ASYCUDA Consultant – Trade Facilitation for Afghanistan

About the role

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is seeking an ASYCUDA Consultant to support trade facilitation and private‑sector development in Afghanistan. The consultant will map business opportunities, enhance traders’ capacity and promote the benefits of the ASYCUDA system for regional integration.

Key responsibilities

• Develop trade‑facilitation projects targeting under‑developed markets for Afghan goods, especially with Central Asian neighbours.
• Collaborate with donors and multilateral agencies to secure funding for investment and export‑related initiatives.
• Prepare briefings, overviews and reports on domestic and foreign trade to inform strategic decisions.
• Mentor private‑sector champions to advocate for regulatory reforms, streamlined permitting, tax incentives and customs regime improvements.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree (Master) in Social Sciences, development economics or related field; PhD is an advantage.
• Minimum 7 years of policy research and analysis experience in governance or economic development, preferably in Central Asia and Afghanistan.
• In‑country research experience in Afghanistan and familiarity with UN programme research.
• Fluent oral and written English; knowledge of Pashto and Dari is desirable.

Required skills

• Proficiency with the ASYCUDA customs system.