The Operations and Challenges of Ghanaian SMEs in International Markets
Williams Kwame Boateng
*
Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, School of Business, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana.
Davis Asiedu
Controller and Accountant General’s Department, Ejisu Municipal Assembly, Ejisu, Ashanti Region, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Numerous international studies have demonstrated that internationalisation frequently enhances performance and competitiveness by offering substantial development possibilities to SMEs. Despite the strategic significance and potential advantages of internationalisation, numerous Ghanaian SMEs have not consistently engaged with the international market due to various challenges or barriers that must be surmounted. This study examines the operations and issues faced by Ghanaian SMEs in the worldwide markets.
Methods: The study employed quantitative research approach to gather the perspectives of sampled SME employees. Target population was two hundred (200) whiles sample size was 160. Data was collected through the use questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used to recruit respondents.
Results: It was revealed that SMEs with foreign experience employ more personnel than those lacking such exposure. It was additionally shown that worldwide SMEs export the majority of their products to the global market.
Conclusions: Companies must be cognisant of shifts in consumer behaviour. In numerous nations, consumers are increasingly requesting ecologically sustainable items, necessitating that enterprises adapt to these expectations to facilitate growth.
Keywords: Small and medium enterprise, exporting, international market, Ghana vegetable export association