Enabling Indigenous Trade 2025

Conclusion Governments can draw from the typology of measures described in this paper and work with Indigenous People to adapt them to their particular needs. Indigenous Peoples’ inclusion in international trade is essential for achieving equity and leveraging their unique contributions to the global economy. While progress has been made in recognizing Indigenous participation, significant gaps remain in implementing effective policies that address their specific challenges. Bridging these gaps requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach involving international organizations, governments and Indigenous communities. Tailored trade measures – such as advisory groups, culturally sensitive agreements and inclusive trade missions – can provide more equitable opportunities for Indigenous businesses. Key steps include enhancing access to finance, improving infrastructure, protecting intellectual property and simplifying trade regulations. Recognizing Indigenous knowledge and practices as vital to sustainable trade frameworks can also help address broader issues such as environmental sustainability and social equity. Ultimately, the path to meaningful Indigenous inclusion in international trade lies in collaborative, innovative and culturally aligned strategies that respect and amplify Indigenous voices, uphold their rights and support their economic aspirations. Advancing these objectives moves the world closer to a future in which global trade is truly inclusive and reflective of the diverse contributions of all peoples. Recommendations Entities or organizations wanting to support Indigenous inclusion in international trade should: –Collaborate with Indigenous Peoples to develop an Indigenous typology of measures that frames trade policy holistically, enabling Indigenous communities to understand and address the interconnected impacts of trade rather than viewing policies in isolation. This could build on the typology presented here. By recognizing and respecting these perspectives, policy-makers can create more inclusive, culturally sensitive trade policies that benefit all parties involved. –Lead workshops that demystify trade provisions, using practical examples and exemplar texts to illustrate the positive and adverse impacts for Indigenous People. Bring in diverse expert perspectives and create space for open dialogue, ensuring that Indigenous communities can engage meaningfully and voice their concerns without fear of reprisal or repudiation. –Explore and develop alternative capital-raising methods that align with Indigenous world-views and value systems and implement international payments systems that enable Indigenous businesses to grow and thrive without being constrained by frameworks or systems that conflict with their cultural principles. –Look at ways to ensure that more WTO members are assessing the impact of their trade policies on Indigenous Peoples in their economies such as through TPRM reporting and social impact assessments. Enabling Indigenous Trade: Actionable Guidance for Governments 21