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The ability of developing countries to meet global economic and trade challenges, and participate effectively in international fora such as the World Trade Organization, depends on their enhanced capacity and improved understanding of key trade and development issues. The terms of foreign trade and its growth potential also depend on well-run trade supporting services, relying on competent staff and officials.

Launched in 1998, the new TrainForTrade programme strengthens national and regional human and institutional resources for trade and investment as a key to growth for UNCTAD member countries, particularly the least developed ones (LDCs).

TrainForTrade works with UNCTAD’s research and analytical departments to design, update, and adapt learning materials and deliver training courses. Therefore its comparative advantage and added value result from the combination of the wide range of UNCTAD substantive expertise with its own networking and pedagogical capability.

The programme’s strategy is based on four elements:

A technical cooperation approach that includes training needs analysis, tailor-made course delivery, training of trainers and institutional strengthening to create a cascade effect and facilitate sustainability at the national and regional levels;
A rigorous training methodology that provides for the development and continuous updating of pedagogical material;
The use of distance-learning tools through tailor-made technical solutions for developing countries (including the least developed ones); and
The networking of countries and training institutions participating in the programme.

The pedagogical skills of the TrainForTrade team combine with the substantive expertise of UNCTAD’s specialized programmes to design learning materials and deliver training courses. This approach enhances TrainForTrade’s comparative advantage and added value.

For more information about the TrainForTrade programme: