UNIDO supports MSMEs as catalysts for sustainable growth
Guangzhou, China, 27 June 2025 – During the 20th China International SME Fair (CISMEF), which was held from 27 to 30 June 2025 in Guangzhou, China, UNIDO reaffirmed its commitment to empowering SMEs as drivers of sustainable industrialization.
“While navigating complex challenges - such as geopolitical tensions, climate change, and digital transformation – SMEs still account for over 90% of businesses and more than 50% of global employment”, said Ciyong Zou, Deputy to the Director General and Managing Director of the Directorate of Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Industrial Development. “They are critically important, but they also need to internationalize by actively leveraging platforms, such as CISMEF, to build coordinated partnerships”.
As a key CISMEF partner, UNIDO provides its convening power, its industrial development expertise, and its portfolio of proven tools and best practices for the increased internationalization and competitiveness of SMEs. To this end, UUNIDO proposes a new strategic framework to support SMEs focusing on creating enabling environments; enhancing competitiveness and modernization; prioritizing digital transformation and innovation; supporting the green transition; and strengthening inclusive and community-based value chains-
During the UN’s MSME Day event, Alejandro Rivera Rojas, Chief of UNIDO’s Division of MSME Competitiveness, Quality and Job Creation, presented successful practices and approaches in supporting SMEs, including the Global Quality and Standards Programme (GQSP) that enables producers to access new markets. UNIDO was also active during the China–ASEAN SME Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Rules Promotion Conference, during which Stephen Kargbo, UNIDO Representative to China, Mongolia, and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, further reiterated UNIDO’s commitment to empowering SMEs.
Several high-level meetings were held, including with senior officials from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Guangdong Provincial Government, government representatives, financial institutions, and SMEs.
As part of its broader mission, UNIDO continues to promote resilient, green, and inclusive industrial development; the depth of the Organization’s support to SMEs is introduced in this video.
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