Fatores determinantes da informalidade em pequenos empreendimentos: um estudo de caso dos feirantes de São Luís do Maranhão

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the determining factors of informality in small enterprises, focusing on the street vendors in São Luís do Maranhão, Brazil. Through a qualitative approach, we identified the main reasons why informal entrepreneurs do not choose formalization, as well as the policies that incentivize formalization and can improve working conditions and quality of life for these entrepreneurs, ultimately reducing informality in Brazil. Additionally, we highlighted the advantages of the Individual Microentrepreneur (MEI) compared to informal entrepreneurship. However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations encountered in this study, such as the respondents' reluctance to complete the questionnaires and the lack of information regarding the exact number of street vendors operating in the market. These limitations emphasize the need for future research to expand the sample size and gather more comprehensive data. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of the reasons and challenges involved in the formalization of informal entrepreneurs, providing insights for the formulation of policies and strategies that promote the transition to formality, incentivizing economic development and social protection for these entrepreneurs.