IBT Journal of Business Studies (Formerly Journal of Management & Social Sciences)
Vol. 10, No. 2, (Fall 2014) 160-167
* The material presented by the authors does not necessarily portray the viewpoint of the editors and the
management of the Institute of Business & Technology (IBT).
* Dr. Riaz H. Soomro: dr.soomroriaz@gmail.com
* Dr. Farooq Aziz: drfarooqaziz89@yahoo.com
©JMSS is published by the Institute of Business and Technology (IBT). Main Ibrahim Hydri Road, Korangi
Creek, Karachi-75190, Pakistan.
Analysis of Economic and Technological Strategic Factors Affecting the
Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises of Apparel Sector in
Pakistan
Dr. Riaz H. Soomro
Hamdard University, Karachi
Dr. Farooq Aziz
Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science & Technology, Karachi
ABSTRACT
Keywords: Foreign direct investment; economic growth, Pakistan.
JEL Classification: D040, D220
Purpose: The objective of the study is to explore and examine the economic and technological
environmental factors affecting the performance of apparel SMEs in Pakistan..
Methodology/Sampling: This study contains a qualitative as well quantitative analysis. Primary
data was collected through a questionnaire and structured interviews of the representatives of the
apparel sector associations. Those apparel firms were selected that qualified as apparel SMEs as per
definition of SME policy (SME Policy 2007, 2007).
Findings: Study concludes that interest rates, devaluation and inflation significantly affect the
performance and demand dynamics, regional economic cooperation and the only technological
factor spending in information technology, do not significantly affect the performance of apparel
SMEs in Pakistan.
Practical Implications: This study will help managers to take preemptive measures to minimize
effect of economic & technological factors affecting performance of SMEs.