Quintana Roo Producers Cut Out Middlemen for Better Profits

Quintana Roo, Mexico — Producers, artisans, and small business owners in Quintana Roo are collaborating with state authorities to implement strategies aimed at eradicating intermediary exploitation, locally known as coyotaje, a major obstacle to their economic success.

State-Led Efforts to Combat Exploitation

Irazú Sarabia May, Director of the Quintana Roo Institute of Social and Solidarity Economy (Iessqroo), confirmed that the agency is working alongside other state departments to provide training and operational tools to help producers bypass intermediaries who purchase goods at low prices and reap disproportionate profits.

Among the key strategies is the formation of cooperatives and organized groups, enabling producers to operate formally within their communities. This structure allows them to market their products directly, reaching both local consumers and large-scale national and international buyers.

Strengthening Market Access and Branding

Sarabia May acknowledged that marketing remains a significant challenge for Quintana Roo’s producers and artisans. To address this, the institute is focusing on training initiatives to help them register their brands and develop sales strategies, improving product quality and market competitiveness.

Additionally, producers are encouraged to participate in tourist markets, exhibitions, and other events to connect with high-value clients.

A New Institution for Economic Empowerment

The Iessqroo was established under the current state administration, led by Governor Mara Lezama, with the goal of fostering entrepreneurship, autonomy, and citizen empowerment. As a decentralized administrative body, it brings together diverse social groups and government branches to strengthen rural economies, support local development, and enhance living conditions for Indigenous Maya communities.

The institute’s mandate includes job creation, regional development, social innovation, financial inclusion, and training for workers and entrepreneurs in the social and solidarity economy sectors.