Xport Accelerator Programme: Empowering SMEs for African Trade Expansion
The Xport Accelerator Programme, held from October 14 to 16, 2024, aims to enhance the export readiness of SMEs in Mauritius and Seychelles. Through a three-day workshop organized by MCCI and UNDP, participants received training on various aspects of international trade, including export strategies and market entry. With a growing interest in the African market, the programme strives to empower SMEs to leverage trade opportunities under the AfCFTA, ultimately fostering economic growth and sustainability.
The Xport Accelerator Programme, a collaborative initiative between the Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), recently conducted a three-day workshop from October 14 to 16, 2024. This workshop was specifically designed to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Mauritius and Seychelles by enhancing their export readiness and facilitating their understanding of trade opportunities in Africa under the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Fifteen SMEs from Mauritius and three from Seychelles participated in comprehensive training sessions focused on critical aspects of exporting. The agenda included topics such as export strategy formulation, international marketing tactics, financial risk management, logistics, and adherence to international trade requirements and standards. In addition to these topics, participants received insights into brand positioning, digital marketing, and financial services. The workshop featured contributions from representatives of various authoritative institutions, including the MCCI, the Mauritius Revenue Authority’s Customs Department, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Cooperation and International Trade. This collaborative environment fostered valuable exchanges between SME representatives and experts in the field, which allowed for an in-depth discussion regarding the complexities of exporting to the African market.
The Xport Accelerator Programme is part of a broader effort to facilitate small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their journey towards international trade, particularly within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This initiative recognizes that SMEs are vital to the economic landscape, contributing significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) and employment in regions like Mauritius. Furthermore, the African market presents extensive opportunities for growth, given its diverse cultures, resources, and increasing demand for innovation. The capacity building and training provided through the programme aim to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills necessary to overcome the obstacles they face in exporting goods and services.
In conclusion, the Xport Accelerator Programme represents an essential step towards bolstering the export capabilities of SMEs in Mauritius and Seychelles. By providing structured training and fostering expert collaboration, this initiative not only enhances participants’ understanding of the complexities of exporting to Africa but also positions these SMEs to capitalize on the abundant opportunities presented by the AfCFTA. Enhanced support and strategic capacity building are critical components in unlocking the potential of African markets, thereby promoting sustainable growth and entrepreneurship in the region.
Original Source: www.undp.org
