This online course explores the connection between competition policy and MSMEs across five modules. It addresses challenges like market access, positioning, finance, and digitalization, emphasizing interagency collaboration.
The pertinent goals in the context of this course include those related to alleviation of poverty, zero hunger, gender equality, decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities, responsible consumption, and products.
Of particular concern, the impact has been adverse on the MSMEs, leading to market exit. During 2021 and 2022, regional dialogue meetings held by UNCTAD on the subject matter have established a similar pattern of adverse effects. Various interventions have been made in the marketplace by governments, MSME agencies and Competition Authorities, which have included actions against price gouging, non-intervention in non-egregious cooperative arrangements and government funding.
Competition policy has long been linked to objectives such as economic efficiency that facilitate key components of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development. Hence, this course aimed at bringing to the fore the application of competition policy and law interventions that further the entry, growth, and sustainable development of MSMEs.
