Both the potential and constraints in SME development require a transformation in policy and how trade and financial markets and institutions operate. These would not only reduce constraints of SMEs in accessing financial resources but also catalyze trade growth of SMEs, generating multiple impacts, including unlocking sources of capital and providing additional economic growth and employment through Intra-Africa trade. These are the main reasons for PACCI to convene an International Conference.
The Conference will be held on 17- 18 May, with an optional one more day to visit exporting companies in Botswana. It is envisioned that through knowledge exchange and learning among international participants involved in SME export trade and the sharing of innovations, this symposium will identify best practices and develop recommendations to eliminate bottlenecks and maximize the potential of SMEs for the achievement of the AfCFTA.
The Conference will be organized by PACCI, Association of SADC Chambers (ASCCI) and Business Botswana. The parties are partnering with AfBC, UNECA ATPC & relevant UN agencies, Shared Value Africa Initiative (SVAI), international organizations, international financial institutions, SMEs and entrepreneurs, as well as members of civil society and prominent researchers from think tank organizations, in addition to policymakers from national governments.
Showcases:
Africa Trade Observatory (ATO and AU), Pan African Payments and Settlement System (PAPSS), MANSA, Chamber E-COO, SME Blue pages, Jamii Trade, AfCFTA Business Index –ATPC among others based on partnerships and limited slots,
FOLLOW UP STEPS
Follow-up steps will be planned and implemented after the conference. These include:
- Prepare a draft Conference report, including key findings; and
- Convene an operational team to coordinate the implementation of follow-up steps, under the auspices of PACCI.
