The Impact of Innovation in Jordanian Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries on Export Performance

Abstract

Innovation has long been considered an important factor for creating and maintaining the competitiveness of the firms. Common knowledge stands that innovation is the cause of the increase of exports. However, contradicting empirical evidences are reported in the literature on the relationship between innovation and export performance. In this research we examine whether innovation performed by Jordanian chemical and pharmaceutical industries enhances their export performance. Based on research objectives, a structured questionnaire was developed to collect the needed data to test the developed hypotheses. Data were collected from twenty two companies, representing a sixty-five percent response rate. Data were analyzed and hypotheses were tested using various analytical methods. Research findings indicate that there is a statistical significant relationship between innovation and export performance for the sample under study; mainly for research and development, marketing data base, management (atmosphere conductive to innovation), promotion and product (quality). Based on the results, several recommendations are suggested.