How do women-owned businesses compete globally?
I was fortunate to be a delegate and speaker at the 11th meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Women Leaders’ Network (WLN), held in Hanoi, Viet Nam. As the premier forum for facilitating economic growth, cooperation, trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region, APEC has 21 members * – referred to as “Member Economies” – which account for approximately 40% of the world’s population, approximately 56% of world GDP and about 48% of world trade. Unfortunately women do not have a seat at the APEC table. As a result, they have created their own organization, the WLN, to influence decision-making. Decisions made within APEC are reached by consensus and commitments are undertaken on a voluntary basis. The WLN provides an opportunity to have the voice of women heard through direct access to APEC ministers and leaders. About 350 delegates from around the world attended the WLN meeting, to focus on enhancing the competitiveness of businesses run by women and ensuring the in
