Today's increasingly interconnected global economy is transforming what is traded and who is trading. International trade has long been dominated by large companies. But thanks to dramatically reduced trade barriers, improved transportation links, information technologies and the emergence of global value chains, many SMEs now have the potential to become successful global traders as well. Participation in international trade, once exclusive, can progressively become more inclusive. The 2016 World Trade Report examines the participation of SMEs in international trade. It finds that small businesses continue to face disproportionate barriers to trade and highlights the scope for coherent national and international policy actions that would enhance the ability of SMEs to participate in world markets more effectively. It underlines that participation in trade has an important role to play in helping SMEs become more productive and grow. For open trade and global integration to fully benefit everyone, it is crucial to ensure that all firms – not just large corporations – can succeed in today's global marketplace.
Chapter A Introduction -- Chapter B -- SMEs in international trade: stylized facts -- Chapter C -- Dynamics of internationalization processes of SMEs -- Chapter D -- Trade obstacles to SME participation in trade -- Chapter E -- Cooperative approaches to promoting SME participation in trade -- Chapter F -- Conclusions

177 p. ill., charts

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