Entrepreneurial Alliances and Export Performance of Cocoa Processing Companies in Ondo State

Abstract

Cocoa processing firms face several constraints in enhancing their export rates due to a lack of close relations with firms in the exporting country. Access to superior processing technologies and high product quality standards is necessary to stay competitive in many affected areas. This research, therefore, examines entrepreneurial alliances and the export performance of cocoa processing firms in Ondo State, focusing on strategic partnerships, resource sharing, and information exchange. The study used a descriptive survey design. The population of the study is, therefore, said to be infinite. Thus, Krejcie and Morgan's (1970) Table formula was employed with a sample size of 278, comprised of export managers, operations managers, and strategic alliance managers, using a '5-point Likert scale' close-ended questionnaire. The results show that strategic partnerships, resource sharing, and information exchange significantly improve the export performance of exporting firms. The study emphasises the importance of strengthening the alliances to increase resource integration, enhance access to technology, and improve market competitiveness. The research findings reveal that the best strategies for addressing these barriers include strengthening alliances between local firms and foreign markets, integrating resources, and improving communication within alliances. The study recommends that, for economies interested in enhancing cocoa processors' export performance to increase sustainable economic growth, policymakers and business development agencies should support these connections and ensure the utilisation of efficient information exchange channels.