The new platform will allow small businesses to access a diverse range of trade information brought together from a variety of sources. It can be accessed here.

The platform contains short guides providing key information on the steps that companies need to follow before exporting or importing goods or services, such as how to assess the export potential of the markets they are targeting and their readiness to export.

The guides list the key trade documents required for companies to export or import in various markets, the contractual or intellectual property issues that need to be considered and the logistics and transport options available. The guides also explain how small businesses can access trade finance, make the best use of digital tools, and deal with potential trade disputes.

Trade4MSMEs also provides information for policymakers, government officials and researchers, outlining important issues for MSMEs and highlighting best practices. The platform provides information on international and regional initiatives aimed at MSMEs and contains links to MSME data sources available for analytical purposes.

The platform was developed with the financial support of the United Kingdom's Trade and Investment Advocacy Fund (TAF2+) and UKAid. Additional funding from Canada will be available, it was announced at the launch event. Current partners include the Global Trade Helpdesk, the International Chamber of Commerce and its Centres for Entrepreneurship, the International Trade Centre and Google. Additional partnerships will be developed in the coming months.