BizCLIR

Author (s):

USAID's FASTrade Project

Date:

November 2004

Publication (if applicable):

N/A

Abstract (if Available):

The relationship between export growth and sound economic development is very well established. Empirical data show that countries that have not been able to adequately engage in international trade have suffered in terms of stifled economic growth that has consequently limited their economic and social development opportunities. As is established in this paper, the application and continued improvement in trade facilitation services on the part of developing nations is a very effective mechanism by which to enhance their export development capabilities. In the most general sense, the concept of trade facilitation is very broad, ?Trade facilitation reduces the transaction cost and complexity of international trade and improves the trading environment in a country, while at the same time enhancing government controls.? As countries contemplate expanding their capabilities, and possibly scope, in the area of trade facilitation services, they must assess the most effective manner to achieve this. As public sector resources and expertise tend to be extremely limited in the case of developing nations, the pursuit of private sector trade facilitation services is often contemplated by developing country governments. This paper aims to clearly define inherently governmental functions versus appropriately commercial functions, to consider private sector trade facilitation options, and to recommend viable trade facilitation service opportunities involving the private sector.br />

URL:

http://staging.bizclir.browsermedia.com/galleries/publications/Private%20Sector%20Trace%20Facilitation%20Service%20Opportunities.pdf