The impact of trade policies on SMEs in Windhoek, Namibia
Challenges and opportunities
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21541101 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Tafirenyika Sunde (0000-0002-9124-9383, Namibia University of Science and Technology, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 42 |
| Issue | 3 |
| Pages | 463-476 |
| Publication date | 2025-05-04 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Development Southern Africa (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 0376-835X • E-ISSN: 1470-3637 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/0376835x.2025.2485931 |
| OpenAlex | W4409150981 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 10 |
This study explores the impact of trade policies on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Windhoek, Namibia. Despite SMEs’ critical role in Namibia's economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP, their high failure rates remain problematic. Through a qualitative case study approach involving interviews with SME owners and key stakeholders, this research identifies specific challenges SMEs face due to trade-related procedures, tariffs, import competition, and limited influence on policy formulation. However, significant opportunities such as regional market access through SACU and SADC trade agreements and government-backed export support initiatives also emerged. The findings highlight that SMEs can thrive under appropriate policy frameworks but require tailored interventions, including simplified trade processes, enhanced information access, and strategic governmental support. This research contributes to policy development aimed at empowering SMEs to capitalise on trade opportunities, ensuring their sustainability and competitiveness in regional and global markets
Business · Economics · International trade · Global trade, sustainability, and social impact · International Business and FDI · Local Economic Development and Planning
| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |