Consultant - International Trade and Private Sector Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations Secretariat and was established in 196

• Its mission is to promote the development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy. UNCTAD aims to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable development through trade, investment, and technology. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing global economic challenges.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in mapping Afghanistan's business landscape and trade facilitation efforts. The primary focus will be on enhancing the capacity of Afghan traders, particularly by leveraging the ASYCUDA system to improve their engagement with the business community and promote regional integration. The consultant will work remotely and is expected to contribute to the development of projects aimed at facilitating trade, especially targeting underdeveloped markets for Afghan goods. This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including donors and multi-lateral agencies, to secure funding for investment and export-related initiatives. The consultant will also be responsible for creating informative briefings and reports that will guide strategic decision-making to bolster the capabilities of Afghanistan's private sector in exporting goods.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Regional Coordinator for Central Asia and Afghanistan to design and implement projects focused on trade facilitation for Afghan goods, particularly in underdeveloped markets.
• Engage with donors and multi-lateral agencies to obtain funding for investment and export-related projects.
• Prepare briefings, overviews, and reports on domestic and foreign trade to support strategic decision-making aimed at enhancing the capacities of Afghanistan's private sector.
• Mentor private sector champions to advocate for regulatory reforms that create a conducive environment for business, including easing permitting processes, enhancing trade facilitation, and providing tax incentives or exemptions.
• Facilitate discussions and workshops to promote understanding of the ASYCUDA system and its benefits for Afghan traders.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of implemented projects and provide recommendations for future initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (Master's) in Social Sciences, with a focus on development economics or development policy-making processes is required. A PhD would be considered an advantage. Candidates must have at least 7 years of relevant experience in policy research and analysis related to governance and economic development, particularly in the Central Asia and Afghanistan region. Experience conducting in-country research in Afghanistan is mandatory, and familiarity with UN programs is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree in Social Sciences, with a preference for those who have specialized in development economics or development policy-making processes. A PhD in a related field would be advantageous and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience in policy research and analysis, particularly in governance and economic development. Candidates should have substantial experience working in the Central Asia and Afghanistan region, with a strong emphasis on in-country research. Experience with UN programs and initiatives is also desirable, as it demonstrates familiarity with the operational frameworks and objectives of international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of Pashto and Dari is considered desirable, as it would facilitate better communication and understanding within the local context of Afghanistan.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The expected duration of the consultancy is from August 1, 2026, to December 30, 202

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.