International conference for SMEs' business opportunities in North African region

A high profile panel debate including investment experts from Libya, Tunisia and Egypt will provide participants with an insight on economic trends as a result of the ongoing political change in these countries, and the business opportunities that may stem from these developments.

In light of the recent upheavals that have characterized the political landscape in the Arab countries, a new approach to how business is being conducted and how a new economic reality is unfolding in the Southern Mediterranean region, is unveiling new business opportunities for Maltese and European enterprises.

The Malta Business Bureau and the Ministry for Competition, Small Business and Consumers have joined forces to organise a high profile international conference with the purpose of shedding light on the new economic developments occurring in the post-Arab spring. A panel debate with investment experts from Libya, Tunisia and Egypt will provide participants with a unique insight on the evolution of economic trends as a result of the ongoing political change.

This will be followed by separate workshops that will separately analyse the particular circumstances and markets of Libya, Tunisia and Egypt as well as charting business opportunities for SMEs.

A key intervention will be delivered by Mr Wojciech Sopinski and Mr Antonios Fysekidis - officials within the DG Enterprise and Industry (European Commission), who will highlight the various aspects of EU policy specifically aimed at supporting SMEs and at contributing to job creation in view of the EU-MED Industrial Co-operation. Other aspects will include an outline of the Commission's strategy to support SME internationalization efforts and the facilitation of business contacts through the Enterprise Europe Network.

A second key intervention will be delivered by Mr Dirk Vantyghem - Director of International Affairs at Eurochambres, who will be focusing his intervention on the EU's support programmes which aim at strengthening Euromed business-to-business cooperation. Mr Vantyghem will delve into the merits and requirements related to the 'Invest in-Med II' programme.

The half-day conference is being held on Friday 15^th June (08:30hrs - 13:00hrs) at the Grand Hotel Excelsior, Floriana. For registration and more information contact the Malta Business Bureau on [email protected] or 2125 1719.

Proceedings will be held in English.