Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSEs) as Economic Drivers
During the inauguration of Fábrica de Negocio 2025 by GS1, officials emphasized the need for MSE formalization to support Mexico’s economic growth. Manola Zabalza, head of the Secretaría de Desarrollo Económico (Sedeco) in Mexico City, stressed the importance of digitalizing and providing tools to these businesses. “We want more companies to be part of Mexico’s formal trade,” she said.
Formalization Should Not Be a Barrier
Octavio de la Torre, president of the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services and Tourism (Concanaco Servytur), highlighted that excessive bureaucracy hinders MSE formalization. He called for simplified administrative, fiscal, and labor regulations to boost productivity and reduce paperwork.
Transition to 2D QR Code for MSEs
Although traditional barcodes are still widely used, the 2D QR code offers more information for consumers. By 2027, this transition is expected to be significant. However, adapting to this change poses a challenge for MSEs.
Jorge Garces, president of GS1, explained that the main obstacle in the initial phase is for large chains to incorporate QR codes. “Most chains have no problem integrating this technology, as their scanners can read both traditional barcodes and QR codes,” he said.
Small businesses, like local stores or miscellaneous shops, will need to invest in scanners capable of reading 2D codes. However, they will have time to adapt, according to Garces.
IMPI Programs for MSE Protection
Santiago Nieto, head of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI), urges MSEs to register and protect themselves from piracy, contraband, and data breaches. He encourages entrepreneurs to take advantage of preferential tariffs offered by IMPI.
“For instance, women entrepreneurs can enjoy up to a 90% discount on IMPI tramites,” Nieto said.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are MSEs, and why are they important? Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSEs) are crucial to Mexico’s economy, driving growth and job creation. Their formalization is essential for participation in value chains like retail.
- What challenges do MSEs face in formalization? Excessive bureaucracy, complex regulations, and high costs create barriers for MSEs to join formal trade.
- Why is the transition to 2D QR codes significant? The 2D QR code offers more information for consumers and can streamline supply chain management, benefiting both businesses and shoppers.
- What support does IMPI offer to MSEs? IMPI provides preferential tariffs for registration, with up to 90% discounts for women entrepreneurs, helping them protect their intellectual property and compete effectively.
