The International Trade Centre (ITC) launched the first-ever Global SME Ministerial Meeting in July 2025, bringing together 60 countries to create a dedicated space for SME development. Recognizing that SMEs often receive limited attention within broader trade and finance agendas, the meeting produced a Call to Action highlighting access to finance, digital transformation, and the green transition as key enablers for SME growth. It also tasked ITC with supporting countries through global public goods, knowledge sharing, and community building ahead of the second ministerial in 2027.

This session will bring together ministers and heads of delegations who participated in the inaugural meeting to discuss the early outcomes and potential of this new political space. Participants will explore how shared experiences and best practices can inform national SME policies and contribute to building a foundational digital platform for knowledge exchange at regional and national levels.

Speakers will highlight ITC’s role in designing and operationalizing the platform, demonstrating how digital tools and cross-country learning can accelerate SME development. The discussion will also showcase early impacts from knowledge sharing, providing insights into how coordinated global efforts can strengthen SME competitiveness, innovation, and sustainable growth across regions.