Circular economy, cost leadership, focus and differentiation in exporting companies in emerging economies: A worker's perspective on competitiveness

Belen Aguilera Agurto L.; Pamela Angeles Astudillo E.; Fernando Cosio Borda R.; Margarita Gamarra Vargas N.; Vanesa Hernani Angulo J.; Retamozo-Riojas D.; Ramírez-Briones L. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.1548

Resumen

The main objective of the research was to determine the relationship between the circular economy, cost leadership, strategic focus, and differentiation in exporting firms in an emerging economy. It is in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible consumption and production, promoting the efficient use of resources and the circular economy to reduce environmental impacts, improve efficiency, lower costs, and strengthen corporate social responsibility, thereby improving competitiveness. The methodology was applied, with a quantitative approach, a non-experimental cross-sectional design, and a correlational scope. The final sample consisted of 75 employees from two companies located in Peru and Colombia. The results showed that there is a moderate positive relationship between the implementation of the circular economy, cost leadership, differentiation, and a focus on exporting companies in an emerging economy.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas; Universidad Tecnológica del Perú; Universidad César Vallejo