Micro, Small and Medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in the global economy. They account for a significant share of employment and GDP in many countries. However, MSMEs often face challenges in accessing trade-related information and services. This can hinder their ability to participate in international trade and grow their businesses.
In recognition of this, the G20 has called for the development of a platform that provides MSMEs with "appropriate, aggregated, trade-related information relevant for MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises)". This platform would provide MSMEs with easy access to information on trade policies, regulations, procedures, and market opportunities. It would also provide links to relevant government and international organizations.
The International Trade Centre (ITC), a joint agency of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations, has been tasked with developing this platform. The ITC is currently working on a prototype of the Global Trade Helpdesk, which is expected to be launched in 2024.
The Global Trade Helpdesk will be a one-stop shop for MSMEs to access trade-related information and services. It will provide information on a wide range of topics, including:
- Trade policies and regulations
- Trade procedures
- Market opportunities
- Trade finance
- Business development services
The Global Trade Helpdesk will be available in multiple languages and will be accessible to MSMEs from all over the world. It will be free to use and will be open to all MSMEs, regardless of their size or sector.
The development of the Global Trade Helpdesk is a welcome step forward in supporting MSMEs to participate in international trade. The platform will provide MSMEs with access to the information and services they need to grow their businesses and contribute to the global economy.
How will the Global Trade Helpdesk benefit MSMEs?
The Global Trade Helpdesk will benefit MSMEs in a number of ways, including:
- Reduced costs: MSMEs will no longer need to spend time and money searching for trade-related information from different sources. The Global Trade Helpdesk will provide a centralized source of information, saving MSMEs time and money.
- Improved access to information: The Global Trade Helpdesk will provide MSMEs with access to trade-related information in a clear and concise format. This information will be tailored to the specific needs of MSMEs, making it easier for them to understand and use.
- Increased export potential: The Global Trade Helpdesk will help MSMEs to identify new export markets and opportunities. It will also provide information on trade policies and regulations, making it easier for MSMEs to export their goods and services.
- Improved competitiveness: The Global Trade Helpdesk will help MSMEs to improve their competitiveness by providing information on trade finance, business development services, and other resources.
How can MSMEs use the Global Trade Helpdesk?
MSMEs will be able to access the Global Trade Helpdesk through a website or mobile app. The platform will be available in multiple languages and will be free to use.
To use the Global Trade Helpdesk, MSMEs will simply need to create an account and provide some basic information about their business. Once they have created an account, MSMEs will be able to access a wide range of trade-related information, including:
- Trade policies and regulations
- Trade procedures
- Market opportunities
- Trade finance
- Business development services
MSMEs can also use the Global Trade Helpdesk to ask questions and get advice from trade experts. The platform will have a team of experts who are available to answer questions and provide guidance on trade-related matters.
The Global Trade Helpdesk is a valuable resource for MSMEs who are interested in exporting or expanding their export potential.
Sources of information:
- G20 Trade Ministers for Resilient Global Value Chains, Digitisation, Support to MSMEs to Boost Global Commerce, Investments: https://arunachaltimes.in/
index.php/2023/08/26/g20- trade-ministers-for-resilient- global-value-chains- digitisation-support-to-msmes- to-boost-global-commerce- investments/ - International Trade Centre begins work on G20 MSME portal: https://m.economictimes.com/
news/economy/foreign-trade/ international-trade-centre- begins-work-on-g20-msme- portal/articleshow/103738815. cms - International Trade Centre website: https://www.intracen.org/
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