The purpose of the course is to increase participants' understanding and knowledge on various aspects of the multilateral trading system and the work of the WTO, including the effects of COVID-19 on trade. Thirty-seven WTO members — including eight LDCs (Afghanistan, Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Nepal) — and two observers (Lebanon and Turkmenistan) are represented on the course.

The course is organized in five modules:

• Economic aspects of international trade
• Market access for goods
• Intellectual property, government procurement and competition policy
• Dispute settlement; and
• WTO current issues and negotiations.

The course aims to cover most of the training components offered by face-to-face trade-related technical assistance courses in a format specifically designed for senior government officials. A mix of pre-recorded and live sessions are being delivered and round tables include the participation of external speakers.