According to the Digital Economy Report 2019 by UNCTAD, the rapid spread of digital technologies has changed economic activities, and also has widen the digital divide. In dynamic international trade, SMEs need to jointly create sustainable business environment through digitalization and innovation. Moreover, it is also to note that the outbreak of COVID-19 has greatly enhanced the crucialness of digital economy. This project thus echoes the 2019 SME Ministerial Statement to promote digitalization for enhancing SMEs’ competitiveness. It also demonstrates the importance of “SMEWG Strategic Plan 2021-2024” in encompassing digital economy and inclusive business ecosystems.

Through experience sharing and best practice showcasing, this project aims to promote digitalization to be a vital driving force of cross-domain innovation and strengthen SMEs in the GVCs to gain more competitiveness.

One forum will be held virtually by Chinese Taipei and the Philippines with over 200 expected participants. SMEs, start-ups, policy makers, and women entrepreneurs will be the beneficiaries. For dissemination, “APEC Cross-Domain Innovation Ecosystem Guidebook- A New Growth Path for SMEs through Digital Platform” will be published.