sex -
disaggregated data. Moreover, at the inception stage, most projects roll out SME Competitiveness 
Surveys and/or NTMs Surveys and needs assessments, all of which collect and analyse sex -
disaggregated data.      
1680.  At the policy level, ITC launched SheTrades Outlook , an innovative policy tool that helps 
governments and other stakeholders to assess, monitor and improve the policy ecosystem to support 
women's participation in business and international trade. ITC indicated that SheTrades Outlook 
contributes to evidence -based policymaking by: allowing policymakers to examine data gaps and 
monitor progress on women's economic empowerment using novel data on trade and gender; and 
helping governments prioritise areas for inclusive policy reform and technical support. ITC ad ded 
that SheTrades Outlook significantly contributes to the collection and use of better trade and gender 
data to shape trade and trade -related policies by providing 80% new data, collected through an 
institutional survey and complemented with existing dat a from international databases. The online 
tool was launched in July 2020. As of 2021, ITC has rolled out SheTrades Outlook in 38  developed 
and developing countries and provided subsequent technical assistance to 10  countries. The G7 
trade ministers have a lso recognised SheTrades Outlook as an important tool to take stock of 
countries' progress in advancing gender equality through trade.  
1681.  Korea  stated that it collects data on women's economic empowerment, but not specifically on 
trade. KOICA undertakes a dut y of implementing development cooperation policies and operates 
programs and projects. However, it does not focus on trade specifically, except when the project is 
related to the topic. Korea indicated that KOICA has collected and accumulated data of almos t all 
projects in which it operates.  
1682.  Norwa y referenced the  Evaluation of Norway’s sup port to women’s rights and gender equality 
in development cooperation .  
1683.  Russian Federation  referenced the Activities of the Federal Tax Service of Russia, which has 
calculated how many women are employed in small business. More information about the result s 
here.     WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1684.  Slovenia  stated that data on its activities is collected in line with the OECD DAC standards. 
The results of the activities have been monitored on a project basis but d o not include aggregation 
or monitoring of the impacts on trends on a higher level (regional/national) as projects are 
small -scale with limited impact on general trends.  
1685.  Sweden  stated that in programs and projects supported by Sida, gender is mainstreamed , 
and gender -disaggregated data is expected to help identify how initiatives and results affect women 
and men, respectively. This information can be used to evaluate effects on women's economic 
empowerment, avoid unintended results and tweak programs to be  even more effective. Sweden 
added that data is mostly collected on women's economic empowerment in relation to trade and 
development.  
1686.  Switzerland stated that in SECO's development cooperation projects, results are measured 
by using a gender lens. This in cludes the collection of gender -disaggregated data (e.g., number of 
women and men participating in training, or number of jobs created for women and men, etc.), 
which is used for reporting. Switzerland also indicated that SECO has developed a comprehensive  
gender equality guideline and checklist to help program managers and implementing partners 
identify gender gaps, risks, but also innovation and opportunities. With gender -disaggregated 
indicators and more gender -sensitive reporting, SECO improves its acco untability and makes the 
gender dimension more visible. Switzerland stated that the Federal Statistical Office  also collects 
and share s data on gender equality and women's economic empowerment.  
1687.  UNCTAD  stated DITC had administered surveys and interviews to women's cross -border 
traders, Cross -border Trade Associations, and border authorities to assess the impact and usefulness 
of its capa city-building activities, especially during the covid -19 pandemic. UNCTAD also indicated 
collecting data from the NTFCs.  
1688.  UNIDO stated that UNIDO's integrated results and performance framework (IRPF) are used 
to collect UNIDO's programmatic results and data in a holistic manner. The IRPF is also fully gender -
responsive, which means that projects reporting through the IRPF can indicate the gender 
responsiveness or sex disaggregation of results achieved through the indicators.   
1689.  United Nations Development P rogramme  (UNDP)  indicated that it manages different 
data platforms, including the Data Futures platform. This platform allows monitoring the implications 
of COVID -19 across countries and different dimensions. In cooperation with UNWomen, the platform 
added  a module on COVID -19 Gender Response Tracker, which monitors the extent to which COVID -
19 response measures are gender -sensitive. Some of these measures, such as those regarding 
women -led SMEs, may have trade implications, but this is not explicitly monit ored in the platform.  
1690.  United States  stated that USAID collects standard and custom foreign assistance standard 
indicators located on the US State Department website .  
1691.  World Bank Gro up (WBG)  referred the information available here.  
Public -private partnerships to achieve Aid -for-Trade objectives in relation to women's 
economic empowerment  
1692.  Twelve  of the 19 respondents  (63%)  to the partner country questionnaire stated that they 
used public -private partnerships to achieve Aid -for-Trade objectives in relation to women's economic 
empowerment. Twenty -four of the 30  respondents (80%) to the donor countr y questionnaire also 
stated  that they used public -private partnerships to achieve Aid -for-Trade objectives in relation to 
women's economic empowerment.  
Regions and Groups : Public -private partnerships have been used in achieving 
Aid-for-Trade objectives in relation to women's economic empowerment  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  7 58% 
Asia 3 100%  
LACS 1 33% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Pacific  1 100%  
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 7 58% 
LLDC 4 57% 
UN SIDS  1 50% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Have public -private partnerships been used to achieve Aid -for-Trade objectives in 
relation to women's economic empowerment?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided  by respondents: Partner country respons es 
1693.  Sri Lanka  referenced the following public -private partnerships: the Korea - Seamaul  project, 
the JICA – project, and projects with UNFDA, UNDP, UN Women, and IOM.  
1694.  Mali highlighted  two public -private partnerships: one on social issues with DEFERS, Plan Mali, 
CARE -Mali, and FAFE; and the Shea programme with AfDB on technical and financial  aspects.  
1695.  Pakistan  made reference to  three public -private partnerships: GRASP, BISP with the World 
bank, and Ehsaas Program with the World Bank.  
1696.  Uganda  referenced the COMESA Small Scale Cross -Border Trade Initiative 2018 -2022. This 
project (EUR 15 million) aims at facilitating measures specifically for small scale cross -border traders 
at selected border posts and in th e COMESA/Tripartite region. The project focuses on reducing 
bribery, corruption and harassment experienced by small scale cross -border traders at selected 
border posts and upgrading border infrastructure at targeted border posts. The project has also a 
specific focus on improving standards and facilities for female traders who make up the majority of 
small -scale cross border traders. In 2020, the Ugandan government and private sector established 
the Sustainable Business for Uganda (SB4U) Platform, in line w ith the Africa -Europe Alliance for 
Sustainable Investment and Jobs. The Platform is an innovative mechanism to engage public and 
private actors in Uganda and the EU to strengthen the investment climate, particularly concerning 
the green economy. The Platfo rm operates at policy dialogue level on key constraints hampering 
bilateral investments, targeted actions to reduce them, and promotion of investment partnerships. 
While it currently focuses on workforce skills training, improved access to finance and anti -corruption 
measures, it is expected to support bilateral trade relations and capacities in the near future. EU 
support to the platform is provided through the "Inclusive Green Economy Uptake Programme - 
(Green UP) (2019 -2022; EUR 45 million) and "Promoting  Inclusive Green Economy (PIGE) project 
(2019 -  2022; EUR 60 million).  
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  1697.  African Development Bank  (AfDB)  stated that it launched the AFAWA (Affirmative Finance 
Action for Women in Africa), a pan -African initiative to bridge the $42 billion financing gap faci ng 
women in Africa – including $15.6 billion in agriculture alone. The expected projects under 
consideration include (i) a finance aspect: lending to women is seen as riskier, so they face 
prohibitive interest rates. In addition, women often lack tradition al collateral and guarantees; (ii) a 
capacity aspect: financial institutions lack the capacity to understand and respond appropriately to 
women entrepreneurs, who also often lack the financial and business acumen to respond to the 
needs of financial instit utions; and (iii) a business environment aspect: in many countries, legal and 
regulatory frameworks hinder women's full participation in private sector growth.  
1698.  Asian Development Bank  (ADB)  stated that to help small firms break barriers to 
international mar kets, key stakeholders, including governments, donors, and the private sector, 
should consider the following support programs and policy actions: (i) improving access to finance, 
including through gender -sensitive and innovative financing models; (ii) fost ering more conducive 
regulatory and institutional frameworks, especially around markets entry, competition, and 
formalisation of economic activities; (iii) building capacity through business development advisory 
and training services; (iv) promoting new te chnologies and online platforms; and (v) integrating 
MSME development in trade policy and trade facilitation initiatives. ADB added that, ultimately, the 
private sector must be facilitated to strengthen trade capacity and to improve trade inclusiveness. 
In the CITA program, the executing agency, the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs (CMEA) 
works closely with the various implementing agencies, as well as the Indonesian Chamber of 
Commerce and Industry, to ensure the successful delivery of policy ref orms.  
1699.  Canada referenced the project UNECA/ATPC " Support to the Boosting of Intra -African Trade " 
($13.2M; 2015 - 2020). Canada's support for this  initiative aimed to increase levels of intra -African 
trade to generate economic growth, create jobs and help increase the movement of goods 
throughout the continent. The UN's Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), through its African 
Trade Policy Centre (ATPC) coordinates technical support for the development of trade policies in 
Africa, aiming to strengthen the human and institutional capacities of African governments and 
regional economic communities (RECs) to formulate and implement sound trade policie s and 
participate more effectively in trade negotiations at all levels. The ATPC's discourse around the 
importance of gender considerations in trade policy contributed to changes in the attitudes of 
policymakers. For instance, South Africa's Minister of Tr ade recently announced their intention to 
make their trade policy gender -sensitive. As a result, 102 female and 131 male policymakers were 
trained on trade and gender since the programme started in December 2015, including on 
mainstreaming gender in the Af CFTA. The initiative also resulted in increased participation of private 
sector operators and CSOs, including women entrepreneurs, traders and organisations, in regional 
and continental dialogues on the AU's trade agenda. The project succeeded in increasin g the 
participation of private sector operators and CSO's, in regional and continental dialogues on the AU's 
trade agenda. The number of women and youth who participate in these forums also increased. The 
ATPC facilitated the participation of selected busi ness operators, policymakers and experts on trade 
and gender to participate in the forum.  
1700.  Canada also referenced the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation. Canada is a founding member 
and is providing CAD$10  million over 2015 -2023 to support developing c ountries in implementing 
the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation. Canada added that the GATF had undertaken important 
work to support and mainstream gender by developing operational guidelines, aiming to bolster their 
respective integration in project deve lopment and implementation.    
1701.  European Union  (EU) provided the example of a project in Benin supported by the EU to 
promote the integration of gender budgeting in the budgetary cycle (being piloted within seven 
ministries) and the provision of gender -disaggregated statistics. The "Projet d'appui au renforcement 
des acteurs du secteur privé " (PARASEP (2014 -2021, EUR 10 million) aims to improve the business 
environment, strengthen the Public Private Dialogue and supp ort productive value chains. EU added 
that the pineapple and the shea butter have significant potential to create employment, particularly 
amongst women. The project has a comprehensive gender plan that allows the monitoring of 
activities with data disaggr egated by gender.  
1702.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  indicated that SheTrades has 350 partner organisations 
across 65 countries. The Initiative employs three partnership models: (i)Advocate: Partners that 
actively engage in dialogue and advocacy events to in crease the outreach of the SheTrades Initiative. 
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  entrepreneurs through the SheTrades Initiative; (ii) Contributor: Partners that work with SheTrades 
to genera te integrated solutions to accelerate the inclusion of women in global value chains.  For 
example, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council has organised technical workshops and mobilised 
the support of private -sector partners and financial institutions in Nigeria to improve the technical 
competitiveness of women entrepreneurs and facilitate t heir linkages with regional and international 
markets; and (iii) Transformer: Partners that provide financial resources, expertise and 
methodologies to pilot in -depth programmes for women entrepreneurs. For example, in 2019, 
SheTrades began collaborating w ith the marketing company Mary Kay. Under the partnership, Mary 
Kay sponsors the creation of tools and methodologies to develop entrepreneurship training modules 
and content and deploys these tailored training packages to build the skills and competitivene ss of 
women entrepreneurs in selected countries. The partnership is a pivotal element of the Women's 
Entrepreneurship Accelerator, a multi -partner initiative designed to inspire, educate and empower 
businesswomen around the world.   
1703.  Slovenia stated that si nce 2018, Slovenian MFA has been encouraging the NGOs to partner 
with private entities in their projects in order to bring in the expertise, know -how, technologies, etc., 
of the private sector for the benefit of target populations. Since then, all public c alls for proposals 
for NGO projects have resulted in the MFA supporting, in one way or another, development projects 
involving private partners.  
1704.  Switzerland referenced the " Better Gold Initiative (BGI) for Artisanal and Small -Scale Mining 
(ASM), Phase II " project as an example of a public -private partnership. This  partnership gathers the 
Swiss government and the Swiss Better Gold Association (SBGA) with the objective to improve social 
and environmental conditions in artisanal and small -scale mining in Peru, Colombia and Bolivia. Its 
second phase was terminated mid -2021, and a third phase has started since. The project activities 
followed three components: (i) Production and certification: this includes the support of ASM mining 
operations with good potential in their certification process by improving their performa nce in 
technical, organisational, social and environmental terms and by advising them in the administrative 
tasks related to certification. BGI supported the Fairtrade, Fairmined and Responsible Jewellery 
Council certification systems; (ii) Policy Dialogue : this includes providing technical support to 
policymakers in the simplification of the formalisation framework in the three countries; and (iii) 
Demand: this includes the establishment of value chains through collaboration with the private 
sector, the SB GA. Members of the SBGA are committed to buying the production of Better Gold and 
reinvesting through the Better Gold Fund a contribution of $1 per gram into social and environmental 
projects.  
1705.  Switzerland indicated that BGI contributed strongly to gender equality. There is more equality 
in ASMs due to compliance with labour laws, including them in the permanent personnel lists and 
more equitable salaries. More women perform in ASM or access the economic benefits of the mining 
operation and in the community , such as women traders and food servicewomen who are benefitting 
from the multiplier effect of local purchases made by mining families. There is greater inclusion of 
women in ASM decision -making; many of them have received training on gender and their rig hts, 
and several of them are occupying managerial positions in the Associative Companies and 
Cooperatives. The benefits for women are particularly significant in cases where there has been 
intervention to eliminate the use of mercury as they are the most e xposed along with their children 
to contamination and diseases. The decrease in diseases is evident and less time and resources 
allocated in attending to health problems. Finally, there are more and better opportunities for 
Barequeras women in subsistence mining in Colombia.      
1706.  UNCTAD  mentioned the public -private partnerships on National Trade Facilitation 
Committees.  
1707.  UNIDO referenced the " Mashrou3i " ("my project" in Arabic), a joint project by the United 
Nations  Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the United States Agency for International 
Development (USAID), the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and the HP 
Foundation. Mashrou3i is designed to foster youth entrepreneurship in Tunisia and  support the 
creation and growth of enterprises. By fostering entrepreneurial skills and attitudes among young 
women and men, the project aims to enable youth entrepreneurs to use their own innovative 
dispositions to generate jobs for themselves and others  and increase the competitiveness of smaller 
enterprises. The project combines UNIDO's on the ground experience supporting beneficiaries in the 
creation and growth of smaller businesses, its working relationships with Tunisian partner 
organisations and HP' s Learning Initiative for Entrepreneurs (HP LIFE) programme, which consists WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  of free online courses covering basic business, IT and entrepreneurship skills. This public -private 
partnership has led to significant results in terms of gender equality and the e mpowerment of 
women. For instance, 3,129 full -time equivalent jobs were created, mainly for young men and 
women, 7,542 young people trained using HP LIFE e -Learning – 60% of whom are women, 433 
start-ups launched, and 40% led by women.  
1708.  United Kingdom  reiterated that the UK funded the WEF's GATF between 2016 and 2020, 
which is a public -private partnership for Trade Facilitation. The GATF launched their "The TFA through 
a gender lens" guide. Women traders are often at a disadvantage to meet the high cost and time 
demands of complex trading requirements. Gender -based discrimination may also discourage 
women from trading internationally or make trade more costly.       
1709.  United States  stated that USAID's Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Hub 
(GenDev) has inv ested a total of $300 million in over 100 activities in over 60 countries over the 
last three years. This included partnering with over 870 private sector, local, non -governmental 
organisations, host -country governments, and other organisations, such as Pe psiCo, C -GAP 
FinEquity, Mastercard, Microsoft, Mars, Qualcomm, and UPS to implement market -oriented 
solutions.  
1710.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  stated that it works closely with both the public and private 
sectors in implementing its lending and technical assistance  projects. An open dialogue with the 
private sector is critical to success of trade reforms, and the WBG serves as a liaison between the 
public and private sector to enhance transparency and promote closer collaboration.  
Trade and development constraints f aced by women  
1711.  A total of 53 partner country respondents answered this question. Among of the  several 
impediments faced by women, difficulties accessing financial services  was identified as a top area 
where women face  trade and development constraints, as s tated by 47 out of 53 (89%) of 
respondents to the partner country questionnaire.  Difficulties accessing financial services  was also 
recognized by 85% of donors as a top area where women face  trade and development constraints.  
1712.  The same area of constraint is identified across all regions. Ninety -two percent of respondents 
from Africa, 82% from Asia, 89% of LACS and 100% from the Pacific all identifie d difficulties 
accessing financial services  as a top area where women face  trade and development constraints. 
The majority of LDCs (90%) and LLDCs (75%), and all of UN SIDS (100%) also indicated that 
difficulties accessing financial services  is a top area where women face  trade and development 
constraints.  
Regions and Groups: Types of trade and development constraints faced by women  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
Africa  Difficulties accessing financial 
services  23 92% 
Informal employment  20 80% 
Lack of access to digital services  17 68% 
Difficult working conditions  16 64% 
Smaller sized business  13 52% 
Discriminatory practices; Difficulties 
in meeting regulatory and procedural 
requirements; Harassment, security 
and safety issues; High trade 
barriers; Seasonal employment; 
Time and mobility constraints  12 each 48% each 
Poor access to information  11 44% 
Unpaid care and domestic work  10 40% 
Restricted access to markets  9 36% 
Gender pay gap; Poor access to 
professional bodies (e.g., chambers 
of commerce)  7 each 28% each WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Exclusion from male -dominated 
distribution networks; Unpaid 
employment  6 each 24% each 
Occupational segregation  4 16% 
Lack of access to redress options  3 12% 
Asia Difficulties accessing financial 
services  9 82% 
Lack of access to digital services; 
Informal employment  7 each 64% each 
Poor access to information  6 55% 
Difficult working conditions; 
Difficulties in meeting regulatory and 
procedural requirements; 
Harassment, security and safety 
issues  5 each 45% each 
Smaller sized business  4 36% 
Time and mobility constraints; 
Unpaid care and domestic work  3 each 27% each 
Discriminatory practices; Gender pay 
gap; High trade barriers; 
Occupational segregation; Poor 
access to professional bodies (e.g., 
chambers of commerce)  2 each 18% each 
Exclusion from male -dominated 
distribution networks; Restricted 
access to markets; Seasonal 
employment  1 each 9% each 
Europe  Difficulties accessing financial 
services ; Gender pay gap ; Smaller 
sized business  1 each 100%  each 
LACS Difficulties accessing financial 
services; Informal employment  8 each 89% each 
Gender pay gap  7 78% 
Discriminatory practices  6 67% 
Harassment, security and safety 
issues; Smaller sized business; 
Unpaid care and domestic work  5 each 56% each 
Exclusion from male -dominated 
distribution networks; Poor access to 
information; Time and mobility 
constraints  4 each 44% each 
Difficulties in meeting regulatory and 
procedural requirements; 
Occupational segregation; Seasonal 
employment  3 each 33% each 
Difficult working conditions; Lack of 
access to digital services; Restricted 
access to markets  2 each 22% each 
Other  1 11% 
Pacific  Difficulties accessing financial 
services  6 100%  
Exclusion from male-dominated 
distribution networks  5 83% 
Discriminatory practices; Informal 
employment; Poor access to 
information; Unpaid care and 
domestic work  4 each 67% each 
Difficult working conditions; 
Harassment, security and safety 
issues; Lack of access to redress 
options; Time and mobility 
constraints  3 each 50% each WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Gender pay gap; Lack of access to 
digital services; Occupational 
segregation; Poor access to 
professional bodies (e.g., chambers 
of commerce); Smaller sized 
business  2 each 33% each 
Difficulties in meeting regulatory and 
procedural requirements; High trade 
barriers; Seasonal employment; 
Unpaid employment  1 each 17% each 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage share per 
region  
LDC Difficulties accessing financial 
services  26 90% 
Lack of access to digital services; 
Informal employment  20 each 69% each 
Difficult working conditions  15 52% 
Smaller sized business  14 48% 
Poor access to information  13 45% 
Difficulties in meeting regulatory and 
procedural requirements, High trade 
barriers  12 each 41% each 
Discriminatory practices; 
Harassment, security and safety 
issues  11 each 38% each 
Seasonal employment; Time and 
mobility constraints; Unpaid care 
and domestic work  10 each 34% each 
Gender pay gap  9 31% 
Exclusion from male -dominated 
distribution networks; Unpaid 
employment  6 each 21% each 
Occupational segregation; Poor 
access to professional bodies (e.g., 
chambers of commerce); Restricted 
access to markets  5 each 17% each 
Lack of access to redress options  3 10% 
LLDC Difficulties accessing financial 
services  9 75% 
Lack of access to digital services; 
Informal employment  8 each 67% each 
Difficult working conditions; 
Difficulties in meeting regulatory and 
procedural requirements; Gender 
pay gap; High trade barriers; 
Smaller sized business; Time and 
mobility constraints  6 each 50% each 
Harassment, security and safety 
issues; Poor access to information; 
Seasonal employment; Unpaid care 
and domestic work  5 each 42% each 
Discriminatory practices  4 33% 
Exclusion from male -dominated 
distribution networks; Occupational 
segregation; Restricted access to 
markets  3 each 25% each 
Poor access to professional bodies 
(e.g., chambers of commerce); 
Unpaid employment  2 each 17% each 
Lack of access to redress options  1 8% 
UN SIDS  Difficulties accessing financial 
services  9 100%  
Informal employment  7 78% WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Time and mobility constraints; 
Unpaid care and domestic work  6 each 67% each 
Exclusion from male-dominated 
distribution networks; Poor access to 
information; Smaller sized business  5 each 56% each 
Difficult working conditions; 
Discriminatory practices; Lack of 
access to digital services  4 each 44% each 
Difficulties in meeting regulatory and 
procedural requirements; 
Harassment, security and safety 
issues; Lack of access to redress 
options; Occupational segregation; 
Poor access to professional bodies 
(e.g., chambers of commerce); 
Restricted access to markets; 
Seasonal employment  3 each 33% each 
Gender pay gap; Unpaid 
employment  2 each 22% each 
High trade barriers  1 11% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Types of trade and development constraints faced by women  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional  information provided  by respondents: Partner country responses  
1713.  Colombia  stated that women face difficulties in generating own income, access to assets (not 
only financing, but also land and productive assets).   
1714.  Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stated that women face  sexual abuse especially at 
the border.  
1715.  Equatorial Guinea  mentioned the following constraints faced by women: (1) High costs of 
business legislation that discourage, (2) Absence of points of promotion of local products.  
1716.  Mali stated that the influence of socio -cultural factors on the status of women is one of the 
major trade and development constraints that women face in Mali. Mali referenced the National 
gender policy 2011, the National Institute of Statistics (INSTAT) on trade , the Analysis report on the 
modular and household survey  and the reports  on the Ministry of Promotion, Women, Child and 
Family website.  
1717.  Peru referenced the Diagnosis study " Radiography of the participation of women 
entrepreneurs of the Pacific Alliance in foreign trade " in which businesswomen comment that they 
have the greatest difficulty in accessing financing as working capital. The Commission for the 
Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism assures that, although there is no Gap Characterization 
Study as such, there is the 2020 Gender Gaps report , published by the National Institute of Statistics 
and Informatics.  
1718.  Mexico  referenced the National Survey of Occupation and Employment, which highlights the 
following conclusions: as of the I Quarter of 2021, women -owned 5,074,710 MSMEs, contributing 
15.2% of the national value -added, of which 99.2% are microenterprises, where an informality rate 
of 81.7% is observed. The National Survey of Occupation and Employment shows that 89.3%  of the 
male owners of MSME m anage to work 15 hours a week or more, while the equivalent figure for the 
case of women is 73.3%. The percentage of women's companies where they receive income 
equivalent to one minimum wage or less is 54.2%, while the equivalent figure for men's companie s 
is 24.2%.  
