Abstract:
This study sought to examine the role played by Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs) in promoting
trade towards sustainable trade in Zimbabwe. Constraints being faced by Small and Medium Enterprises
(SMEs) in import and export business were also unearthed by this research. The study was motivated
by failure of most local entrepreneurs to explore international business as evidenced by the
unfavourable balance of payments and low Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The study was conducted in
Harare, Zimbabwe. Purposive sampling technique was used to select respondents for the study.
Structured questionnaires and interview guides were used as data collection tools. The study found out
that TPOs play a major role in promoting exports by helping both exporters and importers to clear their
goods since some of them do not have adequate knowledge and expertise pertaining to the importation
and exportation of goods and strengthening diplomatic relations amongst Zimbabweans and other
trading partners in the world. The study also found out that an unfavourable economic and political
environment characterized by shortage of foreign currency in circulation and political uncertainty
respectively pose major threats to exporters, importers, and TPOs in achieving their goal towards
promoting trade amongst nations. The study recommends that there should be collaborative research
between TPOs and academic institutions so as to make informed decisions and continuous inflow of
skilled labour from these tertiary institutions. The study further recommends that there must be a clear
and sound policy and regulatory environment which deters any corrupt activities and other unethical
practices by procurement professionals and law should take its stance in punishing perpetrators in
international business.
