The implementation of the Integrated Framework comprises three broad stages.

First, preparatory activities, which would typically include (i) an official request from the country to participate in the IF process; (ii) a technical review of the request; (iii) the establishment of the National IF steering committee; and, to the extent possible, (iv) the identification of a lead Donor. 

Second, once the request has been approved, the process moves on to its diagnostic phase, resulting in the elaboration of Diagnostic Trade Integration Study (DTIS).

Finally, follow-up activities start with the translation of diagnostic phase’s findings into the elaboration and validation of an action plan, which serves as the basis for trade-related technical assistance delivery.  The Enhanced IF (EIF) also provides for DTIS updates, i.e., a diagnostic phase during the implementation/ follow-up phase to add new diagnostic information, if necessary.

The implementation of the IF remains "work in progress".  The agencies are also in the continuous process of learning from the lessons of ongoing implementation.  The IF has been subject to ongoing assessments, including the mandated review in 2000, the assessment of the IF Pilot Scheme before the Fourth Ministerial Conference in 2001, an interim report by the Director-General to the General Council in December 2002, and another mandated evaluation in 2003, prior to the Fifth Ministerial Conference.  The latest evaluation of the IF occurred in December 2003.  In 2005, IF stakeholders agreed to enhance the IF, and following the recommendations of a working group and a transition phase, the EIF will officially be launched later in 2008.  It is expected to be operational in the fall of 2008.

Page last updated on 18 September 2008