INF/MSME/W/39  
 
30 June 2022  
(22-5082) Page: 1/17 
  Original: English  
 
INFORMAL WORKING GROUP ON MSMES  
PRESENTATIONS PROVIDED TO THE WTO INFORMAL WORKING GROUP ON MSMES  
Update: 15 July 2022  
The following communication, dated 30 June 2022, is being circulated at the request of the  
Coordinator of the Informal Working Group on MSMEs.  
 
_______________  
  INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  TABLE OF CONTENTS  
1   IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DECEMBER 2020 PACKAGE  ................................ ................  4 
1.1   Global Trade Helpdesk update (ITC)  ................................ ................................ ..............  4 
1.2   Global Trade Helpdesk update (ITC)  ................................ ................................ ..............  4 
1.3   Global Trade Helpdesk update (ITC)  ................................ ................................ ..............  4 
1.4   Good regulatory practices to improve SPS measures (WTO)  ................................ ..............  4 
1.5   Update on the Implementation of the 2019 Integrated Database (IDB) decision (WTO)  ........  5 
2   INNOVATION  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  5 
2.1   Developing countries challenges in innovation and policy aspects (UNCTAD)  .......................  5 
2.2   World Trade Report 2020 - Government policies to promote innovation in the digital age 
(WTO)  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............................  5 
2.3   Briefing on discussions on MSMEs, IP and innovation in the context of the TRIPS Council 
(WTO)  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............................  5 
2.4   SMEs and innovation experiences in Ecuador (Ecuador's Ministry for Production, Trade, 
Investment and Fisheries)  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 6 
3   INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY TOOLS  ................................ ................................ ...............  6 
3.1   Tools on intellectual property for SMEs (WIPO) ................................ ................................  6 
3.2   IP tools and support for MSMEs (WIPO)  ................................ ................................ ..........  6 
4   LOW -VALUE SHIPMENTS  ................................ ................................ .............................  6 
4.1   A proposal to simplify duty and tax collection on imported low -value shipments (Global 
Express Association) ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  6 
4.2   Australia's experience on Goods and Service Tax (GST) on low value imported good s 
(Australia's Department of Home Affairs)  ................................ ................................ ...............  7 
4.3   Canada's low -value shipments policy regarding the application of customs dutie s (Canada 
Border Services Agency)  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 7 
5   MSME PROVISIONS IN REGIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS (RTAS)  ................................ . 7 
5.1   MSME provisions in Regional Trade Agreements (WTO)  ................................ ....................  7 
5.2   MSME -related language in Regional Trade Agreements (WTO)  ................................ ..........  8 
6   MSME FINANCING  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 8 
6.1   Current state of e -commerce and payments (Dlocal) ................................ ........................  8 
6.2   National Supply Chain Finance Initiatives and Platforms (IFC)  ................................ ...........  8 
6.3   Unlocking financial inclusion for MSMEs (Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation)  ..............  8 
6.4   Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda  (Philippines' Government)  ................................ ................................ .........................  9 
7   SUSTAINABILITY  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  9 
7.1   SME & Africa Strategies (United Nations Global Compact)  ................................ .................  9 
7.2   GreenToCompete (ITC)  ................................ ................................ ................................  9 
7.3   Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda  (Philippines' Government)  ................................ ................................ .......................  10 
7.4   G20 Policy Toolkit for Green via Digital MSMEs (UNCTAD)  ................................ ...............  10 
7.5   Supporting MSMEs on Accounting and Financial, Sustainability and SDG Reporting  
(UNCTAD)  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................  10 INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  8   TRADE FACILITATION  ................................ ................................ ...............................  11 
8.1   Promoting integration of MSMEs in international trade (UN/CEFACT)  ................................  11 
8.2   EIF VANUATU: ASYCUDA -CDS Communication Platform Project (Enhanced Integrated 
Framework)  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  11 
8.3   Briefing on SPS/TBT notification alert system ePing and related capacity building 
activities  in Vietnam (WTO)  ................................ ................................ ................................  11 
8.4   Global Trade Hub for Internationalization of Brazilian MSMEs (Brazil Mission to WTO)  ........  12 
8.5   Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda  (Philippines' Government)  ................................ ................................ .......................  12 
9   CYBER -READINESS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 12 
9.1   Canadian SME Cybersecurity Initiatives & Programs (Government of Canada)  ...................  12 
9.2   GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit for Small Business (Glob al Cyber Alliance) ...............................  13 
9.3   Strengthening MSME Cyber Security (TechUK)  ................................ ..............................  13 
9.4   Importance of cybersecurity for digital trade (Coalition to Reduce Cyber Risk (CR2))  .........  13 
10   DIGITAL  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................  14 
10.1   The Model Law on Electronic Transferable Reco rds – MLETR (Abu Dhabi Global Markets)  .. 14 
10.2   Bahrain's ETR Law (Economic Development Board of the Kingdom of Bahrain)  ................  14 
10.3   Creating a modern digital trade ecosystem (ICC -UK) ................................ ....................  14 
10.4   Overview of the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records – MLETR 
(UNCITRAL)  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  14 
10.5   Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda (Philippines' Government)  ................................ ................................ .......................  15 
10.6   Digital Marketing Training for Micro -Small to Medium Enterprises (Tofara)  ......................  15 
10.7   G20 Toolkit for Green via Digital MSMEs (UNCTAD)  ................................ ......................  16 
11   OTHER TOPICS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  16 
11.1   Activities of the OECD Working Party on SMEs and Entrepreneurship (OECD)  ..................  16 
11.2   Policy options to support rural MSMEs (Brazil Mission to the WTO)  ................................ . 16 
11.3   Legislative Guides on Business Registration and Limited Liability Enterprises (UNCITRAL)  . 16 
11.4   Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda (Philippines' Government)  ................................ ................................ .......................  17 
 
 
  INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  Brief Description : The present document includes the list of all presentations provided by 
participating organizations in the meetings convened by the WTO Informal Working Group on MSMEs 
from 18 February 2021 to 7 April 2022. The presentations are sorted by thematic catego ry and date. 
Each presentation includes a summary along with its corresponding institution, title and link.  
Thematic categories : 1) Implementation of the December  2020 Package; 2) Innovation;  
3) Intellectual Property Tools; 4) Low -value shipments; 5) MSME  Provisions in Regional Trade 
Agreements (RTAs ); 6) MSME Financing ; 7) Sustainability ; 8) Trade Facilitation ; 
9) Cyber -Readiness; 10) Digital; 11)  Other Topics .  
Period covered : 18 February 2021 – 7 April 2022.  
 
