Diagnostic Phase

The diagnostic phase is conducted by a team of local and international experts, together with staff members from the core agencies. The team prepares a Diagnostic Trade Integration Study (DTIS) that assesses the competitiveness of the economy and of the sectors that are engaged in international trade or have such potential. Preparations of the study include in general a preliminary mission (Generic TOR for preliminary mission (pdf - 29 k)) and a main field mission lasting three weeks. Interactions between the IF team and local counterparts in the field are designed to increase local capacity and understanding on trade matters.

Each DTIS will typically have five components:

(i) Executive Summary and Action Matrix;
(ii) Discussion of overall trade issues (macroeconomic environment, structure and pattern of trade and investment, trade policy and institutions, trade agreements and market access, WTO accession (if applicable), trade and poverty);
(iii) Discussion of Cross Sectoral Issues (business environment and institutional framework for trade and investment, trade facilitation, standards);
(iv) Sectoral studies;  and
(v) Description of Implementation Arrangements (Complete Terms of Reference for the DTIS (pdf - 52 k)).

Given the distinct situation and prevailing conditions in each country, specific concept papers are developed for each country on the basis of the above five generic components, in consultation with the Government concerned.

Page last updated on 21 May 2008