Working together for efficient and inclusive trade

Context

Trade between countries contributes to economic growth. In many developing countries, however, complex customs regulations and non-transparent border procedures hamper trading opportunities. This reduces incentives for international investments. In addition, climate change particularly affects countries in the Global South, which depend on natural resources. To address these challenges and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, a change in thinking as well as adapted approaches are required and multilateral trading systems need to become fairer.

Objective

In the participating countries, measures have been established that facilitate trade and protect the climate and environment.

Approach

The project focuses on implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and promotes cooperation between companies, business and trade associations as well as state institutions. As an implementation partner of the Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, it aligns development objectives with economic interests. Project measures include:

• Planning and implementing trade facilitation in various countries in Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East and South-East Asia;
• Increasing efficiency and reducing customs clearance costs by digitising processes and commercial documents;
• Simplifying import and export procedures in least developed countries (LDCs) through digital solutions and public-private partnerships;
• Supporting developing countries in representing their interests in the multilateral trading system and in the WTO with regard to investment facilitation, trade and climate. 

Stand: September 2025