The collective nature of export grouping schemes

Export grouping schemes have assumed an increasing role in the process of internationalization, especially for small- and medium-sized companies. Its network character has received the attention of a number of researchers who have focused both on their creation and development. Although cooperation has been recognized as a central feature, its collective action nature has been neglected. This paper aims at developing a methodological approach which takes into account that most export schemes involve a variety of actors who share common interests and are concerned with the promotion or defense of their collective interests.