1  IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DECEMBER 2020 PACKAGE  
1.1  Global Trade Helpdesk update (ITC)  
24 September 2021  
 
1.  The International Trade Centre (ITC) updated the Group on latest developments regarding the 
Global Trade Helpdesk (GTH). Members were invited to submit, ideally by the end of this year, 
information to f eed into the GTH as per Annex 2 of the 2020 package.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/gth_sept21.pdf  
1.2  Global Trade Helpdesk update (ITC)  
8 February 2022  
 
2.  The ITC gave a presentation on the Global Trade Helpdesk's plans for 2022, including navigational 
videos, possible new training with the ICC Centres for Entrepreneurship, and new tools it is working 
to develop, including AI enhanced search of HS codes. The ITC also provi ded information on the 
verification surveys it has received from MSME Group members so far, as agreed in Annex 2 of the 
2020 Package.  
https://www.wto.org /english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/Global_Trade_Helpdesk_Update.pdf  
1.3  Global Trade Helpdesk update (ITC)  
7 April 2022  
 
3.  Update on the national information as per Annex 2 of the package and planned GTH informational 
webinars.  https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/gth_update_7april22.pdf  
1.4  Good regulatory practices to improve SPS measures (WTO)  
8 February 2022  
 
4.  The Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) presented their new report on Good 
Regulatory Practices in the context of SPS measures, which include greater transparency and 
reviewing changes with a small business lens. The guide offers practical guidance and encourages 
public and private sector stakeholder engagement. The Guide aims to improve compliance, reduce 
administrative costs and increase trust in new SPS regulations. All of this ties in closely with Annex 
4 of the December 2020 package to promote MSME inclusion in re gulatory development in the area 
of trade, and members noted the importance of encouraging close work and dialogue with other 
WTO bodies and committees to identify synergies.  
https://www.standardsfacility.org/sites/default/files/STDF_GRP_Guide_EN.pdf  
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  1.5  Update on the Implementation of the 2019 Integrated Database (IDB) decision 
(WTO)  
7 April 2022  
 
5.  Update on the implementation of the 2019 IDB decision that streamlines p rocesses and allows 
integration of additional data elements. Canada and Uruguay have already established direct 
transmission of related data and others are in advanced talks, all of which would ensure updated 
and accessible information for businesses.   
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/idb_7april22.pdf  
2  INNOVATION  
2.1  Developing countries challenges in innovation and policy aspects (UNCTAD)  
4 May 2021  
 
6.  Clovis Freire, an econ omist from UNCTAD's division on Technology and Logistics, presented to 
the MSME Group on the importance of innovation, especially in developing economies, in order to 
create new products that lead to economic development, diversification and stronger, broa der 
exports. Unfortunately, MSMEs are more challenged to innovate because of market failures that 
make it hard to protect their intellectual property; system failures, like those that make it challenging 
for MSMEs to access capital; and "capability failure s", or lack of adequate education and training. 
Innovation and trade works in both directions: trade can provide opportunities for "emulation" by 
MSMEs when they insert themselves into upstream production, creating low -cost value -added parts 
or repairing i mported items, which then leads to more specialization and innovation as they learn 
and even future exports. Targeted policy instruments can be an important way to increase innovation 
and bring MSMEs onboard, including through education, infrastructure, in dustrial parks, special 
economic zones, and industrial institutes.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/unctad_innovation0521.pdf  
2.2  World Trade Report 2020 - Gover nment policies to promote innovation in the digital 
age (WTO)  
4 May 2021  
 
7.  Over the past decade, many economies have been adopting new types of policies aimed at 
technological upgrading and transitioning to a new digital economy. The WTO World Trade Report 
2020 looked at addressing what has changed with the digital economy, what are the policy 
implications, and what is the role of trade and the WTO given this trend. Government R&D funding 
was found to be important to promote innovation in an economy generall y, especially in developing 
regions, and, for MSMEs, direct financial support was the main instrument to encourage their R&D. 
Trade has an important role in that open trade policies contribute to innovation through GVCs and 
cooperation in the multilateral trading system has supported the expansion of digital sectors, which 
in turn provide opportunities for digitally connected MSMEs and new areas for economic exploration 
and innovation.  https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/wtr2020_0521.pdf  
2.3  Briefing on discussions on MSMEs, IP and innovation in the context of the TRIPS 
Council (WTO)  
26 July 2021  
 
8.  Related to support of MSME IP, the WTO Secretariat updated the Group on discussions at the 
TRIPS Council. Over the past seven years 116 interventions on the issue of MSMEs and innovation 
have been made to the Council, touching on issues from national strat egies to technical assistance. 
At its foundation, the IP system is about innovation and the availability of technology to promote 
social and economic welfare. Members have reported on a range of initiatives to increase MSME 
understanding and use of IP, inc luding workshops, dedicated portals and practical support while 
others have implemented innovation policies like tax incentives or incubation centers. Still, there are 
a wide range of challenges to MSMEs for using the IP system, including cost, enforcement , and a 
high reliance on informal IP or "knowhow". Members of the Group expressed interest in working INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  more closely with the TRIPS Council and with WIPO to explore ways to address these challenges.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/260721_trips.pdf  
2.4  SMEs and innovation experiences in Ecuador (Ecuador's Ministry for Production, 
Trade, Investment and Fisheries)  
26 July 2021  
 
9.  Ecuador also shared its national experience regarding the importance of rural MSMEs and their 
various projects to support innovation by these businesses. Support has been focused in particular 
on re-forestation and the flower and agri -business sectors.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/260721_ecuador.pdf  
3  INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY TOOLS  
3.1  Tools on intellectual property for SMEs (WIPO)  
26 July 2021  
 
10.  WIPO delivered a presentation that underscored MSMEs in Eur ope that make use of intellectual 
property (IP) have 70% more revenue than those that do not, however only 9% of European MSMEs 
use IP as part of their strategy. Given that MSMEs are less likely to make use of IP, WIPO presented 
its work to develop intelle ctual property tools to support MSME Growth and innovation, such as the 
IP Diagnostic Tool and Inventor Assistance Program to match developing economy inventors and 
MSMEs with patent attorneys. WIPO also continues to look into IP as a form of collateral to  increase 
MSME access to finance and it was suggested this could be something for the MSME Group to 
consider in relation to Annex 6 of the December 2020 MSME Package on access to trade -related 
finance. WIPO also suggested the group consider adding a point on IP in the "checklist of 
MSME -related information to voluntarily include in WTO Trade Policy Reviews" appended to Annex 1 
on the collection of MSME -related information in TPRs of the December 2020 package. Lastly, he 
also invited members of the Group to share information on WIPO's tools with their constituents.  
https://docs.wto.org/dol2fe/Pages/SS/directdoc.aspx?filename=q:/INF/MSME/R27.pdf&Open=True  
3.2  IP tools and support for MSMEs (WIPO)  
8 November 2021  
 
