Europe and Central Asia

The transformation of agricultural markets as a result of political and economic transition in the post-Soviet countries was accompanied by the process of globalization and deepening trade integration both within the region and with external trade partners. Many countries joined the WTO, which helped to enhance their participation in global trade. Now the Europe and Central Asia region plays an increasingly important role as a supplier of agricultural commodities to international markets. To facilitate the formation and sharing of knowledge, as well as to make the necessary policy decisions in the development of trade potential, FAO has created the Agricultural Trade Expert Network in Europe and Central Asia as part of implementation of the Regional Initiative on Agrifood Trade and Market Integration in Europe and Central Asia.

The network brings together experts who conduct research, carry out training programmes and advise governments and private sector on issues related to agricultural trade and trade policy, including regional and multilateral trade agreements. The core business of the network will be to facilitate generation and exchange of knowledge.