Manila: The Philippines: Serving as the chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Philippines is set to host a high-level inclusive business forum aimed at enhancing the integration of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) into regional and global value chains. This significant event is scheduled for September 22 and will take place at the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Hall in Pasay City, on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Economic Ministers' (AEM) Meeting.

According to Philippines News Agency, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo emphasized that the meeting underscores ASEAN's dedication to fostering growth that is inclusive and centered around people. He highlighted the importance of promoting inclusive business models within ASEAN, which can provide MSMEs, farmers, micro-entrepreneurs, and community enterprises with access to essential markets, financing, technology, and business opportunities. These efforts are seen as pivotal in contributing to poverty reduction and promoting more equitable growth within the region.

The forum will also see the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) launching its report titled 'From Margins to Markets: Powering ASEAN's Economy Through Inclusive Business.' This report is expected to offer a regional perspective on the economic contributions made by inclusive businesses in ASEAN. The event reflects nearly a decade of progress since the Philippines first introduced the concept of inclusive business to the regional agenda during its ASEAN chairmanship in 2017.

Since that introduction, ASEAN has worked to mainstream the concept of inclusive business. The ASEAN Economic Ministers endorsed the Guidelines for the Promotion of Inclusive Business in ASEAN in 2020 and adopted the Plan of Action for the Promotion of Inclusive Business in ASEAN in 2023. These initiatives aim to promote the accreditation of inclusive businesses and build the capacity of firms to develop and implement inclusive business models.

Additionally, the forum will host the ASEAN Inclusive Business Awards Ceremony, which will recognize outstanding inclusive enterprises from various countries in the region. Among the awardees are GoMamam of Brunei, Confirel Co., Ltd. of Cambodia, Agradaya of Indonesia, Saya of Laos, Rodrell Sdn. Bhd of Malaysia, Ei Lay Food Enterprises of Myanmar, Foreword Coffee Pte., Ltd. of Singapore, Oam suk of Thailand, Cristianom2t UNIP, Lda. of Timor Leste, Haplast of Vietnam, and Kawayan Collective of the Philippines.