11.  MSMEs are important to the global economy, but they do not always know how to make the 
best use of IP or its potential benefits to increase competitiveness and visibility as well as to avoid 
the risk of unknowingly infringing on proprietary content. WIPO is actively working to develop 
resources for MSMEs related to IP. These include an IP diagnostic tool, IP for business guides (this 
includes guides currently in development on IP and technologies like artificial intelligence and Big 
Data), a list of intermediaries and IP support offices that MSMEs can contact, IP management 
support, and information on IP and finance such as IP -backed finance. The WIPO IP Business Division 
is also currently supporting a number of projects and activities for MSMEs in the economies of many 
MSME Group members. WIPO also works to provide training and support services through the 
development of business support units in national IP offices, mapping of MSME intermediary 
institu tions and their services, the Investor Assistance Program (IAP) and patent drafting programs.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/wipo_presentation.pdf  
4  LOW -VALUE SH IPMENTS  
4.1  A proposal to simplify duty and tax collection on imported low -value shipments 
(Global Express Association)  
18 February 2021  
 
12.  The Global Express Association GEA presented a video to the Group (available on their website)  
noting how the Internet has  allowed for more MSME participation in trade and that the volume of 
small parcel shipments has increased dramatically in recent years. However, customs procedures, 
designed for large shipments, have not kept in step with this change, causing difficulties for many INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  small traders at the border. To address this, the GEA has a proposed system of three options for 
consideration by national governments to simplify the process and to focus border formalities on 
health, security and safety rather than inefficient t ax collection. The first option would be to eliminate 
specific duties for parcels under a certain value and instead apply a flat rate on these entries at the 
border. The second option would be to follow the model implemented by Canada for imports under 
a value threshold which allows for three tariff categories (for example all textiles are grouped into 
the first category), with only one tariff for any product within the category, rather than a multitude 
of tariffs based on the HS codes of individual product s. This would significantly reduce classification 
difficulties. The third option would be to simplify or eliminate import duties altogether, as in Australia 
(which mostly charges a flat 5 per cent duty on imports) and Singapore (which is almost entirely 
duty free), and instead implement a goods and services tax (GST) or value -added tax (VAT) on 
imports just as applies to domestic transactions. More information on the GEA proposal can be found 
here. https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/gea_18221.pdf  
4.2  Australia's experience on Goods and Service Tax (GST) on low value imported goods 
(Australia's Department of Home Affairs)  
4 May 2021  
 
13.  The Australian Government's Department of Home  Affairs presented to the MSME Group on 
their national e -commerce experience given their goods and services tax (GST) on low -value 
imports. Australia has a de minimis threshold of AUD 1,000 on customs duties, GST and reporting 
obligations, introduced in 20 00 before the significant rise in e -commerce. The increase in 
e-commerce and a rise in cross -border low -value shipments meant a significant GST revenue loss, 
which the government has tried to counter with a new GST on low -value goods, implemented on 
1 July 2018. This new GST requires overseas businesses with a turnover greater than AUD 75,000 
to register with the Australian Taxation Authority. GST is then collected at the point -of-sale, while 
at the border the AUD 1,000 de minimis level remains, thereby pre venting double -taxation. 
Registration is simplified and traders using an e -commerce marketplace are not required to register 
separately, rather the e -commerce marketplace itself must register and follow the necessary 
requirements, thereby assisting MSME tr ade. 
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/australia_gst0521.pdf  
4.3  Canada 's low -value shipments policy regarding the application of customs duties 
(Canada Border Services Agency)  
24 September 2021  
 
14.  Canada's low -value shipment policy regarding the application of customs duties can simplify 
tariffs and duties at the border. Canada has both a low -value threshold of CAD 3,300 and a renewed 
de minimis for courier remiss ion orders (CIROs) only. Canada applies different categories of CIRO 
and postal import remission order (PIRO) de minimis thresholds for imports depending on their origin 
with exceptions for certain imports such as alcohol and tobacco. Canada also applies t he Generic 
Harmonized System (GHS) for qualified postal and courier shipments, which is a simplified 
classification process that allows imports to be categorized in one of three generic MFN tariff rates 
provided the value is CAD 500 or less. Goods also nee d to be imported for personal or household 
use and certain goods, including alcohol and tobacco, are ineligible. Overall, Canada has found that 
GHS has a minimal impact on tariff revenue, no impact on sales tax revenue, and it facilitates the 
processing of  low-value shipments.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/canada_sept21_e.pdf  
5  MSME PROVISIONS IN REGIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS (RTAS)  
5.1  MSME provisions in Regional Trade Agreements (WTO)  
24 June 2021  
 
15.  The Secretariat presented on a report completed in 2019 on MSME references in regional trade 
agreements (INF/MSME/W/6/Rev.1), including the updated background database available at the 
MSME provisions in regional trade agreemen ts webpage INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  (https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmesandtra_e/rtaprovisions_e.htm ). The Secretariat  was 
invited to update the 2019 report for discussion at a forthcoming meeting.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/rta_240621.pdf  
5.2  MSME -related language in Regional Trade Agreements (WTO)  
7 April 2022  
 
16.  Updated report regarding MSME references in regional trade agreements 
(INF/MSME/W/6/Rev.3) and the associated online database. More than half (56 per cent) of in -force 
RTAs contain at least one reference to MSME -related provi sions and the share and variety of such 
provisions continues to increase.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/rtas_7april22.pdf  
6  MSME FINANCING  
6.1  Current state of e -commer ce and payments (Dlocal)  
4 May 2021  
 
17.  Sergio Fogel, co -founder of dLocal, a Uruguay e -payment company, presented on the current 
state of e -commerce and payments. Currently, there is a lot of innovation and change occurring in 
this field and no clear winning  process has emerged. What is clear, is that e -commerce is hindered 
by a number of regulatory frictions, both in terms of the movement of goods but also for payments. 
There is a need for governments both to protect small e -payment innovators that may be ab le to 
bring new solutions to the market, as well as facilitate the integration and interoperability of these 
new technologies for cross -border transactions.  https://dlocal.com/   
6.2  National Supply Chain Finance Initiatives and Platforms (IFC)  
4 May 2021  
 
