Pioneering Green Trade Facilitation

In today’s global landscape, with the climate crisis continuing to worsen, the need to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship is more crucial than ever. Green – or climate-smart – trade facilitation is playing an increasingly important role as countries strive to transition towards low-carbon and sustainable economies. This workshop will introduce the concept of green trade facilitation, and examine its developments and opportunities, including strategies, initiatives and good practices that help enable trade to be more efficient and environmentally friendly, and contribute to climate goals. Following the opening remarks and overview presentation, each thematic session is expected to feature a moderator and 3-4 speakers with a question & answer segment at the end.

Green trade facilitation refers to measures that make it easier to trade in goods and services that contribute to environmental protection, climate goals, and sustainable economies. This includes simplifying trade procedures for environmental goods like solar panels and recycled materials, as well as supporting the growth of green industries. 

Key Aspects of Green Trade Facilitation:

Focus on Environmental Goods:

Green trade facilitation aims to streamline the movement of goods that are beneficial to the environment, such as clean energy technologies, waste management solutions, and sustainable materials. 

Reducing Trade Barriers:

It involves removing obstacles that hinder the flow of green products, including simplifying customs procedures, harmonizing standards, and promoting fair trade practices. 

Promoting Sustainable Supply Chains:

Green trade facilitation also encourages the development of more sustainable supply chains, which are less environmentally damaging and more efficient. 

Digitalization and Innovation:

Using digital tools and technologies to streamline trade processes can lead to greater efficiency and reduced resource use, contributing to a greener trade. 

Supporting Green Businesses:

Green trade facilitation helps businesses in the green sector by providing access to markets, reducing costs, and fostering innovation. 

Green Trade Financing:

Specific programs like the EBRD's Green Trade Facilitation Programme (Green TFP) offer financing to support green trade transactions, further incentivizing green initiatives. 

Benefits of Green Trade Facilitation:

Environmental Protection:

By promoting the trade of green goods and services, green trade facilitation can help reduce carbon emissions, protect biodiversity, and improve environmental quality. 

Economic Growth:

The green economy creates new jobs and business opportunities, contributing to sustainable economic development. 

Innovation and Efficiency:

Green trade facilitation encourages innovation in green technologies and sustainable practices, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly trade processes. 

Fair Trade:

Green trade facilitation can help ensure that trade practices are fair and equitable, benefiting both developed and developing countries.