UN ESCAP Asia-Pacific Research and Training Network on Trade Resources for Research Institutions

Home :: UNESCAP :: Site map :: Contact

In partnership with

Support provided
by IDRC, Canada

ARTNeT Gravity Modeling Initiative on “Behind the Border” Factors Affecting Trade (2008-9)¹

Introduction
This initiative is designed to more closely integrate the research capacity building and research programme implementation objectives and activities of ARTNeT - www.artnetontrade.org -, particularly under ARTNeT priority Theme 1 (trade, investment and domestic policy coherence for inclusive growth). It includes regional technical research workshops, support for research studies to apply techniques learned, development of related research facilitation tools, and support for dissemination of policy relevant results.
Objectives and related activities:
1. To enhance trade-related research capacity of research institutions in the region Trade Research Capacity Building Workshop on Gravity Modeling Initial workshop [5 days]: Thailand, 15-19 December 2008 Follow-up workshop: India, 21-25 September 2009
2. To make available to the ARTNeT research community an up-to-date gravity dataset including non-tariff barriers and “behind the border” indicators Collaborative Development and Maintenance of an extended gravity model dataset Prepare initial datasets (November 2008; restricted access) Extension of ARTNeT website with an online analytical interface on trade and behind the border issues Mini-grants for gravity dataset development and applciation
3. To deliver relevant research results to the policy community and other stakeholders Conduct studies of relevance to ARTNeT Phase II Priority Themes Workshop participants conduct studies (March 08 – December 09; financial support to be made available based on a competitive call for proposal) Publication as ARTNeT working papers (December 09) Present research findings to stakeholders at ARTNeT Consultative Meetings (or at other events organized by ARTNeT Members, Partners and other organizations)


¹ Initiative implemented by UN-ESCAP in collaboration with Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS, New Delhi) under ARTNeT Phase II project supported by IDRC, Canada. Additional technical and financial support provided by WTO and UNCTAD.