How export-oriented SMEs from emerging markets respond to the CSR-related code of conduct: a content analysis of auditing reports

Changdong Chen, Yunxia Zhu, Ruochen Jiang and Lifeng Zhu

International Journal of Emerging Markets, 2022, vol. 18, issue 12, 6061-6080

Abstract: Purpose - This study aims to explore how emerging SMEs respond to the multifaceted contents of CSR-related code of conduct (COC) from external stakeholders and the underlying constraining forces and mechanisms shaping such responses. Design/methodology/approach - This study opted for a qualitative methodology using the content analysis, and the data were collected from the auditing reports on Chinese export-oriented SMEs carried out by a public and independent third-party agency. Findings - The findings showed that SMEs from emerging markets present a short-termism orientation in the response to external CSR-related COC, and the study developed a threefold response typology implemented by SMEs, capturing economic interest and moral rightness as two dimensions shaping such responsive patterns. The study furthermore showed that whether SMEs' responses are more symbolic or substantive depends on managers' beliefs regarding the economic-moral conflict tension involved in the implementation of CSR-related COC. Originality/value - This paper explores emerging SMEs' response strategy to CSR-related issues formulated by external stakeholders and clarifies the underlying decision-making road map to alleviate the tension involved in corporate social responsibility implementation.

Keywords: SMEs; Code of conduct; CSR; Emerging markets; Content analysis; M14; M16; M42 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:ijoemp:ijoem-12-2021-1808

DOI: 10.1108/IJOEM-12-2021-1808

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