The Chair’s Statement of the 10th ASEM Summit (ASEM10) underscored the importance of improving framework and working conditions for ASEM SMEs, including expanding their access to credit’. Moreover, several ASEM leaders suggested to work towards a ‘more fair and balanced international credit rating system’ affecting ASEM SMEs, and encouraged an enhanced cooperation among relevant agencies and institutions from Asia and Europe.
Italy organized a bi-regional dialogue in 2015, focused on ways to support the expansion of ASEM SMEs, as well as their international business and trade. The ASEM Seminar on Financing SMEs in Asia and Europe intended to provide a platform where policymakers and relevant business and financial stakeholders can share best practices, views and opinions, while drawing from significant findings, experiences and lessons learnt.
