International trade has been instrumental to rapid economic growth and poverty reduction in Asia and the Pacific, but its benefits are not always shared equitably amongst all segments of the economy. How can international trade promote inclusive growth and empowerment?

By actively pursuing participation of women and the growing youth population in trade-related activities; facilitating the integration of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises into regional value chains and global trade, and promoting inclusive industrial development by broadening trade for the services and rural economy, according to the Asian Development Bank’s new report Promoting empowerment through aid for trade. In this panel, experts discuss key findings from the report.

This event is part of the 2019 Australasian Aid Conference. Pre-conference events on Monday 18 February are open to the public, but all other sessions require conference registration.

An opening reception for the conference will be held following this event, with refreshments.

Chair: Dr Bambang Susantono is Vice President of Knowledge Management and Sustainable Development at the Asian Development Bank.

Presenter: Dr Cyn-Young Park is Director of Regional Cooperation and Integration at the Economics and Research Department, Asian Development Bank.

Discussant: Dr Shishir Priyadarshi is Director of the Development Division at the World Trade Organisation.

This session is generously supported by the Asian Development Bank.