IMC Worldwide creates highly effective mechanisms and structures that enable the timely and smooth transfer of products and services in one direction and remittances in the other.
We do this by working with the purchasers and suppliers of products and services, logistic agencies and governments to introduce best practice and innovative solutions.
Our global trade & investment work ranges in country, scope, thematic and technical nature from discrete, rapid reviews for private sector clients who are seeking new markets through to large government-level interventions and development of customs reform programmes.
Recent projects include:
Our trade activities focus on six key themes:
Trade agreements can reduce the cost of doing international business and are essential drivers of real economic growth. The IMC team advises governments on the nature, value and perceived pitfalls of all forms of trade agreement to regulate trade flows, to reduce discriminatory barriers and to increase mutual economic integration.
The 10 WTO principles of fair trade establish trade as a highly effective means to alleviate poverty, mitigate against discrimination and embrace capacity building. IMC fully endorses all 10 fair trade principles in our advisory role and see poverty reduction as a key driver to effective trade transparency.
There is a broad acceptance that protectionism has a negative effect on economic growth and welfare, while free trade and the reduction of trade barriers has a positive impact. IMC works with public and private sector clients to recommend suitability of tariffs on imported goods, use of restrictive quotas, and a variety of other non-tariff barriers.
Blockchain technology is transforming the way international trade is undertaken, by increasing transparency, reducing cost and developing the potential for customs and revenue authorities to innovate. IMC uses disruptive approaches to forecast potential scenarios, implement alternative plans and handle change more effectively.
Delays caused by poor logistics in transport corridors drive up the cost of shipping and make trade flows unreliable and unpredictable. IMC regularly evaluates transport corridor performance and quantifies the impact of bottlenecks on logistics performance and trade. We advise on supply chain solutions and performance measurement, and identify opportunities to simplify and harmonise customs processes.
IMC helps companies to consider, explore and secure business from new markets. This includes careful consideration of barriers, expectations, legalities as well as an analysis of market potential, size and suitability. We create strategies for supply chain enhancement that minimise risks and maximise opportunity.