Post-entry internationalization speed of SMEs: The role of relational mechanisms and foreign market knowledge

• Mutual trust, relational embeddedness, and commitment are important mechanisms· All the three mechanisms positively influence SMEs’ foreign market knowledge acquisition in domestic networks· Foreign acquired from networks is related to post-entry internationalization speed. Further, this relationship moderated by environmental hostility. The study contributes international business SMEs literature. Prior research shows that small medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can utilize with internationally experienced partners accelerate their process. Yet, there a lack of clarity limited empirical evidence regarding role within these driving speed (PIS) SMEs. To address gap, examines mechanisms-PIS drawing insights view argue mediates between PIS. hypothesized model tested using structural equation modelling (SEM) technique on sample 394 UK based manufacturing Our results show fully Additionally, linkage PIS hostility, such strengthened when hostility increases. We discuss contributions implications our suggest opportunities for future research.