Critical Factors Inhibiting Performance of Small- and Medium-Scale Contractors in Sub-Saharan Region: A Case for Malawi

Table 9

First five top ranked variables from the combined mean scores of major players in the construction industry selected based on Pareto principle.

Rank	Constraints believed to be important elements for Malawian small- or medium-scale contractors (SMCs)
1	High lending interest regimes for SMEs offered by financial institutions^A
2	Stringent conditions for small- and medium-scale contractors to access capital^A
3	Fluctuation of currency/exchange rate^A
4	Stringent requirements for obtaining bonds/guarantees/sureties^A
5	High taxes^A

^AConstraints emanating for the business environment (external factors).
^BConstraints emanating from clients or client representations.
^CConstraints emanating from contractors’ deficiencies.