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Small States in Transition: From Vulnerability to Competitiveness

Executive Forum on National Export Strategies -Trinidad & Tobago, 18-21 January 2004

Small states face unique challenges in the areas of export development and international competitiveness. Inherent disadvantages such as limited institutional capacities, insufficient export diversification, and remoteness from major trading canters make it difficult for small states to integrate effectively in the global economy.

To address these and other challenges, the Commonwealth Secretariat and the International Trade Centre (UNCTAD/WTO) joined forces to organize an Executive Forum on National Export Strategies aimed specifically at Commonwealth small states. The theme of this debate was “Small States in Transition: From Vulnerability to Competitiveness”.

The overall objective of the debate was to reinforce the proposition that sustained improvement in export development and the international competitiveness of small states require a special strategic approach.

Key decision makers from the public and private sectors of 30 Commonwealth Small States participated in this debate and shared “best practices” in various aspects related to export strategy design and management. 

An Executive Forum for Small States was held from the 18th to 21st January 2004 at the Trinidad Hilton, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. 

Documents: