Firm innovation and technical capabilities for enhanced export performance: the moderating role of competitive intensity

Purpose Drawing on the resource-based view (RBV) and structure–conduct–performance (SCP) paradigm perspectives, this study aims to investigate the influence of the innovation and technical capabilities of exporting organisations on their export performance moderate by competitive intensity. Design/methodology/approach Primary data were collected from 162 Chinese manufacturer–exporter companies operating across China. The conceptual framework of this study, which incorporated the impact of RBV and SCP paradigm determinants on export performance through the interaction effect of competitive intensity, was tested using structural equation modelling (Smart-PLS). Findings Results show that the technical and innovation capabilities can increase its export success in international markets. Furthermore, this research finds that competitive intensity moderates the positive relationship between technical capability and export performance but not the relationship between innovation capability and export performance. Originality/value This study presents a holistic assessment of the export performance of manufacturer–exporter enterprises by accounting for the overlooked effect of organisational capabilities through the moderating function of competitive intensity. This study has far-reaching consequences for export academics and practitioners, including the fundamental concept of an internationalizing small- and medium-sized enterprises, especially the manufacturers.