US & Philippines to co-host IPB Forum 2024

This time around U.S trade and development agency and the government of Philippines will host the sixth Indo- Pacific Economic Framework for prosperity (IPEF) SME Network at the Indo-Pacific Business Forum on 21st May’2024. The event, to be held in Manila, will be attended by Ms. Sushma Morthania, Director General India SME Forum alongside government and business representatives from across the region to “exchange ideas, explore regional government and business partnerships, and discuss commercial opportunities. “The IPBF will showcase high-impact private sector investment and government efforts to support market competition and job growth.

Further, IPEF Chief Negotiators will discuss about the benefits to SME’s across four pillars viz, trade, supply chain, clean energy- Decarbonization and Infrastructure; and tax and anti-corruption. There will also be breakout panels, business matchmaking, where participants will learn and share their insights on the latest trends, opportunities, and solutions to support infrastructure across all sectors.

The creation of IPEF SME Network was announced by IPEF leaders in November 2023 to expand people to people ties and facilitate business connections and promote opportunities for small businesses in Indo Pacific region.

It is been noted that IPBF will build upon the success of the previous five forums that have brought together more than 8,500 participants from 67 countries. The event connects government/industry and international partners to share knowledge, identify export opportunities in emerging Indo-Pacific economies, and help partners find infrastructure solutions for development challenges. The event is also a chance to learn more about government tools and programs to support projects in the region, including key decision makers from both the U.S. and the Philippines.