Organizations
The World Trade Organization (WTO) is a global international organization focusing on the rules of trade between nations. This site includes information on the latest news and developments on trade from around the world. Trade conferences, publications, calendar of events, and data analysis are provided. A useful trade topics section of the website provides information about a series of issues such as anti-dumping, customs valuation, textiles, tariffs, and more.
The American Marketing Association (AMA) provides useful resources to professionals, students, and academicians in the field of marketing to help develop essential skills to succeed in their careers. Membership is required in order to attend AMA's development workshops and conferences. The site also provides free resources such as information on local media, statistics resources. and marketing related articles.
The Academy of International Business (AIB) is the leading member association of scholars, researchers, and specialists in the field of international business dedicated to promoting impactful research, improving business education and practice, and collaborating with leaders in policy and interdisciplinary research. Established in 1959, AIB has over 3,400 members from over 90 different countries. The Academy has established regional chapters around the world to help facilitate networking and the exchange of knowledge at a local level. The organization publishes the Journal of International Business Studies (JIBS), a leading international business journal, and recently launched the publication of a second journal, the Journal of International Business Policy (JIBP).
Americas Society / Council of the Americas (AS/COA) are international business organizations whose members share a commitment to economic and social development, open markets, the rule of law, and democracy throughout the Western Hemisphere. This site includes research and analysis publications, program materials, congressional testimonies and updates, and news and announcements. Some publications require a paid subscription.
The Asia Regional Integration Center (ARIC) was established by the Asian Development Bank to improve regional cooperation and integration. This website provides in-depth statistics, databases, resources, graphs, information, and reports regarding the economic and social performance of Asian nations.
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is an international financial institution proposed by the government of China. The purpose of the multilateral development bank is to provide finance to infrastructure projects in Asia. This website is the official site of AIIB and it provides general information about the organization, such as member countries and latest news.
The Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America (AACCLA) is an information source on regional trade and investment issues. AACCLA coordinates face-to-face meetings with businesses and government leaders in the Western Hemisphere. Membership directories, business guides, events, policy issues, and publications can also be found on the website.
This is the official web site for the Association of Caribbean States (ACS). The ACS is dedicated to promoting the sustainable development of the Greater Caribbean. Information on events, activities, news, meetings, summits, and projects of the association is provided. Sections dedicated to trade, transportation, sustainable tourism, and natural disaster relief are also found on this site.
Established in 1996, the Consumer Unity & Trust Society Centre for International Trade, Economics & Environment (CUTS CITEE) is an internationally recognized non-profit organization pursuing social justice and economic equity within and across borders. The organization's website includes trade updates, an India corner, a media corner, resources, publications, newsletters, and events.
An information portal of the Development Gateway Foundation, this site offers comprehensive information on international development projects and issues to people on the front lines of international development work. Through the organization’s AidData (Accessible Information on Development Finance) site, users have a single entry point to access information on development projects from participating organizations.
Dezan Shira & Associates is a specialist foreign direct investment practice with offices throughout Asia. The business insights section provides information regarding business practices in Asia. Information is available through a searchable database. Resources are grouped by type (Q&A, infographic, or presentation), location, and topic (due diligence, visa and work permits, corporate taxes, etc.).
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) contributes to the economic developments in Latin America, reinforcing ties among countries and other nations of the world. This site includes publications and studies, event listings, press releases, and statistical information. Some publications are available electronically in the ECLAC library for a pay-per-article subscription.
The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) brings together the National Standardization Bodies of 33 European countries. CEN provides technical standards in the interest of promoting free trade, worker and consumer safety, and interoperability of networks. The site contains news, a management center (CCMC), and provides European Standards for purchase.
The European Industrial Relations Observatory (EIRO) is a monitoring instrument offering news and analysis on European industrial relations. Its aim is to collect, analyze, and disseminate high-quality and up-to-date information on key developments in industrial relations in Europe. It primarily serves the needs of national and European level organizations of the social partners, governmental organizations and EU institutions. The database contains a myriad of records, dating from 1997 to the present, including news and feature articles, comparative studies, thematic and sectoral analysis, and more.
The Executives' Meeting of East Asia Pacific Central Banks (EMEAP) is a cooperative organization of central banks and monetary authorities in the East Asia and Pacific region. Its mission is to strengthen relationships between member countries. The website lists publications related to economic development and provides other analysis for each member country.
