Export performance in small and medium enterprises: sectoral and regional dimensions in NSW Australia

Abstract

[Extract] This chapter discusses the results from a survey of 146 value-adding exporters from regional New South Wales, Australia, the majority of whom were small and medium enterprises using the Australian definition of having less than 200 employees. This study establishes that SME regional exporters were successful in gaining and maintaining sales in overseas markets in a variety of product areas. It thus raises the question of what factors lie behind this process. By identifying the causes of successful exporting in regional areas, policy-makers can design programs which best meet the needs of these firms and will encourage growth in their exports in the future.