ESCAP created the Asia-Pacific MSME Policymakers Network, consisting of focal points from over 30 ESCAP's Member States The first two meetings were held in March 2021. The Network is an experience-sharing and coordination mechanism for MSME policymakers in the region. The intitial two meetings of the network, supported by in-depth background papers on the topics, discussed matters "MSMEs and the Digital Economy" (on 1 March) and "Competition Policy Supporting MSMEs" (on 2 March).
In addition to the substantive discussion on the themes of the background papers, the meetings were also opportunities to inform Member State representatives of the ongoing work of ESCAP and UNCTAD in the area of MSME policy. The Network is a key feedback mechanism for ESCAP to improve its work stream on enteprise development and MSMEs.
Meeting links:
Asia-Pacific MSME Policymakers Network: Inaugural Meeting – MSMEs and the Digital Economy (1 March 2021)
ASEAN Regional Policy Dialogue (ARPD): the role of Competition Policy in supporting MSMEs economic recovery in the post COVID19 crisis (2 March 2021)