National Trade Policy Expert (SSA)

Background:
The Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic (MoEC) has initiated the development of the National Economic Connectivity Framework 2026–2030 (Roadmap for the Development of the Kyrgyz Republic as a Regional Trade-Logistics Hub until 2030) following the adoption of the National Development Programme of the Kyrgyz Republic until 2030 and the 2026 Action Plan of the Cabinet of Ministers, which identify strengthening trade and logistics connectivity as a national development priority.

The Framework is expected to improve policy co-ordination, strengthen institutional and regulatory frameworks, facilitate implementation of trade connectivity priorities and increase the country's participation in regional and international trade networks.

In response to the official request of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek will provide technical support through engagement of a national expert to contribute to the preparation of the National Economic Connectivity Framework. The consultancy forms part of Activity 4.5 "Supporting the development of the National Economic Connectivity Framework 2026–2030" under the project "Business Promotion, Development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Strengthening Economic Connectivity."
 

Objective of Assignment: 
Under Activity 4.5 “Supporting the development of the National Economic Connectivity Framework 2026 - 2030” to provide trade policy expertise and contribute to the design to the development of National Economic Connectivity Framework 2026 - 2030.

Tasks and Responsibilities:
 

1. Conduct a review of national legislation, relevant strategic documents and international commitments related to trade, economic connectivity, regional co-operation and trade facilitation.
2. Prepare and analytical report on Kyrgyzstan’s trade performance, regulatory and legislative frameworks with analysis of sectoral gaps and bottlenecks relevant to the regional trade hub.
3. Draft National Economic Connectivity Framework 2026–2030 in co-operation with Logistics  expert (Roadmap for the Development of the Kyrgyz Republic as a Regional Trade-Logistics Hub until 2030).
4. Organize consultations and working group meetings in co-operation with MoEc, POiB and relevant stakeholders.
5. Review comments received from stakeholders and development partners and revise the draft Framework accordingly.
6. Prepare analytical and programme documentation for future interventions aimed at strengthening economic connectivity, trade facilitation and regional economic co-operation including problem analysis, strategic objectives, implementation arrangements and indicative activities and budget, stakeholder mapping and risk assessment.
    

Deliverables:

1. Deliverable 1: Prepared comprehensive analytical report on trade and connectivity.

2. Deliverable 2: Trade policy sections incorporated and draft framework is submitted to MoEC.

3. Deliverable 3: Meeting notes from consultations and meetings.

4. Deliverable 4: Final draft National Economic Connectivity Framework submitted to MoEC.

5. Deliverable 5: Develop and present narrative with recommendations on trade, logistics and regional connectivity development.

For more detailed information on the structure and work of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, please see: OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek

Necessary Qualifications:

• University degree in Economics, Law, International Trade Law, Public Administration, International Relations or another relevant field;
• Minimum 10 years of professional experience in the field of trade policy, economic legislation, international trade law, public policy, international relations;
• Experience in drafting national legislation, policy documents, strategies or regulatory frameworks related to trade, economic development and connectivity;
• Knowledge of English is an asset;
• Professional fluency in the Russian and Kyrgyz languages, both oral and written;
• Digital literacy and proficient use of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint), internet;

• Demonstrated gender awareness and sensitivity, and an ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities;

• Ability and willingness to work as a member of team, with people of different cultural, and religious backgrounds, different gender, and diverse political views, while maintaining impartiality and objectivity.

Remuneration Package:

Remuneration will be based on the selected consultant's/expert's qualifications, experience, the tasks and deliverables for this position and in accordance with the OSCE established rates.

If you wish to apply for this position, please use the OSCE's online application link found under https://vacancies.osce.org/.

The OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise/re-post the vacancy, to cancel the recruitment or to offer an appointment with a modified job description or for a different duration.

Only those candidates who are selected to participate in the subsequent stages of recruitment will be contacted.

The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all religious, ethnic and social backgrounds to apply to become a part of the Organization. 

Candidates should be aware that OSCE officials shall conduct themselves at all times in a manner befitting the status of an international civil servant. This includes avoiding any action which may adversely reflect on the integrity, independence and impartiality of their position and function as officials of the OSCE. The OSCE is committed to applying the highest ethical standards in carrying out its mandate. For more information on the values set out in OSCE Competency Model, please see https://jobs.osce.org/resources/document/our-competency-model.

Please be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application and review process.