Impact of export market orientation on export performance : A relational perspective

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the mediating role of export market orientation (EMO) in the relationship between inter-organizational relationships and export performance, and the moderating role of degree of internationalization in the relationship between EMO and export performance. Design/methodology/approach – The authors sent questionnaires to the 1,000 largest manufacturers listed in CommonWealth magazine (2009), and a random sample of 500 machinery manufacturers listed in the Taiwan Association of Machinery Industry Directory. The authors received 244 completed questionnaires through which to examine the hypotheses. Findings – The findings show that trust and social interaction positively influence EMO, which then enhances export performance. However, the moderating effect of degree of internationalization has no significant impact on the EMO and export performance relationship. Research limitations/implications – Future studies should conduct two-way research on focal firms (manufacturers) and overseas partners (agents or distributors) through common variables including trust, commitment, satisfaction, etc. The results indicate that the content validity of the present study is somewhat inadequate, possibly due to the cultural differences involved. Practical implications – Overseas information exchange between exporters and partners fosters firms’ export performance. Thus, closer relationships with channel partners or customers via trust and social interactions may help firms to conduct appropriate EMO activities to access overseas market information and improve export performance. Originality/value – By investigating Taiwanese exporters, who tend to emphasize relational capital, the authors determine that EMO is important in understanding how inter-organizational relationships influence export performance. The authors also contribute a more comprehensive view to the literature.