The Directory of Development Organizations is a comprehensive guide of over 70,000 development organizations that facilitate international cooperation and knowledge sharing in development work. Organizations include civil society organizations, research institutions, governments and groups belonging to the private sector. Information including contact details is available by region and country in PDF.
The Institute of International Finance (IFF) is a global association of financial institutions, including the world's largest commercial banks and investment banks, a growing number of insurance companies, and investment management firms. The IIF site provides research and policy information on emerging markets, global and capital market reports, professional development programs and upcoming events. Some content is only available for IIF members upon free registration with the site. Documents are available in PDF.
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is an assembly of business executives of intergovernmental organizations. ICC activities cover a broad spectrum, from arbitration and dispute resolution to making the case for open trade and the market economy system, business self-regulation, fighting corruption, or combating commercial crime. This site features a comprehensive listing of business topics, publications, current news listings, and business policies. The site also has upcoming training, events, and conferences.
The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) focuses on fostering local government management of cities and counties worldwide. This site provides information on services hosted by ICMA including university workshops, conferences and exhibits, and sports and tours events. In addition, the press and results network includes survey research, case studies and resources for instructors. Some publications must be purchased for varying fees while the free content is downloadable in PDF.
The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) is an organization comprised of journalists around the world focused on global issues. The ICIJ pursues the goal of uncovering media biases and underexposed international stories. Articles and investigations cover international business topics ranging from international trade to lobbying. A list of current projects being undertaken by the organization is also provided.
The International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) is an organization with the purpose of collecting and dispersing information about global transactions to ensure the protection of consumers. The site has a section designed to answer common questions about online scams, cross-border transactions, and links to government organizations for consumers. The site also has opportunities for consumer experts to become involved in their work.
The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is a public corporation established by the Canadian Parliament, whose mission is to aid developing countries through the use of science and technology. The site contains numerous publications, located under the resources tab, which deals with improving the economic, social, and cultural aspects of these developing nations.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) focuses on assuring reliable, affordable, and clean energy around the world through proper policy development and regulation. This site features energy statistics worldwide through publications and papers, newsletters, events, and workshops. IEA also publishes the World Energy Outlook, an annual flagship publication that is available in a variety of languages. Most publications and papers require paid subscriptions or pay-per-article; however, universities and developing country clients receive a discount.
The International Financial Reporting Standards Foundation (IFRS) is a non-profit organization that aims to create high quality accounting standards based upon clearly articulated principles. These standards are developed by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The website contains in depth information regarding these standards as well as press releases, publications, and a listing of events.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is the UN specialized agency which seeks the promotion of social justice and internationally recognized human and labor rights. The ILO formulates international labor standards in the form of conventions and recommendations setting minimum standards of basic labor rights. News, a list of resources, and events listings are available based on a variety of issues under the "Topics" section of the site. Additionally, numerous publications and research reports are free for download in PDF format.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is a non-governmental organization that forms a bridge between the public and private sectors. ISO is a large developer and publisher of international standards. All branches other than electrical engineering standards are within the scope of ISO. The site provides "standards" which are documents that provide requirements, specifications, guidelines, and characteristics that may be used to ensure that materials, products, processes, and services are fit for their purpose. These standards may be purchased from the ISO store for varying fees.
The International Trade Centre (ITC) is the technical cooperation agency of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) for operational, enterprise-oriented aspects of trade development. ITC supports developing and transition economies, particularly their business sectors, in their efforts to realize the full potential for developing exports and improving import operations. This site features country specific trade data, market development services, and business support resources. Additionally, various publications regarding specific countries, industries, and trade tactics are available for free PDF download under the publications tab. Also, a specific section is provided for exporters, which includes information on export management, quality management, marketing and branding, and more.
The aim of the Internationally United Commercial Agents and Brokers (IUCAB) is to uphold the freedom and sound development of international trade, to protect and promote the common interests of the commercial agents and brokers of all countries, and to strengthen the position of commercial agents and brokers as independent businessmen. This site contains a useful database that allows manufacturers to search for commercial agents and vice versa. Annually published, a global and European economic outlook report is available under the "facts & figures" portion of the website.
Licensing Executives Society International (LESI) is a business-oriented association of 32 national and regional societies, engaged in the profession of licensing and other aspects of transferring or profiting from intellectual property. This site features national and regional societies, committee list and committee functions, along with events and conference information.