1719.  Indonesia  noted that women generally run micro and SMEs businesses with low production 
and marketing skills, limited networks, and access to funding.  
1720.  Mauritius  indicated the following constraints faced by women: limited access to finance; lack  
of dedicated women network institution or women in trade association providing trade expertise and 
visibility for women exports; limited number of women who is integrating the foreign market (most 
women entrepreneurs are yet to be export ready and tend to  focus on the local market); lack of 
access to information and knowledge opportunities; and lack of gender -disaggregated data on trade 
flow. 
1721.  Sri Lanka  mentioned the following constraints faced by women: (1) Limited access to 
economic resources, (2) Gender and Cultural norms, (3) Women's limited awareness, (4) Policies 
and Practices of formal financial institutions relating to female borrowers, (5) Unequ al access to 
resources, and (6) Social attitudes towards women's role in the household.   
Additional  information provided  by respondents:  Donor  response s 
1722.  Twenty -nine (29) of the 34 respondents ( 85%) to the donor questionnaire stated that 
difficulties acces sing financial services was the biggest constraint face d by women.  
1723.  Australia  stated that broader systemic changes are needed to counter constraints faced by 
women attempting to engage in trade, including: legislative reform to remove barriers that directly  
or indirectly limit women's access to employment opportunities, or contribute to discriminatory pay 
and conditions; workplace policies that provide flexible work arrangements and improve safety at 
work; and policies and practices that promote the shifting  of societal attitudes towards the value of 
care and gendered stereotypes about who is responsible for delivering care.   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1724.  Canada stated that in the context of renewable energy, many of its renewable energy projects 
tend to employ more men than women. Renew able energy (with construction and engineering as 
major sectors involved) is dominated by men in many parts of the world.  
1725.  Canada also stated that Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy explicitly commits 
to helping address unpaid care work and t he disproportionate proportion of care shouldered by 
women and girls around the world. Canada added that at the Generation Equality Forum (June -July 
2021), Prime Minister Trudeau announced that Canada will commit $100 million in new funding for 
stand -alone  programming to address unpaid and paid care work issues in low - and middle -income 
countries in which Canada provides international assistance. The program will recognise, address 
and reduce the unequal distribution of unpaid and paid care work and ensure unpaid and paid care 
workers are represented and have their voices heard and their rights supported and protected. It is 
intended to address a root cause of global inequality and help increase women's ability to participate 
in the economy, education, and p ublic life, thus fostering gender equality, women's economic 
empowerment, and gender -responsive economic response and recovery.  
1726.  European Union  (EU) indicated that the key constraints vary between countries and target 
groups in focus, which is why a proper contextualised analysis is needed. EU added that, in general, 
women are often facing multiple barriers that limit their opportunities.  
1727.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  noted that identifying constraints faced by women is a 
difficult question because differ ent groups of women face different constraints, which vary by 
country, rural/urban, class, education, etc.  
1728.  Japan  stated that one additional constraint faced by women is the knowledge, skill and 
experience gap compared to men.  
1729.  Sweden stated that as specific contextual barriers constrain women to benefit from trade, a 
general response to this question is challenging. Moreover, women are a heterogeneous group who 
amongst themselves have different prerequisites, demographics and capacitie s. Thus, contextual 
analysis is central to design and direct support to achieve sustainable change and strengthen 
women's economic empowerment. Overall, Sida views trade to be an important tool for lifting people 
out of poverty and advancing women's econom ic empowerment. Research has shown that gender 
equality can positively affect countries' export diversification, which is an important factor in 
economic development. Sweden added that where gender inequality is high, trade and economic 
growth has less of a poverty -reducing impact. The distribution of costs and benefits of trade depends 
on underlying resources, opportunities, power and voice and security that people have to begin with 
–where women are often disadvantaged. Sweden stated that gender inequalit ies are consequently 
perpetuated unless dealt with. This also means there is a limit to what trade interventions alone can 
do, and broader interventions and policy coherence are key. Thus, a combined analysis of constraints 
and a holistic approach to addre ss these is needed.  
1730.  UNCTAD referenced the UNCTAD/DITC analytical work, which provides evidence of women's 
constraints.  
1731.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  stated that it can readily imagine the difficulties in interpreting 
answers to these questions as once again a lar ge range of relevant metrics are listed, that WBG 
observes in its country operations and dialogue. These are documented in various WBG publications, 
notably its flagship "Women, Business and the Law" publication and in project reports and data 
gathering ef forts. More information is available here and here. 
Can Aid for Trade play a role in addressing these trade and development constraints faced 
by women?  
1732.  Fifty-one (51) of the 53 respondents  (96%) to the partner country questionnaire stated that 
Aid for Trade can play a role in addressing  trade and development constraints faced by women.  
1733.  Across the regions, Africa, Asia and LACs all fully agree (100% each) that  Aid for Trade can 
play a role in addressing  trade and development constraints faced by women , and 83% of the 
responses from the Pacific also go in this favour. Almost all LDCs (97%) , LLDCs (92%) and UN SIDS WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 295 - 
 
  (89%) also stated that  Aid for Trade can play a role in addressing  trade and development constraints 
faced by women . 
Regions and Groups : Aid for Trade plays a role in addressing trade and development 
constraints faced by women  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  25 100%  
Asia 11 100%  
LACS 9 100%  
Pacific  5 83% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 28 97% 
LLDC 11 92% 
UN SIDS  8 89% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exerc ise (2022)  
Can Aid for Trade play a role in addressing trade and development constraints faced by 
women?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses 
1734.  Bangladesh  stated that  Aid for Trade can support access to finance and access to market 
information.  
1735.  Benin stated that it is important to encourage Inclusive Trade in African Countries by going  
beyond targeting vulnerable groups. Benin added that it is also an urgent need to act on the 
fundamental factors so that women, men and young people can benefit from entrepreneurial activity 
and the impact of trade on their communities. In Benin's view, i t is important that Aid for Trade 
accompanies and supports investments in productive capacities such as logistics infrastructure, 
finance, energy, digital, skills, regulatory policies and laws as well as human capital.  
1736.  Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)  stated that  the establishment of business information 
offices helps women to get the right information at the borders and and thus avoid the greed of 
men. 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1737.  Equatorial Guinea explained  that trade is a fairly horizontal issue, that is, it affects other 
sectors and can develop them directly and indirectly. Equatorial Guinea added that Technical 
assistance in all its dimensions is crucial.  
1738.  Guatemala  stated that  Aid for Trade can help by  creating  specific financing programs for the 
empowerment of women in c ommercial activities . 
1739.  Dominican Republic  stated that Aid for Trade plays a role in addressing gender constraints 
by transferring successful good practices from other member states and training for local segments 
and/or less -favoured communities.  
1740.  Guinea Bissau  mentioned that Aid for Trade could support the creation of programs and 
projects to support the development of economic activities for women.  
1741.  Indonesia  highlighted that training on quality assurance, product branding and marketing 
skills can enhance women's status in trade. Aid for Trade could play a role by linking them with their 
colleagues through networks. It can also help women to share best practices and experiences as 
well as seeking assistance when needed.  
1742.  Lesotho  stated that Aid for T rade could help women's empowerment by making it easier for 
women to have access to finance. For instance, Aid for Trade could encourage collaboration between 
local commercial banks to establish small scale funding for women entrepreneurs, which do not 
require prohibitive collateral and charges low -interest rates. It could also provide training on digital 
services for women to use digital transactions to save time and money to queue in long lines to 
deposit their goods and make payments.  
1743.  Madagascar  indicat ed that Aid -for-Trade (EIF) projects make efforts to identify activities that 
are best suited to women and sensitise women to participate in the project identification, 
implementation and evaluation process.  
1744.  Mali indicated that Aid for Trade could help by supporting women with funded projects, 
particularly in agriculture, agro -industry and export. It could also increase fund awareness -raising 
and capacity -building activities for women in the field of trade with IEC (Information, Education, 
Communication) an d  CCC (Communicate to Change Behaviour) techniques.  
1745.  Mexico  stated that Aid for Trade can help close gender gaps.  
1746.  Peru indicated that Aid for Trade can help in the following areas: address the 
recommendations of the Diagnostic Study "Radiography of the par ticipation of women entrepreneurs 
from the Pacific Alliance in foreign trade": export training for future exporters; mentorships between 
women entrepreneurs from the Pacific Alliance; promotion of electronic commerce; access to 
financing; promotion of serv ice exports; supplier diversity programs; central point for women 
entrepreneurs in international trade; mainstreaming of the gender approach in programs and policies 
to promote exports and insertion in global value chains; cooperation and exchange between the 
countries of the PA; and Integrated work for the construction of a favorable business ecosystem for 
women    
1747.  Senegal  noted  that Aid for Trade helps women to be powerful.  
1748.  Sri Lanka stated that Aid for Trade can help by conducting awareness programmes an d policy 
and legal level interventions and maintaining micro -credit projects to assist the small scale women 
entrepreneurs and disburse micro -credit to the women entrepreneurs.   
1749.  St. Lucia  submitted  that Aid for Trade can help address women's constraints by increasing 
women's access to credit in the micro -enterprise and the informal sector.  
1750.  Uganda  stated that Aid for Trade will enable economic diversification and offer a pathway for 
empowerment while  enabling women, youth and micro -, small - and medium -sized enterprises to 
engage in trade.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1751.  Zambia  stated that Aid for Trade can help address women's constraints through 
capacity -building in market linkages, value addition to products and business diversifi cation.  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1752.  Thirty -four (34) of the 36 respondents ( 94%) to the donor questionnaire stated that Aid for 
Trade can play a role in addressing trade and development constraints faced by women.  
1753.  Asian Development Bank  (ADB)  referenced the RCI operational plan 2020 -2024, which 
identifies a number of measures that ca n support gender equality. These measures include 
supporting women's jobs and entrepreneurship in regional trade and tourism, as well as 
infrastructure development (including special economic zones) in border towns,  and integrating 
gender equality provisions in regional policy dialogues in trade, tourism, agricultural value chains, 
education, skills, and labor markets, and regional health through subregional cooperation platforms. 
ADB also referenced the Guidance Note on Fostering Regional Cooperation and Integration for 
Recovery and Resilience , which recognises and advocates for supportin g women's entrepreneurship 
through skills training and greater access to finance and technology. Areas of focus can include (a) 
promoting women's access to and trade skills (e -commerce) and tourism activities, (b) helping 
women in border communities partic ipate in cross -border activities, (c)  protecting migrant workers' 
benefits, and (d) enabling women -led MSMEs to join the cross -border supply chain and trade 
activities, among others. ADB added that facilitating women's access to markets and trade 
opportuni ties in Asia and the Pacific through targeted policies can help to remove the gendered 
barriers. These policies could include capacity development for policymakers in the design and 
implementation of gender -sensitive trade policies, prioritisation of secto rs where women -owned 
businesses are concentrated; schemes to support women -owned businesses enter traditionally 
male-dominated export -oriented sectors; identifying private sector solutions to overcome capital 
constraints (this could also include supply cha in finance solutions/incentives for financial 
institutions); and setting targets for exports of goods and services by women -owned businesses in 
bilateral/regional trade agreements.   
1754.  Australia  stated that by mainstreaming gender, being participatory and in clusive in design, 
and having gender equality objectives adequately resourced, Aid -for-Trade initiatives can help 
address the gender inequalities, discrimination, and other barriers faced by women. For example, 
as a result of activities under the Australia n supported World Bank South Asia Regional Trade 
Facilitation Program ( SARTFP ), various South Asian government progra ms covering transport 
connectivity through to livelihood development are being supported to adopt a gender -inclusive 
approach. SARTFP is financing economic research and analysis to identify trade corridors and specific 
value chains to make them more access ible to women -traders and micro / small entrepreneurs.  It 
has also supported the World Bank gender platform to increase gender inclusion in World Bank 
operations across South Asia through the Gender Innovation Lab   for promoting women's 
entrepreneurship. The Bank cites SARTFP gender analysis as having influenced the design of 24 
World Bank Investments (totalling USD594 billion) relating to trade, such a s regional value chain 
development.     
1755.  Australia also indicated that in the Pacific, it is supporting regional Aid -for-Trade initiatives 
that seek to address constraints faced by women through the following programs:  Pacific Trade 
Invest , the Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative IV , Pacific RISE , and the Pacific Financial 
Inclusion Program . These programs are helping to address constraints by providing support to: 
women -led small and medium -sized enterprises to facilitate their financial stability and growth and 
entry into new markets;  increase access fo r training opportunities which open up new employment 
avenues for women; and new avenues, such as green energy and digital trade, where there are 
skills gaps, helping to create new opportunities for women's participation.  
1756.  Australia mentioned In PNG, the Coffee Industry Support Project  is supporting coffee industry 
stakeholders to mainstream gender equity in their policies, practices, and approaches. In creasing 
women's access to extension services and improving farming families' business management allows 
women and men to benefit from coffee production and income. In July -December 2020, the project 
supported 16 village savings and loans associations, ben efiting 113 women and 97 men. In addition, 
establishing a Women's Business Resource Centre  in Port  Moresby has benefited 4,400 women 
through technical training, workshops, and helping women start and successfully ma nage their own 
businesses. Work is also being undertaken to partner with four local universities to incorporate WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 298 - 
 
  entrepreneurship into their curriculums and to develop stronger policy engagement in lobbying for 
women's economic empowerment.      
1757.  Australia i ndicated that other support includes assisting cultural industries to reach export 
markets. For example, Australian support for the establishment of the Bilum Export and Promotion 
Authority ,  Pacific Trade  Invest sponsorship of the Goroka Bilum Festival  , and Australian sponsorship 
of PNG Fashion and Design Week . Australia also partnered with REAL Impact  to develop cultural 
industries for the international handicraft market.    
1758.  Australia mentioned that in addition, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility 
for the Pacific ( AIFFP ), Partnerships for Infrastructure ( P4I) and its bilateral programs, Australia is 
committing to the preparation and delivery of strategic, long -term investments in economic 
infrastructure like energy, roads, and ports, which provide economic and leadership opportunities 
for women. The AIFFP Gender Equality and Social Inclusi on policy  promotes gender equality by 
requiring that projects take actions to identify and address constraints for women to participate in 
and benefit equally with men. For example, by: responding to women's infrastructure needs, in 
particular to reduce wo men's time poverty and unpaid work burden;  strengthening women's 
leadership and participation in infrastructure decision -making in affected communities, in partner 
organisations, and in project delivery teams; promoting women's economic empowerment, in 
particular equal access to procurement opportunities, entrepreneurship and decent employment; 
and ending all forms of violence against women and girls, in particular through jobs and services 
that are free from sexual harassment.   
1759.  Austria  indicated that Aid  for Trade has a very limited role to play but could promote better 
access to capital.  
1760.  Canada stated that Aid -for-Trade projects addressing unpaid care would allow women to work 
in the formal labour sector and become entrepreneurs. This would increase wom en's salaries, which, 
as a corollary, would attract more women into the workforce. The barriers for women workers to 
access their rights, in particular the right to associate freely, are often higher than for men workers, 
restricting de facto their ability  to raise issues or file complaints when their rights are violated. In 
addition, despite significant progress over the past decades, women are still far from achieving 
gender equality in the workplace. Women tend to be in low -skilled jobs and work longer u npaid 
hours. Female migrant workers are also more vulnerable to abuse in the workplace due to 
recruitment practices, legal status, language barriers and lack of or inconsistent labour law 
enforcement. Although labour technical assistance projects do not, t ypically, focus on gender -related 
issues, projects often times have components that strengthen the fundamental issues of freedom of 
association and collective bargaining, which enable workers, employers and governments to tackle 
gender discrimination and i ssues impacting vulnerable workers such as migrant workers, young and 
older workers.      
1761.  Canada referenced the Financial Inclusion for Enterprise Development project (FINDER 
Canada projects) and the Mentorship Program for MSMEs, which in the fourth year o f the project, 
FINEDEV launched a pilot mentorship project for a cohort of 150 women (50 mentors and 
100 mentees) with MSMEs over a 12 -month period. Canada mentioned the programme's success, 
which led to conducting a second mentorship project at the fifth year of the project. It includes 225 
participants (75 mentors and 150 mentees — of these, only one was a male) over a 6 -month period. 
A third mentorship cohort will be launched in 2022. Canada indicated that the benefits of the 
mentorship program include ap plied capacity building and the acquisition of better business 
knowledge and skills.  
1762.  Canada referenced the Export -Readiness Pilot Project. The ultimate aims are to increase 
employment, notably for women in growth value chains, and increase productive and financial 
capacity of SMEs. Sinapi Aba Savings and Loans (SASL) is implementing an export -readiness pilot 
project with the key objectives being: 1) to build a business and financial management skills of 
entrepreneurs (to enable them to sustainably expand a nd close the gaps that previously prevented 
them from reaching valuable markets); 2) to enhance production to create a distinct competitive 
advantage; 3) to facilitate the building of market linkages with agents and distributors; and 4) to 
ensure complianc e to key requirements, codes of conduct, and international standards. Over 
13 months, the project will work with 200 entrepreneurs (at least 60% women) who currently have 
small businesses and provide them with training and capacity building activities in o rder to upgrade 
to the level of being "export -ready".  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1763.  In addition, Canada provided $20M to the Women Entrepreneurs Financing Initiative (We -Fi), 
an unprecedented opportunity to harness the public and private sectors to open new doors for 
women entrepreneu rs across the developing world. This collaborative partnership, housed at the 
World Bank, among governments, multilateral development banks, and other stakeholders is helping 
to unlock financing for women -led/owned businesses in developing countries, inclu ding in the most 
challenging environments. We -Fi supports women entrepreneurs by scaling up access to financial 
products and services, building capacity, expanding networks, offering mentoring, and providing 
opportunities to link with domestic and global m arkets.  
1764.  In 2020 -21, more than 3,300 businesswomen benefited from financial and non -financial 
support from the initiative. In addition, it helped to provide more than 3000 women -led with 
businesses with access to finance through almost $78 million in loans and grants. More than 
1,500businesses gained access to entrepreneurial support programs through the initiative and 
15 pieces of legislation or regulations were created to support women -owned or led businesses.  
1765.  European Union  (EU) wrote  that the specific ro le Aid for Trade can play in addressing these 
questions is dependent on the constraints and the country -specific situation.  
1766.  Inter -American Development Bank  (IDB)  stated that Aid for Trade could continue 
supporting the IDB's Trade and Gender Initiative, which seeks to promote gender mainstreaming 
within the Integration and Trade Sector's operations and activities through technical assistance and 
capacity building. This initiative aims at more inclusive trade projects that take into account women's 
needs, challenges and opportunities to benefit from trade in the region.  
1767.  Japan  highlighted  that Aid for Trade contributes to creating an ecosystem of integrated 
solutions that empower women economically through greater integration in trade and investment.     
1768.  Sweden noted  that Aid for Trade can be useful for providing holistic approaches based on 
contextual analysis to address the constraints faced by women. It could also p romote knowledge 
sharing and learning to help replicate and scale what has proven to work and affect other programs 
and initiatives.  
1769.  Switzerland  stated that Aid for Trade can play a role by supporting women in acquiring 
knowledge on e -commerce or digital marketing tools to help them better establish their businesses 
online. It could also help when designing trade policies that are conducive to women's needs.  
1770.  The Netherlands  stated that Aid  for Trade can and should play a role in addressing these 
constraint s.  
1771.  UNCTAD  stated that Aid -for-Trade initiatives can play a role by targeting MSMEs. It added 
that the lack of transparency is not gender -neutral since women traders have different and often 
less access to information. The Global Trade Helpdesk by ITC -UNCT AD-WTO is a one -stop shop for 
trade data and trade intelligence, particularly for SMEs.  
1772.  United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)  stated that the lack of financial 
resources coupled with the lack of good governance limit women's full participation in trade. It added 
that Aid for Trade can play a role in addressing these constraints.  
1773.  United States referenced the Women's Economic Empowerment and Gender Equality in 
Trade Facilitation: The Role of Customs and Border Services .  
1774.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  stated that Aid for Trade could play a role by lending stepped -up 
support to evidence based re search and data gathering and the inclusion of gender provisions in 
trade agreements alongside the development of sound methodological frameworks to assess the 
gendered impacts of trade measures or agreements.  
Aid for Trade requested or provided to finance  projects for women's eco nomic 
empowerment (2015 -2020)  
1775.  Twenty -three  (23) of the 53 respondents ( 43%) to the partner country questionnaire stated 
that they requested  Aid-for-Trade support between 2015-2020 for women's economic WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 300 - 
 
  empowerment. On the other hand , 30 of the 36 respondents ( 83%) to the donor questionnaire 
stated that they provided A id-for-Trade support for women's economic empowerment between 
2015-2020. 
Regions and Groups : Aid for Trade requested to finance projects for women's economic 
empowerment during the period 2015 -2020  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  13 52% 
Asia 3 27% 
LACS 6 67% 
Pacific  1 17% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 12 41% 
LLDC 7 58% 
UN SIDS  2 22% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Aid for Trade requested  to finance projects for women's economic empowerment during 
the period 2015 -2020  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Aid for Trade provided  to finance projects for women's economic empowerment during 
the period 2015 -2020  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses  
1776.  Bangladesh  stated it requested development partners to suppo rt women's trade capacity 
building.  
1777.  Bangladesh  [also] made reference to the World Bank Group and JAICA.  
1778.  Benin  highlighted projects financed under the sponsorship of the EIF. Benin has set up various 
projects: the Productive and Commercial Capacity Building Project (PRCPC); the Shea Value Chain 
Development Support Project for the Promotion of Female Entrepreneursh ip in Benin; the Regional 
Support Program for the Inclusive Commercial Development of the Shea Sector in West Africa 
(Benin -Burkina -Mali-Togo).  
1779.  Democratic Republic of Congo  (DRC)  stated it  helped  women by giving them information 
but it never thought of set ting up a project to provide for women's needs in this area.  
1780.  Cote D'Ivoire referenced the She Trades Project UKTP Program.  
1781.  The Gambia launched the SheTrades  initiative through the Ministry of Trade and in 
collaboration with the International Trade Centre, to support women -owned businesses. The 
Gambia, through the Ministry of Gender, and in partnership with the EU, has established a women's 
enterprise fund to support women's businesses.  
1782.  Guatemala  stated that this issue must be agreed with the Presidential Secretariat for Women 
-SEPREM -. 
1783.  Guinea Bissau has developed and submitted a number of projects for funding, while taking 
into account gender equality. Guinea  Bissau explained that women are not the sole target of these 
projects.  
1784.  Madagascar mentioned that the government is finalising its SheTrades project and has 
conducted some training sessions for women entrepreneurs as part of the preparation of this project . 
1785.  Mali has promoted women's empowerment through various Aid-for-Trade programmes: the 
Shea programme funded by the African Development Bank and the "Women and Renewable Energy" 
programme funded by the European Union.  
1786.  Peru established a volunteer programme  for the development of fashion in the Gamarra 
textile and clothing conglomerate, led by women. It is a project financed by the Australian Embassy 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  within the framework of the Direct Aid Programme (DAP), which is presented as dual strategy whose 
main object ive is to strengthen the capacities of the Peruvian SMEs of the Gamarra Textile and 
Apparel Conglomerate, led by women. it provides them with knowledge about design and 
management techniques allowing them to compete in international markets and increase th e 
probability of success for their business. Likewise, it allowed young people between 18 and 30  years 
old, in the last education cycles or graduated from higher institutes of fashion design, textile and 
clothing (and/or related institutions), to consolida te their knowledge with training and practical 
activities in business. By promoting their skills development, the programme intended to help them 
enter the labour market more easily.  
1787.  Peru also developed the "Women in Commerce for Inclusive and Sustainable  Growth" Project. 
It is supported by the Trade Facilitation Office (TFO) of Canada, with the support of the Global 
Alliance for Trade Facilitation with specific objectives: 1) Institutional strengthening of the 
Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Expo rts and Tourism (PROMPERÃš) by capacity building 
on the issues of gender equity and social inclusion; 2) Strengthening the capacities of 113  companies 
in the agricultural sector (fresh sector and processed food sector), of which 76%  must be led by 
women; a nd 3) fostering the participation of ten of these companies in the SIAL fair 2022 (SIAL is 
the world's leading food fair), ten at the CPMA (Convention and Trade  Show  Montréal),  and twenty 
in a virtual trade mission in Canada.    
