Vietnamese and ADB representatives at the White Book launch ceremony, January 23, 2024. |
The publication titled “Facilitating entrepreneurship growth by lifting barriers: A White Book on women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam” explains the challenges women business owners face in getting access to the credit they need and assesses ways to better direct finance and training.
It shows how creating an enabling environment, developing gender disaggregated databases, and targeting support to women-owned businesses can promote gender equality, cut poverty, and drive inclusive growth.
Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Tran Duy Dong emphasized the crucial role of women-owned businesses in Vietnam’s efforts to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development goals.
98% of businesses in Vietnam are small or medium-sized, of which 20% are women-owned, he said.
Currently, Vietnam is one of the most favorable markets in ASEAN for the development of women entrepreneurs, with the most effective network of women-owned businesses, according to Mr. Dong.
The findings and recommendations in the White Book will provide valuable information for state management agencies and relevant organizations to create even more favorable conditions for the development of women entrepreneurs commensurate with their potential and role, he noted.