Cover Policy Papers
Buy Book in Print
Enhancing the Role of SMEs in the Arab World—Some Key Considerations
Author:
Vahram Stepanyan null

Search for other papers by Vahram Stepanyan in
Current site
Google Scholar Close
,
Gohar Abajyan
Search for other papers by Gohar Abajyan in
Current site
Google Scholar Close
,
Anta Ndoye null

Search for other papers by Anta Ndoye in
Current site
Google Scholar Close
, and
Ms. Marwa Alnasaa
Search for other papers by Ms. Marwa Alnasaa in
Current site
Google Scholar Close
Series:
Policy Papers
Volume/Issue:
Volume 2019: Issue 040
Language:
English
Publication Date:
13 Dec 2019
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5089/9781513522760.007
ISBN:
9781513522760
ISSN:
2663-3493
Pages:
27
Keywords:
PP; SME development; SME support scheme; control group SMES; SME policy; SME sector; SME activity; SME constraint; SME access; SME data availability; SME needs; Small and medium enterprises; Self-employment; Business environment; Financial inclusion; Public sector; Global
Download PDF (1.1 MB) Download Epub
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a cornerstone of Arab economies, accounting for over 90 percent of all businesses and providing a major source of new job creation. Governments across the Arab World recognize the important role that SMEs can play in delivering higher and more inclusive growth. Many have rightly placed SME development at the center of growth and jobs strategies to meet the needs of young populations. Authorities have initiated policy interventions and schemes to support SME development. But progress so far has been patchy, and more comprehensive policy action is needed. Fostering vibrant and competitive SMEs that contribute to employment opportunities and high value-added output requires various stakeholders to deliver on a broad range of factors. Arab governments need a holistic policy approach that addresses the gaps in access to finance, creates an enabling business environment, and upgrades human capital and infrastructure. The approach should also promote an entrepreneurial mindset.
  • Collapse
  • Expand
Cover Policy Papers
Policy Papers
ISSN:
2663-3493
Publisher:
International Monetary Fund