Enhancing the role of SMEs in Global Value Chains (GVCs)

How does the globalisation of value chains affect the role of SMEs?

The question lies at the heart of an OECD study,  Enhancing the Role of SMEs in Global Value Chains (GVCs), which addresses the issues of how globalisation of value chains and of large enterprises affects the role of SMEs as traditional partners, suppliers or distributors for larger firms and explores the benefits of SME participation in global value chains.

The OECD Global Conference on Enhancing the Role of SMEs in Global Value Chains, held in Tokyo on 31 May-1 June 2007 brought together experts from governments, international organisations, academia, business and civil society to examine the conclusions of the study, review best practice policies and programmes and draft the Tokyo Action Statement – including policy recommendations -- for further work in this area.

Organised in cooperation with the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the conference presented case studies from two manufacturing industries and two service industries, as well as one case study from the film production and distribution industry. The conference sessions covered a broad range of themes, including scientific and precision instruments; innovation, R&D, standards and technology; intellectual assets and IPR management; cooperation mechanisms and conducive global business environment.  

The speakers included policy makers and representatives from SMEs, MNEs business associations, international organisations and thematic experts.

Click here for the OECD Background Report (pdf).

For further information see the conference website.