Who we are

The Special Unit on Commodities was established in July 2008 in accordance with Paragraph 183 of the Accra Accord. It implements its work as an autonomous unit on commodities. Through the guidance and leadership of the Secretary-General of UNCTAD, it will contribute more effectively to the efforts of developing countries, especially least developed countries, to formulate strategies and policies to respond to the challenges and opportunities of commodity markets.

Structure of the Special Unit on Commodities:

The two sections monitor and analyze the major trends and developments in commodity markets and international trade relating to the broad sectors under their purview, including the factors and policy issues relating to those trends.

Thematic and cross cutting issues including, international price volatility and long period price trends, diversification, market access and entry, participation in supply/value chains, finance and investment, market infrastructure and institutions (including mechanisms for price risk management, standards etc., are dealt with by each section in the context of issues and conditions specific to the expertise of the section. However, it is important to emphasize that the sections do not operate as isolated entities and collaborate extensively in areas of research and analysis and technical cooperation activities.

Selected Staff of the Special Unit on Commodities:

Officer-in-Charge of the SUC:

Baah-Duodu, Mr. Kwabena

commodities@unctad.org

Tel: +41 (0) 22 917 5014

Secretary: PAREDES-AYMA, Ms. Yvonne

commodities@unctad.org

Tel: + 41 (0) 22 917 5014

Commodity Research and Analysis Section (CRAS)

Chief: GAYI, Mr. Samuel

commodities@unctad.org

Tel: +41 (0) 22 917 2131

Secretary: BOGLIO, Ms. Danièle