Licensing International aims to foster the growth and expansion of licensing internationally. Focusing on Germany, the United States, China, France, the Nordics, Italy, Southeast Asia, Russia, the United Kingdom, and Japan, Licensing International provides a forum for networking that serves as a source of education while establishing standards for ethical and professional conduct.
A member of the World Bank Group, the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) is focused on promoting foreign direct investment into developing countries to help support economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve lives. The site provides information on MIGA services, the regions in which the organization operates, as well as links to a variety of publications.
The Network of Business Language Educators (NOBLE) is a community that brings business professionals together in creating programs to develop globally aware citizens. The NOBLE project is funded by the Center for International Business Education and Research at the University of Florida. The NOBLE site promotes the value of language and cross-cultural awareness by providing business language resources on its site. This site also lists events and programs pertaining to global business education.
Oceans and Law of the Sea is a division of the United Nations (UN) which provides information on all conventions and regulations involving the law of the sea, information on the settlement of disputes, and information on various maritime agreements.
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) aims to bring together governments of countries committed to democracy and the market economy from around the world. OECD provides statistics, economic and social data, as well as analyzing and forecasting developments in trade, agriculture, environment, technology, taxation and more. Information about the organization and its members, statistics, news, resources, books, and periodicals are provided.
The Pacific Basin Economic Council (PBEC), containing the world's largest economies, is organized to expand trade and investment through fostering open markets. This site features information about events, programs, objectives and activities of the Council, news, committees, and publications. Publications available in PDF.
Pacific Trade Invest has forum trade offices in Australia, China, Europe, and New Zealand and works to create sustainable economic development and greater international opportunities for Pacific Islands businesses. The website includes a list of export statistic reports, export guides, and a report on investment opportunities in the Pacific Islands.
SIMAP: Information about European Public Procurement strives to establish the necessary information systems infrastructure that is required in order to provide public procurement in Europe. Besides procurement legislation, SIMAP offers a public procurement network, information on the classification system, and some successful stories about problem solving in the internal market. The site provides a series of forms such as contract notice and public works concession, all of which can be downloaded in PDF.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is the national trade association of solar energy manufacturers, dealers, distributors, contractors, installers, architects, consultants, and marketers. The objective of the SEIA is to expand the use of solar technologies in the global marketplace. The website features information about SEIA's four focuses: 1) social awareness, 2) trade, tax, & environment, 3) finance & tax, and 4) solar policy.
The South Centre, made up of over 50 developing countries, aims to analyze development problems and provide intellectual and policy support for developing countries, particularly in the international arena. The site provides publications on issues like trade in non-agricultural goods, intellectual property, trade facilitation, investment, and trade and environment. Users can also access news stories, events, and programs relating to the organization.
The African Development Bank Group is the premier financial development institution of Africa, dedicated to combating poverty and improving the lives of people of the continent. It is engaged in the task of mobilizing resources towards the economic and social progress of its regional member countries. This site provides publications, financial reports, topics on development issues, and event information.
The Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry (EUROCHAMBRES) creates, develops, and implements programs that foster European economic development through the Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The organization also publishes an annual economic survey that can be reached online through its website. Recent press releases, position papers, and other documents are posted by date on the homepage.
The Globalization and Localization Association (GALA) is an international non-profit association that promotes translation services, language technology and language management solutions. The member companies worldwide include translation agencies, localization service providers, globalization consultants and technology developers. GALA's site contains useful features such as a resource center dedicated to publications, news and media, and a guide to advertising with the organization.
The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) is an international trade organization, representing the interests of working people worldwide. This site offers global news, publications, statements, and online bulletins, all of which strive to demonstrate the promotion and defense of workers’ rights and interests. The site provides a brief overview of various problems stemming from trade and also posts recently published news, documents, and multimedia about each topic.
The Latin American Integration Association (ALADI) is an inter-governmental organization that aims to promote the economic integration in the common marketplace. This site provides updated information on the history, mission, regulations on foreign trades, member countries, important statistics and agreements of ALADI. Only available in Portuguese and Spanish.
The New Humanitarian was previously part of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and is now an independent non-profit news organization. Formerly known as IRIN News, the source was created in 1994 to provide accurate information on countries and regions affected by crises in the sub-Saharan region, Central Asia and the Middle East.
