LEBANON – Lebanon officially launched its first centralized National Trade Help Desk, a comprehensive platform aimed at providing hands-on support to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Economy and Trade with technical support from UNDP and funding from the Government of Canada, was unveiled at a ceremony attended by H.E. Dr. Amer Bisat, Minister of Economy and Trade; H.E. Mr. Gregory Galligan, Canadian Ambassador to Lebanon and Syria; UNDP Resident Representative Blerta Aliko; and representatives from the Chambers of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture, as well as private sector stakeholders.

The platform is designed as a hybrid model, combining online access through the Ministry’s website with in-person support in Beirut, Tripoli, Bekaa, and soon the South.

It provides a user-friendly booking system for consultations, practical guidance on conducting business locally and internationally, targeted training, interactive workshops, and one-on-one mentoring. By tailoring support to the specific needs of Lebanese MSMEs, the Help Desk aims to remove structural barriers and help businesses expand into new markets.

In his remarks, Minister Amer Bisat emphasized that the Help Desk is part of a broader reform trajectory to strengthen Lebanon’s business environment.

“By reducing information asymmetry, enhancing regulatory clarity, and advancing digital transformation, we are translating strategic priorities into practical institutional solutions. This is how we support enterprise competitiveness and build a more transparent and resilient economy,” he said.

Canadian Ambassador Gregory Galligan highlighted the importance of strong trade institutions in enabling Lebanese businesses to compete globally.

UNDP Resident Representative Blerta Aliko underscored the Help Desk’s impact on entrepreneurs, noting that SMEs form over 50% of Lebanon’s GDP.