The extrication of complex dynamics and the impact of government policies on tourism supply chain behavior for sustainable tourism in Zimbabwe

Abstract In the global pursuit of balancing economic growth with environmental and social sustainability within the tourism sector, sustainable tourism has garnered paramount attention. This research delves into the complex interplay among government policies, tourism supply chain behavior, and sustainability dimensions within the context of Zimbabwean tourism. A quantitative approach was employed, collecting data from 721 Zimbabwean tourism supply chain representatives using stratified random sampling and the Krejcie and Morgan table a method of determining the sample size. Questionnaires were distributed via Google Forms, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized for data analysis. The results provide strong empirical evidence that government policies have a significant positive effect on sustainability dimensions related to the tourism industry. The data indicates robust positive relationships between government policies and economic, environmental, and social sustainability. Furthermore, tourism supply chain behavior is shown to be a meaningful mediator between government policies and multiple sustainability outcomes. This emphasizes the significance of collaborative efforts, responsible practices, and harmonized actions within the tourism supply chain in achieving sustainable tourism. The study illuminates avenues for improving tourism sustainability, enhances policy makers and readers understanding on how policy‐driven efforts and tourism supply chain dynamics jointly impact tourism sustainability, there by emphasizing the need for coordinated actions.