UN MSME Day 2025: Digital, Green & Inclusive Growth
On July 3, 2025, New Delhi played host to the United Nations World Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day, bringing together over 300 global leaders to champion the cause of MSMEs. Under the theme “Empowering MSMEs for a Sustainable and Digital Future,” the summit delved into the pressing issues of digitalization, green innovation, women-led enterprises, and global trade, showcasing India’s leadership and emphasizing the importance of tech-driven, inclusive, and sustainable pathways for MSMEs worldwide.
The event was a testament to the growing recognition of MSMEs as a vital component of the global economy, accounting for around 90% of businesses and generating over 70% of new jobs. As such, it was crucial to address the challenges and opportunities facing these enterprises, particularly in the context of the ongoing digital transformation and the need for sustainable development.
Digitalization: A Key Driver of Growth
In today’s digital age, MSMEs must adapt to the changing landscape by embracing digital technologies to remain competitive. The summit highlighted the importance of digitalization in enhancing operational efficiency, improving customer engagement, and expanding market reach. India’s experience in this regard is particularly noteworthy, with the government’s initiatives such as Digital India and Startup India providing a conducive environment for MSMEs to innovate and thrive.
Keynote speaker and Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Shri Narayan Tatu Rane, emphasized the need for MSMEs to leverage digital platforms to scale up their business and increase their global competitiveness. He also underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making, citing the example of India’s MSMEs, which have successfully adopted digital tools to improve their supply chain management and logistics.
Green Innovation: A Sustainable Future
The summit also focused on the critical role of green innovation in driving sustainable growth and development. MSMEs, being the backbone of local economies, have a significant impact on the environment and can play a crucial role in reducing carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices.
The event showcased innovative solutions and technologies developed by Indian MSMEs, such as sustainable packaging materials, energy-efficient products, and eco-friendly manufacturing processes. The government’s initiatives, such as the National Clean Energy Fund and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), were also highlighted as key enablers of green innovation.
Women-Led Enterprises: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
Women-led MSMEs are a growing force in the global economy, and the summit emphasized the importance of empowering these entrepreneurs to drive inclusive growth. The event featured success stories of women entrepreneurs from across the country, who have overcome challenges and achieved remarkable success in their respective industries.
Keynote speaker and Chairperson, National Commission for Women, Rekha Sharma, emphasized the need for policy support and infrastructure development to enable women entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses and contribute to the economy.
Global Trade: Opportunities and Challenges
The summit also explored the opportunities and challenges facing MSMEs in the global trade arena. With the rise of e-commerce and digital trade, MSMEs can now access new markets and customers, but they must also navigate the complexities of international trade laws and regulations.
The event highlighted the importance of trade agreements, such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), in promoting MSME exports and facilitating global trade. Indian MSMEs were encouraged to explore new markets and partnerships, leveraging the country’s strategic location and business-friendly policies.
Conclusion
The UN World MSME Day 2025 provided a platform for global leaders to converge and discuss the pressing issues and opportunities facing MSMEs. The event emphasized the importance of digitalization, green innovation, women-led enterprises, and global trade in driving inclusive and sustainable growth. India’s leadership in championing MSMEs was showcased, highlighting the country’s commitment to empowering these enterprises and promoting sustainable development.
As the world continues to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic era, it is crucial that MSMEs are equipped with the necessary tools and support to drive growth and development. The UN World MSME Day 2025 served as a clarion call to governments, businesses, and civil society to work together to empower MSMEs and create a more inclusive and sustainable future.
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