31 Dec Terms of Reference: Consultancy to review Saint Lucia’s National Export Strategy (NES)

Posted at 14:58h in Export Saint Lucia, News, Terms of Reference by

Terms of Reference (TOR)

  1. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1.1 Beneficiary Country Saint Lucia

1.2 Contracting Authority

Export Saint Lucia

1.3 Background

Saint Lucia has a long history of active participation in international trade and exports. The export sector in Saint Lucia plays a pivotal role in the country’s economic development, contributing significantly to employment, foreign exchange earnings, and overall economic growth. To optimize the efficiency of its export activities, Saint Lucia has adopted a National Export Strategy (NES) as a guiding framework for export-related policies and actions.

The National Export Strategy 2020-2024 of Saint Lucia is a comprehensive policy framework that delineates the government’s plans and initiatives for the advancement and promotion of the country’s export sector. It serves as a strategic roadmap for the growth and diversification of Saint Lucia’s exports. A key focus of the NES has been to foster innovation, increase value addition, and promote the development of Saint Lucia’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s). The consultative process, which included major industry actors and key public and private sector stakeholders, established the national and sectoral priorities to improve the country’s overall trade performance. The key focus sectors include information and communication technology (ICT), renewable energy, creative industries, tourism, and food and beverage.  The NES also includes four fundamental national cross-sector support functions namely skills development and education, trade facilitation and logistics, innovation, and access to finance.  It defines pivotal strategies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of authentic Saint Lucian products and services in international markets, taking into consideration regional and international trade agreements, market access opportunities, and industry-specific challenges.

Saint Lucia has encountered a range of distinct challenges and opportunities in the fulfilment of its export objectives. These challenges are evident in its pursuit of expanded exports, which includes intense market competition, compliance with international quality and safety standards, infrastructural limitations, and the intricacies of regulatory requirements. These hurdles often impede the growth and development of sectors pivotal to the nation. Conversely, opportunities for the country lie in diversifying export products, exploring untapped markets, enriching market intelligence, and strengthening the export ecosystem.

Export Saint Lucia (ESL) acknowledges the significance of a comprehensive review to evaluate the progress achieved in the implementing the NES; identify any challenges or gaps that need to be addressed. A meticulous review will enable ESL to gauge the effectiveness of its strategies, pinpoint areas that necessitate improvement, and make the necessary adjustments to ensure the achievement of our export goals.

 

 

1.4 Current State of Affairs in the Relevant Sectors

To provide a comprehensive review of Saint Lucia’s National Export Strategy (NES), it is crucial to examine the current state of key sectors involved in exports and international trade, emerging sectors that can further contribute to the country’s sustainable growth and development, global challenges and interest e.g. climate change, geopolitical instability, gender and social equity.   The conditions within these sectors play a significant role in shaping the effectiveness of the NES and can help identify opportunities for improvement. Understanding these dynamics is essential to assess how well the strategy aligns with the nation’s trade goals and where enhancements can be made to foster sustainable growth in exports.

 

1.5 Related Programmes and Other Donor Activities

Related programs and donor activities that can be leveraged or coordinated with the review of the National Export Strategy (NES) of Saint Lucia are essential to support the review process, provide resources, and align efforts with existing initiatives.

 

  1. CONTRACT OBJECTIVES

2.1 Overall Objectives

The overall objectives for the review of the National Export Strategy (NES) of Saint Lucia are to assess the current state of the NES, identify areas of improvement, and provide a strategic framework for enhancing the country’s export performance. These objectives should be aligned with the broader goals of economic development and prosperity for Saint Lucia.

2.2 Specific Objectives

The primary objectives of this consultancy are as follows:

  • Evaluate the overall progress and effectiveness of the NES in achieving its goals and objectives.
  • Assess the extent to which the NES aligns with current economic conditions and global trade dynamics.

 

  • Provide recommendations for adjustments and improvements to enhance the NES’s impact.

2.3 Deliverables of the Consultancy

The deliverables of the consultancy for the review of the National Export Strategy (NES) of Saint Lucia shall encompass various reports, stakeholders’ engagement, documents, and outputs that provide a comprehensive assessment of the NES and offer actionable recommendations for its enhancement. These deliverables ensure that the review process is well-documented and results in tangible outcomes.

