LocationsOpening Remarks by Mr James George at the UN Procurement Seminar on Trade in Services
September 5, 2023
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in China, James George, delivers opening remarks at the UN Procurement Seminar on Trade in Services at the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Distinguished guests,
On behalf of UNDP China, it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all of you attending the UN Procurement Seminar on Trade in Services at the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) here in Beijing.
The role of trade in services in our global economy cannot be overstated.
It represents a significant source of development and growth, and we must recognize the immense potential that exists within this sector and explore how we can leverage it to foster sustainable development and prosperity for all.
Indeed, the procurement of services plays an indispensable and critical role in advancing the missions of the United Nations including achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals – global goals to protect people and planet by 2030.
Last year, UN global procurement totalled 29.6 billion US dollars, with procurement of services accounting for almost half of the total ($13.5 billion).
UNDP’s procurement continues to increase and has already reached 2.8 billion US dollars as of last year.
Trade in services can serve as an important catalyst for positive change.
It has the power to generate employment, enhance productivity, and drive technological advancements. Moreover, it provides opportunities for nations around the world to tap into their unique strengths and comparative advantages, paving the way for mutually beneficial outcomes for suppliers and consumers alike.
Furthermore, UNDP recognizes the importance of knowledge and experience sharing for fostering innovation and achieving tangible results.
In 2021, together with our partners both in Government and among our UN sister agencies in China, we launched a Sustainable Procurement Project with the goal to enhance the capacity of Chinese SMEs and Women-owned-Businesses.
The aim is not only to increase the participation of these underrepresented groups in the international procurement market but also to equip them with the necessary information, practical support, and tools to align their operations with sustainable standards and best practices.
In the pursuit of our shared global goals, trade in services holds immense potential for sustainable development.
"In the pursuit of our shared global goals, trade in services holds immense potential for sustainable development. It is vital that we cooperate to promote international best practices, standards, industry norms, and regulatory frameworks within the sector."
It is vital that we cooperate to promote international best practices, standards, industry norms, and regulatory frameworks within the sector.
Only by doing so, can we build an enabling environment that fosters sustainable growth, while ensuring that economic progress is accompanied by social and environmental responsibility.
To that end, this seminar is an excellent opportunity to promote sustainability and bridge the gap between big business and SMEs, as well as Women-owned-Businesses in international procurement arena.
Through this platform, we aim to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the UN procurement approach, sustainable procurement principles employed by UN agencies, and emerging market trends.
By facilitating this knowledge exchange, we can empower businesses to make informed decisions and embark on a path towards sustainability and to also join us to make the necessary changes and investments in their organisations and supply chain for us to collectively advance towards harnessing the power of sustainable procurement to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development .
I would like to extend my deep gratitude to the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Commerce, CICETE, The World Trade Point Federation, industry associations, UNOPS and sister UN agencies involved in organizing this seminar.
Your invaluable support and collaboration are integral to the success of this event and our collective efforts towards sustainable development.
Let us seize the opportunity to champion sustainability, foster innovation, and build a brighter future for all!
Once again, thank you all for your presence, and I wish you a fruitful and inspiring seminar.