1788.  Peru specified that there i s no differentiated information on Aid -for-Trade projects since the 
Peruvian International Cooperation Agency (APCI) does not identify whether the projects are part of 
the Aid -for-Trade Initiative. In this sense, it is suggested that the Aid -for-Trade Init iative provide 
training in this regard aimed at the cooperation agencies of the countries.  
1789.  Philippines   outlined that most of its assistance in support of women's economic 
empowerment is channelled through ITC.  
1790.  Senegal  mentioned having financial instrument s in favor of women a law on gender equality  
1791.  St. Lucia  made reference to a project run by the National Commission for UNESCO on Women 
in Equality Empowerment Program in 2016. In 2014, women’s empowerment in St. Lucia received 
a large financial boost when t he Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO presented a $26,000 
check to fund the Women in Equality Empowerment Program (WEEP). The programme, run by the 
National Skills Development Center (NSDC), aimed to make professional training and job placement 
more accessible to women in St.  Lucia.  The programme ran from 2015 to 2016 and successfully 
trained and placed 27 students into new jobs.  
1792.  Togo  referenced projects with CIR, PNUD, and GIZ, among others.  
1793.  Uganda stated that through gender and equity budgeting legislation under the Public Finance 
Management Act (PFMA) 2015, it is now mandatory for all ministries, departments, agencies, and 
local gov ernments to address gender and equity concerns in their budgets. The practice is taking 
root but is challenged by the weak follow -up of the gender and equity commitments. More 
information about National Budget Framework here and the Gender and Equity Interventions 
Performance Report here.  
1794.  Zambia  made reference to ITC SheTrades Project  and the 50 Million Women Speak Project  
under COMESA supported by AfDB.  
Additional  information provided  by respondents: Donor  responses  
1795.  Twenty -four (24) of the 25 respondents ( 96%) to the donor questionnaire mentioned the 
number of total projects implemented in the period 2015 -2022.  
1796.  Asian Development  Bank  (ADB)  stated that the SDTC -GEN financed by ADB promo tes 
women's economic empowerment and expressed doubts that the SDTC -ENV includes a gender 
component. ADB indicated that as part of the Trade and Supply Chain Finance Program 
(TSCFP)  - Pilot Phase (2016 -2018), Phase 1 and Phase 2 (2019 -2021), the Gender Initiative for DMC 
partner banks of the TFP (now TSCFP) was launched in 2016 to identify to what extent the policies 
and practices in place in partner banks support increased hiring, rete ntion and advancement of WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  women in the workplace. This project is conducted in Armenia, Bangladesh, Fiji, Tajikistan, 
Uzbekistan, Viet Nam, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea. It proposed and monitored practical, 
implementable recommendations for improvements at p articipating banks. ADB referenced the 
publication " Boosting Gender Equality Through ADB Trade Finance Partnerships " (2018), which 
presents the results  of the TFP's gender audit of partner banks and highlights recommendations to 
empower women to advance their careers and promote institutional gender equality.   
1797.  Austria  recalled that empowerment is one of the pillars of ADC Gender policy. Austrian 
Develop ment Agency (ADA) has supported several initiatives on economic empowerment.  
1798.  Canada stated that  under its FIAP, it captures gender equality and women's empowerment 
as cross -cutting.  For the period, 2014 -15 to 2020 -21, approximately 3% of Canada's bilater al Aid 
for Trade specifically targeted gender equality, while 57% of investments fully integrated gender 
equality outcomes, and 30% of investments had limited integration of gender equality.  Canada's 
new development finance institution, FinDev Canada, a w holly-owned subsidiary of Export 
Development Canada created in 2018, provides financial solutions to private sector organization in 
developing countries with the aim of combatting poverty through women's economic empowerment, 
job creation and climate mitig ation and adaption. FinDev Canada's priority sectors are green growth, 
financial institutions, and agribusiness. Its priority markets are Latin America and the Caribbean and 
sub-Saharan Africa.      
1799.  Canada also indicated that in partnership with the Africa n Development Bank, it has invested 
in the African Guarantee Fund (AGF) to improve access to finance for women entrepreneurs in Africa.  
The project is a part of AFAWA (Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa), a pan -African 
initiative to bridge the  $42 billion financing gap facing women in Africa. Created by the African 
Development Bank, AFAWA is a pan -African initiative that aims to reduce market risk perceptions 
for African women entrepreneurs and narrow the estimated US$42 billion financing gap t hat they 
face. By contributing to this initiative, Canada supports the issuance of dedicated guarantees to 
African financial institutions lending to women entrepreneurs. AGF supports its guarantee activities 
by leveraging every dollar of capital it receive s to provide up to $4 of guarantees issued to African 
financial institutions. In turn, this increases the financing extended to women entrepreneurs. Since 
2012, the fund has issued US$1.1 billion of guarantees to 161 African financial institutions. This ha s 
benefitted almost 21 small and medium -sized enterprises, 30% of which are women -owned. It has 
also helped to create almost 130,000 jobs across 40 African countries.  
1800.  Canada  stated that it has one recently completed project that supported increased access  to 
Canadian markets for Ukrainian Small and Medium Enterprises, focusing on women -owned 
enterprises. The Canada -Ukraine Trade and Investment Support (CUTIS) project directly resulted in 
more than $4.6 million worth of Ukrainian exports to Canada over the life of the project. Almost 
2,700 participants took part in 72 gender -equality training sessions and activities held by the project. 
In addition, over 500 women entrepreneurs attended a series of 18 She Champion workshops in 
various regions which allowed t hem to gain export -related know -how from women currently engaged 
in international trade and develop their leadership capacity and confidence to participate in 
international trade. At the project's end, 62 business matching events and more than 1,200 
busine ss-to-business events were held, enabling almost 400 Ukrainian SMEs to establish or build 
business links with Canadian companies.   
1801.  Canada added that women's empowerment is a central part of its climate finance program 
under the FIAP. As an example, Canada  is providing $60 million to the World Bank to create the 
Renewable Energy in Small Island Development States (SIDS) program to increase their renewable 
energy capacity and improve energy efficiency. Canada also provided $10 million to the World Bank 
to promote gender equality in the renewable energy sector in SIDS to provide technical assistance 
in SIDS to pursue gender equality through women's employment and enterprise development across 
energy value chains. In addition, the Canadian Trade and Investment Facility for Development 
(CTIF), implemented by Cowater International Inc.  (2018 -2025 / $12,000,000) provides technical 
assistance to support more inclusive, sustainable and poverty -reducing trade and investment in 
official development assistance (ODA) eli gible Asia -Pacific countries. CTIF technical assistance 
providers work with national and regional authorities to improve policymaking practices among 
regional and national institutions and with public, private and non -governmental stakeholders to 
increase access to markets and finance by Asia -Pacific -based SMEs, particularly those led by women. 
CTIF provides technical assistance by external contractors following the approval of technical 
assistance requests from eligible beneficiaries. These include regiona l institutions, governments, civil WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  society organisations, and individual firms in ODA -eligible countries in the region. Results achieved 
as of March 2020 include: (1) improved the capabilities of regional organisations to support 
competitiveness, economic integration and climate -smart and gender and socially inclusive growth 
in the Asia -Pacific region; (2) increased the ability of national and local governments to plan, 
develop, implement and measure policies, legislation and regulations supporting climate -smart and 
gender/socially inclusive trade and investment; and (3) increased civil society organisations and 
private sector organisations' capacity to support their constituencies in areas such as business 
growth, women's economic empowerment, market access , access to finance, and responsible 
business conduct. These results were achieved through seven new technical assistance agreements 
in Afghanistan, Bhutan, Fiji, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Thailand and Vietnam. More information 
about the programme here.  
1802.  Canada also made reference to the APEC -Canada Growing Business Partnership - MSME 
Support, implemented by APEC. (2017 -2021 / $2,000,000). This init iative seeks to reduce poverty 
in developing Asia -Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies by encouraging micro, small and 
medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs) to expand into global and regional markets. This component is 
a sub -fund managed by the APEC Se cretariat that supports small -scale projects helping MSMEs in 
developing APEC economies to innovate, grow, and gain better access to global and regional 
markets. The expected outcome of this component of the project is: the increased ability of 
approximate ly 600 MSMEs in developing APEC economies, particularly those MSMEs owned by 
women, to expand their businesses, create poverty -reducing employment and integrate into the 
broader APEC market. More information about the programme here.    
1803.  Canada referenced the Canada -OECD Project on ASEAN SMEs (COPAS), 
(2016 -2021 / $11,855,779). This project aims to enable small and medium enterprise (SME) 
developmen t across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) through more effective and 
coordinated SME policies and link SMEs into regional and global value chains for a more integrated, 
competitive, resilient, and innovative ASEAN Economic Community. Proj ect activities include: (1) 
elaborate a second iteration of the ASEAN SME Policy Index to assess the scope and quality of SME 
policies and institutions across the region; (2) support an ASEAN -OECD Regional Policy Network on 
SMEs, through which senior ASEAN  and Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development 
(OECD) experts can address common challenges in improving SME competitiveness, drawing on the 
knowledge and experiences of their respective economies; (3)  support linkages between ASEAN 
SMEs with v alue chains and foreign investors, in cooperation, inter alia, with the Canada -ASEAN 
Business Council; and (4) associate with the OECD -World Economic Forum's Redesigning 
Development Finance Initiative and other major players to promote innovative approache s for SME 
financing in annual ASEAN roundtables. Results achieved as of March 2020 include: (1) the project 
contributed to Associations of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)'s plans and priorities on small and 
medium enterprise (SME) development by supporting  two policy network meetings by using an 
evidence -based policymaking approach; (2) developing, launching and disseminating the findings of 
the ASEAN SME Policy Index 2018 across all ten ASEAN member states with over 700 policymakers 
mobilised; (3) publishi ng a report on strengthening women's entrepreneurship; (4) supported over 
45 training, workshops and policy dialogues including Regional Policy Network meetings on various 
pertinent topics such as SME policy Index, SME productivity, digital economy, women' s 
entrepreneurship, inclusive business and starting a business. By improving government officials' 
understanding of these critical issues, they are better positioned to adopt policies and programs that 
enhance SME productivity, improve access to finance, p romote women's entrepreneurship, and 
better integrate SMEs into global and regional value chains. This provides a venue to share best 
practices and lessons learned among key stakeholders from ASEAN member states. These 
workshops and policy dialogues benefi tted at least 1,500 policymakers in the region; (5) ASEAN 
Member States integrated the findings of the work done by the Countries of Petroleum Accountants 
Societies (COPAS) into their national development and SME development strategies. For example, 
the 20 18 ASEAN SME Policy Index recommendations integrated into the Government of Indonesia's 
SME strategy and their National Medium Term Development Plan 2020 -2024. Myanmar also 
developed their first SME strategy to reflect the ASEAN SME Policy Index framework;  and (6) COPAS 
launched 10 reports. Some key reports launched to date include: (a) Strengthening Women's 
Entrepreneurship in ASEAN; (b)  ASEAN SME Policy Index 2018; (c) SEA Going Digital: Connecting 
SMEs; (d) Participation and Benefits of SMEs in Global Va lue Chains in Southeast Asia; (e) 
Integrating Southeast Asian SMEs in Global Value Chains: Enabling Linkages with Foreign Investors; 
(f) Good Regulatory Practices to Support SMEs in Southeast Asia; and (g) the Synthesis report of 
Integrating Southeast Asia n SMEs in Global Value Chains. More information about the programme 
here.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1804.  In addition, Canada mentioned the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitati on (2015 -2023, $10M), 
which Canada is a founding member by providing CAD$10Mover 2015 -2023, to support developing 
countries in the implementation of the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation. The GATF has 
undertaken important work to support and mainstream g ender through the development of 
operational guidelines, aiming to bolster their respective integration in project development and 
implementation.  
1805.  Chinese  Taipei  referenced the Capacity Building Project for Microfinance Ecosystem Focusing 
on Grassroots Women in Eswatini .   
1806.  European  Bank for Reconstruction and Development  (EBRD)  stated that it supports the 
Women in Business programme  that also seeks to promote women -led businesses focussing on 
cross-border trade.  
1807.  European Union  (EU) stated that gender equality and women's economic  empowerment are 
supported through the Aid -for-Trade programmes globally with increasing attention yearly. Over 
40% of the respondents for the EU Aid f or Trade progress report 2021  said that supporting women's 
economic empowerment was systematically addressed in their Aid -for-Trade programmes either 
considerably or extremely. In addition, the EU Gender Action Plan II progress report 2019  finds that 
an estimated budget of EUR 8.7 billion worth of development funding supported gender equality and 
women's empowerment in 2019 (or 56.95% of total funding). Fundin g that specifically targets 
gender equality and women's empowerment (i.e., "G2") amounted to EUR  643 million (4.21% of the 
total). The amount of funds committed that specifically, target gender equality has increased every 
year since 2016, as has the propo rtion of these funds within overall development funding. 1,853 
reported actions focusing on the Gender Action Plan II thematic priority C –Economic, Social and 
Cultural Rights, Economic and Social Empowerment  - that contributed to advancing SDG 1, SDG 3, 
SDG 4 ("Quality Education"), SDG 5, SDG 6, SDG  7 ("Affordable and Clean Energy"), SDG 8 ("Decent 
Work and Economic Growth") and SDG  9 ("Industry, Infrastructure and Innovation").  
1808.  Germany  indicated its support to several projects, such as the Fund for the P romotion of 
Innovation in Agriculture (i4Ag), which promotes gender -sensitive and sustainable innovations for 
the agriculture and food sector that are self -sustaining and used by the fund's target group, including 
smallholder farmers and food processors. G ermany also indicated to support measures on women 
in informal cross -border food trade. It also supports the project "Empowering Women in the AfCFTA" 
within ITC She trades, which aims to empower women -owned businesses to benefit from trade 
opportunities cr eated by the AfCFTA. Germany also mentioned its support to trade facilitation at the 
Mwami -Mchinji border crossing between Malawi and Zambia, a project that promotes sensitisation 
for women and border agents on gender -specific issues. Germany added that it  supports the 
programme "Employment and Skills for Development in Africa (E4D)", which aims to bring people 
into jobs and improve employment situations in seven African countries. This programme comprises 
6 projects with a specific focus on women and are i mplemented under the E4D umbrella.   
1809.  Inter -American Development Bank  (IDB)  stated that the Second Update to the 
Institutional Strategy  of the IDB Group, approved in 2019, reinforces the Group's emphasis on 
promoting social inclusion and equality, productivity and innovation, and economic integration in the 
region. The Group will seek to accelerate progress in each of these areas by promoting technology 
adoption and  innovation, increasing the mobilisation of resources for the region's development 
needs, and further mainstreaming the cross -cutting issues of gender equality and diversity, climate 
change and environmental sustainability, and institutional capacity and t he rule of law throughout 
its operations.   
1810.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (on behalf of IsDB Group) 
stated that IsDB has partnered with the ITFC and the International Trade Centre (ITC) for the 
implementation of SheTrades initiativ es in Egypt and Morocco. These projects aim to increase the 
participation of women -owned SMEs in export -oriented value chains by enhancing their 
competitiveness and their capacity to penetrate both local and regional markets, thereby increasing 
their resou rces and income to sustain and grow their businesses. IsDB added that it recognises the 
role played by SMEs in fragile settings and the fact that local firms are essential in times of fragility. 
The Bank is also working with its private sector arm –the Int ernational Cooperation for Development 
(ICD) — to provide the needed assistance to SMEs in fragile situations through matching grant and 
capacity building activities which include a 25% target for women -owned SMEs in Yemen, under its 
flagship Program known as BRAVE (Business Resilience Assistance for Value -added Enterprises). WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  This is further strengthened with the WeFi funding to focus only on women -owned and led 
enterprises in fragile situations, namely Yemen, Burkina Faso and Nigeria BRAVE Women, which is 
currently under implementation.     
1811.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  stated that ITC is not a funder but an implementing 
organisation. ITC has worked with partners to implement women's economic empowerment projects 
for over a decade.  
1812.  Ireland  has supported projects through the International Trade Centre and the WTO 
Standards and Trade Development Facility.  
1813.  Japan indicated that Japan had provided contributions to ITC SheTrades Connect since 2018 
which promote women's participation in trade as a n integral part of economic activities. JICA also 
conducted Women Entrepreneurship Development Project in Ethiopia and Horticulture Value Chain 
Promotion Project in Uzbekistan.  
1814.  Korea stated that the International Trade Centre and KOICA have launched sever al 
Aid-for-Trade projects linked to women's economic empowerment, namely SheTrades West Africa  
project and a project on strengthening natural disaster resilience and agribusiness competitiveness 
in Uganda.     
1815.  The Netherlands stated that  almost all their Aid -for-Trade programs between 2015 -2020 
supported women’s economic empowerment. In particular on trade facili tation, the Netherlands 
supports TradeMark East Africa and Trade Facilitation West Africa with specific attention to gender 
issues. It also supports projects on sustainable trade chains, such as decent work and living wage 
by ILO Better Work, IDH and Solid aridad. In addition, the Netherlands has invested significantly in 
more opportunities for women to improve their wealth. The Netherlands highlighted that women 
make up half of the population but are still the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the wor ld. It 
is smart to support women's entrepreneurship empower women to become entrepreneurs that they 
want to be. Critical challenges for women to be successful in business and trade, like access to 
finance, access to markets and gender -specific trade barrie rs, need to be tackled.  
1816.  Norway  referenced the financial assistance it provides to ITC SheTrades.  
1817.  Russian Federation  stated that a number of related projects funded by Russia have been 
and are being implemented through: (i) the UNIDO's platform to develop  women's entrepreneurship 
and strengthen the economic role of women; and (ii) the Russia -UNDP Trust Fund for Development 
which includes "YouthConnekt project" for empowering young women entrepreneurs through access 
to digital services, financing, and econo mic opportunities and projects aims at building sustainable 
entrepreneurship which supports youth and women entrepreneurs  and adapting entrepreneurial and 
professional skills to the post -pandemic labor market in Uzbekistan.  
1818.  Sweden  stated that within its Ai d-for-Trade portfolio, Sida Sweden has supported the Food 
and Agriculture Organization (FAO)s project on climate -resilient livelihood opportunities for women's 
economic empowerment in Uganda, among other projects. Generally, gender mainstreaming has 
been a  focus for Sida's contribution to trade development, as for all Swedish development support. 
In recent years, the need to integrate and specifically target women has increased, not least after 
the devastating effects on trade and women's economic empowerme nt overall following the Covid -
19 pandemic. More information about the project here. Sweden added that on a general level, 
Sweden's development cooperation is founded on the 2030 A genda, The Addis Ababa Action Agenda 
and the Paris Agreement on climate change, for instance, supports progress towards gender equality 
and women's economic empowerment.  
1819.  Switzerland  stated that SECO mainstreams the gender equality dimension in its projects , 
thus systematically addressing women's risks and opportunities. This includes projects related to 
sustainable trade in sectors such as agricultural value chains, textiles, tourism or commodities and 
on topics such as value chain development, fostering pr oductivity and quality, trade promotion (last 
mile), quality infrastructure, VSS, trade facilitation etc., that were addressed during the period 2015 -
2020.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1820.  UNCTAD  stated that gender equality is one of the core mandates of UNCTAD. Notably, the 
UNCTAD/DITC has run capacity building projects since 2010 when the Trade, Gender and 
Development programme was set up. They include online courses on trade and gender that up to 
now have reached around 1,500 stakeholders from 152 countries; country and regional studie s 
which include concrete policy recommendations to policymakers and other stakeholders; trainings 
to women small -scale and informal cross -border traders and representatives of Cross -border Trade 
Associations; and national seminars on trade and gender. UNCT AD added that it also provides 
trainings on Women in Trade and Trade Facilitation and that Trade Facilitation projects include the 
women dimension and economic empowerment of women.  
1821.  UNIDO  referenced the " West Afric a Competitiveness Programme (WACOM) - Ghana 
component ". Wacom' s objective is to strengthen West Africa's competitiveness and enhance the 
ECOWAS countries ' integration into the regional and international trading system, including the 
newly established Afric an Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). In Ghana, this project utilises a 
gender mainstreaming approach notably by organising gender -specific training activities (when 
possible and available) and conducting training activities with special attention paid to women 
beneficiaries (topic of interest, time of the training, overcharge during lockdown, participation of 
women with children in trainings (onsite and online)). In WACOMP Ghana's e -marketing to 
e-commerce executive training, 77% of the 30 SMEs trained were women -led.  
1822.  UNIDO added that the training programme has now been upscaled in South Africa in 
partnership with the African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF). Support 
institutions also receive training on the establishment of clusters,  and networks are set up to increase 
competitiveness. The training has one dedicated module on Gender Mainstreaming in Cluster 
Development  (corresponding UNIDO publication available in English and French). UNIDO supports 
women -led MSMEs in Morocco through the PCP programme.  
1823.  United Kingdom  stated that the UK's SheTrades Commonwealth  programme supported 
economic growth and job creation in Commonwealth countries through the increased participation 
of women -owned businesses (WOBs) in trade with a specific focus on Bangladesh, Kenya, Ghana 
and Nigeria. It provided a lifeline to WOBs impac ted by the COVID -19 crisis, delivering training in 
crisis management, resilience and digital delivery and leveraging local Business Support 
Organisations (BSOs) to ensure WOBs were supported. UK's current commitment to SheTrades 
Outlook encourages global e vidence -based policymaking by mapping the current trade policy and 
domestic business environments, identifying gaps and recommending high impact policy measures 
to support women entrepreneurs in developing and developed countries. Women's economic 
empowerm ent remains a key priority for FCDO and DIT. By training and mentoring WOBs, improving 
their local support network by working with BSOs and the private sector and building a more inclusive 
policy environment through the SheTrades Outlook tool, SheTrades Co mmonwealth aims to increase 
the long -term participation of women in trade and create a sustainable trading environment.  
1824.  The UK added that all other UK's programmes have a gender element, such as the Trade 
Facilitation support programme, which funded the W EF's Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation. The 
Global Alliance's tool and the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), through a gender lens, 
provide development practitioners and implementors with an in -depth analysis of the 
TFA Section  I Articles from  a gender perspective. It shows how the TFA, regardless of its supposed 
gender -blind drafting, provides an opportunity to tackle gendered barriers to international trade.   
1825.  United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP) made reference to the UNDP's "Aid for 
Trade in Central Asia (Phase -IV)" project, which encourages women entrepreneurship and creates 
more quality jobs for women. UNDP added that gender equality is a key programming principle in 
all project activities. UNDP highlighted that a specific gender len s enables projects to ensure that 
specific gender concerns are integrated into policymaking and policy implementation. An example 
would be to apply a gender -sensitive analysis of development issues and proposed policy solutions. 
At the micro -level, the Aid  for Trade in Central Asia (Phase -IV) project ensures that women are 
represented in the activities that aim to enhance small businesses' productive and export capacities. 
In the three countries where the project is active -Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and U zbekistan - the 
project develops the capabilities of women entrepreneurs and traders by providing mentorship 
programmes for business and trade development, networking and investment.  
1826.  United States  made reference to the Africa Trade and Investment , the West Africa Trade 
Hub,the USAID WEConnect , USAID INVEST , USAID Catalyze , and the ANDE Gender Equality WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Initiative and Advancing Women’s Empowerment Fund ANDE . United States added that USAID has 
a long -standing commitment to women's economic empowerment and gender equality through 
thoughtful and innovative programming. With resou rces from the former Women's Global 
Development and Prosperity (W -GDP) Fund at USAID, the Agency is implementing 78 activities along 
the three pillars of the W -GDP Framework in more than 60 countries, partnering with 470  private 
sector, non -governmental an d local organisations, as well as host country governments, to advance 
women's economic empowerment globally.  
1827.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  indicated it receives contributions from donors' Aid -for-Trade 
budgets to implement trade specific work, including on women  and trade. Examples include work 
funded under the Umbrella Facility for Trade, and two larger trade facilitation support programs.  
What issues did Aid -for-Trade projects for women's economic empowerment seek to 
address?  
1828.  Seventeen (17) out of 19 respondents to the partner country questionnaire (89%) identified 
supporting women's entrepreneurship  as the top area where national Aid-for-Trade projects for 
women's economic empowerment sought to address .  
