Multilateralism for trade and development

We live in an inter-connected world where goods and services are produced and traded globally. This has brought an unprecedented level of prosperity and has contributed to lifting millions out of poverty. However, the COVID-19Infectious disease caused by the strain of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 discovered in December 2019. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19 . pandemicCommonly described by the WHO as ‘the worldwide spread of a new disease’, no strict definition is provided. In 2009, they set out the basic requirements for a pandemic: • New virus emerges in humans
• Minimal or no population immunity
• Causes serious illness; high morbidity/mortality
• Spreads easily from person to person
• Global outbreak of disease.
The US Centre for Disease Control uses a similar approach, but with a reduced set of criteria. It is very difficult to gauge whether the spread of a disease should be termed an outbreak, epidemic or pandemic. In other words, when to declare a pandemic isn’t a black and white decision . has shown how this interconnectedness also spreads the economic and social impacts of crises across countries. At the same time, barriers of trade remain and new threats to the multilateral trading system are constantly emerging. It is essential to address these threats and impediments, and promote a broader participation that could continue to benefit all countries and the global economy. International trade is an engine for inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction, and an important means to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This theme on multilateralism for trade and development of SDGSustainable Development Goal Pulse:

1. Provides analysis and statistics on International trade in developing economies, including merchandise and services trade, such as tourism.
2. Assesses progress in the special and differential treatment for developing countries and studies new developments in New protectionism versus inclusive trade.
3. Analyses trade restrictions and distortions in world agricultural markets and presents statistics on the links between Trade, agriculture, food security and biodiversity.
4. Examines the role of Policies to promote trade, including Aid for TradeMeasures aimed at assisting developing countries to increase exports of goods and services, to integrate into the multilateral trading system, and to benefit from liberalized trade and increased market access. It is considered as part of ODA. Effective Aid for Trade will enhance growth prospects and reduce poverty in developing countries, as well as complement multilateral trade reforms and distribute the global benefits more equitably across and within developing countries . It is measured as gross disbursements and commitments of total ODA from all donors for Aid for Trade ., in support of developing countries, particularly LDCsLeast developed country.