Sustainability

<p>This high-level event, jointly organized by the Permanent Mission of Indonesia to the UN, the Permanent Mission of Rwanda to the UN, ILO, ITC, UNCTAD, UNDESA, UNDRR, UN Global Compact, and UNIDO will spotlight the pivotal role of micro-, small, and medium-sized enterprises in advancing inclusive growth and sustainable development at a critical moment for the global agenda.</p><p>A distinguished panel will address practical strategies to expand MSME access to finance, accelerate formalization, and foster enabling policy environments. The discussion will generate actionable recommendations to inform global priorities ahead of key international summits.</p><p>Participants are invited to contribute to shaping an ecosystem in which MSMEs can drive resilient and sustainable economies.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>Strengthening Albanian Olive Oil Exports through Quality Standards and Sustainable Practices</strong></h3><p>As part of its ongoing support to agri-food SMEs in Albania, the International Trade Centre (ITC), in collaboration with national experts and laboratories, conducted a targeted training and capacity-building programme aimed at enhancing the export readiness of Albanian olive oil producers.</p><p>The activity brought together <strong>10 leading olive oil exporting SMEs and 7 olive cultivators</strong>, with the objective of strengthening their knowledge and practices around <strong>international quality standards</strong>, <strong>laboratory testing</strong>, and <strong>biological pest control</strong>.</p><p>Held in Tirana, the two-part training featured interactive workshops and technical sessions on:</p><ul><li>Understanding EU and international standards for olive oil quality, purity, and safety</li><li>Laboratory testing of oil samples using certified Albanian and Italian labs, including key parameters such as acidity, peroxides, alkyl esters, polyphenols, and pesticide residues</li><li>The Introduction of biological pest control as a sustainable alternative to banned pesticides is essential for organic certification and market access.</li></ul><p>The programme was delivered by local experts in food quality and agricultural science, with the participation of academic institutions and certified labs. It generated high engagement and provided SMEs with practical tools to adapt their production processes and meet the requirements of international markets.</p><p>This initiative is part of ITC’s broader efforts to support <strong>sustainable and inclusive trade</strong> in the Western Balkans by strengthening value chains, improving product compliance, and facilitating export opportunities for small businesses.</p>