The concept of the Trade Point was introduced in February 1992 by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for providing international trade opportunities for small-and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by simplifying, harmonizing trade procedures and reducing the procedural cost involved.

The Trade Point Program has encouraged countries to establish their own Trade Points in order to promote international trading among SMEs by providing easy and affordable access to trade information, facilitation services and trade networks.

The overall objective is to help developing countries and economies in transition to participate more effectively in the world economy, which will result in their economic growth and prosperity.