Influencing Factors of SME Export Performance: Focusing on the Mediating Effect of Utilizing B2B Cross-Border E-Commerce Platforms

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify factors that influence the export performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It primarily seeks to elucidate the mediating role played by business-to-business (B2B) cross-border e-commerce (CBEC). Design/Methodology – Following prior scholarly investigations, measurement factors influencing the export performance of SMEs through B2B CBEC were identified. Hypothesis testing was executed by structural equation modeling using Smart PLS 4.0 statistical software. Findings – This investigation demonstrated that the information and communication technologies (ICT) infrastructure and collaborative partnerships within supply chain management (SCM) significantly influence the export performance of SMEs. Furthermore, B2B CBEC was examined in terms of scalability, compatibility, and usability. As a result, it was found to play a mediating role in the impact of ICT infrastructure and SCM partnerships on export performance. Originality/value – This research highlights the crucial role of various factors in the establishment of a CBEC platform by SMEs. Specifically, the study emphasizes the importance of ICT infrastructures and SCM partnerships as pivotal elements affecting the export performance of SMEs. Furthermore, this study investigates the interplay between CBEC platforms and the influence of ICT infrastructure and SCM partnerships on SMEs’ export performance, with particular focus on factors such as scalability, compatibility, and usability. It underscores the capability of these platforms to effectively address challenges related to language barriers, ICT, order management, and logistics. Consequently, SMEs can attain efficient transaction performance without necessitating substantial additional resource investment.