Executive workshop on rules of origin for least developed countries (LDCs)

UNCTAD, in partnership with the Global Governance Programme at the European University Institute (EUI), has developed a research and capacity building programme specifically tailored to Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

This programme has been instrumental in supporting the WTO LDC group to the Nairobi Decision on preferential rules of origin for LDCs. UNCTAD and the EUI are carrying out applied research and developing tools to assist LDC delegates to better participate and lead the work of the WTO committee on rules of origin.

The research aims at identifying best practices and lessons learnt on rules of origin and related administrative procedures leading to an increase in the utilisation of trade preferences and understanding the extent of differences in rules of origin across preference giving countries. The programme has developed a website with the aim to enhance transparency in monitoring the use of trade preferences and applying trade facilitation concepts to rules of origin certification procedures. Activities include executive roundtables as well as advocacy actions to provide policymakers, firms, and civil society with fora to discuss groundbreaking issues and innovative tools on rules of origin and their administration.

Accordingly, in partnership with the EUI, UNCTAD is organizing an executive training workshop on rules of origin for the Least Developed Countries (LDC). Leading regional representatives from Africa and Asia will participate in the sessions.