Digitalisation plays a pivotal role in enabling businesses to engage in cross-border trade. An initiative, such as the regional ASEAN Access platform, aligns well with this vision. However, while digitalisation makes it easier to deliver and access resources, such as market information, trainings and networking opportunities, the challenge in the platform’s adoption, promotion and sustainability.
At the Annual ASEAN Access Members Gathering held in Bangkok on 27-28 February 2024, thirty representatives from the public and private sectors across ASEAN came together to shape the future of the ASEAN Access platform.
Among others, they compiled experiences and suggestions on how to increase the participation of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in virtual matchmaking activities through ASEAN Access MATCH and how to add learning offers on cross-border trade through recently launched LEARN feature.
Highlighting the importance of sustainability, Dr Veerapong Malai, Director General of the Office of SMEs Promotion (OSMEP), Thailand in his opening remarks underlined
“A strong and collaborative network and efforts will be key in driving the success and impact of ASEAN Access, also under the post-2025 ASEAN agenda. We are happy to host the platform but also encourage the active engagement of other Member States to consider and commit necessary resources to ensure sustainability of the platform, services and its Network.”
Key takeaways from the discussion:
- A strategy for political support and partner contributions
Refining the existing governance structure to help secure long-term political commitment, as well as mobilize financial and human resources. - Concerted efforts to promote ASEAN Access and its core features
Enhancing the visibility of ASEAN Access through various communication channels, collaboration, engaging formats and meaningful content. - Continuous peer learning and innovation
Facilitating regular cross-border networking and the utilisation or integration of innovative online tools and databases.
Since its launch in June 2021, ASEAN Access has grown to encompass over 3,200 members and boasts an extensive network of more than 40 service providers. The platform is owned by the national SME promotion agencies in ASEAN and operated in partnership with champions from the business community in the region.
The development of ASEAN Access and its main features, MATCH and LEARN receives technical assistance from GIZ through the ASEAN SME II project funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
For more information, please visit: https://www.aseanaccess.com
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