This open-access book results from a research project “Women in Trade Knowledge Platform to Boost Inclusive and Sustainable Growth” funded by International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and led by the Trade Facilitation Office Canada in collaboration with the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) in Nigeria and the Mekong Institute in Thailand.
The book examines the relationship between trade and women’s economic empowerment, focusing on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in six countries: Cambodia, Ghana, Madagascar, Nigeria, Senegal, and Vietnam. Three key questions were addressed in this book:
(i) Why and under what circumstances do some trade sectors create more jobs for women and others do not?
(ii) To what extent are the jobs created contributing to women’s economic empowerment?
(iii) What strategies and policies are needed to ensure these sectors work optimally?
TFO Canada is proud to announce the publication of a new market information paper – “Guide for women exporters: how to access the Canadian and International markets.” A one stop resource simplifying the exportation preparation process.
We present key questions to help define your export expectations and assess your potential for success in the Canadian and international markets. While our sector-specific MIPs provide information on export access for a range of products such as processed foods, textiles, and natural cosmetics, this MIP covers important aspects such as meeting buyer expectations, negotiation strategies, communicating effectively with buyers, preparation for export promotion activities, and collaboration with peers.
It highlights new and growing consumer trends, including sustainable and innovative foods, food prices, health and wellness, and ethical sourcing. We also update retailers’ focus on strengthening supply chains post-COVID pandemic, presenting new opportunities for women exporters.
Useful Resources
WeConnect International – a global network that connects women-owned businesses to qualified buyers around the world.
OWIT-Toronto is a non-profit professional organization designed to promote women doing business internationally, by providing networking opportunities, export education and global business contacts. Members include women entrepreneurs, service providers and business women involved in international trade. OWIT-Toronto was the first Canadian chapter of the Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT), a worldwide network of chapters promoting international trade and commerce.
UPS Women Exporters Program – supports women owned businesses looking to increase their technical skills, enhance their visibility and connect with buyers, investors, suppliers and business support organizations
Connect Americas: A free business platform created by Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to help you access international markets, strengthen business skills and more.
International Trade Centre – Women’s Economic Empowerment and SheTrades virtual learning space provides various courses on global supply chain, labelling and packaging for exports, costing and pricing, communications and negotiations skills and much more!