The consultant will be expected to provide the following deliverables:

  • Inception Report: A detailed plan outlining the methodology, approach, and timeline for the review.

 

  • Draft Report: A comprehensive report presenting the consultant’s findings, conclusions, and initial recommendations.

 

  • Final Report: An updated and finalized report, incorporating feedback received during the review process.

 

 

  1. ASSUMPTIONS AND RISKS

3.1 Assumptions underlying the Project Intervention

  • The consultant is knowledgeable, experienced, and equipped in undertaking the assigned task.
  • Export Saint Lucia and other relevant stakeholders will fully support and participate in the process of consultation required to generate the required/intended information for the NES review.

 

  • A consensus is reached on the programme of action and activities needed for input in the NES review.

 

  • The Scope of Work for this assignment has been adequately and appropriately defined.

 

  • The consultancy will be conducted as planned and within the specified timeline.

3.2 Risks

The risks are that the assumptions are not fulfilled and that consequently the anticipated results and objectives of the project are not realized.

 

  1. SCOPE OF THE WORK

4.1 General

The scope of work for the review of the National Export Strategy (NES) of Saint Lucia is a critical component of the project and should cover various aspects to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.

The contracted Consultant will work under the guidance of the National Export Council and Export Saint Lucia (the focal point organization).

The consultant will be responsible for:

  • Project inception and planning: Meet with relevant government authorities and key private sector stakeholders to understand project objectives and expectations. Develop a detailed project plan and timeline.

 

  • Desk research and data collection: Conducting a comprehensive review of all aspects of the NES, including but not limited to its goals, objectives, action plans, and performance indicators.

 

  • Data analysis: analyzing the economic and trade-related impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the NES implementation.

 

  • Engaging with key stakeholders, including government officials, industry representatives, and other relevant parties, through interviews and consultations.

 

  • Assessing the alignment of the NES with current economic conditions and global trade trends.

 

  • Reviewing the monitoring and evaluation mechanisms in place for the NES and providing recommendations for improvement.

 

  • Delivering a detailed report outlining findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations.

 

4.1.1 Project Description

 

The Government of Saint Lucia through Export Saint Lucia is seeking a qualified consultant to conduct a comprehensive review of the National Export Strategy (NES) of Saint Lucia. The NES plays a pivotal role in the economic development of the nation by promoting international trade, boosting export-oriented industries, and enhancing the overall competitiveness of the country’s goods and services in the global market. This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the current NES and make recommendations for its enhancement to align with the evolving global economic landscape.

 

4.1.2 Geographical Area to be covered

 

Saint Lucia

 

4.1.3 Target Groups

 

The review of the National Export Strategy (NES) of Saint Lucia shall consider and engage with various target groups to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive evaluation. These target groups are not limited to the following:

 

  • National Export Council: representative body which serves in an advisory capacity; responsible for the coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the Export Development strategy; conducting assessments of the Export Development Strategies and report on the implementation of initiatives of the Export Strategy.

 

  • Government Agencies: Key government departments and agencies responsible for trade and export promotion, such as the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Health, Customs and Excise Department, and the Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards (SLBS).

 

  • Private Sector Entities: Local businesses, exporters, and industry associations that are actively involved in international trade and export activities. Example: St. Lucia Manufacturers Association (SMA), Saint Lucia Coalition of Services Industries (SLCSI).

 

  • Development Partners: International organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and development agencies that collaborate with Saint Lucia in trade-related initiatives and projects.

 

  • Financial Institutions: Banks and financial organizations that provide trade finance and support to local businesses engaged in export activities.

 

  • Chambers of Commerce: Local chamber of commerce that plays a pivotal role in supporting and representing the business community, including exporters.

 

  • Exporters’ Associations: Organizations specifically formed to represent the interests of Saint Lucian exporters in various industries.

 

  • Labor Unions: Organizations representing the interests of labour and workers in exportoriented industries, ensuring that the NES considers labour-related considerations.

 

  • Academics and Experts: Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC), individuals with expertise in international trade, economics, and related fields, who can provide an academic perspective on the NES.

 

  • Civil Society Organizations: Organizations focused on promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in trade-related matters.

