Network Linkages and Performance of Exporting Micro and Small Enterprises in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: Perspectives in the Handicraft Industry

This study examines the influence of network linkage on the performance of handicrafts-exporting micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Tanzania. Quantitative and qualitative techniques were used to analyse data collected from 171owner-managers of sampled exporting handicrafts MSEs in Dar es Salaam. The study used paired sample t-test to investigate the existence of significant differences between the two sets of data (before and after networking) from independent variables. The findings indicated a significant relationship between network linkages and MSEs’ performance. The study recommends MSEs to invest in business networks which facilitate their access to market information, materials and ancillary support services. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will serve as a frame of reference for future research studies in business networking, entrepreneurship development and export trade.