18.  Aksinya Sorokina  joined the MSME Group to present on supply chain finance (SCF), its 
importance for MSMEs, and the role of public entities and industry associations to promote SCF. SCF 
allows for frequently smaller, sub -suppliers or buyers, to access finance based on the reputation of 
a larger, anchor, company and the contracts it has made with the supplying or buying company. In 
order for SCF to function optimally, it requires visibility of the entire underlying trade flow, which 
new digital technologies have made increas ingly possible. Public institutes and industry associations 
have an important role to bring awareness to SCF as a finance tool for MSMEs and to push for an 
appropriate legal and regulatory framework. Governments also need to support digital infrastructure 
and technological capacity to build up SCF programs and increase local bank interest in SCF for 
MSMEs, potentially through risk -assumption. Ms. Sorokina laid out a number of different, specific, 
approaches that Governments can take to support SCF, from an "enabling framework provider 
approach" that lays out an appropriate regulatory environment for SCF to a "financing approach" 
where public institutions can provide SCF directly at preferred rates. Ultimately, there is no "onesize -
fits-all" for SCF, but it c an be a powerful tool to bring MSMEs into trade.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/national_scf0521.pdf  
6.3  Unlocking financial inclusion for MSMEs (Global Legal Entit y Identifier Foundation)  
8 February 2022  
 
19.  The GLEIF joined the Group again to present the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), a life -long code 
owned by the respective legal entity. The GLEIF highlighted the benefits of the LEI through 
supporting presentations b y four financial institutions and businesses with a case study from 
Zimbabwe. First, Yann Desclercs, Managing Director of Cornerstone Advisory Plus, a west African 
financial compliance firm, explained the importance of the LEI, especially for African finan cial 
institutions. The LEI can help financial institutions to increase their compliance standards, thereby 
reducing their exposure to "derisking" when the international financial community offloads certain 
institutions because they assume they will require  excessive due diligence. Next, 
Munyaradzi  Kamhozo and Erasmus Bhunu from the NMB Bank in Zimbabwe, reported that the LEI INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  can significantly reduce the time to validate the identity of MSMEs and can decrease the cost of 
doing business for traders who are es pecially exposed. Finally, Second Muguyo from Copperwares, 
a Zimbabwe copper and silver goods manufacturer, explained how the LEI would make finance more 
accessible to small businesses like Copperwares, assuring their business sustainability.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/GLEIF_Presentation.pdf  
6.4  Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda (Philippines' Government)1 
8 February 2022  
 
20.  The Philippines updated the Group on the APEC Boracay Action Agenda (BAA) as well as the 
outcomes of the 2021 Global MSME Forum on Greening SME Finance. The Boracay Action Agenda 
was initiated in 2015 and has five main priori ties, namely trade facilitation, access to finance, the 
digital economy, capacity building, and support for women MSMEs. A recent study found that 
initiatives of the BAA focused on women, the digital economy and capacity building and included the 
creation of an APEC MSME Marketplace; APEC Trade Repository; APEC Authorized Economic Operator 
Compendium; APEC Strategy for Green, Sustainable and Innovative MSMEs; and La Serena 
Roadmap for Women and Inclusive Growth. A number of issues were also identified that still need 
addressing, including a strong need for MSME e -learning and skill certification programmes, 
increasing MSME access to finance, and establishing a common standard for intellectual property 
evaluation in APEC economies. The BAA also found a need f or promoting green and SMART MSMEs 
as enterprises of the future. The Philippines noted its desire to collaborate with WTO Members in 
common priority areas of cooperation for MSMEs from the BAA including on transparency and 
information sharing; trade facili tation and e -commerce; participation in regulatory development; 
gender equality and women's economic empowerment; aid -for-trade and technical assistance and 
capacity building; and access to finance.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/Philippines_APEC_Boracay_Action_Age
nda.pdf  
7  SUSTAINABILITY  
7.1  SME & Africa Strategies (United Nations Global Compact)  
24 September 2021  
 
21.  The UN Global  Compact gave a presentation on its new strategy to engage with businesses of 
all sizes. Given the importance of MSMEs to the global economy, the UN Global Compact has 
recognized that the only way to fulfil the SDGs is to bring these firms on board with th e Compact's 
ten principles focused on human rights, labour, the environment and anti -corruption. Recognizing 
the resource challenges and everyday business realities of MSMEs, UN Global Compact has 
implemented digital onboarding and benchmarking for MSMEs i ncluding an onboarding readiness 
tool along with tailored programming tools like playbooks, accelerators, and peer learning groups. 
The UN Global Compact has also recently developed an Africa strategy focused on SMEs in the 
region. These strategies will fo cus on local resources through the UN Global Compact's Local 
Networks to increase SME engagement and provide on -the-ground support for sustainable 
development.  https: //www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/un_global_compact_sept21.pdf  
7.2  GreenToCompete (ITC)  
8 February 2022  
 
22.  The ITC reported to the MSME Group on their GreenToCompete initiative to build MSME capacity 
and strengthen their resilience in green markets. Recognizing the competitive forces in trade that 
are affecting businesses, both negative from value chain risks d ue to climate hazards and 
environmental externalities created by business including emissions and waste as well as positive 
forces like new environmental business opportunities, the ITC looked for ways to activate green 
trade focusing on circularity, clima te resilience and the bioeconomy. Through new GreenToCompete 
Hubs (https://www.sustainabilitygateway.org/hubs -landing/), access to green finance via a mapping 
 
1 This presentation contains relevant content for the sections on sustainability, trade facilitation, digital, 
and other topics (see presentations 7.3, 8.5, 10.5, 11.4). INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  of national sources, platforms for dialogue and thought leadership, the ITC hopes to help set the  
policy agenda and support MSMEs to drive green change. As part of the initiative, the ITC has 
developed a toolkit on the circular economy, coaching programmes or MSMEs, and are in the process 
of developing a platform where MSMEs can do an environmental as sessment of their business.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/ITC_Green_to_Compete.pdf  
7.3  Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda (Philippines' Government)2 
8 February 2022  
 
