Research on the Impact of ESG Performance on Corporate Exports

Abstract

The development of a green and low-carbon economy has become a crucial topic in global economic advancement. China's export trade faces a complex international landscape characterized by escalating trade frictions, rising trade protectionism, and a sluggish traditional trade environment in the post-pandemic era. This paper primarily explores the relationship between the ESG performance of Chinese A-share listed companies and their export activities. Initially, it conducts a literature analysis on the impact of ESG performance on corporate exports from the perspectives of environment, social responsibility, and corporate governance. This paper conducts empirical analyses using relevant regression models to test the hypotheses. Furthermore, in examining the transmission pathways of the impact of ESG performance on corporate exports, an intermediate variable regression model is established to analyze the specific roles played by corporate innovation as a mediator. In conclusion, the findings are as follows: (1) Overall ESG performance positively influences corporate exports, indicating that better ESG performance is conducive to enhanced export activities. (2) Enterprises with superior ESG performance can promote exports by improving their innovation capabilities.