Eudine Louison
Jul 2

Empowering Small Businesses: A Grenada perspective on navigating trade procedures

Empty space, drag to resize
Empty space, drag to resize



Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) are the engines of many economies, particularly in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Grenada. However, for these vital businesses, importing and exporting goods is often a real struggle, feeling complicated and overwhelming.

In a recent video presentation, part of the UNCTAD Empowerment Programme (which includes training in effective communication for National Trade Facilitation Committee members), Eudine Louison from the Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce shared valuable insights on how to help MSMEs overcome these challenges.





Eudine highlights the real obstacles faced by MSMEs. From confusing documentation requirements and the need for multiple agency approvals to unexpected costs at customs, these challenges can be significant deterrents. She notes that MSMEs often voice the same questions as, "Where do I start?", "What forms are required?", and sometimes, with frustration, "Why didn't anyone tell me this before?". Such situations can lead to delays, overcharging, or even goods being turned away, causing financial harm and impacting market confidence.

This is where trade facilitation becomes a crucial "game changer." By simplifying customs processes, introducing digital platforms (like single window systems), and offering centralized information and tailored MSME support, governments and trade agencies can effectively remove many of these pain points. As Eudine puts it, these are not just aspirations, they are real tangible actions already making a real difference in some regions.

Supporting MSMEs in trade is especially vital for small islands like Grenada. As the economic and cultural backbone driving employment, these businesses (from cocoa exporters to local fashion brands) benefit significantly when their trade is streamlined. Efficient trade for MSMEs fosters not only economic growth but also innovation, regional integration, and community resilience.

Moving forward, Eudine emphasizes three key areas:

  1. Investing in training and resources to ensure MSMEs understand and can navigate trade rules.
  2. Fostering stronger collaboration between public institutions and private sector bodies, like the Chamber of Commerce.
  3. Creating inclusive trade policies that intentionally support the success of small businesses.


Ultimately, she reminds us, "Trade facilitation is not just about paperwork, it is about people. Let's work together to make trade work for everyone."

This success story is part of the Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, a flagship initiative that has been widely praised for its impact in building capacity and supporting inclusive trade reform. Eudine Louison gratefully acknowledges the financial support of HM Revenue & Customs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (HMRC), which has made this programme possible.

Empty space, drag to resize

Eudine Louison

Eudine Louison has worked with the Grenada Chamber of Industry & Commerce for over a decade, championing the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). With experience in organizing business expos, trade activities, and capacity-building workshops across local, regional, and international levels, she is passionate about connecting entrepreneurs with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.

Although not a member of the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC), Eudine has actively contributed to initiatives aligned with its mission. She recently completed UNCTAD’s course on Effective Communication, which offered fresh insight into the role of inclusive communication in helping MSMEs navigate trade systems and make their voices heard. Her video presentation, now featured on this blog, reflects her deep commitment to empowering small businesses through trade facilitation.

Disclaimer: These articles are contributions from members of the National Trade Facilitation Committees in the framework of UNCTAD e-Learning for Trade Facilitation. The articles may contain advice, opinions and statements of various information providers. The United Nations does not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any advice, opinion, statement or other information provided by any information provider, any User of this Site or any other person or entity. Reliance upon any such advice, opinion, statement, or other information shall also be at the User's own risk. Neither the United Nations nor its affiliates, nor any of their respective agents, employees, information providers or content providers, shall be liable to any User or anyone else for any inaccuracy, error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, alteration of or use of any content herein, or for its timeliness or completeness, nor shall they be liable for any failure of performance, computer virus or communication line failure, regardless of cause, or for any damages resulting therefrom.