This OECD report, published in 2021, builds on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on SMEs and entrepreneurs. These categories were particularly at risk as they face limited liquidity buffers to overcome low incomes due to lockdowns and falling sales. This report analyses the short- and long-term effects of the crisis and analyses policy measures to support the recovery of SMEs and entrepreneurs. It also looks at measures taken to counter the impact of the crisis, in particular on SMEs, such as initiatives to improve companies’ resilience and adaptability to changing circumstances. The report also presents 38 country profiles that provide an overview of SME performance and business trends at national level. In particular:
Part 1 addresses SME indebtedness, the risks and opportunities of possible transformations of global value chains, as well as trends in SME digitalisation and innovation that emerged during the crisis.
Part 2 presents 38 country profiles, provides an overview of SME performance at national level and business trends, and assesses the vulnerability and resilience factors of the SME sector in each country. The Country Profiles also present national policy frameworks on SMEs and entrepreneurship, as well as recent policy initiatives to support the recovery of SMEs.