TO EXAMINE THE PERCEIVED EFFECT OF TRADE LIBERALIZATION ON PROCUREMENT PROCESS IN PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN TANZANIA, TAKING RUAHA CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY (RUCU)

Abstract: This study examined the perceived effect of trade liberalization on the procurement process at Ruaha Catholic University (RUCU) in Iringa, Tanzania. Guided by dependency theory and strategic choice theory, the research explored how global trade reforms influence institutional procurement practices, transparency, supplier collaboration, and efficiency. Using a descriptive research design, data were collected from 62 staff members directly or indirectly involved in procurement through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS. The findings revealed that trade liberalization is perceived to enhance procurement outcomes by fostering supplier competition, encouraging e-procurement adoption, improving information sharing, and promoting long-term partnerships. However, challenges such as limited institutional capacity, inconsistent inventory management practices, and marginalization of small and medium enterprises were also identified as barriers to fully leveraging liberalization benefits. The study concludes that while trade liberalization significantly shapes procurement practices, its effectiveness depends on institutional readiness, governance structures, and digital transformation. It recommends strengthening institutional capacity, professionalizing procurement staff, supporting SMEs, and investing in digital procurement systems to maximize the opportunities presented by liberalized trade frameworks. Keywords: Trade liberalization, procurement process, transparency, e-procurement, institutional capacity, SMEs, Tanzania, Ruaha Catholic University. Title: TO EXAMINE THE PERCEIVED EFFECT OF TRADE LIBERALIZATION ON PROCUREMENT PROCESS IN PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN TANZANIA, TAKING RUAHA CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY (RUCU) Author: Fumbe A. Fumbe, Dr. Yasinta Kassimba, Dr. Theobald Kipilimba International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025 Page No: 23-32 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 07-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17286480 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/to-examine-the-perceived-effect-of-trade-liberalization-on-procurement-process-in-private-universities-in-tanzania-taking-ruaha-catholic-university-rucu