Removing Barriers to SME Access to International Markets Although SMEs are a major source of growth and job creation SMEs appear to be under represented in the international economy relative to their contribution in national and local economies. Two original OECD APEC surveys investigated how SME policy makers and SMEs perceive the barriers to SME access to international markets. This proceedings presents a report on the results of the surveys a synthesis of the conference discussions and the main outcome of the conference: the Athens Action Plan for Removing Barriers to SME Access to International Markets.