Repositioning Trade Promotion Organisations (TPOs) as Engines of Economic Development: The case of Zimbabwe

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.