Title: The critical success factors and their influence on export performance: a systematic literature review

Authors: Catherine Pasa Dorneles; Guilherme Bergmann Borges Vieira; Fernanda Lazzari; Carlos Honorato Schuch Santos

Addresses: Universidade de Caxias do Sul (UCS), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Administração (PPGA/UCS), Rua Francisco Getúlio Vargas, 1130, 95070-560 – Caxias do Sul-RS, Brazil ' Universidade de Caxias do Sul (UCS), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Administração (PPGA/UCS), Rua Francisco Getúlio Vargas, 1130, 95070-560 – Caxias do Sul-RS, Brazil ' Universidade de Caxias do Sul (UCS), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Administração (PPGA/UCS), Rua Francisco Getúlio Vargas, 1130, 95070-560 – Caxias do Sul-RS, Brazil ' Universidade Federal do Rio Grande (FURG), Campus Santo Antônio da Patrulha (SAP), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Sistemas e Processos Agroindustriais (PPGSPA), Rua Barão do Cahy, 125 - Bairro Cidade Alta, Santo Antônio da Patrulha-RS, 95500-000, Brazil

Abstract: The impact of critical success factors (CSFs) on export performance has been studied for more than four decades. Despite this, the literature remains fragmented, with no consensus regarding the determinants of export success, the indicators used to assess export performance, and the relationships between these constructs. In this context, this article presents a systematic literature review covering the period from 2000 to 2024. The study identifies the main CSFs in exports, compares outcomes across studies, ranks CSFs by relevance, and analyses their relationship with export performance. As a result, a conceptual model comprising 14 CSFs and four export performance indicators is proposed. By integrating different theoretical perspectives and providing a structured synthesis of recent contributions, this review advances the understanding of CSFs in export performance. The practical implications suggest that firms should align internal resources with external support mechanisms, while policymakers should design targeted programs to strengthen international competitiveness.

Keywords: international business; CSFs; critical success factors; exports; performance; systematic literature review.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.152486

International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business, 2025 Vol.15 No.4, pp.440 - 476

Received: 17 Jun 2025
Accepted: 30 Oct 2025
Published online: 23 Mar 2026 *

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