Export Performance of Vietnamese Manufacturing SMEs: A PLS-SEM Test of Resource-Based Determinants, Absorptive Capacity, and International Competition

Bui Van, Vien and Vo Huu, Khanh and Tran The, Tuan (2025): Export Performance of Vietnamese Manufacturing SMEs: A PLS-SEM Test of Resource-Based Determinants, Absorptive Capacity, and International Competition. Published in: Problems and Perspectives in Management , Vol. 23, No. 4 (22 December 2025): pp. 602-619.

Abstract

Export performance has become increasingly important for Vietnamese manufacturing SMEs as they face digital transformation and stronger global competition. This study investigates how resource-based determinants affect the export performance of Vietnamese manufacturing SMEs, with absorptive capacity (mediation) and international competition (moderation). Cross-sectional survey data from 420 manufacturing SMEs in Vietnam, collected during February–August 2025 and completed by authorized firm representatives (owners/ directors/ senior managers). Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (SmartPLS 4.1) with 5,000 bootstraps was employed. Digital transformation (β = 0.304, p < 0.01), logistics infrastructure (β = 0.289, p < 0.01), and human capital (β=0.284, p<0.001) are the strongest predictors; marketing capability (β = 0.124, p < 0.01) and access to finance (β = 0.108, p < 0.01) are positive. Absorptive capacity positively affects exports (β = 0.161, p < 0.01) and mediates four determinants (largest for human capital, indirect β = 0.046, p < 0.01). International competition strengthens the effect of human capital (β = 0.115, p < 0.01) but weakens marketing capability (β = -0.102, p < 0.01). The model explains 57.3% of export performance variance. These findings highlight the need for policies promoting digital adoption, logistics upgrades, and human-capital development, while firms should enhance learning capabilities and recalibrate marketing strategies under increasing competitive pressure.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: exports; SMEs; RBV; absorptive capacity; competition; digital transformation
• Subjects: F - International Economics > F1 - Trade > F14 - Empirical Studies of Trade; L - Industrial Organization > L2 - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior > L25 - Firm Performance: Size, Diversification, and Scope; O - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth > O3 - Innovation ; Research and Development ; Technological Change ; Intellectual Property Rights > O33 - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences ; Diffusion Processes

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