Technical Assistance and Capacity Building
Technical Assistance and Capacity Building
Overview
The WTO's technical assistance activities aim to help members develop their capacity to participate more effectively in global trade. Digitalization and e-commerce can be an engine for economic growth and greater participation in international trade, lowering trade costs, creating new opportunities for international trade and opening up global markets for businesses regardless of their size or geographical location.
However, poor infrastructure, inadequate skills and outdated legal and regulatory frameworks can prevent economies from integrating into global digital markets and reaping the benefits of digital trade.
The WTO can help members better understand e-commerce issues and improve their capacity to engage in e-commerce discussions taking place at the WTO. The WTO has also partnered with other organizations to respond to some more specific needs and priorities.
Types of technical assistance and capacity building
In addition to the activities (national, regional workshops, courses etc) based on the Technical Assistance Plan, the WTO has a number of programmes and initiatives focused on digital trade/e-commerce, some of which are in partnership with other organizations.
Online courses
Trade in the Digital Era online courses: Launched in 2024, this course series is available through the WTO E-learning portal. The first course provides an overview of the rise of the digital economy and discusses the benefits and challenges related to digital trade. The second focuses on key concepts underpinning digital trade. Three additional courses are in development namely on WTO rules related to digital trade, on emerging technologies, with a particular focus on AI and blockchain, and on digital trade provisions in regional trade agreements.
Online course on Introduction to Blockchain for Trade: This course, developed in partnership with ITC, introduces participants to blockchain technology and provides a basic understanding of its main features. It highlights the business value of blockchain and the relevance of the technology for international trade.
Other projects
World Bank/WTO Digital Trade for Africa (DTA) project: Launched in 2023, the objective is to support African countries' efforts to harness the opportunities of digital trade. Gap analyses have been completed in 6 pilot countries: Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and Rwanda. In addition to the 6 pilots, work has been initiated in the Comoros to prepare a gap analysis report in partnership with the African Development Bank.
World Bank/Inter-American Development Bank/WTO Digital Trade for Latin America and the Caribbean (DTLAC): Building on the DTA pilot phase and Members' interest to extend the project to other regions, this project was launched to support Latin America and the Caribbean countries to harness the opportunities of digital trade. Further information including the report by the 3 institutions will be made available shortly.
ITC/WTO WEIDE Fund: Launched in 2024, the joint WTO and ITC Women Entrepreneurs in the Digital Economy (WEIDE) Fund supports women-led MSMEs. It aims to empower women entrepreneurs by helping them grow their businesses through international trade and digitalization. The Fund will unlock opportunities for women in digital trade by improving access to finance, technical assistance, export markets as well as networks and support services.