As part of the consolidation of the Network for Best Practices in SME Policy in Latin America and the Caribbean (RED-PPALC), and building on the progress made at the Network’s third meeting, this new gathering is intended to serve as a technical and strategic forum aimed at further developing the regional agenda for the development of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

The third meeting strengthened dialogue among countries, international organisations and key stakeholders, promoting the exchange of experiences, institutional coordination and the identification of common challenges in areas such as the production of statistics, business internationalisation and evidence-based policymaking. Against this backdrop, this meeting aims to move towards a more operational phase, focusing on defining concrete lines of action and developing deliverables that will strengthen regional cooperation.

The proposed agenda includes two priority thematic areas –data for decision-making and the internationalisation of SMEs– which address the main structural challenges identified in the region and the need to improve the quality of public policies aimed at productive development.

The main aim of the event is to strengthen regional cooperation and the formulation of public policies for MSMEs in Latin America and the Caribbean, through the analysis of statistical data, the exchange of best practices, and the definition of strategic priorities aimed at enhancing their internationalisation and productive development.

This event specifically aims to:

1. Examine the current situation and challenges regarding data generation and use for SMEs

• Review gaps in data collection, definitions and statistical systems
• Promote common criteria to strengthen the measurement of the sector
  .

2. Define strategic lines of action for the internationalisation of SMEs

• Identify barriers and opportunities for access to global markets
• Exchange experiences and best practices between countries
• Develop concrete proposals to facilitate the international integration of SMEs
  .

3. Strengthen regional coordination and consensus-building within the RED-PPALC

• Promote technical dialogue between countries and institutions
• Validate inputs and make progress on agreements for the Network’s upcoming outputs
• Establish next steps and commitments for joint work

The event will take place online and will last for 90 minutes, from 11.30 am to 1.00 pm Argentina time.