Exporting and Innovative Enterprises—Retesting the “Learning Effect†Based on the Firm-Level Data of China

Abstract

As an important branch of heterogeneous enterprise theory literature, a large number of studies have been done in the area of "learning by exporting" effect. However, the conclusion is not uniform. Most of the research focus on the macro level, it need to be tested by micro-data further. This paper explores the relationship between export and R&D input, using a panel data of 45 listed companies in China's innovative enterprise. We found that the growth of export can promote the R&D input of innovative enterprises, and proved the effect of "Learning by exporting". Moreover, we find the profits will increase the R&D input of innovative enterprise, and they will be more inclined to R&D activities when grow older.