Abstract

Using firm-level data across 80 developing and transition economies, we explore the productivity differences between firms depending on their export status and the gender composition of their leadership. We find that for small- and medium-sized firms where leaders are arguably involved in ‘on the ground’ activities, female-led exporters have an exporter productivity premium three times that of comparable male firms. This suggests they face greater export barriers. For larger firms, we find the opposite, suggesting that large, female-led firms experience more difficulties in gaining via learning by exporting. Together, these point to significant concerns female firms face when exporting.