Learning and strategic flexibility as drivers of the internationalisation process of firms in emerging countries Online publication date: Fri, 02-Aug-2024
by J.A. Gudziol-Vidal; M.T. Canet-Giner; F. Balbastre-Benavent; N. Escribá-Carda
European J. of International Management (EJIM), Vol. 24, No. 1, 2024
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of strategic flexibility in the relationship between learning and the first stage of company internationalisation, that is, exports. We propose a mediating effect of strategic flexibility in this link. The empirical study consisted of a survey conducted among exporting Colombian firms. We used a structural model to analyse data, which was estimated through Partial Least Squares Path Modelling (PLSPM). The sample involved 206 Colombian companies. Results confirmed that the relationship between learning and the export intensity and scope takes place when the company develops the capability to be strategically flexible. Our findings support the mediating effect of strategic flexibility in the relationship between learning and a firm's exports. The results obtained in this study may serve as a reference for organisations that are strategically expanding their activities in the international arena, particularly for Latin-American firms.
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