23.  The Philippines updated the Group on the APEC B oracay Action Agenda (BAA) as well as the 
outcomes of the 2021 Global MSME Forum on Greening SME Finance. The Boracay Action Agenda 
was initiated in 2015 and has five main priorities, namely trade facilitation, access to finance, the 
digital economy, capac ity building, and support for women MSMEs. A recent study found that 
initiatives of the BAA focused on women, the digital economy and capacity building and included the 
creation of an APEC MSME Marketplace; APEC Trade Repository; APEC Authorized Economic O perator 
Compendium; APEC Strategy for Green, Sustainable and Innovative MSMEs; and La Serena 
Roadmap for Women and Inclusive Growth. A number of issues were also identified that still need 
addressing, including a strong need for MSME e -learning and skill c ertification programmes, 
increasing MSME access to finance, and establishing a common standard for intellectual property 
evaluation in APEC economies. The BAA also found a need for promoting green and SMART MSMEs 
as enterprises of the future. The Philippin es noted its desire to collaborate with WTO Members in 
common priority areas of cooperation for MSMEs from the BAA including on transparency and 
information sharing; trade facilitation and e -commerce; participation in regulatory development; 
gender equalit y and women's economic empowerment; aid -for-trade and technical assistance and 
capacity building; and access to finance.  
https://www.wto.org/en glish/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/Philippines_APEC_Boracay_Action_Age
nda.pdf  
7.4  G20 Policy Toolkit for Green via Digital MSMEs (UNCTAD)3 
8 February 2022  
 
24.  On behalf of G20 Italian Presidency, UNCTAD presented the "Non -Binding Policy Toolkit on 
Promoting Born Gr een via Digital MSMEs and Entrepreneurship in Global Supply Chains", which was 
developed in collaboration with the ITC, OECD, World Bank and WTO. The green and digital 
economies are two entry points for MSMEs and are tied in with the G20 priorities of peop le, planet 
and prosperity. Recognizing new challenges that MSMEs face accessing green finance, digital 
technologies, online marketplaces, compliance with green regulations and access to new knowledge 
and skills, a toolkit with a framework of five elements was developed. These elements include 
enhancing entrepreneurship education and skills; facilitating technology exchanges and innovation; 
improving access to finance; promoting partnerships and linkages; and optimizing the regulatory 
environment. It is hope d that this toolkit can inform further discussions and exchanges of best 
practices, provide a reference for those looking to support MSMEs in the green and digital economies, 
and can inform policy support and technical assistance.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/UNCTAD_G20_toolkit_on_MSMEs.pdf  
7.5  Supporting MSMEs on Accounting and Financial , Sustainability and SDG Reporting 
(UNCTAD)  
8 Feb ruary 2022  
 
25.  UNCTAD also presented on the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on International Standards 
of Accounting and Reporting (ISAR). Created by ECOSOC and housed at UNCTAD, ISAR seeks to 
generate consensus building, provide policy guidance, and give technical assistance on financial and 
sustainability reporting. ISAR also looks to support enterprise reporting for assessing the private 
sector contribution to implementation of the SDGs. Key areas of focus also include MSME accounting 
 
2 This presentation contains relevant content for the sections on MSME financing, trade facilitation,  
digital,  and other topics (see presentations 6.4, 8.5, 10.5, 11.4). 
3 This presentation is also included under Section 10. Digital (see presentation 10.7). INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  and reporting. Curr ently, ISAR is in the pilot phase of developing an e -accounting platform for 
MSMEs. It has also developed guidance on core SDG indicators and a training manual on accounting 
for MSMEs. Improving MSME reporting and accounting capacity can help these busines ses improve 
their credit worthiness and access to finance.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/UNCTAD_Supporting_MSMEs_reportin
g.pdf 
8  TRADE FACILITATION  
8.1  Promoting integration of MSMEs in international trade (UN/CEFACT)  
18 February 2022  
 
26.  UNCEFACT presented information to the Group on the Integrated Services for MSMEs in 
International Trade (ISMIT) project which has been completed and a pproved since its initial 
presentation in 2019. ISMIT is a single submission portal (SSP) meant to bridge the gap between 
an e-commerce transaction made on a platform and national single windows or other government 
customs and trade procedures. Although si milar to a Single Window in that it seeks to connect 
traders to regulatory procedures and offers facilities to streamline the official trade process, it is not 
run by the government and could be offered by many different private and non -governmental 
provid ers. In addition, the ISMIT goes beyond regulatory procedures covered by Single Windows 
and could provide additional services related to legal advice, insurance, logistics, foreign exchange 
settlement, etc. and could even act as a source to document small traders' transaction histories for 
access to finance.  https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/unece_18221.pdf  
8.2  EIF VANUATU: ASYCUDA -CDS Communication Platform Project (Enhance d Integrated 
Framework)  
26 July 2021  
 
27.  The Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF), briefed the Group on its ASYCUDA -CDS 
Communication Platform Project in Vanuatu, developed in partnership with the United Nations 
Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Universal Postal Union (UPU). As 
ecommerce exploded the volume of small packages being sent across borders, it was recognized 
that national postal services and customs administrations needed new methods to facilitate this 
trade, which is o ften conducted by MSMEs. With this in mind, the cooperation launched a project in 
Vanuatu to facilitate clearance by exchanging pre -arrival/pre -departure information among agencies 
and automate customs clearance processes. The UPU and UNCTAD have identifie d 23 LDCs2 where 
an interface between the UPU's customs declaration system (CDS) and UNCTAD's ASYCUDA could 
also be established and interested MSME Group members were invited to reach out to learn more.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/260721_eif.pdf  
8.3  Briefing on SPS/TBT notification alert system ePing and related capacity building 
activities in Vietnam  (WTO)  
26 July 2021  
 
28.  The WTO Secretariat introduced the new Vietnamese  version of the e -Ping platform, an online 
alert system that helps companies follow new developments on standards and regulations for traded 
goods. ePing's services allow for private sector stakeholders, in particular MSMEs, to filter through 
the large amo unt of information to stay informed on regulatory developments. Given that language 
barriers were identified as a main obstacle to access regulatory updates, ePing was translated and 
additional sectors were included, allowing MSMEs in Viet Nam to directly follow and react to measures 
that affect them. Given the positive results from this project, there is a hope to find similar 
opportunities in the future.  https://www.wto.org/engl ish/tratop_e/msmes_e/260721_eping.pdf  INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  8.4  Global Trade Hub for Internationalization of Brazilian MSMEs (Brazil Mission to WTO)  
24 September 2021  
 
