And while trade barriers do not only affect SMEs ... it is SMEs who  4  BIS central bankers’ speeches  are especially vulnerable and need an open and transparent environment in which to operate.” The major barriers to SME trade include: a. Lack of access to finance  b.
Lack of capacity to internationalize and difficulty in identifying foreign business opportunities (SMEWG)  c.  Need for open and transparent business  d.  High transportation and related costs (SMEWG)  e.  Customs clearance delays due to difficulties in navigating overly complex customs requirements and documentation across jurisdictions  f.  Difficulty with intellectual property acquisition, protection, and enforcement  g.  Inadequate policy/ regulatory frameworks to support cross-border electronic commerce  h.  Difficulty in taking advantage of preferential tariffs and other aspects of trade agreements  (e)  Development of human and natural resources  19.