Gestion des risques à l’exportation : proposition d’une typologie des comportements des PME manufacturières

Exporting is an activity that can boost the performance of SMEs, but it is also a risky activity with no guarantee of success. This can discourage some SMEs from getting involved, even though the risks can be managed and controlled. What do exporting SMEs do about these situations? A typological analysis of 235 exporting manufacturing SMEs in Quebec reveals a diversity of behaviours explained by the risk context and the degree of commitment to exporting. SMEs with a strong commitment to distant markets are more active in risk management and record higher rates of overall performance. Risk management is therefore a capability that SMEs need to develop to favor their success on their international development.