Gender empowerment within the context of supply chain linkages and foreign direct investment (FDI) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) presents a transformative opportunity for achieving inclusive economic growth and sustainable development. This article explores the critical role that gender empowerment plays in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of supply chains, the impact of FDI on SMEs, and the broader implications for economic development and equality.

The empowerment of women in the supply chain and through FDI in SMEs is not just a moral imperative but also an economic one. Studies have shown that gender diversity within organisations leads to increased creativity, innovation, and better decision-making processes. When women are empowered in SMEs, particularly in leadership and decision-making roles, these businesses often see improved financial performance and a more inclusive work environment. Moreover, integrating women into global supply chains as suppliers, employees, and entrepreneurs can lead to more resilient and sustainable supply chains.

In the context of FDI, SMEs with strong gender empowerment policies can attract more investment. Investors are increasingly considering social and governance factors, including gender equality, when making investment decisions. FDI can provide the necessary capital, technology, and expertise to help SMEs grow, but its benefits are significantly enhanced when it supports gender-inclusive practices. This inclusion not only boosts the SMEs' performance but also contributes to closing the gender gap in employment and entrepreneurship.

Supply chain linkages play a crucial role in connecting SMEs with global markets, offering opportunities for growth and expansion. However, these linkages can also perpetuate gender disparities if not managed with a focus on inclusivity. Ensuring that women-owned and led SMEs have equal opportunities to participate in and benefit from supply chain linkages requires targeted policies and practices.T his includes providing women entrepreneurs with access to information, markets, financing, and capacity-building initiatives.

The benefits of gender empowerment in supply chains and FDI are countless. For instance, the World Bank highlights the positive correlation between gender diversity in corporate leadership and financial performance. Similarly, UN Women has documented how gender-responsive procurement and supply chain practices can drive social and economic development. These findings underscore the importance of fostering an enabling environment for women's participation and leadership in SMEs and supply chains.

To leverage the potential of gender empowerment in enhancing supply chain linkages and attracting FDI to SMEs, several strategies can be implemented. Governments and organisations should enact and enforce policies that support gender equality in employment, entrepreneurship, and access to resources and training. Secondly, providing women entrepreneurs and workers with the skills and capital necessary to start and grow their businesses is crucial. This includes access to microfinance, grants, and investment capital earmarked for women-led SMEs. Thirdly, Promoting Gender-Responsive Supply Chains: Businesses should adopt procurement practices that prioritise suppliers that demonstrate strong gender equality policies. This can include setting quotas for sourcing from women-owned businesses or providing training and support to women suppliers. And lastly, investment policies should incentivise FDI in SMEs that practice gender equality. This could involve tax breaks, grants, or other benefits for foreign investors that support women-owned or led SMEs. At the same time, to effectively address the gaps and monitor progress, it's essential to collect and analyse data on women's participation and leadership in SMEs and their role in supply chains.

In conclusion, gender empowerment in supply chain linkages and FDI in SMEs is essential for creating more equitable and sustainable economic systems. By implementing gender-inclusive policies and practices, businesses and governments can unlock the full potential of women's contributions to economic growth and development.

References:

• World Bank. (2020). [Gender Empowerment, Supply-Chain Linkages and Foreign Direct Investment]. World Bank Group.
• UN Women. (2013). United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women.

Written and researched  by Sejal Singh, LCCI International Business Assistant and Researcher.