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The private sector plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable and inclusive economic growth, according to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

Speaking during the Special Session on Dialogue with the Private Sector at the High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries on April 28, Secretary Roque underscored the importance of collaboration between stakeholders.

“Collaboration is not only essential—it is vital. This session rightly places the private sector not on the sidelines, but at the

center of development solutions,” she stated. “In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., our government is committed to creating an enabling environment for your success.”

With the theme “Enabling Impactful Partnerships for Sustainable Development,” the session emphasized the need for robust collaboration among governments, businesses, and other actors to effectively address the challenges faced by middle-income

nations.

Roque highlighted the critical role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippine economy. MSMEs make up 99.5% of all businesses in the country and employ over 60% of the workforce, she noted.

Despite their contributions, MSMEs continue to face barriers to growth, including limited access to financing, regulatory complexities, restricted involvement in value chains, and slow digital transformation.

To address these issues, Secretary Roque shared the administration’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Plan 2023–2028. The comprehensive roadmap aims to strengthen the MSME ecosystem by simplifying regulations, reducing red tape, enhancing coordination across agencies, and institutionalizing data systems to better respond to business needs.

The DTI is also expanding access to finance and investing in human capital through programs like Kapatid Mentor ME and the nationwide network of Negosyo Centers. These initiatives focus on empowering women, youth, and underserved communities.

In addition, the Department is helping businesses harness emerging technologies through the MSME Digitalization Agenda. This includes support for e-commerce integration, the adoption of artificial intelligence, and linkages with innovation hubs. The agency is also promoting circular economy models, sustainable technologies, and climate-resilient practices.

These efforts are reinforced by broader strategies to modernize infrastructure, expand market access, improve public-private dialogue, and build resilience to both economic and environmental shocks.

The high-level dialogue aims to deepen cooperation, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and foster innovative coordination models. The ultimate objective is to nurture a more resilient, competitive, and inclusive MSME sector—particularly in middle-income and transitioning economies.