29.  Global Trade Hub, a UK -funded project in partnership with the Brazilian government, aims to 
create a digital solution to help Brazilian MSMEs internationalize. The initiative is based on 
UN/CEFACT's ISMIT concept to bring e -commerce trade services together in a platform for easier 
MSME access and trade in services. The Global Trade Hub will bring together  private sector service 
providers, Brazilian federal government agencies and national business associations among others 
to create "The Amazon of export services" for Brazilian businesses looking to internationalize. The 
Global Trade Hub was implemented in  September 2021 and intends to be operational by 2022.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/brazil_sept21.pdf  
8.5  Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the A PEC Boracay Action 
Agenda (Philippines' Government)4 
8 February 2022  
 
30.  The Philippines updated the Group on the APEC Boracay Action Agenda (BAA) as well as the 
outcomes of the 2021 Global MSME Forum on Greening SME Finance. The Boracay Action Agenda 
was in itiated in 2015 and has five main priorities, namely trade facilitation, access to finance, the 
digital economy, capacity building, and support for women MSMEs. A recent study found that 
initiatives of the BAA focused on women, the digital economy and capa city building and included the 
creation of an APEC MSME Marketplace; APEC Trade Repository; APEC Authorized Economic Operator 
Compendium; APEC Strategy for Green, Sustainable and Innovative MSMEs; and La Serena 
Roadmap for Women and Inclusive Growth. A num ber of issues were also identified that still need 
addressing, including a strong need for MSME e -learning and skill certification programmes, 
increasing MSME access to finance, and establishing a common standard for intellectual property 
evaluation in APE C economies. The BAA also found a need for promoting green and SMART MSMEs 
as enterprises of the future. The Philippines noted its desire to collaborate with WTO Members in 
common priority areas of cooperation for MSMEs from the BAA including on transparen cy and 
information sharing; trade facilitation and e -commerce; participation in regulatory development; 
gender equality and women's economic empowerment; aid -for-trade and technical assistance and 
capacity building; and access to finance.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/Philippines_APEC_Boracay_Action_Age
nda.pdf  
9  CYBER -READINESS  
9.1  Canadian SME Cybersecurity Initiatives & Progra ms (Government of Canada)  
18 February 2021  
 
31.  Although many MSMEs believe they are too small to be targeted for a cyber breach, Verizon 
data for 2019 indicate that more than two fifths of attacks were against MSMEs. To address this 
problem, CyberSecure Canada, a cyber security partnership initiative f or MSMEs developed by the 
Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, was created. Canada's national cyber security strategy, 
administered through the Centre for Cyber Security, has three high level goals – to increase 
resilience of Canadian systems; to foster an innovative and adaptive cyber ecosystem through skills 
and talent; and to provide effective leadership, governance and collaboration.  
32.  CyberSecure Canada is a voluntary certification programme based on 13 "security control areas" 
or best practices on cyber security, such as developing an incidence response plan; creating data 
backups with encryption; and implementing user authentication protocols. Launched in 2018, the 
programme is currently in its pilot phase through fall 2021 at which point it will move to  a Canadian 
National Standard. Outreach and engagement are currently ongoing, with four certificates already 
issued and 175 SMEs undergoing the certification process. CyberSecure Canada also intends to 
engage with other national initiatives including the U K Cyber Essentials and the US Cybersecurity 
 
4 This presentation contains relevant content for the sections on MSM E financing, sustainability,  digital,  
and other topics (see presentations 6.4, 7.3, 10.5, 11.4). INF/MSME/W/39  
 
- 13 - 
 
  Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) programme to ensure mutual recognition and reciprocity.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tr atop_e/msmes_e/cybersecure_canada_18221.pdf  
9.2  GCA Cybersecurity Toolkit for Small Business (Global Cyber Alliance)  
7 April 2022  
 
33.  Presentation on the Global Cyber Alliance's (GCA) approach to cyber readiness for MSMEs and 
the GCA free -to-use toolkit of MSME r esources. Overall, the GCA is focused on building a secure and 
trustworthy internet including by building a domain trust community for information sharing and 
best practices. Tools that the GCA has developed for MSMEs include six guided steps for better MS ME 
cyber security, skills assessments and video trainings. These steps include knowing what a business 
has already; applying relevant updates, such as for software; using strong passwords; ensuring 
systems are backed up and recoverable; and finally, protec ting email. The Toolkit itself is accessible 
via an interactive website with a menu bar, guided popups, video introductions and handbooks on 
the relevant topics. Besides a toolkit for business, the GCA also offers cybersecurity toolkits for other 
potential  users including mission -based organizations and financial institutions.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/gca_toolkit_7april22.pdf  
9.3  Strengthening MSME Cyber Se curity (TechUK)  
4 May 2021  
 
34.  TechUK is an industry association representing UK businesses on digital and cyber matters. It 
works directly with government and its MSME members to develop technology policy and create an 
environment conducive to technological change. One of the biggest concerns when it comes to 
MSMEs and technology is cyber security. Despite a growing cybersecurity sector in the UK, MSMEs 
face a number of challenges to access these services including the costs of these services; lack of 
skills and awareness of their business' cyber risks; and brain drain as employees with cyber security 
skills can gain higher compensation elsewhere. Actions the UK government has taken to protect 
MSME cyber security includes developing a National Cyber Security S trategy 2016 -2021, creating 
specific cyber security advice for MSMEs, and creating a Cyber Essentials certification program for 
firms. Businesses that sign up for Cyber Essentials can be reviewed for security defects and receive 
recommended actions to impr ove their digital security.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/cyber_security0521.pdf  
9.4  Importance of cybersecurity for digital trade (Coalition to Reduce Cyber Ris k (CR2))  
24 September 2021  
 
35.  CR2 presented to the Group on the importance of cybersecurity for digital trade. Currently there 
are more than 80 different national strategies for critical infrastructure in place that define what 
critical infrastructure is in scope but do not specify ex ante security requirement or a process and 
timelines for incident reporting. The digital ecosystem is reliant on trust, and cyber -attacks 
compromise that trust. Companies need to be able to take an integrated, risk -based approac h to 
cybersecurity, however many prescriptive policies prevent firms from doing so. There is also a need 
by governments to follow international standards and best practices because divergent laws can act 
as non -tariff barriers requiring companies to duplic ate their efforts or even exit a market out of fear 
of legal repercussions. A consistent use of standards can reduce complexity and compliance costs, 
thereby increasing MSME participation in trade, including international trade. Alignment with 
internationa l standards can also increase security outcomes thereby protecting MSMEs which are the 
most vulnerable to cyber -attacks. For examples of cyber language in trade agreements, CR2 noted 
cybersecurity cooperation in CPTPP, the G20 Finance Ministers Declaration , RCEP and the Australia -
Singapore DEA to name some.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/cr2_sept21.pdf  
 INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  10  DIGITAL  
10.1  The Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records – MLETR (Abu Dhabi Global 
Markets)  
24 June 2021  
 
