Barbados is emerging as a global leader in championing Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), thanks to the bold and visionary leadership of its Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO), H.E. Matthew Wilson.
At a recent WTO session, Barbados delivered a compelling case for transforming global trade to serve better MSMEs, especially those in developing nations and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The country called for inclusive trade policies that promote greater access to financing, capacity-building, digital participation, and integration into global value chains—all while recognizing MSMEs as essential engines of innovation, employment, and equitable development.
“We need to build a multilateral trading system that doesn’t just serve the powerful, but lifts the most vulnerable. MSMEs are the heartbeat of our economies—they need tailored, supportive global frameworks to thrive,” said Ambassador Wilson, reinforcing his country’s bold message at the WTO.
This global advocacy is not going unnoticed.
On June 27, 2025, Ambassador Wilson delivered a keynote speech at the United Nations MSMEs Day celebration, hosted by the International Council for Small Business (ICSB). His remarks struck a powerful chord with global changemakers and small business advocates, calling for a human-centered, inclusive approach to entrepreneurship in international policymaking.
Following his speech, Dr. Ayman El Tarabishy, President & CEO of ICSB, hailed Ambassador Wilson as “one of the most dynamic global leaders supporting MSMEs.” He added, “Ambassador Wilson is not just changing policy, he is changing the narrative. He is redefining how we support MSMEs with a bold, equitable, and forward-thinking approach.”
In recognition of his profound impact, Ambassador Wilson was awarded the prestigious ICSB Global MSMEs Influencer Award for 2025–2026.
This initiative is part of Barbados’ broader strategy to empower its local business sector while taking global leadership in shaping MSME priorities. The country’s efforts align with ICSB’s mission to promote human-centered entrepreneurship, especially in regions where small businesses face disproportionate challenges.
