The influence of technological innovation resources on high-tech product export performance: Evidence from national hi-tech zones in China

We analyzed the influence of R&D funds input and personnel quality on high-tech products export from the perspective of technological innovation resources. Based on the panel data of 52 national hi-tech zones in three consecutive years (2005-2007), we found that R&D fund input positively relates to high-tech products export performance, while personnel quality has a significantly negative effect on high-tech products export performance. Moreover, the R&D fund input and personnel quality influence export performance in an interactive manner. When personnel quality is low, R&D fund input will have a stronger effect on export performance. The results in this study suggest that: (1) R&D fund input should be strengthened to boost the export performance of our hi-tech products; (2) Overseas technologies should be imported and fully utilized to accelerate the transition of domestic products no matter it is low cost commodities or high value-added goods; (3) Improvement of workers' remuneration could increase the export of high-tech products in the short run.