FinScope MSME Haiti 2023: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Survey Highlights

The FinScope MSME Haiti 2023 survey represents the first comprehensive national study of micro, small, and medium enterprises in Haiti, conducted by FinMark Trust in partnership with local and international stakeholders. The study surveyed over 5,000 business owners across all departments to establish a baseline understanding of the MSME sector's contribution to Haiti's economy.

The survey reveals that approximately 660,845 adults own MSMEs, representing 10% of Haiti's adult population, with these businesses employing over 1.1 million people. The sector is characterized by high levels of informality, with only 11% of businesses being formally registered or licensed. Women represent 67% of MSME owners, though their businesses are predominantly micro-enterprises operating in the trade sector.

Geographically, most MSMEs are concentrated in the Artibonite, Ouest, and Sud departments, with 65% located in urban areas. The businesses span four main sectors: services (66%), trade (18%), agriculture (9%), and industrial activities (7%). Nearly half of all MSMEs are established or mature businesses, having operated for six years or more.

The study identifies significant challenges facing the sector, including limited access to formal financial services, governance issues, and the need for digital transformation. The research aims to inform evidence-based policy decisions and provide a foundation for monitoring the sector's development and financial inclusion progress over time.