ASYCUDA Consultant (international trade and private sector development)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Secretariat, specifically UNCTAD, seeks a consultant to support trade facilitation and private sector development in Afghanistan. This home-based role focuses on enhancing Afghan traders' capacity, particularly through the ASYCUDA system, and fostering regional integration. The consultant will work under the supervision of the ASYCUDA Regional Coordinator.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to significantly contribute to mapping Afghanistan's business and trade facilitation landscape, thereby enhancing the capacity of Afghan traders. A key focus is maximizing the benefits derived from the ASYCUDA system for the business community and promoting regional integration. The role involves developing strategic projects for trade facilitation, particularly in underdeveloped markets for Afghan goods in Central Asia and beyond. It also includes securing funding for investment and export-related initiatives, providing crucial analysis and reporting to inform decision-making, and mentoring private sector champions to drive regulatory reforms that create an enabling environment for exports.

Responsibilities

The consultant will develop trade facilitation projects targeting underdeveloped markets for Afghan goods, focusing on Central Asia and beyond. Responsibilities include collaborating with donors and multi-lateral agencies to secure funding for investment and export-related projects. The role requires developing comprehensive briefings, overviews, and reports on domestic and foreign trade to inform strategic decisions aimed at strengthening the Afghan private sector's export capabilities. Additionally, the consultant will mentor private sector champions to advocate for regulatory reforms, including easing permitting processes, enhancing trade facilitation, and implementing favorable tax and customs regimes to foster an enabling business environment.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of experience in policy research and analysis related to governance and economic development is required, with specific experience in the Central Asia and Afghanistan region. In-country research experience in Afghanistan is mandatory. Experience conducting research under UN programs is desirable.

Skills

Policy research and analysis, economic development, trade facilitation, ASYCUDA system, project development, donor engagement, report writing, private sector development, regulatory reform advocacy, mentoring, English fluency. Knowledge of Pashto and Dari is desirable.

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