Key initiatives to boost the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector in Bahrain were discussed at a key chaired by Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Hassan Fakhro.

He stressed the important role played by the committee in strengthening SMEs at the ninth meeting of the main committee to co-ordinate and integrate activities in the kingdom.

The Ibtikar Group gave a visual presentation on the committee's initiative to launch a programme to help SMEs and train them to improve their performance.

The meeting reviewed the benefit to SMEs from such a programme.

Ministry officials gave a visual presentation on a project to develop an electronic portal for SMEs in the kingdom.

The meeting discussed the concept of the portal, its goals to encourage the culture of entrepreneurship, develop the SMEs sector and enhance its contributions to the national economy.

The presentation also displayed contents and categories in the website in addition to technical support tools.

The committee also discussed a work plan to develop SMEs, which includes the current situation of SMEs, and highlighted the gaps in government policies, initiatives to develop entrepreneurs, how to obtain financing, ways to access market as well as means of developing technology used in these enterprises.

The latest development on a feasibility study to establish an export development centre in Bahrain was also discussed.

Acting under-secretary of industrial affairs Osama Al Arrayed presented a summary on the efforts exerted by the ministry in collaboration with other parties represented in the committee to transfer international experience and benefit from available marketing opportunities.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the Economic Development Board, Tamkeen, Unido, the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Bahrain Businesswomen's Society, Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife, Supreme Council for Women and Ebdaa Bank.

Representatives from the private sector were also present. – TradeArabia News Service