This report sets out recommendations based on the results of the Research Study on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The objective of the assignment was to make an in-depth appraisal of the constraints faced by SMEs with respect to the following:
- Macro Level sector policies
- Finance
- Technical
- Marketing (both locally and overseas)
- Human Resources
⢠A detailed survey was carried out between 3rd April and 16th April 1998.
⢠The survey was conducted among 55 enterprises, which are as follows:
- 40 enterprises registered with the SMIDO.
15 enterprises not registered with the SMIDO.
⢠The definition of an SME has been based on the Industrial Expansion Act 1993, that is:
- The enterprise should be engaged in a manufacturing activity.
- It should be using production equipment whose aggregate CIF value does not exceed Rs lOm.
⢠The sample has been carefully designed so as to respect the following industry groups:
- Food and Beverages
- Leather and Textile
- Paper and Printing
- Chemical and Plastic
- Jewellery and Ceramics
- Metal products
- Others
⢠The sample also considered the following criteria:
- Number of employees
- Amount of investment
⢠In view of having a complete picture of the SME sector, we have also considered women entrepreneurs in our sample.
⢠As per our proposals, three questionnaires have been sent to registered SMEs in Rodrigues.
⢠The Final Report 1 provides an insight into the present situation of the SMEs coupled with a focus on the constraints to which they are subjected.