As global trade becomes increasingly digital, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) risk being left behind. Paper-based systems and fragmented infrastructure remain major barriers to market entry, leading to export delays and lost income that disproportionately affect smallholder farmers and SMEs. While progress has been made with electronic customs tools in 40 African countries, gaps in interoperability, infrastructure, and trust continue to limit competitiveness and participation in regional and global value chains.

This session will explore how trade policy, digital infrastructure, and innovation ecosystems can boost SME growth and inclusion in the digital economy. From affordable connectivity and e-commerce platforms to harmonized digital trade rules and inclusive financing, participants will examine practical solutions and case studies, including ePhytos in Ghana and Kenya, which have reduced clearance times from 72 hours to under 12 and enabled compliance with stringent EU protocols.

Speakers will highlight multi-stakeholder trust frameworks, regional collaboration, and open digital standards as enablers of inclusive digital trade. The discussion will also address technical, policy, and financing solutions for scaling adoption, overcoming bottlenecks, and ensuring SMEs across Africa can leverage digital trade to participate fully in value chains and drive sustainable economic growth.