The Group welcomed the reference to small business in the MC12 outcome document and reflected on what can be done to maintain the momentum post MC12. They also looked into possible work to be carried out by the Group that could help to deliver meaningful results by the WTO's next Ministerial Conference, such as the development of additional recommendations or taking concrete actions by members that can advance the objectives of the group.

Members suggested that the Group should be looking into issues related to digitalization of trade processes, the treatment of low-value shipments and the impact of cyber-security on small business and enhancing engagement with the private sector to receive relevant feedback to the work of the Group.

On behalf of the Coordinator of the Group, Ambassador  José Luís Cancela of Uruguay, Second Secretary Mauro Bruno drew attention to the three research notes issued by the WTO Secretariat on MSMEs Day. These notes update the trade statistics from the 2016 World Trade Report on small businesses in developed and developing economies and also touch on climate change policies that could help them engage in sustainable practices.

The Group heard updates on the Trade4MSME platform, particularly on webinars to raise awareness of the platform, and additional resources to be added to it. Members also reviewed the implementation of the December 2020 package of recommendations.

Members heard a presentation from the Institute of Export and International Trade on their Trade Logistics Information Pipeline, which aims to support paperless trade.