BBSQ Strengthens SME Knowledge Through Seminar in China

Recently, representatives from the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ) — Dr. Rebekah Flowers, Councilwoman of the BBSQ Standards Council, and Tamara L. Baker, Senior Standards Development Officer — participated in the Seminar on SME Management for The Bahamas.

Hosted by the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) under the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the two-week programme (August 5–18, 2025) was held in Beijing and Wenzhou. It brought together Bahamian government officials, policymakers, and business leaders to explore strategies that can strengthen the growth and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) at home.

Key Insights and Lessons Learned

1. Balancing innovation and compliance
The seminar emphasized that successful SME management requires agility — finding the right balance between innovation, compliance, and adaptability in an ever-changing global economy.

2. Harnessing AI for real-world impact
During a visit to iFly Tek, a leading Chinese AI company, delegates witnessed how artificial intelligence is being applied to fields such as education and medicine. These practical, cutting-edge applications demonstrated the transformative power of technology when scaled across industries.

3. Standards as a foundation for growth
A standout observation was the central role of standards in China’s industries. At the iRest factory, entire walls showcased the standards guiding production and quality assurance. Even during domestic travel, compliance was visible — only power banks bearing the CCC (China Compulsory Certification) mark were permitted on flights. These experiences highlighted how deeply standards are embedded in both industry and everyday life.

4. Cultural exchange and reflection
Beyond business and policy, the programme also fostered cultural understanding. Walking through China’s streets, engaging with local communities, and experiencing traditions firsthand gave participants a richer perspective — and encouraged reflection on Bahamian identity and opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration.

Building Pathways for The Bahamas

For BBSQ, the seminar underscored that international exchanges are not only about learning best practices but also about building networks. The connections formed with Chinese institutions, coupled with the lessons drawn from site visits and discussions, will inform ongoing efforts to strengthen The Bahamas’ quality infrastructure and SME ecosystem.

By leveraging these insights, BBSQ remains committed to supporting policies and practices that drive innovation, uphold standards, and create new opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs in The Bahamas.