Persistence in exporting: Cumulative and punctuated learning effects

We develop a model of export persistence which is based around different patterns of learning by exporting. Cumulative previous exporting can help lengthen subsequent exporting spells, but this can be compromised by the punctuated learning arising from a pattern of sporadic exporting. Firms with episodic exporting exhibit different learning patterns from continuous exporters, and are less likely to develop the deep routine-based learning that comes from constant exposure to managing export markets. Using data from Spanish manufacturers over a 22 year period we find support for a model of differences in export persistence arising from cumulative and punctuated learning by exporting.