Abstract:

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the influence of absorptive capabilities on export performance. The authors use a quantitative research approach by conducting a study based on survey data from 247 Portuguese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the textile industry. Findings suggest that absorptive capabilities has a positive and significant influence on export performance. This paper presents further evidences of the strategies that SMEs managers should pursue and policy makers should promote. This study deepens our understanding and provides novel insights into strategic management literature, since it combines multiple factors and has obtained the importance of each construct in SMEs business growth.