Factors impacting export intensity of SMEs in India

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to explore the factors impacting export intensity of SMEs in India. It examines the influence of various firm level variables on export intensity. The sample considered for the study includes 50 SME firms from different industries ranging from equipment and manufacturing to textile. Data for ten years (2011-2020) has been analyzed for drawing relevant results. For regression, Least Square Dummy Variable corrected (LSDVC) estimates have been used to address the issue of heteroskedasticity and autocorrelation issue present in the data. The results arrived at indicate  that the expenditure incurred on research and development, selling and distribution acts as an investment which provides returns in terms of better export performance. Also, top managers having international experience can be an important asset for a firm looking for expanding in international market. These results have substantial implications for the management of SME firms.