The Government of Japan has announced $1.27 million in funding to support the International Trade Centre’s (ITC) projects in Nigeria, the State of Palestine, and Ukraine. The ITC, a joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations, assists small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transitioning economies to become more competitive in global markets, contributing to sustainable economic development according to a press release from ITC.
The funding in Nigeria aims to support small agri-food businesses, particularly those owned by youth, women, and displacement-affected communities in rural areas. The project will integrate them into domestic, regional, and international value chains through digital channels, promoting e-commerce in a way that leaves no one behind.
In the State of Palestine, the ITC will work with youth from communities affected by socioeconomic challenges through targeted activities that enable them to learn new skills and connect with local, regional, and international clients through digital channels, promoting self-employment.
In Ukraine, funding will be used to build the professional skills of internally displaced persons, enabling them to find new income channels. The project will also contribute to the improved resilience of Ukrainian small businesses, primarily in the agribusiness sector, by enhancing their capacity to sell online.
The ITC Executive Director, Pamela Coke-Hamilton, expressed gratitude for Japan’s strong partnership, saying, “We’re building on our strong partnership with Japan to continue providing targeted training and support to those who need it most.” She added, “We look forward to working together to strengthen the resilience of small businesses and disadvantaged communities across the world.”
Kazuyuki Yamazaki, Japan’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO), emphasized the need for effective support that leads to the improvement of the trade capacity of developing countries. He said, “We are expecting ITC to continue to provide effective support, which leads to the improvement of the trade capacity of developing countries.”
The projects aim to upskill people in the most disadvantaged groups in vulnerable settings and link them to trade and business opportunities. Additionally, Japan is providing funds for the SheTrades initiative, ITC’s flagship program supporting women’s economic empowerment, and a project supporting Sudan’s accession to WTO.
This initiative reflects Japan’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the Aid-for-Trade agenda. With this support, the ITC will continue to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transitioning economies, helping them become more competitive in global markets and contributing to sustainable economic development.
