Mapping the export gains of digital tools

The Opportunity

Millions of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Asia-Pacific could export far more if digital tools replaced paperwork, yet the policy debate on the region’s digital economy is dominated by multinationals. Without data on the real savings these tools deliver – or clarity on the regulatory obstacles MSMEs face –governments risk crafting rules that inadvertently raise barriers for smaller firms.

A coalition representing MSMEs and a leading technology company asked Access Partnership to quantify the benefits, map the hurdles, and give smaller traders a credible voice in forthcoming trade negotiations.

The Solution

We modelled how an array of digital enablers – search and advertising platforms, cloud accounting, e-commerce logistics systems, freight sensors and more – could reduce export costs for MSMEs by up to 82 per cent. We also identified four priority regulatory pain points: market-access red tape, intermediary liability, copyright exposure, and cross-border data restrictions. The findings were packaged into an accessible report, country factsheets and policy briefs.

To ensure uptake, we presented the work at high-profile fora including an ASEAN–Australia workshop in Bangkok and the WTO Ministerial Trade & Sustainable Development Symposium in Buenos Aires, engaging officials, business groups and media.

The Impact

• Delivered the first region-wide evidence base showing digital tools slashing MSME export costs by up to 82 %
• Equipped policymakers with clear, MSME-centred recommendations now referenced in regional digital-trade consultations
• Elevated MSME perspectives in global forums, ensuring forthcoming digital-economy rules consider small-business needs

Tags

Economics Analysis

Risk Advisory

Trade

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