International trade and commodity markets

International trade has recently been affected by structural and policy-driven changes as well as by macroeconomic developments in the world economy. The latter include the recession and large currency misalignments and realignments; and the former include: the collapse of the political and economic systems of the former socialist countries of Eastern Europe, including the USSR; the unification of Germany; initiatives regarding regional trading blocs, new environmental policies; trade conflicts and selective protectionism in OECD countries; policies in many developing countries aimed at liberalizing trade and expanding exports; increased productivity in the supply of many primary commodities; the military conflict in the Persian Gulf; and the emergence of China as a major participant in world trade.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Decent Work and Economic Growth

Partnerships for the Goals