Research conducted by Walid Eladi, Egyptian National and Masters Student, University of Stirling.
After 2 years working with Scottish companies and learning of their ambitions for new global markets, Africa Scotland Business Network has observed that many companies have put Africa on their agenda for export or expansion opportunities. However, it is also evident, that Africa as a continent is still not clearly understood by Scottish business people.
The online research conducted and survey with 35 Scottish organizations revealed the following:
Scottish private sectors should maximize the opportunity to benefit from International trade conventions and agreements between the UK and African countries such as Kenya and Ghana. Whilst searching for new market opportunities, countries should also target a few countries instead of ‘Africa’ on the whole. Businesses should also be outsourcing and employing experts who are experienced with specific African countries to ensure the correct information and route to markets are made available to them.
Consequently, the survey participants believe the Scottish government should be doing more to help businesses overcome attitudes towards African political leadership and encourage businesses to seek opportunities in the rising African private sectors.