Enrolment options
The interface between competition policy and MSME development
MSMEs are becoming increasingly important because of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development. The adoption of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development in 2015 represented a renewed commitment in world partnership for tackling persistent challenges faced by developing countries in meeting the goals. 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.
Nevertheless, the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the attainment of these goals. Of particular concern, the impact has been adverse on the MSMEs, leading to market exit. Regional dialogue meetings held by UNCTAD have established a similar pattern of adverse effects. Various interventions have been made in the marketplace during the COVID-19 pandemic 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.
The objective of this course is to train officials from Competition authorities, SMEs development agencies and other relevant stakeholders on the interface between MSMEs development and Competition policy. Moreover, the training course will provide tools and practical knowledge to assist the resurgence of MSMEs in the post-COVID-19 era.
This online course is complimentary courtesy of UNCTAD and it will commence on 1 February 2024 until 31 March 2024. The online course integrates self-paced learning with no specific login time.
The online course is free and available to developing countries. Participants need to be appointed by their governments. Alternatively, interested participants may reach out to elizabeth.gachuiri@unctad.org and valentina.rivas@unctad.org to express interest to be enrolled in the online course.
Objectives
At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Enhance awareness of the relevance of Competition policy to MSMEs and how Competition policy can enhance MSMEs market access.
- Inform policy makers on how to integrate MSMEs and Competition policy into economic recovery plans.
- Raise awareness of how Competition and MSMEs policies are interlinked and can support the economy post-crisis.
- Strengthen the capacity of MSMEs to face challenges in the digital markets and promote advocacy initiatives.
- Understand the various barriers that affect access to finance by MSMEs.
- Understand the importance of inter-institutional cooperation for MSME growth and development.
Methodology
Your learning experience will take place in an online virtual learning environment in UNCTAD learning management system. You can log in at any time and at your convenience. Once online, you will be able to read the assigned texts, access digital learning resources and participate in the online activities.
Our learning model is built around three key characteristics: our courses are designed to be interactive, case-based and practical.
You will engage with various interactive online activities, and concepts will be brought to life through real-world competition law related cases that place you in the shoes of the regulators. As you and your peers discuss the challenges these regulators faced and debate solutions, you will learn vital competition law and policy concepts you can apply to your own career.
Our courses are also uniquely practical and based on real cases. To get the most out of the course, every participant must commit to teaching and learning from each other. Your cohort's diversity provides a unique opportunity for you to experience new perspectives and strengthen your own learning while helping others as well.
Contents
Module 2: MSME challenges, Market Access and Market Positioning
Module 3: MSMEs and Access to Finance
Module 4: MSMEs and E-Commerce / Digitalisation
Module 5: Inter-agency / Institutional Collaboration
Target Audience
Competition and MSME Development Agency Officials
Representatives of MSME organisations
Academicians
Civil society representatives
Prerequisites
There is no pre-requisite requirements to participate in this online course.
Cost participation
This online course is complimentary courtesy of UNCTAD. It is free and available to developing countries.
