International trade offers a chance for domestic producers to specialise in lines of production in which these are efficient relative to producers from other countries. Surpluses of domestic consumption over production in these lines can be exchanged for surpluses from other economies in other lines of production. Such exchange or international trade facilitates higher levels of consumption marked by lower prices and higher quality, as well as an enhanced range of choices for consumers.

Thus, international trade constitutes an important engine in the optimisation of consumer welfare marked by the attainment of postulated consumer rights. The formulation of trade policies at the international, regional and national levels through multilateral and bilateral negotiations (WTO issues and regional economic cooperation) and national stakeholder consultations, and the impact of trade on poverty alleviation and economic development are therefore key areas of CUTS’ interest.