Regions and Groups : Areas that Aid -for-Trade pr ojects for women's economic 
empowerment sought to address  
Region  Areas that Aid -for-Trade projects for women's 
economic empowerment sought to address  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per region  
Africa  Supporting women's entrepreneurship  11 92% 
Supporting women -owned/led MSMEs to export  10 83% 
Capacity -strengthening initiatives; Facilitating access 
to digital technologies and e -commerce platforms; 
Facilitating access to trade finance; Facilitating 
women's traders' inclusion in Global Value Chains 
(GVC); Facilitating women traders' inclusion in regional 
trade 9 each  75% each  
Developing training programmes; Developing Access 
to trade related infrastructure  8 each  67% each  
Increasing women's participation in services sectors  7 58% 
Gender sensitive awareness initiatives for trade 
stakeholders (e.g., border officials regarding safety 
issues)  6 50% 
Facilitating access to trade -related information; 
Supporting women’s representation in trade policy and 
design of trade/Aid -for-Trade initiatives  5 each  42% each  
Asia Capacity -strengthening initiatives; Increasing women's 
participation in services sectors; Facilitating access to 
digital technologies and e -commerce platform s 3 each  100% each  
Facilitating access to trade finance; Facilitating access 
to trade -related information; Supporting women's 
entrepreneurship; Supporting women -owned/led 
MSMEs to export  2 each  67% each  
Developing training programmes; Developing Access 
to trade related infrastructure; Facilitating women's 
traders' inclusion in Global Value Chains (GVC)  1 each  33% each  
LACS Supporting women's entrepreneurship; Supporting 
women -owned/led MSMEs to export  3 each  100% each  
Developing training programmes; Capacity -
strengthening initiatives; Facilitating access to digital 
technologies and e -commerce platforms  2 each  67% each  
Facilitating access to trade -related information; 
Facilitating women's traders' inclusion in Global Value 
Chains (GVC); Facilitating women traders' inclusion in 
regional trade; Gender sensitive awareness initiatives 
for trade stakeholders (e.g., border officials regarding 
safety issues); Supporting women’s representation in 
trade policy and design  of trade/Aid -for-Trade 
initiatives  1 each  33% each  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Developing Access to trade related infrastructure; 
Increasing women's participation in services sectors; 
Facilitating access to trade finance; Other  0 each  0% each  
Pacific  Developing training programmes; Developing Access 
to trade related infrastructure; Increasing women's 
participation in services sectors; Facilitating access to 
trade finance; Supporting women's entrepreneurship; 
Supporting women -owned/led MSMEs to export; 
Supporting women’s r epresentation in trade policy and 
design of trade/Aid -for-Trade initiatives  1 each  100.00% each  
Group  Areas that Aid -for-Trade projects for women's 
economic empowerment sought to address  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per region  
LDC Supporting women's entrepreneurship  11 92% 
Supporting women -owned/led MSMEs to export  10 83% 
Capacity -strengthening initiatives; Facilitating access 
to digital technologies and e -commerce platforms; 
Facilitating access to trade finance  9 each  75% each 
Facilitating women's traders' inclusion in Global Value 
Chains (GVC); Facilitating women traders' inclusion in 
regional trade  8 each  67% each  
Developing training programmes; Developing Access 
to trade related infrastructure; Increasing women's 
participation in services sectors  7 each  58% each  
Facilitating access to trade -related information; 
Gender sensitive awareness initiatives for trade 
stakeholders (e.g., border officials regarding safety 
issues)  5 each  42% each  
Supporting women’s representation in trade policy and 
design of trade/Aid -for-Trade initiatives  4 33% 
LLDC Supporting women's entrepreneurship  7 100%  
Capacity -strengthening initiatives  6 86% 
Developing training programmes; Facilitating access to 
digital technologies and e -commerce platforms; 
Facilitating access to trade finance; Facilitating 
women's traders' inclusion in Global Value Chains 
(GVC); Facilitating women traders' inclusion in regional 
trade; Supporting women -owned/led MSMEs to export  5 each  71% each  
Developing Access to trade related infrastructure  4 57% 
Increasing women's participation in services sectors; 
Facilitating access to trade -related information; 
Gender sensitive awareness initiatives for trade 
stakeholders (e.g., border officia ls regarding safety 
issues); Supporting women’s representation in trade 
policy and design of trade/Aid -for-Trade initiatives  3 each  43% each  
Other  0 0% 
UN SIDS  Supporting women's entrepreneurship; Supporting 
women -owned/led MSMEs to export;  2 each  100% each  
Developing training programmes; Developing Access 
to trade related infrastructure; Increasing women's 
participation in services sectors; Facilitating acces s to 
trade finance; Supporting women’s representation in 
trade policy and design of trade/Aid -for-Trade 
initiatives  1 each  50% each  
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Areas that Aid -for-Trade projects for women's economic empowerment sought to 
address  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses 
1829.  Cote D'Ivoire  referred to the World Bank Group FEAO Program and the Shetrades Project.  
1830.  Guatemala  stated that this issue must be agreed with the Presidential Secretariat for Women 
-SEPREM -. 
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  1831.  Mali referenced Law No. 2015 -052 of 18/12/2015, which establishes measures to promote 
gender in access to the nominative and elective functions and provides for a quota of 30% for the 
representat ion of women in decision -making bodies. Mali also mentioned the Final report within the 
framework of the technical assistance for the realisation of a basic study and mapping of Income 
Generating Activities (IGA) of the DESFERS Project, January 2019 and th e Report on the 
implementation status and results (EER), PAEFFK -EER December 2019 -Project Code:  P-ML-100- 06.  
1832.  Peru stated that the Secretariat of Government and Digital Transformation has been 
promoting the development of digital skills and abilities of women and girls. To this extent, Peru 
implements initiatives for better access and positioning women in the digital sector in coordination 
with international and public and private national organisations. For instance, the Presidency of the 
Council of Ministers launches the " Digital Girls Peru ", a program  to promote the participation of more 
women in technology and STEAM careers. In addition, the Presidency of the Council of Ministers 
highlights the importance of the role of women in the digital age. More information here. Also, the 
Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Exports and Tourism has developed, since 2017, the She 
Exports Program, whose objective is to gener ate and enhance the capacities of businesswomen in 
business management and export management with a sustainable and innovative approach in order 
to empower them and strengthen their business models to achieve internationalisation. In addition, 
the program has benefited 100 businesswomen from the clothing, agribusiness, jewellery, and 
footwear sectors with a national scope.  
1833.  Zambia  referenced the SheTrade project , which ai ms to increase the participation of Zambian 
women -owned businesses in the economy and trade by enhancing their competitiveness and 
strengthening their market linkages. The target areas addressed in that the project are:  (i)  business 
visibility; (ii) busin ess skills and capacity; and (iii) regional and international trade fairs (participation 
and b2b meetings). The project achieved the following results:  (i) trained women entrepreneurs in 
product standard and quality and business skills, in the honey subse ctor; (ii) facilitated business 
networks for women -owned businesses through international trade fairs; and  (iii) built capacity by 
facilitating training in pricing and understanding legal frameworks to women -owned textile business. 
Zambia also referred to  the 50 Million African Women Speak Platform  project, which aims to 
empower women entrepreneurs by providing access to financial and non -financial business 
information. The project targets connecting 50 million women  across Africa through a web -based 
platform. The areas that the project addresses are: (i)  access to business information (financial 
and non -financial); (ii) learning (Peer -to-peer); (iii) knowledge transfer; and (iv) ideas and business 
opportunities. The project achieved the following results in Zambia: (i) the online platform was 
operationalised in July 2019; and (ii) more than 3,000 women entrepreneurs have been enrolled on 
the platform.  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1834.  Twenty -seven  (27) of the 30 respondents ( 90%) to the donor questionnaire identified both 
supporting women's entrepreneurship  and developing training programmes  as top areas where  Aid-
for-Trade projects for women's economic empowerment sought to address . 
1835.  Asian Development Bank  (ADB)  indicated that the TSCFP program fills market gaps for 
trade finance by providing guarantees and loans to banks to support trade. Following the success of 
the program's gender initiative initial pilot, a cohort of more  banks and new countries was 
undertaken. While fewer banks were involved, the assignment's scope was broadened to cover a 
review of whistleblowing, bullying and sexual harassment policies. Participant banks, including HR 
teams and top management, were coac hed and guided on the adoption of practical gender and 
diversity inclusive HR policies to foster employment, retention and progression of women within the 
workplace. ADB also made  reference to the Competitiveness, Industrial Modernization, and Trade 
Accele ration Program (CITA) in Indonesia approved in 2021. CITA seeks to promote gender equality 
by improving data collection on women -owned businesses and increasing women's participation in 
government contracts in Indonesia. The JP Morgan grant component in th e program will support the 
development of online registration with sex -disaggregated information of suppliers. It will also 
support policy and regulatory reforms to promote gender -responsive procurement and prepare an 
action plan with targets on women -MSME s.  
1836.  Austria  made reference to the project "Improvement of women's living conditions in cashew 
nut production areas in the Cascades and Hauts Bassins regions" in Burkina Faso. The initiative's 
objectives are to increase the productivity of cashew nut planta tions and improve women's access WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  to business assets needed to process Cashew fruits. Austria also mentioned the "Project TUUMA" in 
Burkina Faso, which aims to support professional and entrepreneurial skills and improve the 
employment opportunities of women  and youth in rural communities in Burkina Faso. It seeks to 
increase economic opportunities and access to stable and permanent employment for women and 
youth. ADA has also been supporting UN WOMEN to implement the "Women's Economic 
Empowerment in South Ca ucasus" programme, which applies a holistic approach, including skills 
development necessary for self -employment and in the formal labour sector, as well as the creation 
of adequate legislative and policy framework and introducing the women's economic empo werment 
principles in the local private sector since 2018. Austria also mentioned that cooperation with UNFPA 
ADA supports learning, exchange and introduction of gender family responsive policies for the private 
sector in the Western Balkans and Moldova to  improve labour conditions and increase women's share 
in the labour market. In addition, the Austrian Development Bank OeEB provides several long -term 
credit lines for on -lending to local MSMEs. In many cases, earmarked percentages of the funds (in 
some ca ses up to 100 %) are dedicated to women -owned/led businesses. This contributes to closing 
the funding gap for MSMEs and, preserving and creating jobs as well as to improving gender equality 
and strengthening women entrepreneurs.   
1837.  Canada  referenced the Canada -Ukraine Trade and Investment Support .  
1838.  European  Union  (EU)  stated that EU actions are country or region -specific, and therefore, 
all the area s are tackled within the many ongoing programmes EU has in place. For instance, in 
Ethiopia, the EU programme "Promotion of Sustainable Ethiopian Agro -industrial Development 
(PROSEAD)" (2019 -2025, EUR 45 million) aims to generate entrepreneurial and job op portunities 
for women in agro -processing and related sectors and will provide them with targeted and 
customised training in basic skills, food technology and business skills. The enhancement of the skills 
of youth and women in the parks and their catchment  areas and the improvement of decent 
employment conditions are some of the expected results of the programme.   
1839.  Germany  stated that it supports the gender -sensitive implementation of trade rules. The 
Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation (multi -donor) dev eloped a tool that proposes concrete actions 
to tackle gendered barriers to trade while implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. 
Germany also indicated that it supports women's participation in e -commerce and has commissioned 
the study " Mainstreaming Gender in Key E -Commerce Policy Areas ".  
1840.  Inter -American Development Bank (IDB)  made reference to the project 
"ConnectAmericas for Women ". ConnectAmericas for Women is an IDB's initiative that creates the 
largest online network for businesswomen in the Americas.  It connects women -owned businesses to 
private and public procurement and trade oppor tunities and enhances their export capabilities by 
developing their entrepreneurial skills. Launched in 2016, the project has more than 125,000  women 
registered, and it has provided training to more than 80,000 women. Additionally, 43% of 
participants in m atchmaking events (in food and beverage and digital services) held in 2020 were 
women. In addition, in collaboration with the private sector, the IDB launched "Women Growing 
Together in the Americas", a program to encourage women entrepreneurs in LAC to in tegrate their 
businesses into foreign trade and regional value chains. The program was designed in the wake of 
the pandemic as a specific action to contribute to the socio -economic recovery of LAC. It provides 
technical assistance to micro, small and mediu m-sized enterprises (MSMEs) led by women through 
ConnectAmericas for Women. Its objective is to provide specialised technical assistance to women -
led SMEs in three main areas: (i) improve technology adoption, and processes for the digital 
transformation of  their businesses; (ii) help develop skills to facilitate participation in regional and 
global value chains and thus export more; and (iii) improve the financial structure that allows them 
to continue expanding their opportunities to access financing.       
1841.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  stated that since 2015, ITC projects have supported over 
250,000 women producers and entrepreneurs to become more competitive and access new markets. 
The SheTrades Initiative has various projects and activities that addre ss different areas of women's 
economic empowerment. For example,  ITC promotes competitiveness and market access with 
SheTrades, which helps women -owned companies pursue export opportunities, build their capacity 
to add value to their products and become mo re competitive. The SheTrades Virtual Learning Space 
is the core training hub for the SheTrades Initiative. Its online courses, live webinars and market 
tools cover a range of trade -related topics and ease access for women entrepreneurs. SheTrades 
has also  leveraged partnerships with corporations and organisations (i.e., Facebook, Google, 
Microsoft, and EQUALS) to help women build their digital skills and promote digital gender equality. WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  To increase their market readiness and competitiveness, SheTrades prov ides firms with pre -and 
post-trade fair training on market intelligence and sector -specific topics.  
1842.  ITC also indicated that it promotes access to finance with the SheTrades Invest. This project 
was created in 2018 to tackle one of the seven SheTrades Init iative's global actions to empower 
women, which is to unlock financial solutions. SheTrades Invest has designed finance - and 
investment -related technical assistance solutions to address women entrepreneurs' challenges. 
These solutions include: 1) training packages to strengthen the financial and managerial capacity of 
small women -led businesses, so they are prepared for investment and due diligence, 2)  investment 
readiness bootcamps in partnership with regional investors, and 3) coaching programmes in 
partn ership with financial institutions. SheTrades also engages and sensitises financial -service 
providers on gender lens finance products and services. In addition, ITC joined forces with CARE 
Enterprises and Bamboo Capital Partners in 2020 to establish the CA RE-SheTrades Impact Fund. 
The CARE -SheTrades fund will provide financing to businesses promoting gender equality through 
actions in the workplace, the supply chain, women's entrepreneurship and gender -responsive 
products.    
1843.  ITC stated that it promotes the  inclusion in regional trade and women's representation in trade 
policy and initiatives. ITC added that to meet the gaps in technical and policy knowledge, SheTrades 
supports the creation of a continent -wide network of Women's Business Associations, suppor ts their 
advocacy skills, peer -to-peer learning, leadership, and trade opportunities. SheTrades supports 
women's business associations in identifying AfCFTA priorities for women -led businesses by 
consulting with experts to unpack provisions in the AfCFTA, producing policy analysis, and developing 
a platform for dialogue and exchange.  
1844.  ITC also indicated that its projects support women's entrepreneurship, specifically, 
participation in public procurement. ITC has developed a tailored approach for governments that 
want to make sure women win more public tenders but have not yet developed a st rategy. 
Procurement Map  offers information on more than 150,000 public tenders that are updated daily.  
ITC has also created an e-learni ng course for procuring officers . In addition to a publication  that 
makes a case for gender -responsive public procurement, ITC offers an action -oriented guide to  make 
gender -responsive public procurement a reality. The guide, designed for policymakers, procurement 
officers and statistical offices, lays out four steps. Countries can adapt their strategies based on their 
current level of support to women in public p rocurement.     
1845.  In addition, ITC supports the multilateral trade agenda. SheTrades works through the 
International Gender Champions (IGC) Trade Impact Group and the WTO Informal Working Group 
(IWG) on Trade and Gender. With the IGC Trade Impact Group (TIG) , ITC is implementing a public -
private partnership (PPP) initiative as part of the TIG workplan for 2022 -2023. With the WTO IWG 
on Trade and Gender, ITC SheTrades is developing a gender -lens framework to be applied to the 
work of the WTO.     
1846.  Switzerland  made reference to the Global Trade Helpdesk , the Organic Trade 4 Development 
in Eastern Europe , and the MENA Financial Inclusion .  
1847.  The Netherlands  stated that under TradeMark Eas t Africa (TMEA),  20,000 women traders 
have been trained in Ethiopia to navigate intra -regional trade and new markets. This led to a direct 
increase in monthly incomes of over 100%. Going forward, TMEA targets reaching 150,000 women 
before 2023. The Netherl ands is currently involved in developing the "Care Women Economic 
Empowerment programme" (EUR 1.5 million) in Ethiopia to develop profitable enterprises by and 
with women while generating enabling circumstances in the business environment. The Netherlands 
also made reference to a programme in South Sudan that includes capacity building activities to 
increase income from trade, increase the capacity of women to participate in trade, and promote 
the rights of women in trade while reducing their vulnerability to violence and exploitation. More 
information about the programme here.  
1848.  UNIDO  made referenc e to the Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) in Morocco . This 
includes  the Supplier Development Support Programme for Moroccan Women Cooperatives. UNIDO  
is working with UNDP, UN Women, and UNESCO to take this project forward. UNIDO also mentioned 
the Joint Project entitled "Empowering women in small -scale agriculture and fisheries in the context 
of COVID -19 and climate change" (US$ 2,864,678). This projec t aims to fight against the gender WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  gap and support women's economic activities. UNIDO also indicated that the PCP supports gender 
mainstreaming. These activities under this component are as follows: (i)  developing measures to 
empower women and girls; (iii)  contributing to Morocco's National Employment Strategy aiming to 
empower women; (iii) helping to achieve gender objectives of the UN Development Assistance 
Framework 2017 -2021 for Morocco; and (iv) ensuring that gender is mainstreamed across the 
various P CP components.  
1849.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  stated that it provides support to evidence -based research and 
data gathering on gender dimension of trade - and implements larger lending projects that addresses 
gaps between genders in trade.  
Aid for Trade's role in mobilizing funds for women's economic  empowerment  
1850.  Sixteen (16) out of the 18 respondents  (89%) to the partner country questionnaire stated 
that Aid for Trade helps mobi lize funds for women's economic empowerment.  
Regions and Groups : Aid for Trade helps in mobilizing funds for women's economic 
empowerment  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  11 92% 
Asia 3 100%  
LACS 1 50% 
Pacific  1 100%  
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 11 92% 
LLDC 7 100%  
UN SIDS  2 100%  
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Does Aid for Trade help to mobiliz e funds for women's economic empowerment?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses 
1851.  Benin  made reference to the EIF Catalytic Funding.  
1852.  Mali stated that from 2015 to 2020, a number of 38,285 women's associations and groups 
were supported in the areas of production, processing and marketing of agro -silvopastoral and 
handic raft products. Combating female poverty, international trade cooperation, promoting female 
leadership and public -private partnership (PPP) are the main reasons for mobilising funds for 
women's economic empowerment.  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1853.  Peru stated that it had identified two p rojects within the framework of Aid  for Trade  related 
to women's economic empowerment. Peru added that these projects are in the process of 
implementation, so there is no information on the results and how they have contributed to women's 
economic empowerm ent. Peru highlighted that there is no disaggregated information on the 
participation of women in specific sectors in Peru, which makes it difficult to analyse the impact of 
specific trade policies.  
1854.  Sri Lanka stated that  foreign aid projects have been impl emented for women in women's 
societies registered under the women's Bureau to start or develop their enterprises. Sri Lanka has 
set up a revolving fund under concessionary terms to empower women economically 
(i.e., IFAD- Information Fund for Agricultural D evelopment).  
1855.  St. Lucia  provided the following example: Saint Lucia's village tourism project (still in its 
initial phases) seeks to diversify the country's tourism product towards rural communities, taking 
advantage of and enhancing the natural ecosystems  that already exist. The project will help provide 
livelihoods for community members, including women and youth, while building capacity and skills 
in the service industry. More information here.  
1856.  Uganda  indicated that in 2020, the Ugandan government and private sector established the 
Sustainable Business for Uganda (SB4U) Platform, in line with the Africa -Europe Alliance for 
Sustainable Investment and Jobs.  The Platform is an innovative mechanism to engage public and 
private actors in Uganda and the EU to strengthen the investment climate, particularly concerning 
the green economy. The Platform operates at policy dialogue level on key constraints hampering 
bilateral investments, targeted actions to reduce them, and promotion of investment partnerships. 
While it currently focuses on workforce skills training, improved access to finance and anti -corruption 
measures, it is expected to support bilateral trade rel ations and capacities in the near future. EU 
support to the platform is provided through the "Inclusive Green Economy Uptake Programme" 
(GreenUP) (2019 -2022; EUR 45 million) and "Promoting Inclusive Green Economy" (PIGE) project 
(2019 - 2022; EUR 60 million ). Uganda referenced the EIF DTIS and the EU Aid for Trade Progress 
Report 2021  
1857.  Zambia  stated that Aid for Trade allows for business linkages between women entrepreneurs 
and fina nciers.  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1858.  Twenty -four (24) out of the 28 respondents to the donor questionnaire (86%) stated that Aid 
for Trade helps mobilize funds for women's economic empowerment.  
1859.  African Development Bank  (AfDB)  made reference to the AFAWA fund. More information 
here.   
1860.  Asian Development Bank ( ADB)  stated that the role of ADB's Trade and Supply Chain 
Finance Program  (TSCFP) includes the support of SMEs, including women -led businesses. Overall, 
the support provided to the economy positively impacts the empowerment of female entrepreneurs 
in developing member countries. ADB added that Aid for Trade can advance gender equalit y and 
empower women by expanding their access to trade and economic opportunities through increasing 
gender mainstreaming in aid for economic infrastructure and helping to improve gender targets in 
trade policies and regulations. More aid can go to program s that support women's participation in 
trade and economic empowerment by promoting gender mainstreaming in economic infrastructure 
and building productive capacities in sectors where women are concentrated. ADB observed that 
tailoring trade policies and r egulations to support women's empowerment is also needed.   
1861.  Australia  stated that Aid  for Trade can be a very effective mechanism to mobilise funds for 
women's economic empowerment.  A specific example is the Australian funded PacificRISE , a social 
impact initiative, which ended in July 2021. PacificRISE supported a social enterprise in the Solomon 
Islands, Kaleko Steifree , a Pacific producer of reu sable menstrual hygiene products for women and 
girls. This was done through a regional Trade Finance Vehicle (TFV), which helped to address 
financing and supply chain challenges, especially during COVID -19. The TFV made capital available, 
provided connecti ons to intermediaries, facilitated payment transaction from seller to buyer through 
a supply contract, and enabled scaling up in production to meet demand for bulk orders. This led to WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  more jobs for women, addressed school absenteeism, and promoted good hea lth and sustainable 
practices.    
1862.  Austria  stated that Aid for Trade has the potential to mobilise funds for women's economic 
empowerment but indicated that there are also other channels to do this, such as gender policy 
objectives or peace and conflict pol icy objectives.  
1863.  Canada  stated that Canada's integrated approach to Aid for Trade includes creating synergies 
across trade and development. The aim is to develop coherent and aligned policies that contribute 
to both sustainable development as well as free, open and inclusive trade so that benefits flowing 
from trade are better distributed, improve the lives of more people, especially the most vulnerable, 
and build resilience to shocks. This includes establishing innovative partnerships that support a 
growing  engagement of the private sector in development and in development financing, given its 
key role as a driver of economic growth and investment.  
1864.  Canada indicated that under the rubric of the Feminist International Assistance Policy, 
Aid-for-Trade initiati ves supported by Canada include goals for women's economic empowerment. 
Global Affairs Canada has not tracked specific instances of Aid for Trade helping to mobilise financing 
for women's economic empowerment. Nonetheless, women's economic empowerment cuts  across 
many of the FIAP Action Areas. This is most explicitly addressed in objectives of the GROWE Action 
Area, including: (i) building more inclusive economies through helping women become more 
competitive and innovative, increasing their employment and market opportunities, as well as 
shaping markets that are economically and environmentally sustainable, and which work better for 
the poorest, most vulnerable, and most marginalised, particularly women; and (ii)  strengthening 
women's financial security and  their economic resilience, which aims at advancing the basic material 
needs of the poorest and most vulnerable women, particularly rural and Indigenous women, and 
building their economic resilience, including through improved access to financial literacy,  services 
and products and access to climate -smart agriculture. This framework guides Canada's support to 
Aid-for-Trade partners such as TradeMark East Africa (TMEA), which addresses constraints that limit 
the participation of women in economic activities and cross -border trade. Canada's support to TMEA 
and other Aid -for-Trade partners focused on women's economic empowerment (such as the ITC) 
make it more possible for these organisations to leverage financing for women's economic 
empowerment from other sour ces. 
