Epistemological Reconceptualization of Export Market Penetration Determinants: A Multi-Theoretical Analysis of Institutional Barriers and Strategic Opportunities in Vietnam's Tea Industry Through PLS-SEM And FsQCA Integration

This research endeavours to reconceptualise the ontological and epistemological underpinnings of export market penetration determinants within the context of Vietnam's tea industry. Employing a sophisticated multi-theoretical framework that integrates institutional theory, resource-based view, and dynamic capabilities perspective, this study examines the complex interplay between institutional barriers and strategic opportunities that influence international market entry decisions. Utilising a mixed-method approach that synthesises Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), the research interrogates data collected from 278 tea exporting enterprises across Vietnam's key production regions. The findings reveal significant asymmetric relationships between institutional constraints, managerial cognitive frameworks, resource configurations, and export performance indicators. The research contributes to international business literature by: (1) developing an integrated theoretical framework that transcends disciplinary boundaries; (2) establishing a methodological approach that captures both variable-centred and configuration-centred perspectives; (3) identifying complex causal pathways to successful export market penetration; and (4) formulating strategic implications for policymakers and practitioners in emerging economy contexts. This epistemic intervention provides critical insights into the multidimensional nature of export market penetration determinants in transitioning institutional environments.