The State of Horticultural logistics Management of International Trade in Tanzania

Abstract

The horticulture development is inherently dependent on the export market featured under the international trade. This study was undertaken to assess the state of logistics management in international trade of horticulture produce in Tanzania. Specifically the study aimed at assessing: contribution of Government policies and strategies in promoting export growth of horticultural produce; contribution of post-harvest management in growth of horticultural export; the role of logistics management in facilitating international trade of horticulture produce. The study was conducted in Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions involving four districts. The study used a cross - sectional design that helped to use questionnaire and documentary review methods of data collection. The analysis of data was done by use of SPSS to run descriptive analysis where frequency and percentages were measured. The study revealed that horticultural logistics plays a significant role in the horticultural export value chain. It was found that the current growth of horticultural exports is a result of continuous government support through provision of extension services and farm inspections as well as involves firms in internal trade affairs. The horticulture sector has an improved post-harvest management which facilitates its storage mechanism of the produce in view of export trade. There is an improved transport logistic management was firms transport their commodities by use of refrigerated trucks, aircrafts, and sea ports. Tanzania has improved international airports like Kilimanjaro and Mwl.Nyerere international airports which facilitate horticultural produce exportation. In conclusion, the horticulture sector is in growing state with strong government support. It is recommended that the stakeholder should make more efforts to venture international markets in collaboration with the government. In addition, the Government should promote horticulture sector by reducing bureaucratic procedures in course of undertaking international exchange