Factors affecting performance of the logistics industry in Tanzania: a case of clearing and forwarding companies

The objective of this study was to investigate factors affecting performance of the logistics industry in Tanzania. The study was conducted in Dar es Salaam Region where by clearing and forwarding companies were involved. In-depth interview was used to collect primary data. Questionnaires were also used to gather baseline information of the research sample that formed the major basis of the in-depth interview later on. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis whereby the collected data were deducted, organized and categorized in different categories. Further, researcher apprehended the inclusion of verbatim quotation in the publication of this work. The findings indicated that; the performance of the logistics industry in Tanzania is lagging behind because the poor quality and inadequacy of the transport related infrastructure network together with the cumbersome legal and regulatory framework. On the other hand the use of ICT is revealed to improve the performance of the logistics industry as it results into quality logistics services which in turn lead to the increased import-export operations. The study recommends for the building and maintenance of the transport related infrastructure, well established and transparent legal and tax regimes for the smooth operations of the logistics industry in the country together with the promotion of the use of ICT in logistics activities to both the government agencies and the clearing and freight forwarding companies.