36.  ADGM presented on its various initiatives to transform Abu Dhabi's business and finance 
landscape through digitization, the development of frameworks related to APIs and crypto assets, 
and the creation of regulatory  sand boxes for digital and FinTech. ADGM's labs in particular are 
meant to help make it possible for FinTechs and start -ups to get their ideas and solutions in front of 
established banks. ADGM encourages all banks to participate in these labs where a prob lem is issued, 
and solutions can be proposed and reviewed. Separately, ADGM is also currently working on an SME 
platform to create an ecosystem where SMEs input their data and opt to receive offers from advisors 
providing finance, legal services, etc. in o rder to bring SME banking to a new level. This marketplace 
will be available at the end of 2021. the regulatory landscape was also underscored, including how 
MLETR can support initiatives such as these.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/adgm_240621.pdf  
10.2  Bahrain's ETR Law (Economic Development Board of the Kingdom of Bahrain)  
24 June 2021  
 
37.  The Economic Development Board of the Kingdom of Bahrain presented on its experience as 
the first economy in the world to implement electronic transferable records (ETR) for specific trade 
documents and instruments. Unlike the MLETR, the Kingdom of Bahrain chose to specifically name 
the trade documents it would make electronical ly transferable, namely bills of lading, letters of 
credit, warehouse receipts, cheques, bills of exchange, promissory notes, and other documents or 
instruments (in respect of delivering goods or paying a fixed amount of money) specified in a 
regulation. T hey simultaneously issued a new Electronic Communications and Transactions Law 
(ECTL) to ensure consistency and avoid duplication with ETR. The Kingdom of Bahrain concluded by 
noting that ETR was not an isolated initiative, it required a number of compleme ntary initiatives to 
implement not only in terms of making new laws available on the books ranging from personal data 
protection and revamping the electronic transactions law to ECTL, but also promoting the use of 
cloud computing and government digitalizat ion as well as providing training and pursuing continued 
customs modernization initiatives.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/bahrain_240621.pdf  
10.3  Creating a modern digital trade ecosystem (ICC -UK) 
24 June 2021  
 
38.  The ICC -UK presented on a recent joint report with Coriolis looking into the ways that digitizing 
transferable documents could support SME growth. Given the sheer number of trade documents, 
making them electronic can be a very practical way to support MSMEs. Governments play a critical 
role in this digitization and the benefits can be enormous based on the study, namely an estimat ed 
£25 billion in new economic growth and 25% more SME Trade by 2024; up to a 75% reduction in 
the number of days needed to process documents and up to £224 billion in efficiency savings. 
However, it's important that global harmonization is pursued when it  comes to this transfer, which 
is provided by the MLETR framework. The ICC -UK made a call to action of the MSME Group to help 
to raise the visibility of the Model Law and of its importance for MSME growth and trade digitalization. 
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/iccuk_240621.pdf  
10.4  Overview of the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records – MLETR 
(UNCITRAL)  
24 June 2021  
 
39.  UNCITRAL began the meeting with a pres entation on the history and purpose of the Model Law 
on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR). Adopted in 2017, MLETR enables the use of various 
trade documents in electronic format, including bills of lading and promissory notes. It also supports INF/MSME/W/39  
 
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  the us e of emerging technologies like blockchain, IoT and smart contracts, but is a technology 
neutral agreement. MLETR is an enabling law – it does not create new regulations, rather it is built 
around functional equivalence rules meaning the same law applies t o both electronic and paper -
based documents. By enabling electronic records, MLETR makes it possible to put multiple regulatory 
documents together in one file, with permissions for each document selectively given based on 
relevance. It was noted that enact ing MLETR can enable cross -border data flows, improve supply 
chain governance, reduce compliance costs, safeguard against fraud, and minimize manual inputs, 
all of which are especially useful for small businesses for whom compliance with regulations is a 
burden. Ultimately, MLETR is seen as a key enabler of digital trade financing and paperless trade 
facilitation moving the entire process online and reducing duplication of data. Currently it has been 
adopted in Bahrain, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/uncitral_240621.pdf  
10.5  Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda (Philippines' Government)5  
8 Febru ary 2022  
 
40.  The Philippines updated the Group on the APEC Boracay Action Agenda (BAA) as well as the 
outcomes of the 2021 Global MSME Forum on Greening SME Finance. The Boracay Action Agenda 
was initiated in 2015 and has five main priorities, namely trade fa cilitation, access to finance, the 
digital economy, capacity building, and support for women MSMEs. A recent study found that 
initiatives of the BAA focused on women, the digital economy and capacity building and included the 
creation of an APEC MSME Marke tplace; APEC Trade Repository; APEC Authorized Economic Operator 
Compendium; APEC Strategy for Green, Sustainable and Innovative MSMEs; and La Serena 
Roadmap for Women and Inclusive Growth. A number of issues were also identified that still need 
addressing , including a strong need for MSME e -learning and skill certification programmes, 
increasing MSME access to finance, and establishing a common standard for intellectual property 
evaluation in APEC economies. The BAA also found a need for promoting green an d SMART MSMEs 
as enterprises of the future. The Philippines noted its desire to collaborate with WTO Members in 
common priority areas of cooperation for MSMEs from the BAA including on transparency and 
information sharing; trade facilitation and e -commerce ; participation in regulatory development; 
gender equality and women's economic empowerment; aid -for-trade and technical assistance and 
capacity building; and access to finance.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/Philippines_APEC_Boracay_Action_Age
nda.pdf  
10.6  Digital Marketing Training for Micro -Small to Medium Enterprises (Tofara)  
8 February 2022  
 
41.  Tofara Chokera from Tofara Online , a Zimbabwean Digital Marketing and Innovation Consulting 
Trust, presented to the MSME Group on actions undertaken to implement its winning Tech Driven 
Entrepreneur Training Programme from the 2021 Small Business Digital Champion initiative. Aiming 
to tac kle unemployment, gender inequality, and a lack of technical skills, the Tech Driven 
Entrepreneur Training kicked off at the end of January 2022 with a focus on enabling entrepreneurs 
to trade internationally via the digital economy, especially by leveragi ng digital marketing. 
Participants in the training come from five African economies (Botswana, Nigeria, South Africa, 
Zambia, and Zimbabwe) and the hope is to reach at least 2500 trainees both online and in -person. 
Tofara Online also intends to increase ac cessibility by creating content for the hearing and speech 
impaired, developing an online course that can be accessed on demand, and sponsoring more women 
and MSME participants.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/Tofara_Online.pdf  
 
