Investigating Smes’ Intention To Participate In Public Procurement In Tanzania: A Theory Of Planned Behaviour (TPB) Perspective On The Moderating Influence Of Perceived Behavioural Control

Abstract

This study investigates the behavioural intention of Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs) to participate in public procurement in Tanzania using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). 190 owners and managers were surveyed from SMEs located in Dodoma and Dar-es-Salaam using structured questionnaire forms. Employing a quantitative method, this research used Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) techniques to evaluate relationships among four key constructs: Attitude, Subjective Norms (SN), Perceived Behavioural Control (PBC), and Behavioural Intention (BI) to participate in public procurement. The study found that Attitude and PBC significantly affect BI, but SN do not affect BI. PBC played an important role in mediating and moderating BI, particularly increasing the impact of attitude and SN. However, contrary to expectations from the theory, SN did not significantly influence either attitude or BI to participate in public procurement. These findings underscore the importance of enhancing SMEs capabilities and confidence in procurement processes rather than focusing solely on normative pressures. The study contributes both theoretically and practically by refining the TPB model in a developing economy context and offering insights into how policy and institutional reforms can support SMEs participation in public procurement. Policy interventions should prioritize enhancing SMEs’ capabilities through structured training, capacity-building programs and mentorship initiatives that demystify public procurement processes.