The popular economy in Colombia plays a fundamental role in the generation of employment and economic dynamization, with microbusinesses being its main representation. This study analyzes the factors that hinder and drive their insertion in international markets, highlighting informality, limited access to financing, low technological adoption, and low educational levels as key barriers. On the other hand, operational flexibility, specialization in market niches and institutional support programs are identified as elements that favor their external competitiveness.

To evaluate the competitiveness of microbusinesses, existing indices are examined, such as the Multidimensional Index of Microbusiness Robustness (IMICRO) and the Index of Business Development of the Popular Economy (IDEP), which allow characterizing their internal structure and organizational development. However, these instruments do not directly measure their ability to compete in international markets. For this reason, the External Competitiveness Index of Microbusinesses in Colombia (ICEMIC) is proposed, which incorporates key variables such as digitalization, internationalization, external financing and regulatory compliance, with the aim of identifying gaps and opportunities for improvement.

This analysis concludes that the external competitiveness of microbusinesses depends on comprehensive strategies that promote formalization, access to financing, training, and digital transformation. Strengthening these aspects will consolidate microbusinesses as sustainable actors in the global economy.