50. rn the above mannerr steps are being initiated shich bear on the reform of theinternational nonetary system. proposals for undertaking an overall reform,j.ncluding proposals to prepare for an international nonetary conference, have notA/40/597 English Page 15 yet been fully addressed. It is true that forums outside the united Nations systsem trave been qrapplinq with lhe issue of reform. Nevertheless, najor refortns that appear necessary are unlikely to be enacled until after a considerable period of preparation and consensus-bu i ld ing - IV. TR,ADE AND RAW MATERIALS, INCLT'DI NG ACCESS TO I'ARSETS FOR ?HE EXPORTS OF DEVELOPING COT'NTRIES AND URGENf ACTION IN fHE AREA OP COMMODITIES 51. The marked sl-on-dor,rn in international trade experienced slnce the early I980s vas reversed in 1984, largely as a result of a surge ln inport demand in the uniled states of America caused oy that country's rapid rise in econotnic activi-ty and the sharp appreciation of the united states dollar. Indeed, over half of lbe expansion in lrorld trade regi€tered lasE year was accounted for by increased inports inEo the United States. wbile such vigorous inpor! absorption iJas instrunental in sti.nulating oueput and export groeth arnong tbe major tradinq partners-of the united States, there are reasons to be concerned about whelher the nomenlun in trade expansion can be naintained. For one thing. the rapid pace of import penetration into the united states econony has fueted coDcern about tbe countryrs global as well as bilateral trade inbal-ances and has greatly strengtbened protectionist forces in inpor t-compet lnq industries. More inpoitant, the recovery in tbe United sEates has already n gon io slon down and the ability of ocher countries to cake up tbe slack cannot be taxen for granted. Sluggish groulh and high unemployrnen! levels in other industrial countries and pressing external con6traints in many
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing global economic issues, specifically international trade and the reform of the international monetary system. It mentions the impact of the United States' rapid economic growth and its effects on trade balances and protectionist forces. The text also touches on the theme of developing countries' access to raw materials and resources. Given the focus on economic issues and international trade, it is likely that the text falls under one or more of the economic-related categories.

**Category**
International trade, Economic development