Pushing boundaries: market intelligence elevating SMEs export intensity through vibrant ecosystem

Purpose The mud crab sector within the broader seafood industry in Bangladesh is witnessing considerable growth, driven by increasing global demand for seafood. This sector primarily comprises small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which significantly contribute to the national economy. The study aims to explore the relationship between market intelligence (MI) and export intensity (EI), taking mud crab SMEs as a case study of the seafood industry, with a specific focus on the moderating role of the vibrant ecosystem. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a hypothetico-deductive quantitative research design. A total of 120 participants from the SME mud crab sector in the southwestern region of Bangladesh were selected using convenience sampling methods. Data were collected through a structured survey questionnaire and analysed using structural equation modelling. Findings The analysis results highlight two significant relationships in the context of mud crab entrepreneurs in Bangladesh: the direct impact of MI on EI and the moderating effect of the vibrant ecosystem on this relationship. The moderating effect of the vibrant ecosystem on the relationship between MI and EI is also statistically significant. Research limitations/implications This study sheds light on the crab sector as a potential sector for SMEs in Bangladesh to provide policymakers and entrepreneurs with practical insights to improve exports and economic growth. However, the study is limited to the southwestern region and the findings may not be directly applicable to other regions or sectors within Bangladesh or other countries. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to examine the role of MI in enhancing EI within the context of the emerging mud crab sector in Bangladesh. Additionally, it contributes by addressing the gap in the literature regarding the role of the vibrant ecosystem in moderating this relationship, providing unique insights for both academic and practical applications.