Page 432 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - JANUARY 2024

1/18/24, 3:56 PM UAE launches new 'EcoMark' green accreditation framework for MSMEs
The EcoMark certification, which is based on ISO standards and digitally enabled, will

include a full suite of resources to help MSMEs attain EcoMark status, covering
document requirement guidelines and a roadmap to progress from basic to advanced

levels of sustainability, and a standardised application process and complete

eligibility criterion for accreditors in the participating countries. The framework will be

overseen by a central body headquartered in the UAE.

The initiative was announced at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in
Davos by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade,
during a panel discussion titled 'A New Trade Order: Inclusive Growth'.

The panel, which gathered ministers, policymakers, and academics to explore
means to better integrate LDCs, MSMEs, and female and youth-led businesses
into global trade, highlighted the need to help emerging enterprises keep pace

with increasing consumer demand for products and services that comply with
green standards.

Launching the initiative, Al Zeyoudi emphasised that MSMEs have a pivotal role in
driving the transition toward a lower-carbon economy. However, the contribution

of MSMEs such as those run and operated by underrepresented groups including

women and youth can only be unlocked through targeted and customised support that
reduces time, cost and resource constraints associated with environmental regulatory

compliance.

Al Zeyoudi said, "Accounting for almost 90 percent of global businesses, MSMEs
must have full access to the global trading system if our vision of a more sustainable

and equitable global economy is to be realised. These enterprises are also important

agents of change, with the flexibility and singularity of focus required to drive

sustainability across value chains.

The development of the EcoMark Global Accreditation as an accessible and

universally recognised platform will help them both find and compete in new markets

around the world, and meet the growing demand for sustainable products and
services."

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