ISSUE 1-2/2008

Afghanistan's efforts to connect businesses to new markets have earned one of the global awards from the World Conference of Trade Promotion Organizations. Created in 2006, the Export Promotion Agency of Afghanistan has made tangible contributions to expanding exports despite the country's widespread problems after decades of conflict.

Africa had its own pavilion at Biofach, the World Organic Trade Fair in Nuremberg this year, which marked the first time African exporters were gathered under one roof in a concerted campaign to strengthen and promote 'Brand Africa'. The number of exhibitors more than doubled to 75 this year in an effort to bring more visibility to African exporters. They are, in short, working examples of the ITC maxim 'export impact for good' and the fair was a wonderful showcase for the changing face of African organics.

Commercial opportunities for investment and entrepreneurship in biodiversity go way beyond only agriculture, a major new study suggests

Organic, fair trade and ethical products will keep their market, despite today's volatile, unpredictable economic climate, suggested keynote speakers at ITC's World Export Development Forum in Montreux, Switzerland, in October 2008. The market for such goods will likely take a temporary hit, but will bounce back, they predicted. In fact, the sector continues to be a good investment.

Tens of millions of new jobs could be created around the world by the development of alternative energy technologies over the next few decades, according to a report by the UN's Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

It is a great pleasure to present to you the first edition of the restructured International Trade Forum magazine. We hope that the online version will become a greater forum for dialogue to promote and facilitate "Export Impact for Good".  The International Trade Centre is in the business of helping small businesses in developing countries connect effectively with the global marketplace. By building knowledge and skills, we aim to increase export activity and grow community outcomes in places most in need.This January issue brings views of top trade experts on understanding consumer attitudes, and addressing challenges of the current contraction in global markets. The next online edition will look more closely at environment, ethics and consumer conscience.We encourage you to use the comments feature available for each of the articles and share your views.

ITC continues to publish a range of books, technical papers, newsletters and marketing materials that are widely sought by readers.

Demand for organic cotton in the textile industry is outstripping supply, presenting clear opportunities for developing exporters. But why aren't more producers going organic? ITC looks at the obstacles and ways to get over them

While bailouts for banks and help for homeowners hit the headlines daily, scant regard is given to the grit in the engine of growth: access to trade finance. The narrow focus during this wave of the financial crisis as it hits homes in developed markets obscures the tsunami that threatens trade at a time when we simply cannot afford to see trade flows stall.

To stay abreast of the ever-changing commercial environment, Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs) are retooling and recalibrating for the future. TPOs have proven their worth over the last decade in the rapidly changing nature of world trade. A recent study found that TPOs have a 'strong and statistically significant impact on exports'. After examining 104 TPOs around the world, the study estimated that, on average, each $1 spent on export promotion led to a $40 increase in exports.

International Trade Forum - Issue 1-2/2008 Ethical and fair trade, environmental protection, safety and health issues are influencing consumers conscience. SOME of the greatest minds in world trade gathered for the 2008 World Export Development Forum (WEDF) in October to debate issues READ MORE...