Indonesia to Host 57th APEC SME Working Group Meeting in Bali
Nusa Dua, Bali, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia is set to host the 57th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Small and Medium Enterprises Working Group (APEC SMEWG) meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali, scheduled for April 24-25, 2024. This significant forum will bring together representatives from 21 APEC member economies to address pertinent issues and developments concerning micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the Asia-Pacific region.
Secretary of the Ministry of Co-operatives and Small and Medium Enterprises, Arif Rahman Hakim, highlighted the strategic importance of the upcoming event, emphasizing its role in facilitating discussions on the latest trends and challenges facing MSMEs.
The 57th APEC SMEWG will be inaugurated by Co-operatives and SMEs Minister Teten Masduki and will welcome delegates from APEC’s 21 member economies, including Indonesia, Australia, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and others.
“In organizing the 57th APEC SMEWG, Indonesia aims not only to host but also to foster a platform for the exchange of ideas, insights, experiences, and best practices to enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian MSME products,” remarked Minister Teten Masduki.
In conjunction with the SME Working Group meeting, Indonesia will also convene an APEC Policy Dialogue titled “Financial Inclusion for MSMEs: Understanding the Importance of Digital Financial Literacy” on April 23. This dialogue is designed to generate policy recommendations aimed at improving MSMEs’ awareness and knowledge of digital financial systems to enhance financial inclusion.
Secretary Arif Rahman Hakim emphasized that the gathering will showcase Indonesia’s commitment to aligning MSME development programs and policies with the strategic objectives of the APEC SME Working Group for the period of 2021-2024.
“We are eager to demonstrate our progress towards inclusivity in digitalization, access to finance, and alternative financial solutions,” added Secretary Hakim.
The 57th APEC SME Working Group meeting underscores Indonesia’s dedication to advancing MSMEs within the APEC region and fostering collaboration towards sustainable economic growth and development.
