The workshop focused on how export competitiveness can be improved at the country level and at the company level, reflecting UNCTAD's role in dealing with the supply-side problems of international trade.

The discussion took place against the background of the crisis of the WTO trade negotiations, and of the growing concerns about the persistence of poverty. Recognising the necessity of a strategic response was said to be the first step to increasing competitiveness. The examples of strategic responses mentioned during the conference all demonstrated the need for public and private sector cooperation and coherence, for good governance combined with strong private response.

Foreign investement was described as promoting the exchange of expertise. However, exchanges of information amongst governments about successful experiences in other countries seemed the most promising path. UNCTAD's role in bringing developing countries together and analysing what policies have worked and can work could be crucial.

The role of services in trade was highlighted through the growing awareness of how firms and countries are linked in chains of production and value. UNCTAD was seen as one of the first international agencies to analyse services and thus a potential leader in this field. The Conference did not seek a single model for competitiveness or development. Participants recognised that good governments and good private sector leaders were necessary for any competitiveness strategy. Countries and private decision makers can learn from the experiences of others, and UNCTAD can help in this dialogue.

Quick links: | UNCTAD S-G statement | InWEnt website |