Competitive intensity, innovation orientation, export entrepreneurship and export performance: considering effect of corporate social responsibility

PurposeThis study explores the effects of competitive intensity and innovation orientation on export outcomes, including export entrepreneurship (EE) and export performance (EP), and determines the direct and moderating impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) among exporting agricultural and food (agri-food) small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Iran.Design/methodology/approachUsing systematic random sampling, 296 firms participating in the international food and agricultural industries exhibition filled out a questionnaire. Smart PLS3 software was used to analyze the data.FindingsThe competitive intensity has positive effects on export entrepreneurship of Iranian agri-food SMEs. Additionally, innovation orientation, CSR and EE positively impact EP. However, the moderating impact of CSR on the relationship between innovation orientation and EP was not supported by data.Originality/valueThe current study enriches the existing knowledge in international business in the specific setting of exporting agri-food SMEs operating in a developing economy.