Year 2024, Volume 9, Issue 3
| Year : | 2024 |
| Volume : | 9 |
| Issue : | 3 |
| Authors : | Maroun BOUMATAR, Christelle SALAMEH, Hamid EL BILALI |
| Title : | SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES FACING CHALLENGES AND CRISES: THE CASE OF THE AGRI-FOOD SECTOR IN LEBANON |
| Abstract : | Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in the Lebanese economy, contributing to innovation, job creation, and economic growth. They are essential in diversifying industries and bolstering the country’s economy. This study focuses on the microenterprise landscape within the Lebanese agri-food sector, specifically targeting SMEs in the Mount Lebanon region. It identifies the main challenges faced by SMEs in the region and explores how agri-food entrepreneurs address and manage them. The research utilized a blend of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including interviews with 32 agri-food entrepreneurs in Mount Lebanon, selected based on specific criteria. Data collection took place from November 2023 to January 2024. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression techniques were applied to the collected data. The identified challenges faced by SMEs included brain drain, limited access to raw materials, energy shortages, high operational costs, financial constraints, and declining consumer purchasing power. High energy costs emerged as the most significant challenge for SMEs, followed by financial constraints, energy shortages, and consumer purchasing power. Additionally, the results showed a statistically significant relationship between the entrepreneur's level of education and high energy costs, as well as between the type of enterprise and consumer purchasing power. These findings carry significant implications for industry professionals, business incubators and accelerators, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders, underscoring the importance of supporting Lebanese SMEs in enhancing their resilience amidst multifaceted uncertainties and crises. |
| For citation : | Boumatar, M., Salameh, C., El Bilali,H. (2024). Small and medium-sized enterprises facing challenges and crises: the case of the agri-food sector in Lebanon. AGROFOR International Journal, Volume 9. Issue No. 3. pp. 48-57. DOI: 10.7251/AGREN2403048B |
| Keywords : | Agri-food industry, Entrepreneurship, Near East, Resilience, SMEs. |
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ISSN 2490-3434 (Printed)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
ISSN 2490-3442 (Online)
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