The National Commission for Micro and Small Enterprises (Conamype) provided support to 1,200 exporting micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in 2023, enabling them to export goods worth $4,360,377, according to the institution. Of these, 240 MSEs have been closely monitored and consistently work with Conamype, contributing 1,009 products to the country’s export offerings. These products span sectors such as food, beverages, textiles, agro-industrial food production, services, natural cosmetics, footwear, crafts, and furniture.
This success is largely due to Conamype’s export advisory and training program launched in 2019, which has been refined with the help of associations like the Salvadoran Export Corporation (Coexport). Conamype also collaborates with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Invest in El Salvador to promote local products through commercial houses located in 39 consulates across 32 countries.
Additionally, MSEs have participated in 115 promotional events, including business meetings, trade missions, and international fairs. “When we took office, there was no dedicated unit for exporting MSEs. We created one and started this focus,” said Steiner from Conamype. “A micro or small business doesn’t have the resources to attend every trade fair, but we help promote their talent abroad.”
Thanks to these initiatives, these businesses have expanded to markets in Central America (43% of exports), the United States (40%), Europe (11%), and Mexico (6%). Notably, Coco Creatividad en Cueros y Tejidos has successfully placed its handcrafted leather products in the U.S. and Italy with Conamype’s support, achieving monthly exports of $5,000.
Other MSEs, like Chaparro Flor de Fuego, also highlighted the importance of Conamype’s backing, especially in facilitating market access for companies with limited structures.