UNLEASHING SMEs COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES TOWARDS EXPORT PERFORMANCE: A PERSPECTIVE OF ASIA REGION

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship of competitive strategies and SMEs export performance of Asian regions. In this study, a sample of 136 SMEs were used, and the research hypotheses was tested by using the PLS method. Questionnaire was prepared by measuring with five-point Likert type scale and then was passed through online. The results show that competitiveness and international knowledge and experience has significant relationship with the moderating effect which is government initiative that has direct impact in SMEs export performance. In an attempt to investigate the relationship of internationalization and performance of SMEs, this study focuses on SMEs in the Asian region manufacturing sector. While, the moderating effect act as an important result in the study which proves that government continues support to upgrade the environment to promote the growth and development of SMEs through proactive pursuit of business opportunities for internationalization, strengthening of legal institutions and administrative and financial institutions. The study showed a significant relationship between internationalization and SMEs export performance. The result poses some implications to SME owners and governments. Generally, the study strongly advocates that competitive advantages positively associated with exports strategies of SMEs in Asian Countries.