Trading Stories - International Trade Forum - The quarterly magazine of the International Trade Centre

By Simone Cipriani, ITC Chief Technical Adviser, Ethical Fashion

As international designers race to find new inspiration and unique product sources for next season’s line of ethical fashion items, they increasingly look towards Africa, its designers and its communities.

In 2008, ITC approached leaders in the fashion community and distributors in Italy and in the United Kingdom to test the potential market for bags and accessories produced in Africa. The aim was to build a direct connection with a major fashion house.

Creative Director of Max&Co. (Max Mara Group), Luisa Laudi, decided to use some of the samples of materials presented to develop a small collection of bags and scarves. After a few weeks the first samples for the collection were received: bags, belts and bracelets worked in crochet using cotton yarn from Nairobi.

Photo courtesy of Tamara Haig

Tonga

By Trade Forum Editorial

Businesses in Tonga, like those in other small island states, face many trading challenges. Never deterred, ‘Ofa Tu’ikolovatu is turning obstacles into opportunities for better business and the development of her country.

Samoa

When it comes to expanding her fashion business, Samoan businesswoman Jackie Loheni is making the most of every opportunity and leading the way in improving conditions for women workers.

© istock photo

Papua New Guinea

When Kim Arut's husband fell ill, she was left no choice but to leave her job and take over running the family business. In the three years since, Kumul Lodge in Papua New Guinea has been doing better than ever.

ITC in Action

With the help of private sector exporters, developing countries can trade their way out of poverty. Driven by this conviction, ITC projects are making a difference where it counts – on the ground.

Photo by Marden Dean

Measuring Impact: Seeing Results-ITC’s Pilot Project in Ethiopia

By Fabrice Leclerc, Senior Trade Promotion Adviser, ITC

Comparative analysis shows that export-led programmes help to alleviate poverty in developing nations.