United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT)

The United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business (UN/CEFACT) is a global intergovernmental forum operating under the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), bringing together experts from across regions to develop international recommendations, standards, and frameworks that support the simplification, harmonisation, and standardisation of trade procedures.

As the UN’s focal point for trade facilitation and electronic business, UN/CEFACT works to improve coordination between public and private sector actors by promoting interoperable processes and data standards across regulatory systems and commercial supply chains. Its mandate spans both government and commercial processes, with the objective of reducing friction in cross-border trade and advancing the transition from paper-based to digital transactions.

Through its global programme of work, UN/CEFACT supports businesses, administrations, and trade stakeholders in developed, developing, and transition economies, enabling more efficient exchange of goods, services, and information and contributing to the sustainable growth of international trade.