Institute of Developing Economies - JETRO, APL (Ajiken Power Lunch) seminar.

Date and Time: June 17, 2019 13:30 - 15:00

Venue: C23 seminar room

Title: FIRM PERFORMANCE IN AN AFRICAN ENVIRONMENT: THE FOOD PROCESSING SUB-SECTOR IN ZAMBIA

Abstract: From literature, there are many factors that affect firm performance. Generally, firm performance is affected by interplay between internal and external factors. However in Africa, the often unstable external environment (factors) seems to have an overriding effect on firm performance, especially when the firm's internal capabilities are relatively weak. This presentation examines the findings of a study of the Food Processing Sub-Sector in Zambia from 2012 when the firms seemed to be growing, to 2016 when some firms faced challenges to the extent that a few closed down their operations. The presentation in particular brings out factors that attempt to explain the poor performance of these firms.