글로벌 ESG 인증이 중소기업의 수출성과에 미치는 영향 : ESG 경영활동의 매개효과

In this study, we empirically investigated the impact of global ESG certification on the export performance of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), focusing on the mediating role of ESG management practices. Although global ESG certification is increasingly regarded as a prerequisite for SMEs to enter international markets and secure trust in supply chains, its effectiveness has not been sufficiently examined. Data were collected through a structured survey of 140 SMEs in Korea. The research model was tested via exploratory factor, reliability, and mediation analyses using Hayes PROCESS Macro (Model 4). The results indicate that global ESG certification has a significant and positive direct effect on export performance. In addition, ESG management practices play a mediating role, whereby certification strengthens internal ESG practices, thereby enhancing export performance. This dual pathway demonstrates that the effectiveness of global ESG certification depends not only on external recognition, but also on the degree to which ESG principles are embedded in a firm's internal management system. The study results provide empirical evidence of the structural link among ESG certification, ESG management practices, and export performance in SMEs. The findings highlight the significance of ESG certification as a strategic tool for strengthening competitiveness rather than as a mere procedural requirement. Practical implications include the need for SMEs to internalize ESG management to maximize the benefits of certification, as well as the importance of supportive policies that facilitate this internalization.