Although most raw materials come from the poorest countries, the profits do not benefit the population. The commodity curse remains a decisive factor in poverty in African countries. Transparency is needed.

Commodity trading is often associated with corruption, tax evasion and opaque practices. Swiss companies also cheerfully get involved and make big money, while local people suffer from environmental pollution and violations of human rights such as child labour and forced relocation. For example, Switzerland is the hub of the international gold trade and refines 70% of the world's gold. SWISSAID is committed to fairer distribution, sustainable mining and transparency in the raw materials trade. The corporate responsibility of Swiss-based companies trading in oil, metals and agricultural raw materials plays a vital role in the fight against the curse of raw materials.