1865.  Canada added that through the "Making  Trade Work for Women in Eastern Africa"  project, 
implemented trough TMEA, a number of complementary interventions have been implemented 
particularly during the COVID period, to mobilise additional support for WEE.  For example: (i) Under 
the Safe Trade Zones (STZ) initiative, developed by TMEA in partnership with AMREF, more than 
5,000 women cross border traders will increase their trading volumes and incomes. The initiative 
developed Safe Trade Zones (STZ) protocols which were valid ated in Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, 
and the Horn of Africa. The protocols include guidelines and a checklist - customized to and adopted 
by countries, which also highlight trade -related considerations that particularly impact women 
traders, including the m anagement of public health issues at selected borders. The initiative also 
provided capacity -building for the women traders and other users of the markets: more than 500 
women cross -border traders and local market authority leaders were trained on the guid elines for 
the management of the public health measures. Wider sensitization campaigns were undertaken 
through easily accessible posters, public announcements, and radio spots. (ii)To support recovery 
and build resilience among women, TMEA has partnered wi th Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) in 
Kenya and Uganda to provide injection capital to help women kick start their businesses. This 
initiative has two modalities - an unconditional cash transfer for emergency use and "patient capital"  
that is more long te rm. A baseline study was done, and 1,500 women vulnerable cross border traders 
were selected and registered on the pilot list of beneficiaries. A total of 1,200 women benefited from 
unconditional cash transfers. An impact survey found that these funds help ed vulnerable women 
cross-border traders to start or improve their businesses, pay school fees, or support their domestic 
needs. Out of 1,200 vulnerable women, 900 women qualified and were selected for the patient 
capital cash transfer. Patient capital gra nts were made to 900 vulnerable women cross -border 
traders at the Busia (Kenya -Uganda) border post. In addition, all the women participants were 
trained on financial literacy and financial management.     
1866.  Canada also indicated that Global Affairs Canada's  (GAC) Expert Deployment Mechanism for 
Trade and Development (EDM) integrates Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) considerations 
into technical assistance (TA), including on cross -cutting themes and specific trade and investment WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  mandates identified for each of the recipients. The EDM aims to help empower women as trade 
negotiators, advocates for women's  economic rights, and as economic leaders and entrepreneurs 
leveraging opportunities provided by trade liberalization; by identifying legal and policy  gaps that 
widen gender inequalities and contributing to the development and implementation of gender 
inclusive legislation and policy; and, by helping to address the gender -differentiated impacts of trade 
and investment and supporting gender -inclusive cap acity building programs and advocacy efforts.  
EDM is aligned with the FIAP's  Action Area 3 Growth that Works for Everyone.    Via the International 
Assistance Innovation Program (IAIP) Global Affairs Canada (GAC), provided CAD 40 million through 
a repayab le contribution to Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company, GuarantCo, 
to enhance affordable and sustainable infrastructure credit solutions in low -income countries and 
fragile states across Africa and Asia. The funding will be used to fina nce essential infrastructure, 
develop local capital markets and help economies grow by mobilising additional capital towards the 
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aiming to reduce poverty.    In addition to its poverty 
reduction goals, the gender equali ty focus on GAC will allow GuarantCo to further enhance its gender 
policies and processes, making the resulting sustainable infrastructure more gender sensitive and 
contributing women's  economic empowerment.   
1867.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Developme nt (EBRD)  indicated that the 
programme leverages donor financing from the European Union, Italy, Kazakhstan, Luxembourg, 
Sweden, the Republic of Turkey, the Early Transition Countries Fund, the Small Business Impact 
Fund, the EBRD Shareholder Special Fund and the Taiwan Business -EBRD Technical Cooperation 
Fund.  
1868.  European Union  (EU) stated that the EU Financial Inclusion Programme " InclusiFi ", 
implemented by CDP (Italy) and AECID (Spain), will increase the financing available for local 
entrepreneurs in Sub -Saharan and Northern Africa, who currently struggle to access the loans or 
capital they need to start or expand their businesses. The EU, by providing a financial guarantee of 
up to EUR 60 million, is set to leverage total project budget up to EUR 235 million. It will particularly 
support small businesses led by women, young people and migrants. As a result, the Programme 
will help to reduce in equality and create jobs.     
1869.  Japan stated that the Government of Japan mobilises contributions to International Trade 
Centre as a part of our priority on Aid for Trade. Japan also explains and emphasises this concept to 
Ministry of Finance and the public to implement related projects.  
1870.  Slovenia  stated that Aid -for-Trade projects usually involve 
commercial  - for-profit  - activities, which are easier to attract private co -financiers.  
1871.  Sweden  stated that on a conceptual basis, Aid for Trade can support the mob ilisation of funds, 
which in turn can or could be used for women's economic empowerment. For instance, research 
compiled by the WTO and OECD has shown that one additional USD invested into Aid for Trade can 
lead to 20 additional USD in exports from LDCs. S uch increased exports lead to increased funds that 
could be used for women's economic empowerment.  
1872.  United Kingdom  indicated that Aid for Trade absolutely helps mobilise funds for women's 
economic empowerment. From the UK's perspective, all Aid -for-Trade funds must have at least a 
gender consideration, which means even if they are not entirely focused on women's economic 
empowerment (which some are), they must at least complement women's economic empowerment 
activities. For example, the UK's Trade Advocacy  Fund programme, which as part of its many 
activities, helps developing countries to include gender equality and social inclusion in their trade 
policy strategy and demonstrates that linking trade with gender equality and social inclusion is 
necessary in o rder to revive the legitimacy of a rules -based multilateral trade system that contributes 
to the development and the well -being of societies.  
Aid-for-Trade projects involving women's economic empowerment underpinned by a 
monitoring and evaluation/results f ramework  
1873.  Seventeen (17) out of the 18 respondents (94%) to the partner country questionnaire stated 
that Aid-for-Trade projects involving women's economic empowerment  were underpinned by a 
monitoring and evaluation framework.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Regions and Groups : Aid-for-Trade projects involving women's economic empowerment 
are supported by monitoring and evaluati on/results framework  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  12 100%  
Asia 3 100%  
LACS 1 50% 
Pacific  1 100%  
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 12 100%  
LLDC 7 100%  
UN SIDS  2 100%  
Source : OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Are Aid-for-Trade projects involving women's economic empowerment supported by 
monitoring and evaluation/results framework?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country resp onses  
1874.  Benin  indicated that all projects funded by Development Partners, including those of the CIR, 
are built on dynamic and efficient monitoring a nd evaluation framework for results.    
1875.  Mali indicated that the project monitoring -evaluation mechanism revolves around 4 points: 
(i) the institutions and organisational mechanisms provided for guiding, monitoring and evaluating 
the results of the said pro jects; (ii) the efficient information and monitoring system (gender -specific 
indicators provided in a disaggregated manner); (iii) the planning and reporting system based on 
the obligation of results and accountability of the Government and the TFPs of the  said projects; and 
(iv) external evaluations on the progress and measurement of the results of the said projects.  
1876.  Sri Lanka  stated that it carries out ground -level monitoring activities through the district 
and divisional level field officers attached to the Ministry of the Women and Child Development and 
conducts monitoring and evaluation activities through the MEAL system introduced by the Ministry.  
1877.  St. Lucia  stated that monitoring and evaluation components are part of all projects 
undertaken by the gove rnment of Saint Lucia and are in keeping with the requirements of donor 
partners.  
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  1878.  Uganda  referenced the UNDP Uganda Gender Equality Strategy , the monitoring and 
evaluation mechanism of EIF, and the Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development Uganda 
Women Entrepreneurship Programme Management Information System .  
1879.  Zambia  stated that the job descriptions for project managers include monitoring and 
evaluation functio n, and projects have a component of monitoring and evaluation.  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1880.  Twenty -eight (28) of the 30 respondents ( 93%) to the donor questionnaire stated that 
Aid-for-Trade projects involving women's eco nomic empowerment were underpinned by a 
monitoring and evaluation framework.  
1881.  African Development Bank  (ADB)  stated that the Bank has a robust results -driven 
monitoring framework that evaluates the performance of funded projects and issues annual reports 
to stakeholders.  
1882.  Asian Development Bank  made  reference to the Design and Monitoring Framework and the 
Gender Action Plan of the Regional: Proposed Guarantees, Loans, and Risk Participation Products for 
Additional Financing Trade Finance Program. Mo re information here. 
1883.  Australia  stated that its Aid -for-Trade investments require monitoring and evaluation of 
women's e conomic empowerment objectives in order to align with Australia's priority regarding 
gender equality, as set out in Partnerships for Rec overy  development policy framework.   
1884.  Canada  stated that Global Affairs Canada collects project and institutions data on FIAP Key 
Performance Indicators and Complementary Performance Indicators for women's economic 
empowerment. Canada has a results -based management approach specific to its internati onal 
assistance titled Architecture for Results of International Assistance (ARIA), with the aim to roll up 
strategically selected project and program results information into more meaningful evidence -based 
corporate level results. Canada has a robust resu lts-based management methodology and extensive 
guidance at the project and country program level.  
1885.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development  (EBRD)  stated that all projects are 
part of a rigorous monitoring and evaluation framework.  
1886.  European  Union  (EU) indicated that the EU Gender Action Plan III (GAP III) is binding for all 
the EU external action programmes, including Aid for Trade. The GAP III joint staff working document 
(SWD)  provides a set of objectives and indicators to monitor progress in the implementation of GAP 
III and measure its results at country, regional and international levels.      
1887.  Inter -American Development B ank (IDB)  stated that all IDB's projects include a 
monitoring and evaluation results framework.  
1888.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  stated that all ITC projects segregate results data by 
gender, where applicable. In addition, the ITC SheTrades initiative has  a theory of change with 
corresponding results indicators that are measured across the project portfolio.  
1889.  Japan  indicated that with regard to projects in International Trade Centre, the Government 
of Japan requires ITC to submit final reports, including fi nancial reports to monitor progress and 
results of projects. Japan also conducts annual policy reviews and annual evaluations on funded 
international organisations to realise efficient and effective project implementations.  
1890.  Korea stated that it does not ha ve its own results framework, but it is aligned to KOICA's 
overall results framework of gender equality.   
1891.  Slovenia  indicated that the implementation of projects is always monitored, while evaluation 
follows certain criteria and periodic cycles.  
1892.  The Nethe rlands  stated that most of the programs it supports have results frameworks that 
include gender and women's economic empowerment.   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1893.  UNIDO  stated that before approval for implementation, UNIDO's projects and programmes 
undergo a mandatory review from the gender equality and women's empowerment perspective, and 
the design of the project or programme is improved wherever possible. The review al so includes the 
monitoring and evaluation framework envisioned by the project or programme. As a considerable 
portion of UNIDO's projects address trade and development, many of them are equipped with 
gender -responsive monitoring and evaluation frameworks. UNIDO project teams may also use the 
2021 UNIDO Gender Mainstreaming Guide , which includes specific examples and guidance on 
developing gender -responsive monitoring and evaluation frameworks. UNIDO's Integrated Results 
and Performance Framework (IRPF) collects UNIDO's programmatic results and data in a holistic 
manner. The IRPF is also fully gender -mainstreamed, meaning that projec ts that report on results 
through this system can indicate the gender -responsiveness or sex -disaggregation of the results 
achieved through the indicators. UNIDO's mid -term review guidance material and templates are also 
gender -mainstreamed, further contrib uting to consistent monitoring and evaluation from the gender 
perspective of UNIDO's projects and programmes, including those contributing to Aid  for Trade.     
1894.  United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  stated that UNDP Programme and 
Operational Policies  and Procedures include monitoring and evaluating development activities. 
Projects and programmes include resource and result frameworks as well as provisions about 
monitoring and evaluation through inclusive approaches involving implementing partners and,  more 
broadly, stakeholders of programmes and projects whether at the global, regional or country level.  
Alignment of Aid-for-Trade support for women's economic empowerment with national or 
regional trade priorities and objectives   
1895.  Sixteen  (16) of the 18 respondents (89%) to the partner country questionnaire stated that  
the Aid-for-Trade support  that they receive for women's economic empowerment align with their 
trade priorities and objectives.  
Regions and Groups : Aid-for-Trade support for women's economic empowerment is 
aligned with national trade priorities and objectives  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  11 92% 
Asia 2 67% 
LACS 2 100%  
Pacific  1 100%  
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 11 92% 
LLDC 7 100%  
UN SIDS  2 100%  
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Is the Aid-for-Trade support received for women's economic empowerment aligned with 
trade priorities and objectives?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Is the Aid-for-Trade support provided for women's economic empowerment aligned with 
trade priorities and objectives?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses 
1896.  Benin  stated that the support obtained from Aid for Trade inevitably derives from the 
principles of Aid effectiveness contained in the Paris Declaration, their sources from the country's 
priorities contained in the country's National Development Plan. Benin add ed that financial resources 
are insufficient and do not allow the objectives set to be achieved.  
1897.  Mali stated that the support provided effectively corresponds to the objectives and priorities 
of women in terms of trade. These are: strengthening of the economic power of women; 
socio-economic integration of women with equal access to employment opportunitie s and productive 
factors; improving the institutional, legal and organisational environment; and promoting the 
productivity and competitiveness of women's businesses.  
1898.  Pakistan  stated that the alignment with trade priorities and objectives is proven by the 
incorporation of gender balances and empowerment in national plans such as STPF, e -commerce 
policy, and SME policy, among others.  
1899.  Peru stated that both projects are framed within Line of Action 4.2 "Generation of skills in 
foreign trade", corresponding to Pillar 4 "Generation of skills for internationalisation and 
consolidation of an export culture" of the National Export Strategic Plan (PENX 2025). In addition, it 
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  seeks to consolidate and generate new capacities in order to increase the export competitiven ess of 
Peruvian MSMEs.  
1900.  St. Lucia  added that Aid -for-Trade support is aligned with its trade priorities, which include 
increasing women's presence in trade.  
1901.  Uganda referenced the ITC's Supportin g Inclusive Policies in Uganda: Survey of Women -led 
Enterprises , the Third National Development Plan (Ndpiii) 2020/21 – 2024/25  and Uganda Integrated 
Program .   
1902.  Zambia  stated that One of the national priorities for women's economic empowerment is to 
address supply -side constraints such as access to finance. In Shetrades and 50 Million Women 
projects,  Aid for trade is also aimed to address supply -side constraints regarding access to affordable 
finance.    
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1903.  Twenty -eight (28) of the 30 respondents ( 93%) to the donor questionnaire stated that the 
Aid-for-Trade support for women's economic empowerment they provide aligns with their partners' 
trade priorities and objectives.  
1904.  African Development Bank  (AfDB)  stated that the Bank is a member -country driven 
enterprise. All funded programs and projects are aligned to the countries' strategic papers, where 
all national and regional priorities are well articulated.  
1905.  Asian Development  Bank  (ADB)  stated that ADB TSCFP helps set up priorities and align 
partner insti tution goals in this subject. The TSCFP ensures consistency between ADB strategy and 
country strategies.  The program addresses remaining poverty and reduces inequalities (OP1 and 
SDG 1) by providing greater access to trade finance among SMEs (SDG 8). The p rogram delivers 
greater gender equality (OP 2 and SDG 5) by supporting more women in banking. It will contribute 
to tackling climate change and boosting environmental sustainability by promoting sustainable 
practices among banks. ADB also indicated that th e CITA program is aligned with the government's 
Vision of Indonesia 2045 and the National Medium -Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2020 -2024. It 
is also an integral part of implementing Indonesia's ADB country partnership strategy, 2020 -2024, 
particularly the strategic pathway to accelerating economic recovery. The program will contribute to 
the following operational priorities of ADB's Strategy 2030: addressing remaining poverty and 
reducing inequalities; accelerating progress in gender equality; tackling clim ate change, building 
climate and disaster resilience, and enhancing environmental sustainability; strengthening 
governance and institutional capacity; and fostering regional cooperation and integration.   
1906.  Australia  stated that its Aid -for-Trade investments  are developed in cooperation with partner 
countries in order to ensure strong country ownership and relevance. Australia monitors this as a 
part of our program performance assessments. World Bank Group Donors support the WBG because 
its work aligns with t heir respective priorities.  
1907.  Austria  stated that ADC initiatives in women's economic empowerment are aligned with ADC 
country strategies which are aligned with partner countries' priorities in general. Austria observed 
that this does not necessarily mean tr ade priorities in the narrow sense.   
1908.  European Union  (EU)  stated that the EU GAP III is a result of extensive consultations of 
different stakeholders, including different organisations and EU Member States and reflects the input 
received. All the EU Member  States also implements the EU Gender Action Plan. Country -specific 
operations are developed in consultations with local stakeholders.  
1909.  Inter -American Development Bank  (IDB)  stated that throughout the LAC region, women -
led companies' importance for an incl usive economic recovery is recognised.  
1910.  Japan  indicated that with regard to projects in International Trade Centre, ITC consults with 
partner countries and respect their priorities and objectives to implement projects. Japan added that 
it also put the empha sis on collaboration with partner countries and gaining feedback from them to 
improve the projects.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1911.  Korea  mentioned that in the designing and initial designing phase of project implementation, 
there are always multiple steps of dialogues between the donor and recipient sides.    
1912.  Slovenia  stated that in line with the Development Cooperation Effectiveness principles, the 
projects Slovenia supports stem from the partner needs and are implemented in close cooperation 
with local partners, which ensures ownership .  
1913.  Sweden  affirmed that its Aid -for-Trade support is generally aligned with partners' priorities. 
Sida works to support and strengthen partners' priorities and objectives, which are assessed to align 
with Sida's own strategic objectives during appraisal. T hrough normative work and dialogue and in 
some cases earmarked funds, Sida works to strengthen the focus on gender equality, including 
women's economic empowerment, including for Aid for Trade.  
1914.  The Netherlands   stated that most of its Aid -for-Trade support  is aligned with partners' 
priorities but not with all partners.  
1915.  UNIDO  stated that UNIDO's projects and programmes are carried out with due consideration 
to partners' priorities.  
1916.  United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  indicated that alignment with partners' 
development priorities is a programmatic principle in UNDP.  
Particular difficulties faced by women in accessing digital technologies  
1917.  Sixteen  (16) out of the 21 respondents (76%) to the partner country questionnaire , and 26  out 
of 30 donor respondents (87%) stated that  women face particular  difficulties in accessing digital 
technologies.  
1918.  Poor IT literacy and/or skills  was identified as one of the top  difficult y faced by women in 
accessing digital technologies, as stated by 15 partner  country respondents (75%) and 25 donors 
(93%) participating in the self -assessment questionnaire. Partner country respondents also 
considered limited internet connectivity  as equally important . 
1919.  Limited internet connectivity  is a top difficulty faced by wo men in accessing digital 
technologies , as identified by LDCs (75%) and LLDCs (86%).  
Regions and Groups : Do women face difficulties in accessing digital technologies ?  
Region  Number of responses  Percentage share per region  
Africa  11 92% 
Asia 2 67% 
LACS 3 60% 
Pacific  0 0% 
Group  Number of responses  Percentage share per group  
LDC 10 83% 
LLDC 7 100%  
UN SIDS  0 0% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Do women face particul ar difficulties in accessing digital technologies?  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Regions and Groups : Top five barriers that prevent women from accessing digital 
technology  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per region  
Africa  Limited internet connectivity; Poor IT literacy and/or 
skills 8 each  67% each  
High cost of device (e.g. mobile phone); Lack of 
awareness of opportunities offered by digital 
technologies  7 each  58% each  
High usage costs; Lack of access to public facilities 
where the internet is available  6 each  50% each  
Inadequate electricity infrastructure  5 42% 
Inadequate network infrastructure; Privacy, safety 
and harassment concerns  4 each  33% each  
Asia Inadequate network infrastructure; Limited internet 
connectivity; Poor IT literacy and/or skills  3 each  100% each  
High cost of device (e.g. mobile phone); Privacy, 
safety and harassment concerns  2 each  67% each  
High usage costs; Lack of access to public facilities 
where the internet is available; Lack of awareness of 
opportunities offered by digital technologies  1 each  33% each  
LACS High cost of device (e.g. mobile phone)  4 100%  
Limited internet connectivity; Poor IT literacy and/or 
skills 3 each  75% each  
High usage costs; Inadequate electricity 
infrastructure; Inadequate network infrastructure; 
Lack of awareness of opportunities offered by digital 
technologies  2 each  50% each  
Lack of access to public facilities where the internet is 
available  1 25% 
Pacific  High cost of device (e.g. mobile phone); High usage 
costs; Lack of awareness of opportunities offered by 
digital technologies; Limited internet connectivity; 
Poor IT literacy and/or skills  1 each  100% each  
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per region  
LDC Limited internet connectivity  9 75% 
High cost of device (e.g. mobile phone); Poor IT 
literacy and/or skills  8 each  67% each  
High usage costs  7 58% 
Lack of access to public facilities where the internet is 
available; Lack of awareness of opportunities offered 
by digital technologies  6 each  50% each  
Inadequate electricity infrastructure; Inadequate 
network infrastructure  5 each  42% each  
LLDC Limited internet connectivity  6 86% 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  High cost of device (e.g. mobile phone); Poor IT 
literacy and/or skills  5 each  71% each  
Inadequate electricity infrastructure; Lack of access 
to public facilities where the internet is available; 
Lack of awareness of opportunities offered by digital 
technologies  4 each  57% each  
High usage costs; Inadequate network infrastructure  3 each  43% each  
Difficulty obtaining proof of identification necessary to 
access internet services; Privacy, safety and 
harassment concerns  2 each  29% each  
UN SIDS  High cost of device (e.g. mobile phone); Poor IT 
literacy and/or skills  2 each  100% each  
High usage costs; Lack of awareness of opportunities 
offered by digital technologies; Limited internet 
connectivity  1 each  50% each  
Source: OECD/WTO AfT  M&E exercise (2022)  
Top five barriers that prevent women from accessing digital technology  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses 
1920.  Guatemala  stated that access to digital technologies in rural areas of the country is more 
limited for the general population.  
1921.  Mali stated that according to the 2020 Gender Report, the sector's long -term vision is to 
accelerate the development process through increased use of ICTs with universal access to quality 
information and communication technologies. Mali indicated that the three main difficulties women 
face in accessing digital technology are: (i) low enrollment rate; (ii) low purchasing power of tools; 
and difficulties related to the functionality and operatio nalisation of related technologies. Mali added 
that the strategic orientation of the 2011 NGP is broken down into four areas of intervention, 
including the expansion of the office's offer of production support services with a view to increasing 
incomes wit h microfinance, access to training, technical and technological inputs and access to NICs.  
1922.  Mexico stated that  an important problem Mexican businesswomen face is the digital divide. 
The 2019 Economic Censuses (INEGI) indicate that of the more than 4 million businesses surveyed, 
20.3% of the establishments owned by men have computer equipment, and 17.5%  have Internet. 
In the case of women -owned businesses, only 10.3% use this tool and 8.7%  use the Internet. 
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Likewise, of the sales made over the Internet  of the establishments surveyed, only 2.0% made sales 
over the Internet, of these, 18.5% were concentrated in establishments owned by women, 36.2% 
in those owned by men, and 8.9% in establishments with mixed ownership and 36.4% in those who 
did not report the owner.  
1923.  Peru stated that according to information from the National Institute of Statistics and 
Informatics (INEI), approximately 35.9% of households nationwide have internet service. However, 
if we disaggregate the figure, we will notice that only 4.6%  of households in rural areas have internet 
access. More information about data here. Likewise, according to the Digital Quality of Life index , 
Peru ranks 90, which implies that Peru's citizens have to work harder – i.e., work more, spend 
more— to have access to the Internet. Therefore, affordability directly impacts accessibility. In 
addition, the digital gender gap with respect to internet use is 54.5% for women compared to 59.7% 
for men (INEI, 2019). Peru indicated that it ranks the 65th position out of 114  countries in the world 
in terms of the presence of women in STEM university caree rs (World Bank, 2019). The lower 
presence of women in STEM occupations implies less access to employment opportunities and a 
lower capacity to adapt to the technological changes that have been seen during the pandemic and 
will be seen in the future. In thi s sense, Peru highlights that: (i) The digital skills gap is one of the 
barriers to access to ICTs and affects women to a greater extent.; (ii) important gender differences 
in the different uses that men and women give to digital devices. Women make more l imited use of 
digital devices, and the Internet; and (iii) Participation in the economy is, in general, very low, being 
that of men greater than that of women and observing evidence of segregation both in the type of 
work that men and women do and in the r easons that lead them to seek employment within digital 
platforms.  
1924.  Peru  added that the digital gender gaps continue to be a major barrier for women to fully 
access current technology solutions on the market. This is even more important when considering 
women in rural areas and communities in the interior of the country where t he gaps are exacerbated. 
