Regulation, SME Performance and Growth in Cameroon’s manufacturing and retail sectors

Research into small business activity has grown impressively over the last decade, though studies on the impact of regulation on business performance remains relatively under-explored. SMEs in Africa face difficulties in infrastructure, finance, as well as in complying with regulations and other governmental requirements. Confronted with poor economic performance, Cameroon began looking at policies to improve SMEs performance and to promote economic growth. This study hence examined the impact of regulation on SMEs performance and growth in Cameroon. The Tax department and the Municipality are the most well-known regulators. Businesses that are aware of their status as SMEs also legally register their companies. However, regulatory compliance of SMEs is low. Therefore the study recommends the establishment of one-stop shop for SMEs registration in Cameroon.