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The objective of this research is to characterize the small-scale producers of mezcal in order to a better understanding of their way of producing and organizing, so that when supporting policies are developed, these be aligned with their reality. Methodology. To achieve this, a qualitative exploratory study is conducted. Interviews applied to actors involved in the mezcal industry are used as methods of data collection, as well as a questionnaire applied to 52 small-scale producers. Results. The study shows six elements that help characterize the small-scale producers studied. these are: 1) the sense of family, 2) preservation of identity, 3) craft processes of production, 4) tacit knowledge, 5) spontaneous decisions and 6) informal economy. Limitations. The main limitation of the research relates to the samplés size, which was limited due to the difficulties to access remote communities; this study cannot be generalized. Conclusions. The papers concludes by suggesting that given the characteristics identified, these types of organizations have survived over the years, despite the disadvantages they face in the current socioeconomic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]