Uruguay XXI has reaffirmed its dedication to increasing opportunities for women in international business, coinciding with International Women’s Day. The agency emphasizes the need to strengthen the role of women in Uruguay’s export sector.
“We are convinced that women have a decisive role in the country’s export development, but we now that they still face additional obstacles,” said Mariana Ferreira, Executive Director of Uruguay XXI.
Research by CINVE and UN Women for Uruguay XXI found that only 6.4% of Uruguayan companies involved in exports are majority-owned by women. Additionally, women hold just 13% of general management positions within these firms. However, entrepreneurial activity among women is on the rise: one in five adult women is starting a business, and women’s participation in entrepreneurship increased from 34.8% in 2019 to over 37% by 2024.
“These data confirm that there is dynamism, talent, and determination, but also that gaps persist in access to financing, networks, and decision-making spaces,” Ferreira stated.
Uruguay XXI has incorporated measures to prioritize support for women-led businesses through its internationalization programs. In 2025 alone, the Export Management Department supported 195 companies led by women to improve their access to global markets.
The Más Comercio program stands out as a key initiative offering training and mentoring nationwide. In its latest edition, half of all personalized mentoring sessions were directed at female entrepreneurs; nearly 60% of participants were women from outside Montevideo.
Country Brand licensing—managed together with LSQA—also includes equity considerations by favoring certification for companies led by women. Currently, more than half (56%) of licensed companies under this scheme are run by female leaders.
Uruguay XXI participates in “Uruguay al Mundo” (“Uruguay to the World”), an effort coordinated with ANDE, ANII, LATU and the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mining under Uruguay Innova. This program aims to raise the international profile of Uruguayan businesses while prioritizing support for those led by women through positive discrimination criteria designed to expand their global reach.
Within Uruguay XXI itself, gender equity is reflected institutionally: Women make up 59% of staff and occupy about two-thirds (65%) of leadership roles; policies promote equal pay and career advancement regardless of gender.
Ferreira stressed the importance of these efforts: “When more women lead, innovate, and export, Uruguay’s potential in the world also internationally grows,” she said.
