Agricultural trade is important for many developing countries – as a source of foreign exchange and a source of food supplies. Developing country exporters are concerned about their ability to access markets, the barriers that prevent them from taking advantage of market opportunities, and securing good prices for their exports. Developing country importers are concerned about obtaining secure supplies of food at reasonable prices. All developing countries are concerned about how agricultural trade can contribute to their development objectives. How can trade contribute to economic growth, employment, and the well-being of the population?

Developing countries face a number of challenges in international markets. Individually, they are less able to exert pressure on other countries, particularly richer countries, to “play fair” in international trade. Greater dependence on agriculture for income and employment, and on agricultural exports for foreign exchange, may make them vulnerable to changes in supply, demand, and prices in international markets.