A study into the international competitiveness of low and high intensity Tanzanian exporting SMEs

Crick, D. and Kaganda, G.E. and Matlay, H. (2011) A study into the international competitiveness of low and high intensity Tanzanian exporting SMEs. Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, 18 (3). pp. 594-607. ISSN 14626004 (ISSN)

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Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine whether differences exist between low and high export intensity Tanzanian internationalising small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in respect of their perceived competitiveness in overseas markets. In this study, export intensity, i.e. the percentage exports make towards total turnover, is viewed as a representation of firms' commitment to serving overseas markets. Design/methodology/approach: The methodology employed a quantitative phase involving a questionnaire completed by 205 Tanzanian SMEs; 112 low intensity (exporting less than 50 per cent of their sales) in comparison with 93 high intensity exporting firms (exporting 50 per cent or more of their sales); also a qualitative phase of interviews with international entrepreneurs in 23 firms. Findings: The findings provide an initial understanding of the two types of firms' patterns of internationalisation and, more specifically, statistically significant issues are identified in respect of items perceived as affecting their competitiveness in overseas markets, including the extent to which they concentrated on serving key markets rather than diversifying risk over a number of markets. Practical implications: The results offer insights into the practices of Tanzanian exporting firms and recommendations for policy makers as well as an indication for further research. Originality/value: This research study explores managerial practices of particular types of firms in Tanzania, which have been largely viewed from a developed as opposed to a developing African country perspective. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.1108/14626001111155727
Dates:	Date Event August 2011 Published
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Competitiveness, Entrepreneurialism, International business, International entrepreneurship, Internationalisation, Managerial practices, Small to medium-sized enterprises, Tanzania
Subjects:	CAH17 - business and management > CAH17-01 - business and management > CAH17-01-04 - management studies
Divisions:	Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences > College of Accountancy, Finance and Economics Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences > College of Business, Digital Transformation & Entrepreneurship
Depositing User:	Hussen Farooq
Date Deposited:	29 Nov 2016 16:43
Last Modified:	20 Jun 2024 12:07
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/2108

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