Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are on the front lines of climate change. They suffer disproportionately from the effects of climate change and natural disasters because of their high exposure to occurrences such as hurricanes or seasonal cyclones. Together with environmental vulnerabilities, other structural and non-structural weaknesses impair the SIDS’ ability to mitigate the impact of natural disasters – affecting their capacity to recover and build resilience, which are key to their survival and development. The increased frequency and strength of natural disasters has raised the need for international support through trade measures to help SIDS mitigate their vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters and build resilience.

The multilateral trading system can play a supportive role in promoting SIDS’ trade and helping with disaster relief, recovery and resilience. This Session examines ways to mobilize trade and trade policy to mitigate the consequences of natural disasters and ensure the sustainable development of SIDS.