Domestic clustered networks and internationalization of agrifood SMEs

Abstract

This paper examines how participating in domestic clustered networks in the agri-food industry affects the export status and export intensity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Uppsala internationalization process model has been revisited in light of the knowledge that these networks can contribute to promoting the presence of SMEs abroad. The study uses a sample of companies in the Spanish wine industry and characterizes 76 domestic clustered business networks (Protected Designations of Origin). The value and originality of the paper reside in its contribution in terms of measuring the degree of internationalization of domestic clustered networks to which SMEs belong. It also assesses the effect of these networks on the internationalization process of the agri-food industry, considering that domestic clustered networks with a strong international commitment generate greater internationalization opportunities. [EconLit Citations: F14, M21, Q13, Q17].