The use of trade policy to promote economic and social development was highlighted in the early 1990s with the proliferation of North-South and South-South free trade agreements. Multilateral development-oriented trade negotiations under the umbrella of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have become increasingly relevant, and more importantly the regulation of trade at the global level is facilitated through the organization.  Regulation of trade is additionally facilitated through various regional arrangements and organizations (ROs) which have become increasingly important in the globalization of trade and trade markets. Difficulties in such a globalized free-market systems however are increasingly apparent, reflecting global disparities and asymmetries with regards to the global north and the global south.  Overcoming these asymetries and facilitating the development of pro-poor trading activities is a necessary condition for reducing proverty. 

Trade, at both the regional and international levle takes place within the framework of trade agreements and consequently Imani works alongside both Governments, Regional Economic Communitieis and the International Donor Community to strengthen agreements and assists in their practical implementation. Imani works in developing countries to facilitate trade policy that makes it quicker, cheaper and easier to move goodsfrom country to country. To achieve this Imani works with policy makers, trade negotiators and actual traders from the private sector.

Imani Development has extensive experience in the area of international trade policy and trade facilitation, this includes: