Consultant to Develop an updated version of ATSI

Organizational Context

The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) supports Arab States in trade negotiations and economic transformation. This role, within ESCWA, focuses on developing an updated version of the Arab Trade Simulation Interface (ATSI) to facilitate ad-hoc assessments of trade reforms and external shocks.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to develop an updated version of the Arab Trade Simulation Interface (ATSI) for ESCWA. This tool will enable ESCWA to conduct ad-hoc assessments of trade reforms and external shocks, supporting Arab States in their trade negotiations and economic diversification efforts. The updated ATSI will enhance the ability to analyze the impact of trade policies and regional integration on economic and social development, particularly in the context of a challenging global economic landscape. The role contributes to strengthening regional economic strategies and mainstreaming trade reforms into national development plans.

Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for aggregating the latest GTAP database for 2023, calibrating a global dynamic CGE model with this new database and recent trends, and testing the model's robustness to parameter changes. Additionally, the consultant will assist the ESCWA team in preparing the necessary files for uploading the model to the GAMS-MIRO platform. These tasks are crucial for developing a tailored and updated ATSI version that supports ESCWA's mandate to aid member states in trade negotiations and economic analysis.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of extensive experience in trade analysis using modeling techniques, specifically global CGE models, is required. Experience in building social accounting matrices, integrating them into a global framework, and managing databases (GTAP, MacMap) is essential. Proficiency in GAMS is also required. Experience in Arab region countries is desirable.

Skills

Global CGE modeling, trade analysis, GTAP database, MacMap, GAMS, mathematical programming, database management, social accounting matrices, economic modeling, trade reforms, economic transformation.

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