The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the digital divide in the region, making it an urgent concern. In response, digital connectivity and e-commerce platforms are becoming crucial tools for connecting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Lancang-Mekong (LM) countries to both domestic and global markets. 

Currently, MSMEs in Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam face several challenges that hinder their adoption of technology and digital tools, including limited knowledge of available technologies and their applications. One significant change in the MSME sector, driven by the pandemic, is the rapid shift toward electronic services and digital payment systems across all businesses, many of which are focused on enhancing cross-country trade and collaboration.

During the pandemic, digital technologies and connectivity have not only become critical enablers of maintaining daily life and connecting people, but they have also laid a foundation for achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

There is a growing urgency to upgrade MSME stakeholders’ capacity to better leverage the potential of digital connectivity. The SDGs will be best achieved when governments, the private sector, civil society, and other stakeholders collaborate to narrow the digital divide and create a more inclusive development as part of pandemic recovery efforts.

The Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) has played a significant role in enhancing regional development efforts through connectivity tools and digital transformation. ‘Digital connectivity’ brings new opportunities for the region to cope with the current crisis and address longer-term development challenges.

With the support of the People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China, Mekong Institute (MI) is implemented a one-year project titled “Fostering Digital Connectivity in the Lancang-Mekong Countries.” The project aimed to identify challenges and opportunities in the MSME sector, share experiences on digital connectivity, and enhance the capacity of key stakeholders by introducing digital platforms. The focus was on sharing successful experiences in applied digital technologies among LM countries, contributing to SDGs and LMC objectives.