started · updated
Quintana Roo small businesses face closures and low sales
Small businesses in Quintana Roo are facing significant economic pressure. In Chetumal, at least 30 small businesses have closed so far in 2026 due to low cash circulation and reduced sales. César Antonio Iuit, secretary general of the Union of Merchants and Service Providers, reported that remaining establishments are operating with sales levels of only 30 to 35 percent, which barely covers basic operating costs such as rent, wages, electricity, and water.
Iuit noted that sectors like grocery stores, food establishments, shoe stores, and salons are particularly affected. He also highlighted unfair competition from social media vendors who operate without the overhead costs of physical locations. While the number of closures in 2026 is currently lower than the approximately 50 closures recorded in 2025, Iuit cautioned against viewing this as a sign of recovery.
In Cozumel, a prolonged low season is also straining local commerce. According to Coparmex, requests for business financing have increased by 10 to 15 percent, exceeding the state average. It is estimated that between 40 and 45 percent of businesses on the island have sought some form of financial support this year to cover essential expenses like payroll and rent.
Entities
Chetumal · Coparmex · Cozumel · César Antonio Iuit · Union of Merchants and Service Providers
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Business financing requests in Cozumel increased by 10 to 15 percent, exceeding the state average. pulsosur.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Small businesses in Chetumal are facing competition from social media sellers who lack physical establishments and overhead costs. estosdias.com.mx · quintanaroohoy.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Between 40 and 45 percent of businesses on Cozumel island have sought financial support so far this year. pulsosur.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] At least 30 small businesses have closed in Chetumal during 2026. estosdias.com.mx · quintanaroohoy.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Sales for small businesses in Chetumal are currently between 30 and 35 percent of normal levels. estosdias.com.mx · quintanaroohoy.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Approximately 50 establishments closed permanently during 2025. estosdias.com.mx · quintanaroohoy.com