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The internationalization of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) has become a strategic issue in addressing global economic dynamics, particularly within the framework of the Global Value Chain (GVC) in the digital age. Although Indonesian MSMEs have great potential to support the national economy, their level of involvement in the global value chain remains relatively limited. This study aims to analyze the challenges and strategies for the internationalization of Indonesian MSMEs within the GVC in the digital age. The study employs a qualitative approach using a case study design, along with thematic analysis and value chain analysis techniques. The findings indicate that MSMEs are already involved in the GVC across various stages of the value chain—from raw material processing to global distribution—yet they continue to face numerous challenges, such as technological limitations, human resource competencies, production capacity, and international distribution networks. On the other hand, digitalization has proven to be a key factor in expanding access to global markets through the use of digital platforms. An effective internationalization strategy requires the integration of product innovation based on local resources, the utilization of digital technology, and the strengthening of global business networks. This study contributes to integrating the perspectives of GVCs, digitalization, and SME internationalization strategies into a comprehensive analytical framework, and provides practical implications for SME actors and policymakers in enhancing competitiveness in the global market

This study explores how the integrated Resource-Based View (iRBV) and Dynamic Capabilities (DC) explain the early stage of SME internationalization in Indonesia. An exploratory single-case study design is employed on a koi-breeding SME that has engaged in export activities, using a Likert-scale questionnaire to identify VRIN resources, dynamic capabilities, export performance, and internationalization barriers. The findings indicate that the SME possesses relatively strong export market knowledge, network competence, and quality reputation, but remains weak in global certifications, administrative support, and logistical capacity. From a DC perspective, sensing and seizing capabilities are already developed, whereas transforming capability is still limited in terms of reconfiguring the business model, strengthening human resources, and institutionalizing export routines. Overall, the results underscore that the success of SME internationalization is determined not only by the ownership of internal resources, but also by the firm’s ability to reconfigure those resources in the presence of environmental and institutional constraint.

This study aims to analyze the internationalization strategy of SMEs through the integration of SWOT and PESTEL analysis, using a case study of PT Mujnah Kemiri Lombok. SMEs play an important role in the national economy; however, in the process of expanding into international markets, they face various challenges from both internal and external factors that need to be comprehensively identified. Therefore, a strategic analysis is required to understand the factors influencing the success of internationalization. This study employs a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation related to the export activities of PT Mujnah Kemiri Lombok. Data analysis was conducted by identifying internal factors using SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) and external factors using PESTEL analysis (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal). The results show that the internationalization process of PT Mujnah Kemiri Lombok occurs gradually, starting from the domestic market and expanding into export markets through technological transformation and network expansion. The company’s main strengths lie in its supply chain network, business experience, and adoption of production technology, while its main weakness is the adaptation of human resources to technological changes. From an external perspective, government support acts as a key driving factor, while global price competition and logistics costs remain major challenges. This study is expected to provide both theoretical and practical contributions, particularly for SMEs in formulating appropriate internationalization strategies and enhancing competitiveness in the global market.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a central role in the Indonesian economy, yet their internationalization remains limited. This condition indicates that many SMEs have not fully transformed innovation and digitalization into strategic capabilities that support broader market expansion. This study examines the effects of innovation and digitalization on SME internationalization from the strategic capability perspective. A quantitative explanatory design with a cross-sectional survey was employed. The sample consisted of 200 SME owners or main managers in East Java selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The simulated results indicate that innovation and digitalization positively contribute to SME internationalization through product value enhancement, business process efficiency, and broader market reach. These findings suggest that SME internationalization is more likely to emerge when innovation and digitalization are integrated as strategic capabilities rather than treated as isolated initiatives.

This study examines the export barriers encountered by emerging small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia, with a focus on export documentation challenges, tariff constraints, and the adaptive marketing strategies employed to sustain international market engagement. Employing a qualitative case study approach, this research investigates PT Albarka International Group, a nascent export-import company established in 2021 and headquartered in Malang, East Java, which specializes in the export of natural commodities including Bakhur-related materials (opercula shells, damar resin, agarwood), spices, and other Indonesian products to Middle East markets including Yemen, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Libya, Sudan, and Djibouti. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with key company personnel and supplemented by document analysis. Findings reveal three primary export barriers: (1) high shipping tariffs relative to regional competitors, frequently triggering order cancellations by importers; (2) complex and time-intensive export documentation requirements, particularly for regulated natural resource products subject to CITES compliance, fish quarantine certification (Health Certificate), and customs declaration (PEB); and (3) internal organizational constraints stemming from overlapping job roles. In response, PT Albarka has adopted adaptive strategies including Full Container Load (FCL) consolidation to reduce per-unit shipping costs, advance payment systems (TT in advance) to mitigate importer default risk, and collaborative consultation with customs and quarantine authorities. The study contributes to the SME internationalization literature by demonstrating how resource-constrained emerging exporters navigate institutional and logistical complexities in developing economy contexts, offering practical insights for SME practitioners and export policy stakeholders.

This paper explores the challenges and strategic approaches in the internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By conducting a systematic review of key literature, the study identifies three main challenges: resource constraints, regulatory and compliance barriers, and risk management. These obstacles significantly impact SMEs' ability to expand globally. However, the review also highlights strategic approaches that can help SMEs mitigate these challenges, including forming strategic alliances, adopting digital technologies, and diversifying leadership teams with international expertise. The findings suggest that SMEs must integrate market knowledge, local networks, and technology to enhance their international competitiveness. The paper offers practical recommendations for SMEs and policymakers to facilitate smoother international expansion.