The paper aims to shed light on the development of the handicrafts sector in Mexico. This being said, the authors claim that craftworks are still relevant at regional level in many countries, allowing determined social groups to have complementary income sources. Consequently, the article revolves around the relevance of the crafts sector in terms of economic and social development, especially within small and medium enterprises in Mexico. Furthermore, the paper describes the problems and challenges the sector faces and possible contributions that can be made from the governmental and academic angles.

The document is organized as follows. After a brief introduction, the second chapter provides a theoretical framework around which develops the concept of craftsmanship, whilst the third section analyzes the development of artisanal SMEs globally. For its part, chapter four evaluates the evolution of craft SMEs in Mexico, whereas the fifth section does the same for the state of Hidalgo in Mexico. The sixth section offers a comparative analysis of the craftworks sector in several countries, whilst chapter seven offers some concluding arguments on the matter.

In conclusion, the authors argue that given the economic conditions worldwide, a number of countries including Mexico, Spain, Italy, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil and Costa Rica, have implemented programs to support the craftworks sector. However, much work remains to be done on this matter, especially regarding innovation in this sector, thus offering great potential for growth alternatives and socioeconomic benefits.

The document is available in Spanish