The World Bank Group is a non-governmental organization that aims to eliminate world poverty. Made up of 188 member countries, the World Bank Group provides financial assistance to developing countries through low-interest loans, interest-free credits, and grants. Its site contains both data and research regarding development in various countries as well as a learning center with multimedia, blogs, and publications covering poverty reduction strategies and history. Additional news articles, publications, and information about the organization's past and current operations are also available on this site.
Transparency International (TI) is a global civil society organization established to fight corruption in the world. It provides extensive information such as newsroom, survey data and statistics, global reports, region-specific resources, and various tools and publications on corruption measurements.
The United Nations (UN) Development Business, published by the UN Department of Public Information, is the official website for consulting, contracting, and export opportunities worldwide. The site focuses on developmental bank operational summaries, World Bank new project approvals, procurement notices, and contract award information.
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is a regional development arm of the United Nations that aims to enhance sustainable development, trade and investment, transport, and more in the region. The site offers an up-to-date news section, a list of upcoming events, a wide assortment of publications, and an interactive database.
The United Nations (UN) Global Compact brings companies together with UN agencies and labor and non-governmental organizations to foster action and partnerships in the pursuit of good corporate citizenship. Several examples, case studies, projects, global news and events, participants database, and regional and local networks worldwide are available from Global Compact.
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) helps developing countries and countries with economies in transition in their fight against marginalization in today's globalized world. It mobilizes knowledge, skills, information and technology to promote productive employment, a competitive economy, and a sound environment. Statistics, publications, weekly news, a calendar of events, and more are provided by UNIDO.
The United Nations International Computing Center (ICC) provides a wide range of computing and communication services, on a cost recovery basis, to its users worldwide. The center has recently embraced the Cloud Computing Model and now provides services such as Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and training services. Also discussed by the site are opportunities to work for the ICC as an administrator or intern for the company.
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) promotes tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability. The website includes current industry developments and forecasts, tourism trends and marketing strategies, as well as a news section and an events page.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is an organization that assists people in need of help in other countries by doing things such as helping those countries protect human rights, improve global health, promote broadly shared economic prosperity, and educate the people. This web-portal provides information about the USAID's efforts to increase economic growth in developing countries. Many links to informational pages about various aspects of economic growth are available.
The World Chambers Network (WCN) site is a portal that links the virtual online commerce space to the global physical business network of over 14,000 registered businesses worldwide. The WCN primarily serves businesses, chambers of commerce and industry, and economic development. Users may promote their businesses through a variety of tools provided by WCN. This site provides a free, useful search engine for contact information, including 40 million business owners. In addition, information is available on fairs and exhibitions, business opportunities, and chamber and commerce trade.
The World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) is a foundation with the mission of promoting social and economic development in countries that produce cocoa. This site provides information including an entire research library covering scientific as well as socioeconomic topics. Some of the manuals provided by the site are written in French, but all publications posted are available for free download in PDF format.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) is an international organization whose goal is to facilitate trade between member states through the simplification and standardization of custom practices. This site provides information on customs including procedures, a document database, issues and topics on customs, publications, and links to country customs information (most in the country's primary language).
The World Economic Forum is an independent international organization that provides a collaborative framework which includes global reports on economics and social topics, an extensive network of members, and international events.
The World Energy Council (WEC) is the leading global energy organization. Its mission is to promote the sustainable use and supply of energy for the benefit of all people. The site offers statistical data on energy resources and trends by country or region. Also provided is a news and media portion of the website dedicated to posting recent news related to the energy industry. Research publications on the website are sorted by publication type which includes strategic, perspectives, and leader insights publications.
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Arbitration and Mediation Center is a valuable dispute service provider that focuses on the resolution of international commercial disputes between private parties. The site demonstrates how the impartial center has contributed, and continues to contribute, to the good of mankind by creating real wealth for nations. Also presented by the website is information regarding the two main services the center provides: arbitration and mediation. Information about expert determination, domain name dispute resolution, and news about WIPO are posted on the main page of the center's site.
The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) offers member services that involve marketing, branding, certification, and even careers. A global World Trade Center calendar is included on the site which lists upcoming events at various World Trade Centers worldwide. Also included in the site is information for cities interested in licenses offered by the WTCA. The site also contains news, events, and a media gallery.
The World Trade Point Federation (WTPF) is an international non-governmental organization that grew out of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. This site includes WTPF organization information, a company directory, several trade points, regional trade point forums, and a news section.