Abstract

This study evaluates differences in intangible assets in firm export performance for permanent exporters using Export Promotion Programs provided by the Chilean Government and is bases on the hypothesis of Learning by Exporting, on the model of internationalization of Uppsala, and on the Theory of Resources and Capabilities to stress the importance of acquiring knowledge to minimize risk during the export venture. These knowledge acquisition may be made through the experience of the firm, its previous export activity, the use of diverse Export Program tools (trade mission and fairs) and the firm presence in distant markets. This acquisition shows in a number of intangible assets stock that include innovation capabilities and experiential knowledge. Results show the significant impact of a number of this variables on the firm export activity. Regarding the findings, the positive effect of export product innovation (underlining the boosting role of innovating to gain export competitiveness) and the negative impact of trade fairs (probably due to the fact that firms that take part in trade fairs usually do that to get more known in the export markets) may be highlighted.