Consultant to Develop a New Version of the Economywide Trade Simulator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is an organization that focuses on promoting economic and social development in the Arab region. Established to support member states in achieving sustainable development goals, ESCWA works on various initiatives that enhance regional cooperation and integration. The organization employs a diverse team of experts and operates across multiple countries in the Arab region, providing technical assistance, capacity building, and policy advice to governments and stakeholders. ESCWA is committed to fostering inclusive economic growth and addressing social challenges faced by member states.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for developing a national version of the Economywide Trade Simulator Interface specifically tailored for Bahrain. This role involves creating a new global database for calibrating the national GETSI, writing the GAMS code for the calibrated model, and preparing necessary files for uploading the model onto the GAMS-MIRO platform. The consultant will work closely with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Bahrain to ensure that the simulator meets the specific needs of the country, particularly in evaluating the impacts of trade agreements and economic changes. The position requires a strong understanding of global Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) models and the ability to provide real-time, data-driven insights for effective economic policy design.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include aggregating the GTAP 12 database according to the sectoral and geographical dimensions agreed upon with the Ministry of Industry of Bahrain. They will also be responsible for calibrating the global CGE model using the new global database, ensuring that all countries and regions are individually integrated. The consultant will perform dynamic calibration of the baseline scenario, utilizing the latest forecasts on GDP, population, labor supply, and productivity changes for the period 2024-203

• Additionally, they will test the dynamic model through concrete simulations and assist ESCWA’s project coordinator in preparing the necessary files for uploading the model into the GAMS-MIRO platform. If needed, the consultant may also support capacity-building sessions for the national team led by the Ministry of Industry.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in applied economics or a related field, with a PhD being desirable. A minimum of 10 years of experience in developing and applying global dynamic CGE models using GAMS is required. Proven experience with the GTAP database and hands-on experience in calibrating and running global CGE models is essential. Proficiency in GAMS and its applications in global CGE modeling is mandatory, while knowledge of MIRO interface design and best practices in user interaction for economic modeling tools is considered a plus.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in applied economics or a closely related area. Candidates are required to submit a copy of their educational degree as part of the application process. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed, emphasizing the importance of providing all necessary documentation.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the field of global dynamic CGE modeling. This experience should include developing and applying models using GAMS, as well as a proven track record of working with the GTAP database. The consultant should have hands-on experience in calibrating and running global CGE models, demonstrating a deep understanding of the methodologies and practices involved in this area.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is required for this position, with a strong command of English also necessary. Knowledge of French is considered desirable. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding, while knowledge is defined as a rating of 'confident' in at least two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for approximately 3.5 months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, and the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage, including application, interview, or training. The organization emphasizes that it does not require information regarding applicants' bank accounts.