South Africa, International Trade Centre to host first-ever Global SME Ministerial Meeting
The International Trade Centre (ITC) is partnering with the Republic of South Africa to host the first-ever Global SME Ministerial meeting to convene Ministers from across the world that are dedicated to the millions of small businesses that form the backbone of the global economy.
This ITC initiative, as the United Nations’ small business agency, will take place in Johannesburg on 22-24 July 2025, in the year of South Africa’s G20 presidency.
The Department of Small Business Development of South Africa has partnered with ITC to co-host this inaugural Ministerial, which will center around the theme:
“Navigating New Business Frontiers” focusing on how SMEs can drive economic transformation in their countries by enabling three key areas:
access to finance, digital connectivity, green transition.
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Objectives
- The inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting will provide a global platform for Ministers representing SMEs to address the most pressing issues hindering businesses from reaching their full potential.
- The Global SME Ministerial Meeting is built on the overarching theme of trade-driven economic transformation that seeks economic development, growth and job creation.
Participants
- G20 countries
- Countries in the Global South who have prioritized SME development in their national agenda
- Heads of intergovernmental organizations and specialized UN agencies
- SME representatives
- C-suite executives
- Public and private sector partners
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Expected Outcomes
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The establishment of a new Global SME group to enhance national efforts to support small business.
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The creation of a space to learn from success stories, and identify opportunities.
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A Call-to-Action to influence global economic discussions.
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A draft roadmap for biennial meetings.
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A Business and Innovation space to connect ministers and, business leaders.
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Leadership Dialogue for Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs).
Scan the QR code to Download the Networking App
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The Networking App will help participants connect, schedule meetings, and navigate the space.
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