MSME’s Digitalization in the North and South Mediterranean

Dear Respondant,

This survey conducted under the research agenda of the Euro-Mediterranean Network for Economic Studies (EMNES) seeks to establish the level of digital engagement of MSMEs in the North and South Mediterranean, as well as their digital capability, the barriers they may face, their digital strategies and perspectives. (It will take you less that 10 minutes to respond)

EMNES is a collaborative and innovative regional network of economic and policy research institutions and think tanks from both shores of the Mediterranean and beyond working towards a renewed vision for socio-economic development in the Mediterranean, mainly focusing on sustainable development, employment creation and social inclusion. EMNES is built on four core principles: independence, excellence, policy relevance and deep knowledge on Euro-Mediterranean affairs. EMNES is co-funded by the European Union.

As of 2020, EMNES is coordinated by the Euro-Mediterranean Economists Association (EMEA). EMEA is an independent regional think tank based in Barcelona that serves as a leading independent and innovative research institution and forum for debate on the political and socio-economic reforms in Mediterranean with an opening door to Africa with the aim to promote sustainability, inclusiveness, and regional economic integration and prosperity. It strives to contribute to the rethinking of the Euro-Mediterranean in view of the new dynamics of an emerging multi-polar world. Striving to contribute to the rethinking of the region in view of reform processes in the political, economic and social agendas of Mediterranean countries post financial crisis and Arab spring, EMEA develops new scientific concepts, initiatives and projects promoting sustainability, inclusiveness, regional economic integration and prosperity.

Between February and March 2020, the COVID- 19 pandemic hit all Mediterranean countries (North, South, East and West) and all countries across the globe. All countries have implemented confinement, social distancing and rigid lockdown policies. These policies have socio-economic consequences. Micro, Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in different sectors are suffering from the global economic slowdown resulting from the contraction of economic activity world-wide. Fortunately, digital activities (including e-commerce, e-learning, e-conferencing, digital payment and finance platforms, e-gaming and others digital activities) contributed to keeping a percentage of economic activities afloat during the containment period of the global pandemic.

Responding to this survey is ever more important in this period of containment. Digital preparedness is critical to contribute to economic resilience facing global shocks such as COVID-19 global pandemic.

Please respond to make sure we can assess the obstacles facing the digitalisation of your business.

EMNES and EMEA thank you for participating in this survey.