Research on the Impact of Green Technological Innovation on Enterprise Internationalization: Mediated by Sustainable Development Performance

Abstract

Against the backdrop of stringent global environmental governance and rising sustainability demands, green technology innovation has emerged as a pivotal strategic driver for firms seeking international expansion. Using panel data from Chinese listed companies (2012–2022), this study examines how green technology innovation influences both the breadth and depth of corporate internationalization, with a focus on the mediating role of sustainable development performance and the moderating effect of internalized advantages. The results demonstrate that green technology innovation significantly enhances internationalization breadth and depth, with both environmental and economic dimensions of sustainable development performance serving as key mediators. Internalized advantages further strengthen the relationship between green technology innovation and internationalization depth. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that non-state-owned enterprises and firms in capital- or technology-intensive industries benefit more substantially from green technology innovation in driving internationalization. These findings enrich the literature on green innovation and international business, while offering practical implications: Firms should strategically leverage green technology innovation to overcome trade barriers by developing green patent portfolios and aligning with international environmental standards. Policymakers are advised to foster cross-border recognition of green certifications through multilateral agreements, thereby reducing institutional transaction costs and facilitating the global diffusion of green technologies.