The Impact of B2B Global E-commerce Utilization on Dynamic Competency and Competitive Advantage in Korean SMEs

Purpose – The global business environment has been continuously evolving and innovating, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT), leading to a paradigm shift from traditional commerce structures to global product transactions through online e-commerce. In this rapidly changing context, cross-border e-commerce has emerged as a critical innovation in the export business process, enabling export manufacturers to efficiently gather market information and discover overseas customers. This study aims to examine the impact of cross-border e-commerce utilization on the export performance of small and medium-sized exporting manufacturing enterprises in Korea, particularly those facing challenges in resource constraints. Design/Methodology – To achieve the research objectives, this study conducted an extensive review of both domestic and international prior research and reference materials on the utilization of B2B global e-commerce by companies, identifying key factors for its effective application. Building on this foundation, the study established research hypotheses to determine whether the utilization of B2B global e-commerce by small and medium-sized exporting manufacturing enterprises—businesses that often struggle with limited human and financial resources in the global market—can lead to sustainable competitive advantage and enhanced export performance in the rapidly changing business environment. Findings – The empirical analysis revealed that among the various factors influencing the utilization of B2B global e-commerce by small and medium-sized exporting manufacturing enterprises, logistics infrastructure, payment systems, and international marketing significantly contribute to the development of dynamic capabilities. These dynamic capabilities, in turn, have a profound impact on corporate performance. Additionally, the level of B2B global e-commerce utilization was found to have a negative moderating effect on this relationship, indicating the complexity of its application. Originality/value – This study offers both academic and practical implications by examining the utilization of B2B global e-commerce by small and medium-sized exporting manufacturing enterprises through the lenses of innovation diffusion theory and dynamic capabilities theory. It also explores strategies to secure competitive advantage and enhance export performance within these enterprises, providing valuable insights for both scholars and practitioners in the field.