Export challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises: A case study in the Eastern Anatolia region

This study examines the obstacles faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the Eastern Anatolia Region during their export processes. It investigates the impact of these perceptions on export performance in the areas of finance, marketing, production, logistics, and human resources. The limited number of studies in the literature specifically on SME exports in this region increases the importance of this study. The aim of the research is to reveal the impact of these factors on access to foreign markets. The study was conducted using a structured survey method on 385 SME representatives in the Eastern Anatolia Region. The impact of problems in finance, marketing, production, logistics, and human resources on export performance was analyzed using SPSS and AMOS programs. The results showed that difficulties encountered in finance and marketing positively affected export performance. Considering regional characteristics, the study reveals that increasing financial support, expanding marketing training, and strengthening logistics processes are necessary to increase the export capacity of SMEs. In this respect, the study sheds light on the development of export strategies for SMEs and policymakers in the region, focusing on improving cross-border trade, expanding digital marketing and e-export practices, branding in international markets, and strengthening logistics infrastructure.