THE ROLE OF ORGANIZATIONAL CAPABILITIES, DIGITALIZATION, AND GOVERNMENT SUPPORT IN ENHANCING EXPORT COMPETITIVENESS: EVIDENCE FROM SMES IN UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play an increasingly important role in strengthening export capacity, diversifying international markets, and supporting sustainable economic development in Uzbekistan. The ability of SMEs to compete successfully in international markets depends not only on access to foreign markets but also on their organizational capabilities, adoption of digital technologies, innovation capacity, and access to government support. This study examines the role of organizational capabilities, digitalization, and government support in enhancing the export competitiveness of SMEs in Uzbekistan. The findings suggest that strengthening internal organizational capabilities and fostering an enabling institutional environment are particularly important for improving SME export performance. At the same time, digitalization can generate greater benefits when integrated with organizational transformation and government support rather than approached as a standalone technological investment. The study provides preliminary empirical evidence that contributes to the growing literature on SME export competitiveness in emerging economies and offers relevant policy implications for further strengthening SME internationalization and export performance in Uzbekistan.