Small and medium businesses face financial barriers in Chile and Peru

A study by Endeavor Research Chile and Banco Bci reveals that 45% of medium-sized companies in Chile identify financing as their primary barrier to growth. The report highlights a critical gap for companies that transition to the intermediate size category, as they may lose access to tax benefits, guarantees, and support programs despite ongoing challenges in productivity and competitiveness.

In Peru, an Interbank study indicates that 54% of small businesses would be unable to cover more than one month of expenses if operations were interrupted by the El Niño phenomenon. Approximately 51% of these businesses lack an emergency fund, and only 24% consider themselves prepared for such climate-related disruptions. In response, Interbank has announced over S/670 million in financial solutions, including debt reprogramming and grace periods, to support potentially affected individuals and small enterprises.