The World Trade Organization (WTO) Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Group has launched a joint study with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). The report provides an overview of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programmes, analyzes current MSME participation in these programmes, and aims to serve as a resource for customs administrations, policymakers, and stakeholders. The goal is to advance a more inclusive approach to global trade facilitation.
Ms. Lazzat Daniyarova from the WCO joined the meeting online along with Ms. Valerie Piccard from the ICC. Ms. Daniyarova thanked Ambassador Matthew Wilson of Barbados, Coordinator of the MSME Group, for his involvement in the initial launch event at WCO headquarters on November 13. Ms. Piccard stated: "While the study marks an important milestone, focus should remain on the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), underlining that the integration of MSMEs into AEO programmes is another important step in advancing trade facilitation."
The meeting also featured two "MSME Spotlight" sessions to highlight entrepreneurial experiences. Mr. Seiji Sekine, President and CEO of Kanemasa from Japan, described his company's development from a small manufacturer to an SME engaged in international trade and investment. He discussed challenges such as finding reliable partners abroad and credited government organizations for supporting Kanemasa’s global expansion.
Julianne Ponan, Founder of Creative Nature Superfoods in the UK, shared her perspective as a young female entrepreneur whose company exports allergen-free snacks to 17 economies. She outlined difficulties with international labeling and documentation requirements and emphasized: deeply understanding target markets and government support programmes were key factors in overcoming export barriers.
The group recognized two runners-up from the 2025 ICC-ITC-MSME Group Small Business Champion Competition. Divin Kouebatouka, Founder and CEO of Green Tech Africa from Congo, presented KUKIA—an eco-friendly absorbent fiber made from water hyacinth that addresses pollution while creating jobs locally. Gonzalo Yrigoyen, COO and Co-founder of Excuela from Peru, introduced an online training platform designed for areas with limited internet connectivity; it focuses on corporate sustainability through low-data digital tools.
Representatives from Korea's Ministry of SMEs and Startups introduced the APEC Startup Alliance for 2025 Jeju Initiative—a public-private partnership aimed at strengthening connections among startup ecosystems across Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries. The initiative will include an annual forum, offline networks, an integrated online platform with regulatory information and best practices, as well as a matchmaking tool to connect startups with partners.
Ms. Ana Derevyanko of the European Business Association highlighted efforts supporting SMEs during difficult periods through research like the Small Business Sentiment Index and programs improving access to funding and education. She noted initiatives such as a business school for Ukrainian soldiers and veterans, alongside projects helping MSMEs navigate uncertainty.
Looking ahead to future priorities, Ambassador Wilson announced that Small Business Champions 2026 would focus on artificial intelligence (AI), with collaboration between WTO, ICC, ITC, and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) expected for proposal calls in early 2026.
The meeting ended with preparations for outputs at the upcoming 14th WTO Ministerial Conference scheduled for March 2026. Ambassador Wilson said it is important to continue showcasing MSME participants whose experiences can enrich formal WTO discussions—for example by highlighting how recent spotlights have influenced talks on technical barriers to trade.
He suggested considering future work after MC14 focused on intellectual property rights and AI from an MSME support perspective.