The Determinants of Export Performance: A Review of the Literature 2006-2014

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to synthesize and evaluate recent studies on determinants of export performance. Design/methodology/approach Using a vote-counting technique this paper reviews 124 papers published between 2006 and 2014 to assess the determinants of export performance. Findings The results indicate that significant progress has been made during these nine years and that: (1) numerous new determinants are identified, (2) data quality and statistical biases have received considerable attention, and (3) interaction and indirect relationships are considered. However, at the same time, the research of export performance is still limited by (1) a lack of synthetic theoretical basis, (2) inconsistent empirical test results, and (3) insufficiency in the research framework and statistical methodologies. Originality/value Export performance has received increasing attention over recent decades, but the area is still characterized by fragmentation and diversity hindering theoretical and practical development. This paper integrates the findings of recent studies on export performance and provides further discussion from both theoretical and methodological aspects, and points out the directions for future research.