Consultant(e) international(e) - Facilitation des échanges inclusifs et commerce transfrontalier à petite échelle

Organizational Context

The International Trade Centre (ITC) is a United Nations entity dedicated to enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries. It supports these nations in improving their business environments and border operations, particularly through inclusive and sustainable trade facilitation reforms aligned with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.

Job Purpose

This consultancy role focuses on supporting Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and member states in facilitating and formalizing small-scale cross-border trade. The consultant will provide technical expertise to design, implement, and operationalize Simplified Trade Regimes (STRs) and related initiatives. The aim is to enhance economic inclusion, formalization, and cross-border trade facilitation, addressing challenges faced by millions, especially women traders, in Africa. The role contributes to regional economic integration, food security, job creation, and improved livelihoods by tackling informal trade barriers and promoting accessible, secure trade.

Responsibilities

The consultant will provide specialized technical support to the ITC, RECs, national administrations, and stakeholders on small-scale cross-border trade, inclusive trade, and trade formalization mechanisms. Key duties include conducting analyses of trade facilitation mechanisms and STRs, examining legal and regulatory frameworks, and identifying obstacles for small traders. The role involves supporting the design and enhancement of inclusive trade facilitation mechanisms, developing operational frameworks, and providing guidance on governance and monitoring. Additionally, the consultant will assist in implementing these mechanisms, design and deliver training, develop educational materials, and support initiatives for improved trade information access and financial inclusion. The role also entails facilitating policy dialogues, preparing technical documents, contributing to knowledge management, and coordinating with various stakeholders.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in trade facilitation, small-scale cross-border trade, and/or trade formalization is required. Proven experience in designing or operationalizing Simplified Trade Regimes (STRs) or comparable preferential arrangements for small traders is essential. Experience in producing operational roadmaps, policy instruments, or regulatory frameworks related to trade is also necessary.

Skills

Expert knowledge of small-scale cross-border trade, its challenges, and the needs of cross-border traders. Proven experience in designing, implementing, or supporting inclusive trade facilitation mechanisms, particularly STRs. Understanding of informality factors and experience in trade formalization initiatives, including capacity building for traders and border agencies. Demonstrated experience in training, institutional support, and multi-stakeholder dialogue facilitation. Familiarity with international trade facilitation frameworks and regional integration processes, including the WTO TFA. Excellent writing skills for producing high-quality analyses and operational documents. Ability to work effectively with public institutions, regional organizations, the private sector, and development partners in multicultural environments.

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