Trade for development (Asia component)

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes international trade as a potent driver of inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction, essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. However, the global trade landscape faces increasing uncertainty due to rising protectionism, tariff disputes and escalating geopolitical tensions. These trends jeopardize the ability of developing countries to benefit from global economic integration.

Recognizing the need for deeper insights into trade and development dynamics, IDRC has launched a new initiative supporting consultation and scoping studies on trade for development. This project aims to generate region-specific analysis, identify emerging opportunities and barriers, and support informed policy dialogue around Canada’s trade relationships with countries in the Global South. As part of this initiative, a series of white papers will be commissioned on emerging trade issues across the Global South, covering sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, East Asia and the Pacific, the Middle East and North Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

This project will support the South Asia, East Asia and Pacific portion of the research project and will commission three white papers to examine trade issues from a regional perspective. It will facilitate informed policy dialogue and dissemination through the organization of virtual and in-person meetings and sessions to discuss these issues. In addition, the project will include insights from a Canadian viewpoint to inform inclusive, sustainable and resilient trade policies between Canada and countries in Asia.