CAINTRA celebrates the International SME Day

Two years ago, the United Nations General Assembly designated June 27 as the International Day of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) to commemorate the contributions to economic development that this important sector makes to all countries, especially developing countries.

On behalf of all of us who make up CAINTRA Nuevo León and giving voice to the thousands of SMEs within the Chamber, we are excited about the commemoration of this day and we join in the recognition of this sector that is so important for the industry of Nuevo León and Mexico. At the Chamber, we celebrate the importance of small and medium-sized companies for the creation of jobs, the generation of wealth, the promotion of economic development and the social well-being of our country.

SMEs contribute to competitiveness with investments of more than 122 billion pesos per year, to economic growth with the purchase of more than 1.9 billion pesos in inputs and to the generation of jobs by accounting for 74% of the workforce. Likewise, the SMEs within CAINTRA represent close to 90% of the member companies; and in the state we contribute more than 21% of the manufacturing GDP of Nuevo León and generate more than 193 thousand direct jobs.

However, this day of celebration is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges we face. To this end, CAINTRA Nuevo León's SME Commission, made up of 25 true SME entrepreneurs committed to the sector, has generated a work agenda that will help small and medium-sized companies grow and focus on what truly generates value.

The Chamber has supported us and we promote, before the authorities, support for small and medium-sized companies by simplifying taxes and procedures to reduce governmental administrative friction. We have also sought to position ourselves as the axis of economic development policy, given the enormous social impact we generate in the economy. In the same way, through competitiveness programs, business linkage, technology development, training and legal advice, we find continuous support and assistance for our companies.

On this International SME's Day, CAINTRA Nuevo León reaffirms its commitment with our sector to help us overcome the barriers and difficulties we face. CAINTRA's SMEs will continue working as allies and key pieces to reduce the social backwardness that our society faces. Congratulations to all SMEs on their day!

By: Roberto Olvera Rodarte Chairman of the Commission for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises