Almost 1200 participants improved their skills and knowledge of trade statistics

SITS 2024 results

TrainForTrade improved the skills and knowledge of 1191 participants from 154 countries on trade statistics. The moderated six-week online course on International Merchandise Trade Statistics (IMTS) was organised in English and French from 16 September to 6 October, followed by two webinars in December.

The course focused on collecting, compiling, analyzing, and disseminating trade data. It consisted of six modules and an interactive webinar, each with its dedicated support and moderators.

The training enhanced statisticians’ ability to apply the most recent internationally agreed recommendations on IMTS, define the best possible data sources, set up adequate collection systems, and improve statistics compilation processes.

The biggest participant groups came from the Philippines, Indonesia, India, and Kenya. They were mainly trade data compilers from national statistics offices, central banks, ministries of trade, and customs offices. 45% of the participants were women.

The IMTS course scored a high 81% satisfaction rate among the participants.

“The comprehensive approach to understanding international trade in services has deepened my appreciation for the intricacies of global economic flows”, commented Walid Abouseif from Egypt.

“I now feel confident in my abilities and consider myself knowledgeable in this area. Additionally, I am eager to assist others including my own country, in navigating the complexities of international trade statistics as needed”, noted Fredrick Musiba from Tanzania.

Many participants thought that the training was very practical and they will use their new skills and knowledge in their own work.

“The skills I gained will be invaluable in my work. I feel more confident in making data-driven decisions and understanding market trends”, thought Vivialyn Aurelio from the Philippines.

“The course equipped me with essential soft skills which I will apply in my work to enhance data interpretation and decision-making processes”, wrote Ruth Marilia Bonifacio Mamani from Mexico

The IMTS course is jointly developed and produced by UNCTAD, the World Trade Organization, and the UN Statistics Division. It has been organized annually since 2019.

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