Expert Dialogue
Scaling-Up Digital Connectivity for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises in the Lancang-
Mekong Countries for Post-Pandemic Resilience

Date: December 14, 2023
Venue: Virtual Zoom Platform
Time: 13:00 – 16.30 (Bangkok Time)

The Need for Scaling-Up Digital Connectivity for MEMEs in the Lancang-Mekong Countries
With the support of the People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Mekong Institute (MI) is currently executing a capacity development project titled “Scaling-Up Digital Connectivity for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises in the Lancang-Mekong Countries for Post- Pandemic Resilience,” spanning from November 2022 to December 2023, is strategically aligned with the goals of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, the Global Development Initiative, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The primary objectives of the project include the identification of digital technologies conducive to successful scaling in the Lancang-Mekong (LM) region and the advocacy for practical policies and strategies supporting the amplification of digital connectivity in the Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) sector. The focus is on showcasing initiatives from both the public and private sectors that aid MSMEs and engaging in discussions on how governments and development partners can collaborate with the private sector to expedite economic recovery in Lancang-Mekong Countries.

The project comprises three key components: 1) Research, 2) Onsite training, and 3) Expert dialogue. Notably, under Component-2, MI conducted an onsite regional training session on “Scaling-Up Digital Connectivity for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises in the Lancang- Mekong Countries for Post-Pandemic Resilience” from July 10-14, 2023.

Following the training, participants executed their respective action plans between August and December 2023. This Expert Dialogue workshop is now organized as an opportune moment to contemplate diverse experiences and successes derived from Component 1 – research, which will kick off with a comprehensive discussion and review of how digital connectivity, coupled with factors such as technology and innovation, is influencing the transformation of the digital economies across the region. The primary goal is to gain insights into the necessary emergency responses or actions that can be undertaken to mitigate digital gaps, providing stable and affordable access for MSMEs that are currently trailing behind.

Actionable Frameworks for Enabling a Robust Digital Connectivity Ecosystem
This dialogue serves as a pivotal platform to delve into the practical aspects of shaping the digital future of the Lancang-Mekong region. By exploring how technology and the digital economy can synergistically support the growth and development of MSMEs, the collective aim is to pave the way for a resilient, interconnected, and digitally driven economic landscape. Therefore, this significant event will bring stakeholders and participants to engage actively in this dialogue as we collectively strive to chart pathways for an enabling digital connectivity ecosystem post-pandemic in the Lancang-Mekong Countries.