International Development

International Development Activities

IPC Capacity Building Program
In 2002, the IPC presented a series of seminars for developing country negotiators in Geneva. The Geneva seminar series provided practical advice and a forum for open discussion with IPC members - former agricultural trade negotiators from the United States, European Union and Canada; agribusiness executives and other trade experts - but also with other negotiators. Participants in the Geneva Seminar Series cited a need for similar 'real world' advice and information to flow to officials in capitals as well as the broader community of agricultural stakeholders.

The IPC Capacity Building Program is focused on regions that will play in important role in shaping the future of the agricultural trade system. The first seminar took place in Johannesburg, South Africa in February 2004 with the support of the United States Department of Agriculture. The IPC plans to bring the program to Southeast Asia and the Andean Region of South America in 2004-2005.

Trade and Adjustment
Many developing countries are skeptical about opening their markets to international trade. They fear that their farmers will not be able to take advantage of new market opportunities. In November, the IPC held its 32nd Plenary Seminar, Easing the Transition to More Open Global Markets, in New Delhi, India.

The IPC's seminar offered valuable insights into the concerns of developing countries and how they can ease their transition to more open global markets. Speakers addressed the roles that the public sector, the private sector and the internationa community can and should play in easity the transition for developing countries.