This online course was jointly developed by the International Trade Centre and the WTO. Freely accessible through the ITC SME Trade Academy and WTO E-learning platform, the course is aimed at both technical and non-technical participants. It consists of four modules: (1) why blockchain; (2) what is blockchain technology; (3) how can blockchain be used in international trade?; (4) implementing blockchain for trade.

Developing countries can learn through the platform how to implement reforms to ease trade despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

How the platform works

The platform currently hosts nine modules on issues related to trade facilitation. Each module includes a series of short videos, quizzes, a digital handout, further reading material and a final examination.

The course is delivered through a blended approach: weekly webinars with UNCTAD experts allow students to discuss in depth the content of each module and ask any questions.

At the end of the course, successful participants receive a certificate of completion. The content of the platform is constantly being updated and will soon contain new courses.

Over 1000 participants from Bolivia, Botswana, Cambodia,ECCAS Region, Ecuador, Eswatini, Honduras,  Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mongolia, Namibia, Peru, São Tomé, Timor-Leste, Zambia and Zimbabwe are the first beneficiaries to use the platform.

UNCTAD developed the platform with financial support from the United Kingdom. Course material is also available in French, Portuguese and Spanish.