As a result of political and economic transitions in the post-Soviet countries agricultural markets were transformed. These transformations were accompanied by globalization and deepening trade integration both within the region and with external trade partners. Many countries joined the World Trade Organization (WTO), which helped to enhance their participation in global trade. Now the Europe and Central Asia region plays an increasingly important role as a supplier of agricultural commodities to international markets. To facilitate the formation and sharing of knowledge, as well as to make the necessary policy decisions in the development of trade potential, FAO created the  Agricultural Trade Expert Network (ATEN) in Europe and Central Asia. The network  implements the regional initiative  on transforming food systems and facilitating market access and integration. 

The network brings together experts  who conduct research, carry out training programmes and advise governments and the private sector on issues related to agricultural trade and trade policy, including regional and multilateral trade agreements. The core business of the network will be to facilitate generation and exchange of knowledge.