This event is for policymakers with the objectives of raising the profile of gender in the APEC SME working group, identifying obstacles facing women-owned SME exporters, and sharing best practices in policies and programs that support these exporters in overcoming the identified obstacles. 

The session will start by hearing from women-owned SME exporters from APEC economies about their export journey and challenges they face, followed by a presentation on research identifying specific obstacles that women-owned SME exporters face, and finishing with  a session with policymakers and researchers who will highlight best practices to overcome obstacles that women exporters face, identify remaining challenges, and discuss a path forward for governments. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the obstacles and the way forward towards increasing the internationalization of women-owned SMEs.