 
5 This presentation contains relevant content for the sections on MSME financing, sustainability, trade 
facilitation, and other topics (see presentations 6.4, 7.3, 8.5, 11.4). INF/MSME/W/39  
 
- 16 - 
 
  10.7  G20 Toolkit for Green via Digital MSMEs (UNCTAD)6 
8 February 2022  
 
42.  On behalf of G20 Italian Presidency, UNCTAD presented the "Non -Binding Policy Toolkit on 
Promoting Born Green via Digital MSMEs and Entrepreneurship in Global Supply Chains", which was 
developed in collaboration with the ITC, OECD, World Bank and WTO. The green and digital 
economies are two entry points for MSMEs and are tied in with the G20 p riorities of people, planet 
and prosperity. Recognizing new challenges that MSMEs face accessing green finance, digital 
technologies, online marketplaces, compliance with green regulations and access to new knowledge 
and skills, a toolkit with a framework of five elements was developed. These elements include 
enhancing entrepreneurship education and skills; facilitating technology exchanges and innovation; 
improving access to finance; promoting partnerships and linkages; and optimizing the regulatory 
enviro nment. It is hoped that this toolkit can inform further discussions and exchanges of best 
practices, provide a reference for those looking to support MSMEs in the green and digital economies, 
and can inform policy support and technical assistance.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/UNCTAD_G20_toolkit_on_MSMEs.pdf  
11  OTHER TOPICS  
11.1  Activities of the OECD Working Party on SMEs and Entrepreneursh ip (OECD)  
18 February 2021  
 
43.  The OECD's presentation highlighted the recently updated OECD Scoreboard on financing SMEs 
and Entrepreneurs with information on 48 economies and a thematic chapter on the evolution of 
SME financing policies. It was also noted i n the presentation that a forthcoming paper on trade  
finance in the digital era would be released soon. The presentation also showed how MSMEs have 
been at the center of the Covid -19 pandemic and bankruptcies are expected to rise sharply in 2021. 
Most econ omies have implemented business support measures beginning with deferral of payments 
and increased access to credit moving to structural policies such as acceleration of digitalization and 
internationalization. It was highlighted that many new options theo retically exist to assist MSMEs in 
the digital era, however challenges remain. From a policy perspective, efforts need to be made to 
make the finance process digital from end to end; interoperability needs to be prioritized; banks 
need to be incentivized t o provide digital solutions; and finally, MSMEs themselves need have access 
to digital tools.  https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/oecd_18221.pdf  
11.2  Policy options to support rural MSMEs (Brazil Mission to the WTO)  
4 May 2021  
 
44.  On rural MSMEs, Brazil proposed that the MSME Group could exchange best practices on rural 
MSME policies and hold a dialogue on trade facilitation and rural MSMEs in relation to Annex 3 of the 
package (th e recommendation on trade facilitation and MSMEs). Rural MSMEs make up a significant 
portion of the economic participants in developing economies. Ensuring that they have access to 
international markets can benefit these actors by ensuring they have demand  for their products and 
increasing efficiencies.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/rural_msmes_brazil0521.pdf  
11.3  Legislative Guides on Business Registration and  Limited Liability Enterprises 
(UNCITRAL)  
24 September 2021  
 
45.  The United Nations Commission for International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) gave a presentation 
on the legislative guides on business registration and limited liability enterprises, both of which have 
important implications for MSMEs. These legislative guides join a host of UNCITRAL texts that apply 
to the whole of a MSME lifecycle, including UNCITRAL arbitration rules, technical notes on online 
dispute resolution and UNCITRAL Model Law on Secured Transa ctions. The new legislative guides 
 
6 This presentation is also included under Section 7. Sustainability (see presentation 7.4). INF/MSME/W/39  
 
- 17 - 
 
  came from work by UNCITRAL's Working Group I, which was established in 2013 to work on reducing 
legal obstacles throughout the lifecycle of MSMEs. Key features of the new legislative guide on key 
principles of a business registry are easy access to information, such as making registration 
information easily and publicly accessible (including across borders); creating a fully electronic 
process with all information located in one online location; providing guidance on the r egistration 
process as well as preservation of records for future access; and finally an improved registry system 
with regularly updated information and unique identifiers for users. For the legislative guide on 
limited liability enterprises, legislators s ought to create a flexible business form that could be tailored 
to MSMEs and that could be supported by stand -alone national legislation. Ultimately, these 
guidelines look to benefit start -ups and informal MSMEs who are looking to join the formal economy.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/uncitral_sept21.pdf  
11.4  Outcomes of the Global MSME Forum 2021 and Updates on the APEC Boracay Action 
Agenda (Philippines' Government)7 
8 February 2022  
 
46.  The Philippines updated the Group on the APEC Boracay Action Agenda (BAA) as well as the 
outcomes of the 2021 Global MSME Forum on Greening SME Finance. The Boracay Action Agenda 
was initiated in 2015 and has five main priorities, namely trade facilitation, access to finance, the 
digital economy, capacity building, and support for women MSMEs. A recent study found that 
initiatives of the BAA focused on women, the digital economy and capacity building and included the 
creation of an APEC MSME Marketplace; APEC Trade Repository; APEC Authorized Economic Operator 
Compendium; APEC Strategy for Green, Sustainable and Innovative MSMEs; and La Serena 
Roadmap for Women and Inclusive Growth. A number of issues were also identified  that still need 
addressing, including a strong need for MSME e -learning and skill certification programmes, 
increasing MSME access to finance, and establishing a common standard for intellectual property 
evaluation in APEC economies. The BAA also found a need for promoting green and SMART MSMEs 
as enterprises of the future. The Philippines noted its desire to collaborate with WTO Members in 
common priority areas of cooperation for MSMEs from the BAA including on transparency and 
information sharing; trade facilitation and e -commerce; participation in regulatory development; 
gender equality and women's economic empowerment; aid -for-trade and technical assistance and 
capacity building; and access to finance.  
https://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/msmes_e/822022_e/Philippines_APEC_Boracay_Action_Age
nda.pdf  
 
__________  
 
7 This presentation contains relevant content for the sections on MSME financing, sustainability, trade 
facilitation , and digital  (see presentatio ns 6.4, 7.3, 8.5, 10.5).