Effects of knowledge management, market orientation, technological innovation, and strategic orientation on halal SMEs in Singapore

Purpose The strategic development of halal firms is economically vital for developed countries such as Singapore to expand their halal products and services. This study aims to determine the effects of knowledge management, market orientation, technological innovation and strategic orientation on halal SMEs in Singapore. Design/methodology/approach The present study used a quantitative cross-sectional survey method, and 231 questionnaires were collected from the owners/managers of halal-registered SMEs using the Google online technique. The data analysis used Partial Least Squares (PLS) path modeling. Findings The findings showed that knowledge management and market orientation positively and significantly affect the performance of halal SMEs. However, the findings also revealed that technological innovation and strategic orientation do not have a significant relationship with the performance of halal SMEs. Research limitations/implications Self-reported questionnaires and a single informant approach were used, and the possibility of socially desirable bias cannot be excluded. The researchers had no control over the respondents’ sincerity or personal prejudices. Practical implications This study made an effort to significantly advance knowledge by providing a thorough framework for examining the problems faced by halal SMEs in Singapore. The findings of this study offer practitioners and policymakers a roadmap for creating policies that will help halal SMEs achieve a competitive advantage and higher performance. Originality/value Few studies have investigated the combined effect of knowledge management, market orientation, technological innovation and strategic orientation on the performance of halal SMEs. The findings on each variable’s predictive utility were mixed and inconclusive.