The first article in the series is a conversation with Richard Baldwin, economics professor and author of “The Globotics Upheaval” and “The Great Convergence”. He discusses what he sees as the future of globalisation, which “will be about the things we do and not just the things we make.” Foreseeing implications for the traditional development route of least-developed countries (LDCs), Professor Baldwin says that trends such as increasing use of automation in manufacturing mean fresh potential but also new sets of challenges.

Trade for Development News will also look at the consequences of environmental threats and climate change for LDCs. How can trade policies enable sustainable natural resources use in LDCs? How can LDCs build resilience to climate change impacts through trade? These questions and more will be answered by experts in the fields of environment and trade policy.

With the world economy slowing, trade volumes decreasing and investment flows shifting, a third article will delve into the evolving global landscape to see what it means for LDCs and to propose solutions for the world’s poorest economies.  

The articles series will run from October 2019 to early 2020. More information is available in this short introductory video.

About the Enhanced Integrated Framework

The Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) is the only multilateral partnership dedicated exclusively to helping LDCs use trade as an engine for growth, sustainable development and poverty reduction. It is a unique global partnership between LDCs, donors and partner agencies, including the WTO, who work together to build trade capacity in LDCs.

More information on the EIF is available here.