Trust levels in SME Export Networks in Ghana

The purpose of this paper is to explore the levels of trust within small and medium-scale enterprise export networks, using Ghana’s Export Associations (EAs) as a case study. Exploratory and case study designs were employed for the study. Besides, the study adopted the mixed-methods approach, involving the collection of qualitative data from 19 EAs via semi-structured interviews, and analysed thematically using Nvivo 12. Quantitative data was also collected from 259 SME exporters and statistically analysis (i.e. mean, standard deviation and correlation) was done using SPSS. The results indicated low trust between SME exporters and EA leaders (vertical trust). EA leaders had low trust for SME exporters regarding financial commitment; meeting attendance and sharing trade information. SME exporters had low trust for EA leadership in communicating information, adhering to promises, members’ interest and acting with equity. There was low trust among SME exporters (horizontal trust). Additionally, there was much more ‘horizontal trust’ than ‘vertical trust’ within EAs. The study provides a framework for analysing the effectiveness of SME export networks. Academics and policy-makers will find the results useful when analysing governance and relationships within export networks. This paper is significant in separately measuring trust within networks from vertical and horizontal perspectives. Keywords – Trust levels, Trust Theory, SME, Export Networks, and Export Associations DOI: 10.7176/JMCR/67-08 Publication date: April 30 th 2020