Canada Supports 200 Nigerian SMEs in Global Market Access

The Trade Facilitation Office of Canada has initiated a five-year program aimed at supporting 200 Nigerian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in enhancing their export capacity and gaining access to international markets. This initiative, funded by the Canadian Government through Global Affairs Canada, focuses on improving export readiness, providing market information, and connecting businesses with potential international buyers.

Approximately 67 percent of the beneficiaries are expected to be women-led or owned businesses. The program, named Trade for Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth, was launched in Abuja.

Chief Emeka Obegolu, President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated that the initiative would help overcome barriers that hinder Nigerian SMEs from competing globally, such as limited access to finance and market information. The program also includes an SME Climate Resilience Fund to offer technical assistance and training for improving environmental sustainability.

Obegolu emphasized the need for stakeholder collaboration to identify and address barriers to international market access.