Among the hardships faced today by many workers are families and communities linked to a declining number of good jobs, dwindling incomes, and the soaring cost of living. Many families are existing in a state of almost constant financial stress. Way too many parents are spending way too many sleepless nights wondering how in the world they will be able to keep their heads above water for another month.

The International Labour Organization estimates that since the beginning of the 2008 economic crisis, the global jobs gap has increased by 67 million. In spite of positive employment gains during the past couple of years, global unemployment is still high and expected to approach 208 million people by 2015 and 214 million people by 2018.

So the question remains: What can be done to bolster the economy? With half a decade’s hindsight, it is clear that more creative solutions must be devised. That’s exactly what many economists and export specialists are telling the world to do—including high-caliber experts such as economist John S. Wilson and export quality management adviser Khemraj Ramful. According to them, one solution could be the expanded use of international standards to help boost economic growth through trade.

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