 

  • Youth and Women Entrepreneurs: Special consideration should be given to engaging with and supporting the participation of young entrepreneurs and women in the export sector.

 

  • Other Stakeholders: Any other relevant stakeholders, including local communities and interest groups, whose interests and concerns are linked to the export sector and the NES.

4.2 Specific Activities

  1. Preliminary
  2. Comment on Terms of Reference suggesting potential refinements where necessary.
  3. Submit a detailed work plan including timeframe and budget as well as the approach to be employed to undertaking the specified components for this assignment.
  4. Review all relevant documentation (reports, websites, statistics) pertinent to the conduct of this assignment.
  5. Conduct wide ranging consultations with identified exporters, Businesses Support Organisations (BSOs) and government departments, to review relevant information and gain an overall understanding of their scope and the objectives to be achieved by the Export Saint Lucia.
  6. Detailed

The consultant will be expected to deliver the following:

  1. Comprehensive review report of the existing National Export Strategy, including an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT analysis).
  2. Analysis of current global and regional economic and market trends affecting Saint Lucia’s export sector.
  3. Stakeholder engagement report summarizing the input and feedback obtained from various stakeholders.
  4. Detailed set of recommendations and strategies for enhancing the NES, with a clear focus on addressing identified weaknesses and capitalizing on opportunities.
  5. Capacity building recommendations and training programs tailored to the needs of local businesses and government agencies involved in export activities.

 

4.3 Project Management

4.3.1 Responsible Body

A Client Manager within Export Saint Lucia will assume overall responsibility for the coordination of this project. He/she will work in tandem with the contracted Consultant to ensure the objectives of this intervention are achieved.

4.3.2 Management Structure

The Consultant shall work under and report to Export Saint Lucia concerning all aspects of services to be rendered in accordance with the present TOR. Any changes to the TOR may be made based on needs and subject to mutual written agreement between the contracted consultant and Export Saint Lucia.

 

  1. LOGISTICS AND TIMING

5.1 Location

The consultancy and its related activities will take place in Saint Lucia. The consultant will be provided with office accommodation within Export Saint Lucia.

5.2 Duration

The consultancy is expected to be completed within a reasonable time frame, with all final reports submitted according to the agreed-upon timeline.

The said consultancy is expected to last no longer than 40 consultancy man days over a period of six months It is expected to commence on [Start Date] and conclude by [End Date].

 

  1. EXPERTISE REQUIREMENTS

The contracted consultant expertise, skills and personal relationships with all stakeholders are crucial to the overall success of the NES implementation review. In view of this, the ideal consultant will:

  • Proven expertise in trade policy or export development or international trade or export promotion or in other related fields.
  • An analytical mind, and the ability to think critically to bring substance and coherence to the NES review.
  • In-depth knowledge of the Saint Lucian economy and the Caribbean region’s trade dynamics.
  • Extensive experience in conducting reviews of national export strategies or similar economic development initiatives.
  • Knowledge of international trade, economic development, and the impact of external shocks on trade strategies.
  • Be familiar with St. Lucia’s institutions and their activities.
  • Have excellent communication skills and good drafting ability, as well as the ability to present and explain technical issues at a non-technical level.
  • Have highly developed oral and written communication skills in English.
  • Self-driven, open minded, quick learner.
  • Good Analytical and computer skills.
  • Knowledge of trade and economic challenges facing developing countries, especially the Caribbean region.
  • Proven and demonstrated ability to design and help implement export development strategies and plans.
  • Proven track record of delivering high-quality reports and recommendations.

 

6.1 Qualifications and Experience (Minimum)

  • Masters Degree in Economics or International Business with 5 years experience in Trade and Business Development.

 

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Economics or International Business with 8 years experience in Trade and Business Development

 

  • Experience in conducting similar reviews or evaluations.

 

  • Familiarity with the context of Saint Lucia’s export sector, regional and international markets.

 

  • The experience and skills to successfully lead and manage the NES implementation review effectively.

 

  1. MONITORING AND EVALUATION

Monitoring and evaluation will be based on the timely completion of activities relating to this intervention.

 

  1. RENUMERATION

Renumeration will be calculated based on sixty (60) consultancy man days.