Firm and export heterogeneity in export growth: Evidence from china

This study examines the roles of firm characteristics and export heterogeneity in export growth. An analysis of the 2001-2007 firm-customs data set from China reveals that small and young firms exhibit higher export growth than large and mature firms. Conversely, foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs), particularly joint ventures, exhibit a significantly lower export growth rate relative to private firms. Export type, market choice, and export variety are influential factors in export growth rate. A higher ratio of processing exports and a larger share of exports to advanced economies increase the growth rate of exports. Product variety and number of destinations are also positively associated with export growth. Considerable differences in the determinants of export growth exist between FIEs and domestic firms and between processing and ordinary export-oriented firms.