Linking Competitive Intelligence, Learning Orientation and Export Performance of SMEs

The need to account for the direct and indirect influence of competitive intelligence and learning orientation on SMEs export performance given the poor export performance of SMEs in developing economies precipitated this study. This has become relevant in view of the need to ensure that SMEs remain an engine room for economic growth and development. Hence, we collected data from a sample set of 400 employees from SMEs that engage in export activities. Structural equation model (SEM) with the aid of AMOSv27, was used in analyzing the data. The study found that competitive intelligence affects export performance of SMEs. We also found that learning orientation has a positive link to SMEs’ export performance, and it mediates the relationship between competitive intelligence and export performance, though partially. Drawing insight from the resource-based view theory, we advanced competitive intelligence as a firm intangible resource that can affect export performance, even when channeled through learning orientation. Hence, manager’s ability to first gather and analyze reliable information about its firms’ readiness comparatively to that of their competitors and creating an enabling environment that supports information sharing and willingness to alter existing practices to replicate novel information from their competitive intelligence activities are fundamental in ensuring increased export performance.