Focus Area

Women in Trade

Women in emerging markets face barriers in accessing trade finance and therefore are unable to participate fully in trade activities — which hampers economic growth and limits inclusive trade ecosystems.

When women entrepreneurs thrive, entire communities prosper

In emerging markets, one-third of small businesses are owned by women. These entrepreneurs play a crucial role in economic development through the production and sale of goods, job creation, and fostering overall economic growth. But a mere 10 percent of these women have access to trade finance and other essential financial services that could significantly enhance the expansion of their businesses.

In 2024, IFC launched the Women in Trade network to help promote gender equality in trade and supply chain finance.

Stories of Impact

Kitchen of Hope

Sanata Ouedraogo is the proud owner of a catering kitchen located within the bustling campus of Université Ouaga 1 Professeur Ki-Zerbo in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Seeds of Prosperity

Mamounata Velegda is one of Burkina Faso’s most successful female entrepreneurs. She owns a thriving seeds and grain processing factory in the capital, Ouagadougou.

Framing the Future

Nguyen Thi Hong Van graduated from Polytechnic College with a dream to open a business supplying building materials for tall buildings in Viet Nam.

Shelling Out Success

After devoting two decades to a state-owned enterprise engaged in exporting raw cashew nuts from Viet Nam, Duong Thi Phuong Lan embarked on a new venture.

Report: Banking on Women Who Trade Across Borders

This report underscores the critical need for gender equality in international trade and trade finance. Despite the documented positive impacts of women-owned businesses on economic growth and poverty reduction, a significant gap remains in understanding how international trade intersects with female participation, particularly in accessing trade finance.