Multidisciplinary Journal of Science and Technology

STRATEGIC INNOVATION CAPABILITIES IN EXPORT-ORIENTED SUPPLY CHAINS: A MULTI-LEVEL MANAGEMENT APPROACH FOR TRANSITIONAL ECONOMIES

Mukhammadyaminova Shakhzoda

First-year Doctoral Student of Tashkent State University of Economics

Keywords: innovation capability, export-oriented enterprises, digital maturity, transitional economy, supply chain innovation, Uzbekistan, Triple Helix, Network Theory

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Abstract

In an era of global volatility and accelerating technological change, export-oriented enterprises (EOEs) in transitional economies face mounting pressure to innovate systemically. This article proposes a multi-level analytical framework that integrates the Resource-Based View, Network Theory, and the Triple Helix model to conceptualise innovation capabilities within EOEs' supply chains. Using embedded case illustrations from Uzbekistan, three capability clusters are identified: internal operational routines, inter-firm agility, and institutional integration. A tailored digital maturity scale adapted from McKinsey is applied to assess EOEs' readiness for innovation-driven growth. Empirical data show that most Uzbek firms operate at intermediate levels of digital integration , and achieve the strongest results when digital tools are reinforced through learning routines, cross-functional collaboration, and policy alignment.

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