According to indicators from the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) in 2019, 
55.2% of men and 49.9% of women access the Internet. This figure has variables that can widen 
the gaps between men and women, accordi ng to age, residence, language, etc. Peru also indicated 
that additional factors, such as education, affordability, and accessibility, can exacerbate the 
difficulties women face to access technologies. More information about data here. Peru observed 
that the gaps between men and women in access to ICTs are found worldwide and are a reflection 
of existing gender inequalities . Compared to other developing regions, in Latin America and the 
Caribbean, gender gaps in access to ICTs are small. Thus, in the period between 2017 and 2018, 
the percentage of internet access in the region was 63% for men and 57% for women, while mobile 
phone access and use was 83% for men and 80% for women. More information about data here. 
Peru noted, however, that according to the study " Inequalities in the Digital World: Gender Gaps in 
the use of ICT " by the Inter -American Bank (IDB), there are large di fferences when reviewing the 
average for the region, mostly in favour of men, which vary by 18  percentage points in Peru. The 
INEI publishes information on digital gender gaps (more information here). Peru also referenced the 
Chapter VII of the 2020 Gender Gaps Report , published by the INEI, which reports the existing 
digital gender gaps in Peru.  
1925.  Sri Lanka  indicated the following additional barriers that prevent women in Sri Lanka from 
accessing digital technology: (i) Negative attitude of family members towards women accessing 
digital technology; ( ii) Disconnected applications and the lack of relevant content (iii) Online/offline 
vulnerability (iv) Socio -Cultural barriers; and (v) Lack of Confidence. Sri Lanka added that IT Literacy 
of women is lower than that of men in Sri Lanka. It indicated that a similar situation can be observed 
in most East Asian countries of the world. Information Communication Technology (ICT) has made 
a great impact on Sri Lanka. The Majority of the population resides in rural areas, and thus, there is 
a significant disparit y in ICT readiness among the urban, rural and estate sectors in Sri Lanka. Male 
computer literacy is comparatively higher than women, and women's access to the Internet and 
digital services is lower than that of men. ICT, as well as other technological adv ancements, are 
more prone to be used by men than women. Sri Lanka indicated that the major drawback in 
developing ICT in rural areas is the lack of telecommunication infrastructure.   
1926.  St. Lucia stated that  the available Census Data from 2010 suggest equal access to digital 
technology; however, more specific data needs to be collected.  
1927.  Uganda  indicated the following additional barriers that prevent women from accessing digital 
technology: ignorance, attitude and perception. Uganda added that obstacles largel y emanate from WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  patriarchal, institutionalised work and programmatic ethics, limited physical ICT facilities, as well as 
individual characteristics, perceptions and attitudes.  
1928.  Zambia  stated that the gender income inequality in LDCs such as Zambia is high, w hich 
makes women's access to digital technology for business more difficult. In addition, social and 
cultural practices also inhibit women's access to digital technology.  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1929.  Twenty -five (25) of the 27 respondents ( 93%) to the donor questionnaire stated that poor IT 
literacy and/or skills  was the most important barrier preventing women from accessing digital 
technology.  
1930.  Asian Development Bank  (ADB)  stated that the digital gender gaps are prevalent in Asia 
and the Pacific, with a 17% gap between women and men's use of the Internet. While the ICT sector 
is opening up important opportunities for women's economic activity, well -being, and social and 
political engagement, gender gaps persist in digital literacy and access to ICT -related employment, 
the Internet and mobile phones. ADB indicated that where ICT and digital technology are introduced 
to meet the needs of women and girls, they have great potent ial for reducing gender gaps. The 
sector is a growing source of full -time and part -time employment, particularly for young women and 
men in urban centres. While supervisory and management positions tend to be dominated by men, 
women's share of ICT jobs at all levels is increasing. ADB added that in the years ahead, it will be 
important for governments in the region and their development partners, including the private sector 
and philanthropy, to narrow the digital divide by integrating digital literacy in a ll levels of education, 
providing incentives for more girls to pursue advanced training and careers in data science and 
related fields, and improving the availability and affordability of ICT services, particularly for women 
and girls in poor and rural com munities. ADB referenced the Strategy 2030 Operational Priority 2: 
Accelerating Progress in Gender Equality, 2019 -2024 (OP2) , and Vision for Gender Equality in Asia 
and the Pacific by 2030: Possible Future Directions for  Asian Development Bank's Gender Work - 
Background Paper .  
1931.  Australia  stated that its research and  development assistance programs/projects, as well as 
information reported by women and girls, indicate there is a gender digital divide. Women and girls 
have less or restricted access to digital technologies due to socio -cultural norms that influence 
education, resource and employment decisions, and other opportunities. For example, in PNG of the 
women surveyed, only 16 per cent owned a SIM card or handset. In addition, analysis of Facebook 
data (a strong proxy for mobile internet access) in 2018, showed t hat of the approximately 750,000 
people active on Facebook in PNG, just 39 per cent were women. Studies have further found that:  
(i) 96 per cent of women without a mobile phone cited affordability as a reason they did not own 
one; (ii)  less than two out of  three women were comfortable making a phone call, with less than 
half comfortable sending an SMS; and   (iii)  low levels of digital and financial literacy limit 
women's perceptions of the usefulness of mobile technology, and a corresponding willingness t o 
invest in it.  Australia made reference to   GSMA | Digital Transformation - The Role of Mobile 
Technology in Pa pua New Guinea | Mobile for Development . Australia also referenced to  Do Mobile 
Phones Reduce or Reinforce Existing Gender Divides in PNG?  and to  Bridging the Digital Divide: 
Everyday Use of Mobile Phones Among Market Sellers in Papua New Guinea.   
1932.  Canada  stated that the digital divides remain between and within countries, including across 
gender, geograph y, age, and income dimensions. They reflect inequalities in access to the social, 
economic and cultural benefits of increased connectivity. Canada is mindful that women and girls in 
developing and least developed countries continue to face particular diffi culties in accessing digital 
technologies. The ITU' 2021 report " Measuring digital development: Facts and figures 2021 " reveals 
a connectivity "Grand Canyon" separating the di gitally empowered from the digitally excluded. While 
the digital gender divide has been narrowing, women remain digitally marginalised in many of the 
world's poorest countries, where online access could potentially have its most powerful effect. Poor 
women  and girls and women -owned MSMEs face particular obstacles. Canada indicated that a project 
conducted by the Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (MIGS) reveals the 
growing amount of gendered online abuse and disinformation. Canada adde d that this harmful 
content aims to threaten and dehumanise women and is an obstacle to women's political 
participation. The underrepresentation of women in science and technology industries may impact 
the design of technologies and create a male -centric b ias in how technology curates information. 
The ITU has recognised the accessibility of ICT as key to ensuring inclusive communication for all WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  peoples –regardless of gender, age, ability or location – particularly as ICTs have become the primary 
medium for c ommunications, information, transactions, education and entertainment worldwide. 
More information about the ITU's work on ICT here. Canada indicated  that framed by its Feminist 
International Assistance Policy, Canada seeks to address the gendered digital divide, including in 
relation to physical access, education and training in digital ecosystems, and the unique experiences 
of women and girls online.  Canada promotes adherence to principles of equal access, equal 
availability, equal opportunity, and ethical development and application, with women and girls at 
the centre of the resolution of the digital divide, as innovators, advocates, and leaders.  
1933.  Canada mentioned additional barriers that prevent women from accessing digital technology. 
It indicated that in addition to high costs of devices, usage, and connectivity, there is very little if 
any, substantive capacity building. The main barriers are pover ty and cultural and institutional 
challenges in many countries where women do not have the same rights as men. Due to limited 
access to digital devices in the home, women lack control over family resources. Regarding the high 
cost of digital technology, Ca nada recognises that the digital gap needs to be addressed through 
equitable access to the Internet, technology, mobile phones; all of which have an impact on women's 
ability to remain socially or economically active during the pandemic. Regarding privacy,  safety and 
harassment concerns, Canada indicated that it is important to ensure that women and girls may 
safely access and use technologies. Canada is concerned that despite advances in science, 
technology, and innovation, significant gaps remain in deplo yment between LDCs and the rest of the 
world, and we need to support to build capacity and framework to scale up the development, 
deployment of and sustainable utilisation of emerging technologies for the SDGs. Canada observed 
that poor IT literacy and/or skills need to be strengthened as part of efforts to bridge digital and 
knowledge divides as a prerequisite for inclusive participation in the digital economy. Innovation is 
needed to increase the relevance and impact of aid investments and enable new or i mproved locally -
driven solutions for better results and greater impact. With this, there is a need to ensure that 
women and girls are able to access new technologies and are involved in the innovation process 
from inception to testing and scale -up of innov ative solutions to be themselves beneficiaries of 
innovations. There is also a need for an organised structure to bring about change and address 
cultural perceptions of women in STEM and support young girls who are interested in science and 
their teachers.    
1934.  European Bank for Reconstruction and Development  (EBRD)  stated that it analyses 
gender differences in access to digital technologies in the Transition Report 2021 -22.  
1935.  European Union  (EU) indicated that the EU conducted a study on the gender digital div ide 
"Digital4Women " in Africa, laying down many of the particular difficulties women face in accessing 
digital  technologies. The EU added that the top barriers in partner countries that prevent women 
from accessing digital technology differ between countries.  
1936.  Germany  stated that barriers are interrelated, including limiting socio -cultural gender biases, 
lack of e -literacy and digital skills (including digital financial literacy), underrepresentation of women 
in the IT sector as well as limited access and affordability of the Internet. Germany made reference 
to the G20 #eSkills4Girls initiative - Challenging the ge nder digital divide.  
1937.  Inter -American Development Bank  (IDB)  stated that accessing digital technologies is a 
cross-cutting barrier in the LAC region. Despite the fact LAC has come a long way, the region is still 
lagging. In 2020, a third of LAC households did not have Internet access, and this number rises to 
63% in  rural areas, and those that are connected suffer from problems of quality and cost. There is 
also a scarcity of Internet -ready devices. For example, the penetration of smartphones is 69% and 
of computers is 66%. In the most vulnerable households, the Inte rnet is often accessed through a 
cell phone, which generally is shared among household members to do schoolwork, work, make 
purchases, etc. More information about data here.  
1938.  Japan  stated that the global COVID -19 pandemic has made it clear that many people with 
limited or no access to technology in developing countries are being left out of their country's digital  
transformation and sustainable growth. Looking closer, there are evidently higher barriers and 
constraints for women and girls in accessing the internet (including affordability of PC and mobile 
phone), digital skills development, opportunities for employ ment in the ICT sector. In addition, 
security and privacy concerns as harassment and violence in cyberspace discourage women from 
becoming active in internet use. JICA believes that addressing these gender digital divides is 
imperative for ensuring women a nd girls gain better access to healthcare, education, jobs, and civic WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  participation. Japan also indicated additional barriers preventing women from accessing digital 
technology, such as  socio-cultural norms, unequal access to education, unequal access to d igital 
technologies, lower enrolment in stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) 
disciplines, and fewer number of female ICT specialists.      
1939.  Sweden  stated that Sida's partner Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) recently published 
the r eport The Costs of Exclusion - Economic Consequences of the Digital Gender Gap , which 
estimates the economic impact of women's digital exclusion and underlines the economic opportunity 
governments have to include women in a fully inclusive digital economy. Sida's partner GSMA 
recently published the report " The Mobile Gender Gap Report 2021 ", which highlights how the mobile 
gender gap conti nues to improve in South Asia, but less so in other regions. It explores the key 
barriers preventing women's equal access to mobile Internet as well as the rise of women's 
smartphone ownership, notably in India. Sweden also referenced the GSMA's report " Reaching 50 
Million Women with Mobile: A Practical Guide " which identifies key barriers faced by women in 
accessi ng digital technology.  
1940.  The Netherlands  stated that it supports UNCTAD eTrade for Women initiative and ITC NTF5, 
which both support women to benefit from digital trade and e -commerce, including tackling 
difficulties faced by women in accessing digital tech nology.  
1941.  UNCTAD stated  that the rapid spread of digital technologies is creating many business 
opportunities for entrepreneurs across the globe. Yet, as the digital sector remains widely male -
dominated; women still face obstacles to making the most of the digital transformation. Pre -existing 
gender inequalities, such as gender bias, lower participation in decision -making processes, more 
limited digital skills, lack of trust, and unequal access to funding, make it more difficult for women 
in accessing digita l technology, including digital connectivity. UNCTAD added that the COVID -19 
pandemic, which has accelerated the digitalisation process, has also exacerbated the need to address 
persistent bottlenecks and to give more prominent consideration to gender issu es in the digital 
economy. UNCTAD also made reference to the eTrade for Women Advocates .    
1942.  UNIDO  stated that the new era of industrialisation marked by Industry 4.0 has accelerated 
digitalisation and inno vation, entailing a range of new opportunities and challenges. Women and 
girls account for half of the world's population, yet 250 million fewer women than men are online. 
UNIDO highlighted that bridging the digital gender divide is a prerequisite for achi eving sustainable 
economic growth and prosperity. UNIDO's Member States in the Abu Dhabi Declaration have stated 
they "welcome UNIDO's role as a global platform for the promotion of women's economic 
empowerment and leadership, and call for continued effort s, strengthening of international 
cooperation and partnerships with public, private sector and academia in this field". This Declaration 
was adopted at the 18th session of the UNIDO General Conference in November 2019. In summer 
2021, UNIDO finalised the d evelopment of an online training course aimed at upgrading the business 
management skills of women entrepreneurs and managers in the age of widespread digitalisation. 
The training course is available free of charge in English and Russian and consists of th e following 
six modules delivered in the form of video lectures by reputable experts: (i) Basics of digital 
technologies; (ii)  Digital marketing; (iii) Digital project management; (iv)  e-commerce; (v) Social 
media marketing (SMM); (vi) Customer relationshi p management (CRM). More information about 
the programme here. UNIDO recalled that challenges and opportunities of digitalisation for g ender 
equality and women's empowerment were also addressed by the 2021 Vienna Discussion Forum , 
which UNIDO organised together with Finland, Norway  and Sweden.  
1943.  UNIDO is also developing free -of-charge training on gender lens investing, which also aims to 
help address barriers faced by women to design, disseminate and access digital technologies. More 
information on the course and registering here. UNIDO also mentioned additional difficulties faced 
by women for accession digital technologies: (i) the lack of diversity in the firms and stakeholders 
that design and disseminate new technology; and (ii) the lack of access to finance and investments   
1944.  United Kingdom  stated that the world has become increasingly interconnected over the past 
decade, with access to digital technologies like mobile phones and t he Internet an integral part of 
daily life and our default way of communicating, learning, and doing business. However, almost half 
of the global population (3.7 billion, ITU 2020) still does not have access to the Internet, including 
93% of households in the least developed countries. Yet, despite rapid economic growth, also 
emerging markets still display significant digital divides - a symptom of persistent inequalities that 
remain a major barrier to poverty reduction. Vulnerable and excluded groups are e specially affected: WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  the gender digital divide is still significant, with women 15% less likely than men to access mobile 
Internet in LMICs (GSMA 2021). The UK indicated that the forthcoming Digital Development Strategy 
will outline how FCDO's priorities fo r "doing development in a digital world" will accelerate partner 
countries' progress towards their social and economic development goals by implementing digital 
transformation in an inclusive, responsible and sustainable way, while also forming a key lever  of 
the UK's integrated approach to addressing global opportunities and challenges.  
1945.  United Nations Development Programme  (UNDP)  added that one key limitation for 
women's access to digital technology is the lack of digital literacy and access to the technology.  
1946.  United States  referenced the losing the Gende r Digital Divide  initiative.   
1947.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  stated that the ability to submit import and export declarations 
through a Single Window, or other electronic system, reduces time to comply with documentary 
requirements by functioning as a single poin t of entry/exit for all regulatory documentation for 
internationally traded goods. Benefits to traders include faster clearance times, transparent and 
predictable processes, and less bureaucracy. Through the Trade and Gender Study in the Pacific 
Island reg ion, the WBG found that of the women respondents across the five surveyed countries, 
fewer women are aware that declarations can be submitted electronically. More women traders also 
tend to have difficulty in finding information on border regulations and p rocedures than their men 
counterparts. More information is available here. World Bank  Group added that all the above could 
in varying degrees prevent women from accessing digital technology. World Bank Group stated  it 
is difficult to choose top 5 as the list will vary greatly from one country to another.  
In which trade sectors should future support for women 's economic empowerment be 
focused?  
1948.  Forty-nine (49) of the 53 respondents to the partner country questionnaire (92%) stated that 
future support for women's economic empowerment should focus on services  and agriculture . 
1949.  Across the regions, services  and agriculture  are the two trade sectors that fared most support. 
Hundred percent of the responses from Africa supported agriculture and 88% of them services . The 
latter, along with industry , is identified by Asia  (100%) as the two top trade sectors  where future 
support for women's economic empowerment should focus on . 
1950.  For LDCs, LLDCs and UN SIDS, both services  and agriculture  were identified as the two top 
trade sectors  where future support for women's economic em powerment should focus on . 
Regions and Groups : Trade sectors in which future support for women's economic 
empowerment should be focused  
Region  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per region  
Africa  Agriculture  25 100%  
Services  22 88% 
Industry  19 76% 
Fisheries  16 64% 
Forestry  10 40% 
Mining  7 28% 
Other  1 4% 
Asia Services; Industry  11 each  100% each  
Agriculture  9 82% 
Fisheries  6 55% 
Forestry  3 27% 
Mining; Other  2 each  18% each  
LACS Services  8 89% 
Agriculture; Industry  7 each  78% each  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Fisheries  3 33% 
Forestry; Mining  2 each  22% each  
Pacific  Services; Agriculture; Fisheries  6 each  100% each  
Industry  5 83% 
Forestry  3 50% 
Mining  1 17% 
Group  Top categories  Number of 
responses  Percentage 
share per region  
LDC Services; Agriculture  27 each  93% each  
Industry  22 76% 
Fisheries  17 59% 
Forestry  10 34% 
Mining  7 24% 
LLDC Services; Agriculture  11 each  92% each  
Industry  10 83% 
Fisheries; Forestry; Mining  4 each  33% each  
UN SIDS Services; Agriculture  9 each  100% each  
Fisheries  8 89% 
Industry  7 78% 
Forestry  4 44% 
Mining  1 11% 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
Top trade sectors in which future support for women's economic empowerment should 
be focused  
 
Sourc e: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses  
1951.  Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)  stated that it is planning to set up a guide for the 
conduct of border trade trade operations at the borders with the installation of a branch office on 
site. 
1952.  Central African Republic  stated that future support should be focused on arts and crafts.  
1953.  The Gambia  added fashion and apparel and agro -processing sectors in which future support 
for women's economic empowerment should be focused.  
1954.  Lesotho  stated that women's empowerment should b e focused more on supporting women 
to transition from subsistence agriculture to commercial farming and empowering women to get 
involved in supply chains.  
1955.  Madagascar specified that more attention should be given to fruits and vegetables and spices 
within t he agriculture sector. In the fishing sector, support should prioritise the artisanal processing 
of fishing products. Support in the extractive activities should be directed towards small and artisanal 
mines, including gold panning. In the industry, suppor t for promoting small and medium -sized 
enterprises managed by women and in the services should cover in particular intellectual services, 
e-Commerce and tourism.  
1956.  Mali emphasised that the agriculture, fisheries, forestry and industry sectors are centred on 
a vision, a concept, an approach and seven principles that structure the strategic framework of Mali's 
NGP 2011, which is translated into six orientations and nineteen intervention axes and 'Objectives'.  
1957.  Mauritius  added that future support for women's econ omic empowerment should also focus 
on e-commerce.  
1958.  Mexico  stated that future support for women's economic empowerment should also focus on 
craft companies where most women are leading these businesses.  
1959.  Pakistan added that future support for women's economi c empowerment should also focus 
on e-commerce, digital services leading to freelancing, and skill development.  
1960.  Peru observed that the participation of women occurs mainly in tertiary economic activities: 
Commerce (39.8%); Services (27.5%), Agriculture (26 .8%) (Ministry of Production, 2021). 
Likewise, it is important to consider that the bulk of them lead an MYPE, which is also highly informal 
and located in the country's interior. Women have a leading role in agriculture in our country and 
the world. Food security rests on them, which was evidenced during the pandemic. It is important 
to work on the empowerment of women hand in hand with co -responsibility work with men in rural 
households. Peru added that it is important to strengthen the strategies for pro moting trade in goods 
and services, as well as facilitating the insertion of companies led by women into global value chains. 
Through the use of technology, all sectors and areas of the economy can be stimulated. However, 
trying to focus on the economic em powerment of women, it would be appropriate to point out that 
Supreme Decree No. 157 -2021-PCM, which regulates the National System of Digital Transformation 
(SNTD), establishes in numeral 27.3 of article 27 that "Furthermore, the Presidency of the Council 
of Ministers, through the Secretary of Government and Digital Transformation, through the 
articulation mechanisms for digital transformation, coordinates with the Ministry of Women and 
Vulnerable Populations, the National Council for the Integration of Per sons with Disabilities 
(CONADIS) and the Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion, the prioritisation and promotion 
of actions and initiatives to promoter the development of digital skills, digital inclusion, digital talent 
and greater participation in  the digital environment of women, vulnerable populations and people 
with disabilities.   
1961.  Sri Lanka  added that future support for women's economic empowerment should also focus 
on providing basic facilities and utilities for women to engage and involve in the information and 
technological field; promoting self -employment avenues; targetting foreign market; and improving 
quality productions with the provision of proper training to cater competitive market requirements.   WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1962.  Uganda  stated that agriculture, servi ces, fisheries and forestry, including tourism and wildlife 
are easier for women to adapt and embrace.   
1963.  Vanuatu  stated that it still needs more support for woman empowerment especially in the 
value chain sector.  
1964.  Zambia specified that agriculture, fisherie s, forestry and livestock 
sectors  - combined  - employ more than 60% of the labor force in Zambia. The mining industry 
accounts for more than 70% of the country's exports, and the services sector accounts for more 
than 40% of the country's GDP.  
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1965.  Twenty -nine (29) of the 32 respondents ( 91%) to the donor questionnaire stated that future 
support for women's economic empowerment should focus on  services, and 28 of them (88%) stated 
agriculture as the next sector where future support for women's economic empowerment should 
focus on . 
1966.  Asian Development Ban k (ADB)  added that future support for women's economic 
empowerment should also focus on waste m anagement and the recycling industry (SDTC -ENV). 
More aid can go to programs that support women's participation in trade and economic 
empowerment by promoting gender mainstreaming in economic infrastructure and building 
productive capacities in all sectors  where women are concentrated. ADB added that tailoring trade 
policies and regulations to support women's empowerment is also needed. Indeed, Aid -for-Trade 
support for gender equality and women's empowerment in developing Asia has been increasing. 
From 200 9 to 2017, Aid -for-Trade disbursements that integrate gender equality as either a principal 
or secondary objective nearly tripled to $2.7 billion, accounting for 24.0% of Aid for Trade. By Aid -
for-Trade categories, gender equality is more strongly mainstre amed in aid for building productive 
capacity (35.1% of the total in 2009 -2017), particularly banking and financial services, business and 
other services, forestry, agriculture, and tourism. This is followed by trade policies and regulations 
(22%). The prop ortion of gender -targeted aid is lowest in aid for economic infrastructure at only 
about one -tenth. Noting that aid for economic infrastructure comprises the largest shares of total 
Aid for Trade, increasing Aid for Trade's impact on gender equality and wo men's empowerment 
would entail increasing gender targeting of aid in these sectors. Aid for Trade should now seek to 
strengthen country ownership of integrated gender equality programs and ensure they are aligned 
with national and regional priorities while  improving institutional capacity to implement them. 
Integrating and scaling up that focus in other official development assistance (ODA) priority areas 
besides Aid for Trade is also essential. Ultimately, because gender equality cuts across all areas of 
sustainable development and is not limited to trade -related activities, a strategic focus on gender in 
development interventions can significantly boost volumes of gender -targeted aid and increase 
support for women's empowerment. More information about Aid for Trade in Asia and the Pacific on 
promoting economic diversification and empowerment here.    
1967.  Australia  indicated that women are engaged predomi nantly in the formal and informal 
services sector, including tourism, but also form the majority of subsistence agriculture workers. 
