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Ease of Doing Business, Trade across Borders and Profitability of Small and Medium-Size Enterprises in Port Harcourt

Author

Listed:
  • Onwo, Isioma Nwabunor

    (Institute of International Trade and Development (IITD), University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria)

  • Sylvester Favor Udeorah, Ph.D

    (Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria)

  • Ijeoma Emele Kalu, Ph.D

    (Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria)

Abstract

This paper discussed the ease of doing business – trading across borders – and the profitability of small and medium-size enterprises in Port Harcourt. The objective was to assess whether the cost/time aspect of the trading across border indicator had an impact on SMEs profitability. Primary data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interviews from 114 respondents (90 SMEs and 24 Institutional representatives). The study used descriptive statistics to analyse the data with the aid of SPSS software. The findings of the study indicated that the cost/time impact of the trading across border index has a negative impact on the profits of SMEs in Port Harcourt. The study identified some problems such as numerous/ambiguous levies and the non-functionality of the Port Harcourt seaport. The study recommended the streamlining of levies and the revamping of the Port Harcourt seaport as some measures to improve the trading across borders aspect of EODB in Port Harcourt to encourage more SME participation and enhancement of profitability.

Suggested Citation

  • Onwo, Isioma Nwabunor & Sylvester Favor Udeorah, Ph.D & Ijeoma Emele Kalu, Ph.D, 2021. "Ease of Doing Business, Trade across Borders and Profitability of Small and Medium-Size Enterprises in Port Harcourt," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 5(1), pages 293-299, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:5:y:2021:i:1:p:293-299
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    References listed on IDEAS

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