Trade costs and facilitation

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Trade Costs & Facilitation is a World Bank research effort by the Development Economics Research Group. It studies how lowering trade costs can help private sector growth and exports in developing countries, focusing on the long‑term gains from reform and the overall benefits of reducing transaction costs. The project has two parts: research and policy analysis, plus building and sharing new data. It looks at the whole trade process—transparency and professionalism of customs and regulations, efficient supply chains and infrastructure, harmonized product standards, and compliance with international or regional rules. Led by Lead Economist John S. Wilson, it is funded by a UK Department for International Development trust fund and a multi‑donor trust fund for Trade and Development. Outputs include policy papers, presentations, learning events, and briefs.