The prosperity of global trade isn't just a stage for large corporations—it should benefit the vast number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that form the capillaries of economic systems. These businesses connect production, distribution, and consumption, serving as vital engines for innovation and employment. But are complex trade facilitation programs inadvertently creating barriers for SMEs seeking to integrate into global markets?
Brussels, November 13, 2025 — The World Customs Organization (WCO), World Trade Organization (WTO), and International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) jointly released a report titled "Integrating SMEs into Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Programs." This landmark study illuminates the challenges SMEs face in global trade while charting a path forward.
A Shared Commitment: Building Inclusive Trade Systems
The collaborative report represents more than documentation—it symbolizes the strengthened partnership between WCO, WTO, and ICC. The organizations reaffirmed their commitment to provide leadership, guidance, and technical assistance to help customs administrations and SMEs thrive in evolving trade environments.
The report's central objective is creating a more inclusive, efficient, and secure global trade system where businesses of all sizes can prosper. WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO articulated this vision in their joint preface:
"The future of trade facilitation depends on successful public-private partnerships that include all economic operators, especially SMEs. Through our initiatives, we aim to support customs administrations in creating pathways for SMEs to benefit from security and efficiency gains in these programs. Together, we can build a future where no trader gets left behind."
Key Findings: The Dual Reality of SMEs in Global Trade
The report provides a comprehensive analysis of SMEs' critical role in the global economy while revealing their challenges in international trade participation:
Economic Powerhouses
- SMEs constitute 90% of global businesses and provide over 50% of employment worldwide
- In emerging markets, they contribute up to 40% of GDP, with informal SMEs making comparable contributions
- In developed economies, SMEs account for 36% of exports and 41% of imports
- Developing economy SMEs derive 11% of revenue from direct exports and source one-third of production inputs internationally
Persistent Challenges
- Limited financing: Restricted access to capital constrains growth and innovation
- Regulatory complexity: Burdensome compliance requirements increase operational costs
- Infrastructure gaps: Transportation, logistics, and communication deficiencies hinder efficiency
- Market and skills disparities: Lagging capabilities in marketing, technology, and talent retention
- Compliance awareness: Limited understanding of international trade rules and requirements
- Supply chain vulnerability: Heightened exposure to disruptions due to smaller scale
AEO Programs: Opening Doors for SMEs
The report focuses on integrating SMEs into the WCO's AEO program—a crucial mechanism for enhancing supply chain security and trade facilitation. Current AEO requirements often exclude smaller businesses due to complex application processes and stringent standards.
Recommendations include:
- Streamlining application procedures to reduce compliance burdens
- Providing technical assistance and training for security capacity building
- Implementing differentiated approaches based on business size and characteristics
- Enhancing communication channels between customs and SMEs
Global Innovations: Case Studies in Inclusion
The report highlights ten successful case studies demonstrating how customs administrations worldwide have effectively incorporated SMEs into their programs through:
- Stakeholder engagement forums and information sessions
- Capacity-building initiatives
- Flexible certification standards
- Simplified clearance processes
Building Resilient Trade Networks
The report concludes that SME inclusion in AEO and other trade facilitation programs is essential for creating a more resilient global trade system. Strengthened customs-business collaboration will stimulate economic growth while enhancing supply chain security.
This comprehensive study provides governments, businesses, and industry stakeholders with practical tools and guidance to ensure no trader gets left behind in the evolving global marketplace.