With environmental issues intimately connected with livelihoods, the fisheries, forestry and mining 
sectors are also import ant. In terms of industry, decent work, decision -making, supportive 
legislation, and the elimination of discrimination are all relevant to women's economic empowerment 
and should be considered in Aid -for-Trade program design. E -commerce and the digital eco nomy 
more broadly also present significant opportunities for directly promoting women's economic 
empowerment. Considering contemporary and ongoing challenges and opportunities, future Aid -for-
Trade support should be focused on: (i) enhancing business liter acy, vocational skills, and access to 
technology; (ii) increasing productive capacity, especially access to markets and participation in 
regional and global value chains; (iii) improving understanding of gender impacts of trade policies 
and agreements and implementation of complimentary policies; (iv)  addressing barriers faced by 
women entrepreneurs/traders, including access to finance, trade facilitation; (v)  identifying 
resources and innovations to improve agricultural productivity and income; (vi) improv ing the 
business and legal environment for women entrepreneurs/workers; and  (vii) targeting infrastructure 
investments to support women's access to economic opportunities and trade. Australia made 
reference to Women and Business in the Pacific . WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1968.  Canada specified that agriculture is a key sector for Canada's international assistance, in 
particular for action areas "Growth that works for everyone" and "Environment and climate action ". 
To achieve Canada 's Feminist Policy objectives and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), 
Canada 's support for agricultural development will focus on Gender Transformative Approaches in 
Agriculture (GTA). Canada supports programming at the intersection b etween women's rights and 
climate adaptation in order to better support sustainable and equitable resource management, 
agricultural production and access to markets. There are significant gaps between women and men 
in terms of the agricultural labour force , farm income, assets and productivity. Globally, women 
make up 43 per cent of the agricultural labour force, and among women who work in the least 
developed countries, up to 79 per cent report agriculture as their primary source of income. Despite 
their a ctive participation in the agricultural sector, women represent less than 20 per cent of 
landowners.  
1969.  Canada indicated that other sectors include Health Care, Education, Energy, Transportation, 
industry and services (women have a comparative advantage in se rvices), Canada sees women's 
economic empowerment as applying to all sectors. However, Canada wants to give particular 
consideration to sectors dominated by women, such as the service sector. Under services, digital 
trade is an important area where future support for women's economic empowerment should be 
targeted. This support should aim at narrowing the digital gender divide, notably by focusing on 
empowering women entrepreneurs operating online businesses. Considering that many women 
entrepreneurs operat ing on digital platforms lack the necessary resources or skills to improve and/or 
manage their e -commerce business, future support needs to be focused on ensuring equity in 
learning opportunities is enhanced. For instance, workshops/programs, which offer t raining and 
mentoring, can improve women's digital literacy by providing girls and women the necessary 
information and technical skills to expand their digital capabilities.  
1970.  Canada also stated that  agriculture is a key sector for its international assista nce, in particular 
for action areas "Growth that works for everyone" and "Environment and climate action ". To achieve 
Canada 's Feminist Policy objectives and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), Canada 's 
support to agricultural development will focus o n Gender Transformative Approaches in Agriculture 
(GTAAg). Canada supports programming at the intersection between women's rights and climate 
adaptation in order to better support sustainable and equitable resource management, agricultural 
production and a ccess to markets. According to the 2011 FAO State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA), 
women make up 43 percent of the agricultural labour force in developing countries. Women's 
participation in agriculture varies by region, with the highest participation rates  seen in Sub -Saharan 
Africa and Eastern and Southeastern Asia (nearly 50 percent). Despite their active participation in 
the agricultural sector, in 2018 the FAO estimates that globally less than 15 percent of all landholders 
are women. Secure land tenure is associated with higher levels of investment and productivity in 
agriculture. In most countries, women in rural areas who work for wages are more likely than men 
to hold seasonal, part -time and/or low -wage jobs (FAO, 2011).   
1971.  European Union  (EU) stated t hat all sectors are relevant, and the EU supports women's 
economic empowerment across all of them. The priorities can only be identified after thorough 
contextual analysis and interventions targeted according to development effectiveness principles, 
such a s alignment with national priorities and donor coordination.  
1972.  Finland added that future support for women's economic empowerment should also focus  on 
government policies.  
1973.  Inter -American Development Bank  (IDB)  added that future support for women's 
economic empowerment should also focus on knowledge -based services such as KPO, BPO and ITO.  
1974.  International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC ) (on behalf of IsDB) stated that 
it is mandatory to mainstream women's empowerment and a gender equality perspective in Aid -for-
Trade Programs. It must also increase gender -disaggregated data collection and increase trade and 
gender research to understand what "gender lens" is in trade, including on the impact of COVID -19 
pandemic on women. It is also worth comprehending  and highlighting women 's unpaid care and 
domestic work. Therefore, strengthening women's economic rights provides an essential framework 
for achieving economic growth.    WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1975.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  stated that it targets sectors characterised by hig h levels 
of women's participation (e.g., agriculture, apparel, and tourism) as well as high growth sectors, 
where women are under -represented, and interventions can be transformational (digital 
technologies, IT -enabled services, etc).  
1976.  Sweden  stated that  a general answer is challenging to give, and instead, a thorough and 
context -specific analysis would be required.  
1977.  United States  added that future support for women's economic empowerment should also 
focus on male -dominated industries (i.e., finance industr y).  
1978.  World Bank Group  (WBG)  stated the focus for future support will vary from one country to 
another. Many women in lower income countries work in the agricultural sector, while other sectors 
(e.g mining) tend to be male dominated. But, even in sectors (like ag) where women are better 
represented, they tend to have lower paid jobs and less voice. Women's economic empowerment 
should be strengthened in all sectors above (and beyond that), and the foc us in a given country will 
depend on the unique context of that country.  
In which Aid -for-Trade categories should future  support for women's economic be 
focused?  
1979.  Forty (40) out of the 52 respondents  (77%) to the partner country questionnaire stated that 
future support for women's economic empowerment should be focused on trade development . 
1980.  Agriculture  is the top AfT category where future support for women's economic empowerment 
should be focused on, as ide ntified by the responses coming from Africa. In the case of Asia, both 
trade policy and administrative management  and trade education/training  are the two top AfT 
categories identified where future support should be focused on (64% each).  Trade development  
and building productive capacity  are the two top AfT categories identified by the responses coming 
from the LACS region (88% each). For the Pacific region, six AfT categories  were identified as areas 
where future support for women's economic empowerment s hould be focused on: trade 
development; trade -related infrastructure; business and other services; banking and financial 
services; agriculture;  and travel and tourism  (100% each).  
1981.  Trade development and agriculture  (79% each) are two AfT categories identifi ed by LDCs 
where future support should be focused on. For LLDCs, trade development , building productive 
capacity  and agriculture  (75% each) are the three categories  where future support for women's 
economic empowerment should be focused on. In the case of UN SIDS, both trade development  and 
trade -related infrastructure  fared complete support (100%).  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Top trade sectors where future support for women's economic empowerme nt should be 
focused  
 
Source: OECD/WTO AfT M&E exercise (2022)  
WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  Additional  information provided by respondents: Partner country respo nses  
1982.  Democratic Republic of Congo  (DRC)  stated that future support should be focused on 
capacity building in the area of t rade and capacity building on trade facilitation.  
1983.  Sri Lanka  added that Aid for Trade should also focus on the following categories: farming, 
domestic housekeeping, chena cultivation, self -employment, and sewing.  
1984.  Mali stated that the NGP 2011 Steering and Monitoring Assessment has provided allocations 
that better focus support for Women's Economic Empowerment (WEA) on specific categories of Aid 
for Trade.  
1985.  Peru stated that it is important to strengthen trade and productive capacities, including digital 
capac ities as well as access to financing, which is one of the main barriers to date. In this sense, 
support should be prioritised in capacity building for the participation of companies led by women in 
credit access programs, for example, in competitive funds.  Likewise, the participation of women in 
trade should be prioritised from the foundations of education, making known the important role that 
women have in the country's productive, agricultural and service fields.      
1986.  Mauritius  added that Aid for Trade sh ould also focus on the following categories: developing 
training programmes, increasing women's participation in services sectors, facilitating access to 
digital technologies and e -commerce platforms, facilitating women traders' inclusion in regional 
trade , and supporting women's entrepreneurship   
Additional  information provided by respondents: Donor responses  
1987.  Twenty -three  (23) of the 31 respondents ( 74%) to the donor questionnaire stated that future 
support for women's economic empowerment should be focused on trade development , as well as 
trade policy and regulations . 
1988.  Australia  stated that women's economic empowerment should be mainstreamed across all 
Aid-for-Trade categories.  
1989.  Canada  added tha t Aid for Trade should also focus on the following categories: transport and 
storage infrastructure and agriculture.  
1990.  Canada indicated that it sees women's economic empowerment as applying to all sectors and 
categories. However, Canada wants to give particu lar consideration to sectors dominated by women, 
such as the service sector. Under services, digital trade is an important area where future support 
for women's economic empowerment should be targeted. This support should aim at narrowing the 
digital gende r divide, notably by focusing on empowering women entrepreneurs operating online 
businesses. Considering that many women entrepreneurs operating on digital platforms lack the 
necessary resources or skills to improve and/or manage their e -commerce business,  future support 
needs to be focused on ensuring equity in learning opportunities is enhanced. For instance, 
workshops/programs, which offer training and mentoring, can improve women's digital literacy by 
providing girls and women the necessary information and technical skills to expand their digital 
capabilities.     
1991.  Canada added that empowering women within value chains, especially downstream in 
value -added segments like food processing, can improve livelihoods and transform the food system. 
According to a  2018 OECD/West African Papers report, off -farm employment in food related 
processing and service activities have been increasing. Women have higher representation in off -
farm employment in the food sector, like food processing and food service, than men ( 37% of women 
vs. 11% of men) (OECD, 2018). Investments in the downstream activities of the food system have 
the potential to empower women within the food system and increase livelihoods.    
1992.  European Union  (EU) stated that the focus of the support depends on the country and 
situation in question and all the above objectives are relevant for women's economic empowerment 
in the context of Aid for Trade.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  1993.  Korea  observed that most of the categories of Aid for Trade are important, but more evidence 
is needed to c larify which are more important than others.  
1994.  Russian Federation  observed that it depends on the recipient country.  
1995.  Sweden  observed that a general answer is challenging to give, and instead, a thorough and 
context -specific analysis would be required.  
1996.  The Netherlands  stated that it aims for gender mainstreaming in all Aid -for-Trade categories.  
1997.  World Bank Group  (WBG) indicated  that similarly to previous questions, all the sectors 
mentioned under question 56 would be important focus areas, but the priorities will vary from one 
country to another.  
How Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment  
Partner country response s  
1998.  Benin  stated that some fundamental aspects of Aid for Trade should aim to help countries 
strengthen women's economic empowerment. Benin added that to meet the expectations of the 
United Nations 2030 Agenda, it is important to encourage Inclusive Trade i n the service of 
Sustainable Development in Africa. In particular, it is necessary to develop adequate infrastructure 
and logistics, strengthen productive capacities and trade, build smart partnerships linked to 
innovation and facilitate investment and tra de. 
1999.  Burkina Faso  indicated that Aid for Trade could increase funding for women's activities,  
promote the creation of employment and secure women's livelihood, promote women's welfare, and 
promote the creation of MSMEs.  
2000.  Cambodia  stated that it always consi ders women's economic empowerment as the 
fundamental factor for project implementations in past and current projects. Cambodia added that 
women have played a key role in achieving project deliverable outcomes, including decision -making 
process, project imp lementation and impacts.   
2001.  Fiji stated that Aid for trade focuses on gender -specific programmes and projects and can 
support economic empowerment by creating an enabling environment for women's participation in 
the economy.  
2002.  Guinea Bissau stated that Aid fo r Trade can help create jobs, increase income, and increase 
the economic and financial independence of women.  
2003.  Lesotho  mentioned that in most –if not in all —least developed and developing countries, 
women make up the majority in the informal sector of their  countries' economies. Working conditions 
in the informal sector are not conducive for women entrepreneurs to produce to their optimum. For 
instance, the lack of basic commodities, such as water, electricity, and sanitation, are problems 
women encounter in  their workplaces. Lesotho stated that Aid for trade can advance women's 
empowerment to provide these basic utilities to enhance women's production and productivity due 
to the constant availability of these utilities. Connectivity to broadband can go a lon g way in 
enhancing women's empowerment and increasing their participation in digital business services.  
2004.  Madagascar  stated that inclusive trade should consider the different actors involved in trade, 
including women and young people. Madagascar added that A id for Trade is an excellent instrument 
to identify and analyse the positioning of women as actors in the trade process. Therefore, Aid for 
Trade should maintain this position and attitude to ensure economic and social impacts of trade in 
a country, partic ularly the LDCs.  
2005.  Mali stated that by promoting greater participation of women in international trade, Aid for 
Trade can enable MSME promoters to improve and develop their offers of goods and services 
quantitatively and qualitatively at all levels; attract a larger clientele; increase their turnover; and 
generate income that can enable them to meet their needs and the needs of their families.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  2006.  Mozambique  stated that Aid for Trade advances women's economic empowerment by giving 
them access to trade -related tra ining, access to finance, financial literacy, managerial skills, 
formalisation of informal business and supporting women's associations with the objective to 
empowering women in trade.  
2007.  Pakistan  stated that Aid for Trade can work as a catalyst for policies  development. Pakistan 
indicated that it has developed policy provisions (in legal, economic, and political realms) to better 
inclusion of gender and economic empowerment. The Government is cognizant of the fact that 
gender needs to be understood in its no n-binary sense and the current and forthcoming policies will 
remain sensitive to this fact. Pakistan added that Aid for Trade is viewed as a variable with immense 
significance in integrating women within the current market structure. Aid for Trade can also  open 
them (especially young women) to newer segments of the economy (such as e -commerce) where 
the gains can be more important and result in better social upward mobility for the impoverished 
gender(s). Pakistan believes that this will result in better po litical empowerment, access to 
information, economic inclusion and access to justice. Aid for Trade can fill in for the technical or 
knowledge shortfalls a developing country may have in realising the true economic potential of the 
women population in the country.    
2008.  Peru stated that Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment through 
technical assistance to address the main gaps women face in their diversity and directly contribute 
to promoting their economic autonomy. Peru indicated that it is necessary to generate evidence and 
improve supply capacity. In accordance with what has been stated with the WTO-World Bank 
Publication "Women and Trade,"  it is important to assess the repercussions that trade policies can 
have on both women and men and develop appropriate policies to ensure that trade contributes to 
creating better opportunities for all. Countries that do not allow women to participate fully in the 
economy  are less competitive internationally, especially countries whose export industries generally 
have high female employment rates, as is the case with Peru. Trade can bring substantially better 
economic benefits to women, increasing employment and wages, cre ating better jobs and increasing 
well-being.   
2009.  Samoa stated that Aid for Trade can upskill young people and women for TIS. Indeed, 
upskilling in a number of services industries is a key focus for economic recovery in the post -COVID -
19 era. For example, the re are needs for training focussing on ICT skills from basic to advanced, 
product marketing, e -commerce and exporting skill sets, hospitality and tourism skills, and a wide 
range of teaching and primary health care skills. Samoa mentioned that the Samoa Bu siness Hub, 
APTC and other vocational suppliers will deliver training to address some of these shortages. Courses 
could also usefully harness the development of on -the-job training opportunities. Given this context, 
stakeholders in Samoa have put forward a s a priority the need for Aid -for-Trade support as part of 
the PACER Plus implementation arrangement for the skill development of young people and women 
in key areas of business development and the building of trade/export skills in the key areas of 
touris m, health and education services and the use of e -commerce, including the development of 
trade opportunities for women living in remote rural areas.  
2010.  Samoa also indicated that Aid for Trade can contribute to adapting to climate change through 
support for w omen and smallholder farmers. Trade agreements like PACER Plus should ideally enable 
productive capacity building through "climate -smart" agricultural techniques and through 
improvements in agri -technology and management practices. This can boost resilienc e in production 
and livelihood systems. Samoa observed that a major gap was identified around the need for small 
businesses to have more support to identify niche markets. This would increase their capacity to 
understand sustainability practices, including  how to gain market access to regional supply chains. 
Many smallholder farmers of kava, Koko and taro are interested in moving towards export. A number 
of smallholder farmers are women living in rural areas, and they are seeking to attain the commercial 
export capability and supply capacity to meet demand in regional markets. Samoa highlighted that 
advice and support on how to meet the many SPS, climate change resilience and sustainability 
standards is vital. Therefore, there is a need for skills developmen t and capacity building for women 
in particular, but also for men, in support of agricultural development and environmental 
management techniques, to have the skills to increase supply and to benefit from export and trade. 
This Aid -for-Trade project should  be informed by and work in collaboration with existing programs 
in this area, such as the ADB's Samoa Agri -Business Support Project co -financed by Australia and 
the Green Climate Fund program. This supports and promotes sustainable micro -enterprises and 
vulnerable households in climate -resilient small -scale business operations, as well as microfinance WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  programs to help increase financial access for women, poor households, vulnerable groups, and 
micro, small, and medium enterprises.     
2011.  Senegal  stated that A id for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment notably by 
setting up a mechanism for connecting and distributing local products, such as the Ekomkom 
electronic commerce platform.  
2012.  Sri Lanka  stated that Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empow erment by 
providing marketing promotion facilities to enhance and market women's products through the 
existing strong network of women's organisations. It can also contribute to improving digital 
marketing and providing women with the technical knowledge, training and tools they need, and 
improving the quality of women's products and providing infrastructure for it. Aid for trade can 
promote motivation of women for product experts and exchange of international experience and 
entrepreneurship facilities in a  way that gives women ownership of enterprises.   
2013.  St. Lucia  stated that Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment by ensuring 
that supported projects are managed and monitored by institutional mechanisms in the country that 
is based on inter -agency collaboration and capacity development. In addition, it can ensure in -depth 
consultation that engages the people on the ground who are the actual beneficiaries to shape the 
specific activities to ensure maximum impact with available resources. St. Lu cia added that capacity 
development must be a means to an end by ensuring that practical opportunities for trade are built 
into the aid to increase the sustainability of training. In addition, follow -up mechanisms must be 
instituted within the context of t he project development. When women are trained and facilitated, 
they are able to grow their business and reach export capabilities. Empowerment through education 
and knowledge sharing is also important for women to advance in trade. St. Lucia observed that  
being aware of the market opportunities and the required regulations to penetrate these markets 
will facilitate the increase of women's involvement in global trade.  
2014.  Uganda  stated that Aid for trade can contribute to economic diversification and empowermen t 
by eliminating extreme poverty, particularly through the effective participation of women and youth. 
Aid for trade can contribute to addressing supply -side capacity and trade -related infrastructure 
constraints, including micro -, small - and medium -sized e nterprises, notably in rural areas.  
2015.  Yemen  stated that Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment by designing 
and implementing specific projects towards enabling them to increase their participation in the 
economy in general and in specific sec tors. 
2016.  Zambia  indicated six areas where Aid for Trade can facilitate women's economic 
empowerment:  (i) Access to regional and international markets; (ii) Capacity to conform to quality 
standards; (iii) Access to affordable finances;  (iv) Utilisation of digital trade and e -commerce; 
(v) Participation in value chains of men dominated sectors such as mining; and (vi)  Full participation 
in the economy.  
2017.  European Union  (EU) stated that it is crucial to recognise and analyse the different impacts  
that economic reforms and trade -related regulations and programmes have on men and women, 
including Aid -for-Trade actions and reflect this in the decision -making processes. It is also important 
to ensure that women's organisations are actively involved in  the identification and formulation of 
Aid-for-Trade programmes and that all stakeholders, such as social partners, market associations 
and cooperatives, take into account the gender dimension.  
2018.  International Trade Centre  (ITC)  stated that despite successe s in mainstreaming gender 
considerations into Aid -for-Trade objectives, there is scope for both donors and recipient countries 
to integrate gender equality more comprehensively into Aid -for-Trade investments and development 
programmes. ITC indicated the fo llowing set of options: trade policy, gender awareness training and 
tools, gender -sensitive customs reforms, collection of gender -disaggregated data, cross -border 
trade facilitation for women traders, infrastructure, access to trade finance, promoting wome n's 
access to information and ICT infrastructure and services, productive capacity,  competitiveness and 
market access for women producers and entrepreneurs in traditional and emerging sectors.  
2019.  Korea stated that women's economic empowerment is one of the m ost important and principal 
agenda for accomplishing gender equality. Trade is one of the most important and practical means WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  to achieve women's economic empowerment. As the market environment is expanded domestically 
and internationally, for labour, money,  and goods, such agenda of women's economic empowerment 
and how to adapt to the transformation, it is necessary to build a cooperative network between 
markets and countries. Such a platform like AfT may be able to contribute to enhancing such 
international  cooperation.  
2020.  Norway  stated that Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment by  providing 
access to finance and vocational training, and job opportunities. Although favorable education 
policies and incentives are important, market opportunities are hugely important for increases in 
female education. According to the Centre for Global  Development, any stimulus packages should 
be designed to support women's employment retention, creation of jobs, and incomes. Norway 
referenced the study " The Knowledge Review of Violence Against Women and Harmful Practices: Is 
Norway’s Theory of Change Research Driven? ".   
2021.  Sweden  stated that Aid for Trade can be one important piece and channel through which 
women's economic empowerment can  be advanced. Sweden highlighted the importance of 
mainstreaming gender issues and including aspects on women's economic empowerment in 
development cooperation in general and Aid for Trade in particular. Clear objectives on women's 
economic empowerment, di saggregated data and thorough monitoring and evaluation make up 
some important aspects for Aid -for-Trade programmes to advance women's economic 
empowerment.   
2022.  The Netherlands  observed that one best practice is the work done under the Trade 
Facilitation Support program of the World Bank. In an effort to fill the data gap on the gendered 
experiences of women and men traders when undertaking cross -border processes and procedures 
at the firm level and better inform future trade facilitation intervention design and implementation, 
the WBG –through TFSP —completed the Trade and Gender Study in five Pacific Island nations in 
FY20 (Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Timor -Leste, and Vanuatu ). The survey found that women -led 
firms are highly underrepresented in all the surveyed countries, highlighting an opportunity to 
potentially increase the participation of women in trade by understanding and addressing the 
challenges they face. The survey  results from the Pacific work are feeding into a new regional project, 
and the survey methodology is being replicated in other regions. More information about all the 
reports here.  
2023.  UNCTAD  stated that women across countries and regions face many obstacles that hamper 
their capacity to fully benefit from international trade and, more gener ally, from their participation 
in the economy. Hurdles include time poverty; discriminatory legal rules and social norms; limited 
access to productive resources and technology; and inadequate opportunities for education, training 
and skill development. Tho se shortcomings are also found in developing and least developed 
countries, but they are magnified by persistent and acute development challenges that include 
poverty, inadequate infrastructure, limited productive capacities, and a mostly low -skilled labou r 
force. A fruitful integration of women into the economy could greatly benefit from Aid -for-Trade 
Initiatives that target them in their different roles as producers, wage workers, traders and 
consumers.   
2024.  United Kingdom  indicated that increased trade can be a tremendous force for providing new 
opportunities for women. Women -owned businesses that export are on average more than 3.5 times 
more productive than those that do not. However, improving women's access to the benefits of trade 
remains a global chall enge. In 2018, the UK committed to intending "to establish a fully gender -
responsive trade policyâ". The UK added that this is something they are still striving towards, aided 
by the tools, such as the analysis from SheTrades Outlook and UK's engagement wi th the Informal 
Working Group of Trade and Gender. The UK observed that there is more to be done on how Aid for 
Trade can advance women's economic empowerment. Part of the work of the Informal Working 
Group's work plan is to apply a gender lens to WTO agre ements. This will be vital to ensuring 
women's economic empowerment can be realised at the WTO and essential to inform how donors 
should formulate their AFT packages. For example, the analysis might inform donors that there is 
more to be done with regards to trade agreements to address those barriers to trade faced by all 
but which may be disproportionately experienced by women, for example, women -owned SMEs. The 
importance of gender -disaggregated data is also as critical as ever. The impact of gender 
mains treaming on women and trade will only become apparent over time. To know if countries are 
achieving their goals, they must be able to monitor them. Continued investment in AFT and women's 
economic empowerment will also be vital, but it must go beyond what was done before. This means WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  being more innovative and coordinated when seeking to enable women to benefit equitably from the 
opportunities of trade, whether as workers, business owners or entrepreneurs. The UK stands ready 
to engage with the AFT initiative  and the Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender to support 
and promote the efforts to promote women's economic empowerment.  
