Examination of Factors related to the Improvement of the Apparel Manufacturing Industry in Malawi

Abstract

The apparel manufacturing industry has potential for growth and therefore its improvement may mean more business and employment opportunities for Malawians. Existing literature provided opposing views as to why the industry has not been growing. The purpose of this study was to examine the status of the apparel manufacturing industry in Malawi in terms of challenges, prospects, and strategies for improvement. Porter's Theory of Competitive Advantage guided this study. Government officials, owners of companies producing for export, as well as the employees completed questionnaires and participated in in-depth oral interviews. Content analysis was used to analyze data. Results of this study showed that domestic challenges are a major hindrance to the economic growth and development of the apparel manufacturing industry in Malawi. In addition, the Malawian apparel manufacturing industry does not satisfy the criteria of competitive advantage. Since Malawi offers cheap labor, grows its own cotton, and participates in several trade agreements, the industry should seek to capitalize on these available resources to function in the short term. However, long term goals should target exploring other avenues to address problems of infrastructure, lack of capital, qualified personnel, and support and related industries among others. Recommendations are made for future research