Absorptive capacity, relational capital and export performance among SME exporters: the moderating effect of contract

• Published in: Journal of knowledge management 2024-07, Vol.28 (7), p.2120-2139
• Main Authors: Ismail, Md Daud, Ahmad, Syed Zamberi, Singh, Sanjay Kumar
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Absorptive capacity; Absorptivity; Competitive advantage; Design analysis; Economic growth; Emerging markets; Exports; Frame design; Globalization; Industrialized nations; Knowledge management; Small & medium sized enterprises-SME
• ISSN: 1367-3270; 1367-3270; 1758-7484
• DOI: 10.1108/JKM-02-2023-0144

Purpose This study aims to investigate the relationship between absorptive capacity, relational capital and interorganizational relationship performance and examine the moderating effect of contractual governance on this relationship. Design/methodology/approach This study used a quantitative design, analyzing data collected through a survey questionnaire. The sampling frame consisted of 111 cross-industry, small and medium-sized manufacturers in Malaysia. The research model was analyzed using structural equation modeling. Findings The results show that interorganizational relationship performance is positively influenced by relational capital and absorptive capacity. While absorptive capacity has a positive effect on relational capital, this study finds empirical evidence that contractual governance weakens the effect of absorptive capacity on relational capital. Furthermore, this study also examines the hitherto under-researched moderating effect of contractual government on absorptive capacity and relational capital and their relationship with interorganizational relationship performance. Originality/value This study provides insights into the interorganizational relationship among SMEs and explains the nature of knowledge management in this context. This study shows the potential role of absorptive capacity in building close cross-border interorganizational relationships.