2025.  United States  stated that the White House recently launched the US government's first -ever 
National Strategy on Gender Equity a nd Equality, which highlights the moral and strategic imperative 
of unlocking the full potential of all people, including women and girls, in all of their diversity. The 
strategy identifies ten priorities, the first of which is improving economic security and accelerating 
economic growth. To advance this area of work, the White House National Security Council and 
Gender Policy Council have announced the forthcoming development of US Global Women's 
Economic Security (WES) Strategy, which will emphasise, amon g other items: 1)  Promoting 
Economic Competitiveness through Well -paying, Quality Jobs, and 2) Promoting Entrepreneurship 
and Financial, and Digital Inclusion, including through Trade and Investment.  
 
 
_______________  
 
 
  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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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, 
policy or plan include trade priorities ? (i.e. Aid ‑for‑Trade 
priorities)  
South -South  Does your South -South development strategy, policy or plan 
include trade priorities (i.e., Aid - for-Trade priorities)?  
Donor  Does your Aid -for-Trade or development strategy, policy or plan 
include trade priorities (i.e., Aid -for-Trade priorities)?  
2 Partner  If yes, please highlight what these Aid -for-Trade priorities are.  
REC If yes, please indicate what these Aid -for-Trade priorities are.  
South -South  If yes, please highlight what these Aid -for-Trade priorities are.  
Donor  If yes, please highlight what these Aid -for-Trade priorities are.  
3 Partner  Have your Aid -for-Trade priorities changed since 2019?  
REC Have your Aid -for-Trade priorities changed since 2019?  
South -South  Have your Aid -for-Trade priorities changed since 2019?  
Donor  Have your Aid -for-Trade priorities changed since 2019?  
4 Partner  If yes, please identify the top drivers of change in your Aid -for-
Trade priorities from the list below.  
REC If yes, please identify the top drivers of change in your Aid -for-
Trade priorities from the list below.  
South -South  If yes, please identify the top drivers of change in your Aid -for-
Trade priorities from the list below.  
Donor  If yes, please identify the top drivers of change in your Aid -for-
Trade priorities from the list below.  
5 Partner  Has Aid for Trade become more or less important to your 
government since 2019?  
REC Has Aid for Trade become more or less important to your 
institution since 2019?  
South -South  Has Aid for Trade become a more or less important part of your 
South -south development policy since 2019?  
Donor  Has Aid for Trade become a more or less important part of your 
development policy since 2019?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
6 Partner  Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with 
development partners?  
REC Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with 
development partners?  
South -South  Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with South -
South partners?  
Donor  Have these changes been reflected in your dialogue with 
development partners?  
7 Partner  Do you have a specific national strategy, policy or plan for 
economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic?  
REC Do you have a specific regional strategy, policy or plan for 
economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic?  
South -South  Do you have a South -South cooperation strategy, policy or plan 
for economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic?  
Donor  Do you have a specific development or aid strategy, policy or 
plan for economic recovery post COVID -19 pandemic?  
8 Partner  If yes, please indicate whether your strategy, policy or plan for 
economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic addresses any 
of the following areas.  
REC If yes, please indicate whether your strategy, policy or plan for 
economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic addresses any 
of the following areas.  
South -South  If yes, please indicate whether your strategy, policy or plan for 
economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic addresses any 
of the following areas.  
Donor  If yes, please indicate whether your strategy, policy or plan for 
economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic addresses any 
of the following areas.  
9 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.  
South -South  Please provide names, titles, references or weblinks to policy 
document relevant to your South - South Aid -for-Trade activities 
and action.  
Donor  Please provide names, titles, references or weblinks to policy 
documents relevant to your Aid - for-Trade activities and action.  
SECTION 2: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND TRADE  
10 Partner  Is the environmental dimension of sustainable development 
reflected in your national policy document(s), plan(s) or 
strategy(ies)?  
REC Is the environmental dimension of sustainable development 
reflected in your regional policy document(s), plan(s) or 
strategy(ies)?  
South -South  Is the environmental dimension of sustainable development 
reflected in your South -South development policy document(s), 
plan(s) or strategy(ies)?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
Donor  Is the environmental dimension of sustainable development 
reflected in your development or aid policy document(s), plan(s) 
or strategy(ies)?  
11 Partner  If yes, please indicate in which of your national strategy(ies), 
policy(ies) or plan(s) sustainable development is reflected.  
REC If yes, please indicate in which of your regional strategy(ies), 
policy(ies) or plan(s) sustainable development is reflected.  
South -South  If yes, please indicate in which of your strategy(ies), policy(ies) 
or plan(s) sustainable development is reflected.  
Donor  If yes, please indicate in which of your strategy(ies), policy(ies) 
or plan(s) sustainable development is reflected.  
12 Partner  Does your national development strategy, policy or plan 
explicitly target any of the following environment -specific goals?  
REC Does your Regional development strategy, policy or plan 
explicitly target any of the following environment -specific goals?  
South -South  Does your South -South development strategy, policy or plan 
explicitly target any of the following environment -specific goals?  
Donor  Does your Aid -for-Trade or development strategy, policy or plan 
explicitly target any of the following environment -specific goals?  
13 Partner  Does your national sustainable development strategy, policy, or 
plan include trade objectives?  
REC Does your regional sustainable development strategy, policy, or 
plan include trade objectives?  
South -South  Does your South -South sustainable development strategy, 
policy, or plan include trade objectives?  
Donor  Does your sustainable development strategy, policy, or plan 
include trade objectives?  
14 Partner  If yes, do the trade objectives address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
REC If yes, do the trade objectives address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
South -South  If yes, do the trade objectives address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
Donor  If yes, do the trade objectives address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
15 Partner  Does your government have a national committee (or has 
coordination or dialogues across ministries and agencies) on 
sustainable development that includes the Ministry of Trade?  
REC Does your institution have a dedicated committee (or has a 
coordination or dialogues with ministries of trade and agencies 
dealing with trade -related affairs) on sustainable development?  
South -South  As a provider of South -South assistance, do you have 
coordination or dialogues with other developing countries' 
national committees, ministries of trade and agencies on 
sustainable development?  
Donor  As a donor, do you have coordination or dialogues with 
developing count ries' national committees, ministries of trade 
and agencies on sustainable development?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
16 Partner  If yes, does that national committee address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
REC If yes, does that committee address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
South -South  If yes, do these national committees, ministries of trade or 
agencies address the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development?  
Donor  If yes, do these dialogues address the environmental dimension 
of sustainable development?  
17 Partner  Please identify the economic sector(s) that would gain the most 
in terms of economic and export diversification as a result of the 
move to sustainable development?  
REC Please identify the economic sector(s) that would gain the most 
in terms of economic and export diversification as a result of the 
move to sustainable development?  
South -South  Please identify the economic sector(s) that would gain the most 
in terms of economic and export diversification as a result of the 
move to sustainable development?  
Donor  Please identify the economic sector(s) in your developing and 
least-developed partner countries that would gain the most in 
terms of economic and export diversification as a result of the 
move to sustainable development?  
18 Partner  Please identify the sector(s) of your economy that may face the 
biggest challenge from the move to sustainable development.  
REC Please identify the sector(s) of your economy that may face the 
biggest challenge from the move to sustainable development.  
South -South  Please identify the economic sectors that may face the biggest 
challenge from the move to sustainable development.  
Donor  Please identify the economic sectors that may face the biggest 
challenge from the move to sustainable development.  
19 Partner  In your view, what challenges constitute the main obstacles to 
the transition towards sustainable development in your country?  
REC In your view, what challenges constitute the main obstacles to 
the transition towards sustainable development in your region?  
South -South  In your view, what challenges constitute the main obstacles to 
the transition towards sustainable development?  
Donor  In your view, what challenges constitute the main obstacles to 
the transition towards sustainable development in developing 
and least -developed partner countries?  
20 Partner  Please highlight the main challenges that Aid for Trade should 
address to support a tr ansition to sustainable development in 
your country?  
REC Please highlight the main challenges that Aid for Trade should 
address to support a transition to sustainable development in 
your region?  
South -South  Please highlight the main challenges that Aid for Trade should 
address to support a transition to sustainable development?  
Donor  Please highlight the main challenges that Aid for Trade should 
address to support a transition to sustainable development?  
21 Partner  Do you have a circular economy strategy, policy, plan?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
REC Do you have a circular economy strategy, policy, plan or 
objectives?  
South -South  Does your South -South development strategy include a circular 
economy strategy, policy, plan?  
Donor  Do your Aid-for-Trade or development strategies include a 
circular economy strategy, policy, plan or objectives?  
22 Partner  If yes, which economic sectors does the circular economy 
strategy, policy, or plan cover?  
REC If yes, which economic sectors does the circular economy 
strategy, policy, plan or objectives cover?  
South -South  If yes, which economic sectors does the circular economy 
strategy, policy, or plan cover?  
Donor  If yes, which economic sectors does the circular economy 
strategy, policy, plan or objectives cover?  
23 Partner  If yes, does the circular economy strategy, policy, plan include 
trade objectives?  
REC If yes, does the circular economy strategy, policy, plan or 
objectives include trade goals?  
South -South  If yes, does the circular economy strategy, policy, plan include 
trade objectives?  
Donor  If yes, does the circular economy strategy, policy, plan or 
objectives include trade goals?  
24 Partner  Is digital connectivity reflected as a priority in your national 
sustainable d evelopment strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s)?  
REC Is digital connectivity reflected as a priority in your regional 
sustainable development strategy(ies), policy(ies), or plan(s)?  
South -South  Is digital connectivity reflected as a priority in your South -South 
sustainable development strategy, policy or plan?  
Donor  Is digital connectivity reflected as a priority in your sustainable 
development strategy, policy, or plan?  
25 Partner  Do you have a national strategy, policy or plan for digital 
connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.)?  
REC Do you have a regional strategy, policy or plan for digital 
connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.)?  
South -South  Do you have an Aid -for-Trade strategy, policy or plan for digital 
connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.)?  
Donor  Do you have an Aid -for-Trade strategy, policy or plan for digital 
connectivity (including digital economy, e -commerce, etc.)?  
26 Partner  In which sectors could digital connectivity best support the 
transition to sustainable development in your country?  
REC In which sectors could digital connectivity best support the 
transition to sustainable development in your region?  
South -South  In which sectors could digital connectivity best support the 
transition to sustainable development?  
Donor  In which sectors could digital connectivity best support the 
transition to sustainable development?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
27 Partner  Please identify which issues where digital connectivity would 
offer most promise in the move to sustainable development in 
your country?  
REC Please identify which issues where digital connectivity would 
offer most promise in the move to sustainable development in 
your region?  
South -South  Please identify issues where digital connectivity would offer 
most promise in the move to sustainable development?  
Donor  Please identify which issues where digital connectivity would 
offer most promise in the move to sustainable development?  
28 Partner  Is there an existing Aid -for-Trade project for digital connectivity 
towards sustainable development and/or environmentally 
sustainable growth (or circular economy) that you want to 
showcase as an example of best practice?  
REC Is there an existing Aid -for-Trade project for digital connectivity 
towards sustainable development and/or environmentally 
sustainable growth (or circular economy) that you want to 
showcase as an example of best practice?  
South -South  Is there an existing South -South or triangular Aid -for-trade 
project for digital connectivity towards sustainable development 
and/or environmentally sustainable growth (or circular 
economy) that you want to showcase as an example of best 
practice?  
Donor  Is there an existing Aid-for-Trade project for digital connectivity 
towards sustainable development and/or environmentally 
sustainable growth (or circular economy) that you want to 
showcase as an example of best practice?  
29 Partner  Do you agree that the COVID -19 pandemic has  acted as an 
accelerator for the move to digital economy in your country ?  
REC Do you agree that the COVID -19 pandemic has acted as an 
accelerator for the move to digital economy in your region ?  
South -South  Do you agree that the COVID -19 pandemic has acted as an 
accelerator for the move to digital economy?  
Donor  Do you agree that the COVID -19 pandemic has acted as an 
accelerator for the move to digital economy in your developing 
and least developed partner countries?  
30 Partner  In which  areas has the COVID -19 pandemic exposed 
shortcomings in national digital connectivity?  
REC In which areas has the COVID -19 pandemic exposed 
shortcomings in regional digital connectivity?  
South -South  In which areas has the COVID -19 pandemic exposed 
shortcomings in digital connectivity?  
Donor  In which areas has the COVID -19 pandemic exposed 
shortcomings in digital connectivity?  
31 Partner  Looking ahead, in which sectors do you think future Aid -for-
Trade support to your country should focus so as to support 
sustainable development objectives?  
REC Looking ahead, in which sectors do you think future Aid -for-
Trade support to your region should focus so as to support 
sustainable development objectives?  
South -South  Looking ahead, in which sectors do you think future Aid -for-
Trade support should focus so as to support sustainable 
development objectives?  
Donor  Looking ahead, in which sectors do you think future Aid -for-
Trade support should focus so as to support sustainable 
developmen t objectives?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
32 Partner  Looking ahead, in which categories of Aid for Trade do you think 
support should be focused so as to advance the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
REC Looking ahead, in which categories of Aid for Trade do you think 
support should be focused so as to advance the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
South -South  Looking ahead, in which categories of Aid for Trade do you think 
support should be focused so as to advance the environmental 
dimensi on of sustainable development?  
Donor  Looking ahead, in which categories of Aid for Trade do you think 
support should be focused so as to advance the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
33 Partner  Which South -South partner(s) are the most important source of 
Aid-for-Trade financing for the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development?  
REC Which South -South partner(s) are the most important source of 
Aid-for-Trade financing for the environmental dimension of 
sustainable development?  
South -South  To which partner(s) do you provide South -South cooperation 
financing for the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development?  
Donor   
34 Partner  Which donor(s) are the most important for Aid-for-Trade 
financing for the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development in your country?  
REC Which donor(s) are the most important for Aid -for-Trade 
financing for the environmental dimension of sustainable 
development in your region?  
South -South  Please identify the donors you associate with in order to provide 
triangular cooperation financing for sustainable development.  
Donor  To which developing and least -developed partner countries do 
you provide Aid -for-Trade financing for the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development?  
35 Partner   
REC  
South -South  Please identify those South -South and triangular cooperation 
partners that you associate with in order to provide financing for 
sustainable development.  
Donor  Please identify the South -South and Triangular cooperation 
partners you work with in order to provide financing for 
sustainable development.  
36 Partner  Have you received Aid -for-Trade financing as part of triangular 
co-operation projects?  
REC Have you received Aid -for-Trade financing as part of triangular 
co-operation projects?  
South -South  Do you provide Aid -for-Trade financing as part of triangular co -
operation projects?  
Donor   
37 Partner  Is there an Aid -for-Trade project or programme for sustainable 
trade or development, green growth or circular economy that 
you want to showcase as an example of best practice?  
REC Is there an Aid-for-Trade project or programme for sustainable 
trade or development, green growth or circular economy that 
you want to showcase as an example of best practice?  
South -South  Is there an Aid -for-Trade project or programme for sustainable 
trade or development, green growth or circular economy that 
you want to showcase as an example of best practice?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
Donor  Is there an Aid -for-Trade project or programme for sustainable 
trade or development, green growth or circular economy that 
you want to showcase as an example of best practice?  
38 Partner  Do you implement policies that address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development while also supporting 
progress on gender equality and/or women’s economic 
empowerment?  
REC Do you implement policies that address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development and that also support 
progress on gender equality and/or women’s economic 
empowerment?  
South -South  Do you implement policies that address the environmental 
dimension of sustaina ble development while also supporting 
progress on gender equality and/or women’s economic 
empowerment?  
Donor  Do you implement policies that address the environmental 
dimension of sustainable development and that also support 
progress on gender equality a nd/or women’s economic 
empowerment?  
39 Partner  Do you implement Aid -for-Trade projects that combine the 
objectives of women's economic empowerment and 
environmentally sustainable development?  
REC Do you implement Aid -for-Trade projects that combine the 
objectives of women's economic empowerment and 
environmentally sustainable development?  
South -South  Do you implement South -South Aid -for-Trade projects that 
combine the objectives of women's economic empowerment and 
environmentally sustainable development?  
Donor  Do you implement Aid -for-Trade projects that combine the 
objectives of women's economic empowerment and 
environmentally sustainable development?  
40 Partner  Any other information you wish to share? (e.g., wh ere support 
for sustainable trade or development is needed).  
REC Any other information you wish to share? (e.g., where support 
for sustainable trade or development is needed).  
South -South  Any other information you wish to share? (e.g., where support 
for sustainable trade or development is needed).  
Donor  Any other information you wish to share? (e.g., where support 
for sustainable trade or development is needed).  
SECTION 3: WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT  
41 Partner  Is women's economic empowerment included as an objective in 
any of your national strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s)?  
REC Is women's economic empowerment included as an objective in 
any of your regional strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s)?  
South -South  Is women's economic empowerment included as an objective in 
your South -South development or Aid -for-Trade strategy(ies), 
policy(ies) or plan(s)?  
Donor  Is women's economic empowerment included as an objective in 
your development or Aid -for- Trade strategy(ie s), policy(ies) or 
plan(s)?  
42 Partner  If yes, please indicate the strategy, policy, or plan in which 
women's economic empowerment is included.  
REC If yes, please indicate the strategy, policy, or plan in which 
women's economic empowerment is included.  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  If yes, please indicate the strategy, policy, or plan in which 
women's economic empowerment is included.  
Donor  If yes, please indicate the strategy, policy, or plan in which 
women's economic empowerment is included.  
43 Partner  Do the strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) that you have 
identified seek to ensure non - discrimination with respect to 
conditions of employment or occupation (including through the 
provision of flexible work arrangements)?  
REC Do the strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) that you have 
identified seek to ensure non - discrimination with respect to 
conditions of employment or occupation (including through the 
provision of flexible work arrangements)?  
South -South  Do the strategy(ies), po licy(ies) or plan(s) that you have 
identified seek to ensure non -discrimination with respect to 
conditions of employment or occupation (including through the 
provision of flexible work arrangements)?  
Donor  Do the strategy(ies), policy(ies) or plan(s) tha t you have 
identified seek to ensure non - discrimination with respect to 
conditions of employment or occupation (including through the 
provision of flexible work arrangements)?  
44 Partner  Does your government collect data on women's economic 
empowerment i n relation to trade and development?  
REC Does your region or transport corridor collect data on women's 
economic empowerment in relation to trade and development?  
South -South  Does your government/institution collect data on women's 
economic empowerment in relation to trade and development?  
Donor  Does your government collect/institution data on women's 
economic empowerment in relation to trade and development?  
45 Partner  In your view, what trade and development constraints do 
women face in your country?  
REC In your view, what trade and development constraints do 
women face in your region?  
South -South  In your view, what trade and development constraints do 
women face the most?  
Donor  In your view, what trade and development constraints do 
women face the most?  
46 Partner  Can Aid for Trade play a role in addressing these constraints?  
REC Can Aid for Trade play a role in addressing these constraints?  
South -South  Can Aid for Trade play a role in addressing these constraints?  
Donor  Can Aid for Trade play a role in addressing these constraints?  
47 Partner  Have you requested Aid for Trade to finance projects for 
women's economic empowerment in your country during the 
period 2015 -2020?  
REC Have you requested Aid for Trade to finance projects for 
women's economic empowerment in your region during the 
period 2015 -2020?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  Have you provided South -South Aid  for Trade to finance 
projects for women's economic empowerment during the period 
2015-2020? 
Donor  Have you provided Aid for Trade to finance projects for women's 
economic empowerment during the period 2015 -2020?  
48 Partner  If yes, please provide further information on the donors, South -
South or triangular cooperation partners that have supported 
your Aid -for-Trade programmes on women's economic 
empowerment.  
REC If yes, please provide further information on the donors, South -
South or triangular cooperation partners that have supported 
your regional Aid -for-Trade programmes on women 's economic 
empowerment.  
South -South  If yes, please provide further information on the countries in 
which you have provided South - South Aid -for-Trade 
programmes on women's economic empowerment.  
Donor  If yes, please provide further information on the countries in 
which you have provided Aid -for- Trade programmes on 
women's economic empowerment.  
49 Partner  Please specify the areas that your Aid -for-Trade projects for 
women's economic empowerment sought to address.  
REC Please specify the areas that your Aid -for-Trade projects for 
women's economic empowerment sought to address.  
South -South  Please specify the areas that your South -South Aid -for-Trade 
projects for women's economic empowerment sought to 
address.  
Donor  Please specify the areas that your Aid -for-Trade projects for 
women's economic empowerment sought to address.  
50 Partner  Have public -private partnerships been used to achieve your Aid -
for-Trade objectives in relation to women’s economic 
empowerment?  
REC Have you used public -private partnerships to achieve your Aid -
for-Trade objectives in relation to women’s economic 
empowerment?  
South -South  Have you used public -private partnerships to achieve your 
South -South Aid -for-Trade objectives in relation to women’s 
economic empowerment?  
Donor  Have you used public -private partnerships to achieve your Aid -
for-Trade objectives in relation to women’s economic 
empowerment?  
51 Partner  Does Aid for Trade help to mobilize funds for women's economic 
empowerment?  
REC Does Aid for Trade help to mobilize funds for women's economic 
empowerment?  
South -South  Does Aid for Trade help to mobilize funds for women's economic 
empowerment?  
Donor  Does Aid for Trade help to mobilize funds for women's economic 
empowerment?  
52 Partner  Are your Aid -for-Trade projects involving women’s economic 
empowerment underpinned by a monitoring and evaluation/ 
results framework?  
REC Are your Aid -for-Trade projects involving women’s economic 
empowerment underpinned by a monitoring and evaluation/ 
results framework?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
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  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  Are your South -South Aid -for-Trade projects involving women’s 
economic empowerment underpinned by a monitoring and 
evaluation/ results framework?  
Donor  Are your Aid-for-Trade projects involving women’s economic 
empowerment underpinned by a monitoring and evaluation/ 
results framework?  
53 Partner  Does the Aid -for-Trade support for women's economic 
empowerment that you receive align with your trade priorities 
and objectives?  
REC Does the Aid -for-Trade support for women's economic 
empowerment that you receive align with your trade priorities 
and objectives?  
South -South  Does the Aid -for-Trade support for women's economic 
empowerment that you provide align with your South -South 
partners' trade priorities and objectives?  
Donor  Does the Aid -for-Trade support for women's economic 
empowerment that you provide align with your partners' trade 
priorities and objectives?  
54 Partner  Do women face par ticular difficulties in accessing digital 
technologies in your country?  
REC Do women face particular difficulties in accessing digital 
technologies in your region?  
South -South  Do women face particular difficulties in accessing digital 
technologies?  
Donor  Do women face particular difficulties in accessing digital 
technologies?  
55 Partner  Please identify the top 5 barriers that prevent women from 
accessing digital technology in your country.  
REC Please identify the top 5 barriers that prevent women from 
accessing digital technology in your region.  
South -South  Please identify the top 5 barriers that prevent women from 
accessing digital technology.  
Donor  Please identify the top 5 barriers that prevent women from 
accessing digital technology.  
56 Partner  Looking ahead, in which trade sectors do you think future 
support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focussed?  
REC Looking ahead, in which trade sectors do you think future 
support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focused.  
South -South  Looking ahead, in which trade sectors do you think future 
support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focussed?  
Donor  Looking ahead, in which trade sectors do you think future 
support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focussed?  
57 Partner  Looking ahead, in which Aid -for-Trade categories do you think 
future support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focussed?  
REC Looking ahead, in which Aid -for-Trade categories do you think 
future support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focussed?  WT/COMTD/AFT/W/92  
 
- 354 - 
 
  INDEX 
NUMBER  Type of 
Questionnaire  Questions  
South -South  Looking ahead, in which Aid -for-Trade categories do you think 
future support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focussed?  
Donor  Looking ahead, in which Aid-for-Trade categories do you think 
future support for women's economic empowerment should be 
focussed?  
58 Partner  You may use the box below to elaborate on how you think that 
Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment.  
REC You may use the box below to elaborate on how you think that 
Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment.  
South -South  You may use the box below to elaborate on how you think that 
Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment.  
Donor  You may use the box below to elaborate on how you think that 
Aid for Trade can advance women's economic empowerment.  
59 Partner  CONSULTATION (Other ministries/agencies consulted in 
preparing this questionnaire reply).  
REC CONSULTATION (Other organizations/agencies consulted in 
preparing this questionnaire reply).  
South -South  CONSULTATION (Other ministries/agencies consulted in 
preparing this questionnaire reply).  
Donor  CONSULTATION (Other ministries/agencies consulted in 
preparing this questionnaire reply).  
Note:  Each question includes a comment box for the provision of additional information.  
__________