Chapter 1 CAMBODIAN SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ... - ERIA

Improving access to BDSThe SME Sub-Committee has suggested three approaches for increasing SME use ofBDS. One, the BDS on offer should be made widely known and available to all SMEs.Two, the benefits from such services should be emphasised to SME owners. And three,the specific BDS needs of SMEs should be identified along with the barriers preventingSMEs from using these services. 80Awareness of, and benefits from, BDS could be disseminated through relevantbusiness associations and government departments. The media could also be used tospread this information. Once available services and their benefits are made obvious to anumber of entrepreneurs, many more will learn of these services via word of mouth.The standard of BDS on offer needs to be kept high to develop a reputation as beingworthwhile to SMEs.To determine barriers and needs specific to SMEs, relevant associations couldprovide the government with information on the BDS requirements of their members. ABDS survey of SMEs and associated organisations would provide valuable informationon requirements and barriers.5.3.2 Access to marketsThere are a number of organisations and government departments providing informationfor SMEs on domestic and international markets. Market information is provided by theCambodian Development Review Institute, and other research groups, aid organisationsand local media. Many Government Ministries produce free monthly or quarterlynewsletters. However, the information contained in government publications issometimes unreliable and generally of limited use, and information from other sourcesis not easily understood by a lot of SMEs. 81 Many SME owners are simply un-aware ofthe possibilities for expanding their markets.Improving access to marketsTo improve SME access to national and international markets the SME Sub-Committeerecommends the government provide the following. 8228