The contribution of managerial ties to international learning capability and export performance : evidence from Thai exporters

Abstract

This study empirically investigates the role of managerial ties that facilitates the acquisition of international learning capability, which consequently benefits export performance. Social capital theory and resource-based view of firm are used as the main theoretical framework for hypotheses development. A survey data were collected from 124 export firms in Thailand. The data were analyzed using partial least square regression analysis. The results suggest positive relationship between managerial ties and the international learning capability, which in turn, positively associated with the export performance of the sample firms. The results also support the positive and direct association between managerial ties and export performance. The overall results imply that Thai export firms may be able to increase their international learning capability which is crucial to improve their export performance by cultivating the benefits from their social capital.