Introduction
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Mexico are facing significant concerns due to the current global situation, as uncertainty and geopolitical developments impact their operations.
Primary External Concerns
Global and Local Competition
According to the CHUBB 2025 SME Barometer, 42% of respondents identified global and local competition as their main external concern.
Rising Costs of Production Factors
The second major concern for SMEs is the increase in production costs, which is linked to the rising prices of raw materials, inputs, energy, and other factors.
Changing Consumer Behavior
Additionally, SMEs must adapt to shifts in consumer behavior, often driven by economic conditions. This necessitates reevaluating their offerings to maintain competitiveness.
Building Resilience and Adaptability
In this challenging environment, SMEs need to strengthen their adaptability and resilience. This involves implementing efficient management practices, investing in technology, and forming strategic partnerships.
Long-term Planning
However, only 20% of SMEs have long-term plans (six years or more), while 46% focuses on medium-term goals and 34% concentrates solely on the next 12 months.
This trend indicates that many SMEs prioritize daily operations and survival, whereas those with medium- and long-term objectives are increasingly interested in building solid foundations amid economic uncertainty, according to the study.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What are the main concerns for SMEs in Mexico? SMEs are primarily worried about global and local competition, rising production costs, and changing consumer behavior.
- Q: How do these concerns impact SMEs? These challenges require SMEs to enhance their adaptability and resilience through efficient management, technology investment, and strategic partnerships.
- Q: How do SMEs approach long-term planning? Only a small percentage of SMEs have long-term plans, with most focusing on short-term objectives or medium-term goals.
- Q: What does the trend in long-term planning suggest? The focus on short-term objectives indicates that many SMEs prioritize daily operations and survival, while those with medium- and long-term goals aim to build solid foundations in uncertain economic conditions.
