Can corporate social responsibility enhance corporate competitiveness? An empirical analysis based on listed companies in China's pharmaceutical manufacturing industry

The current study explores the influence mechanism of corporate social responsibility on corporate competitiveness. From 2011 to 2020, a research sample was collected from 108 A-share pharmaceutical manufacturing companies listed on Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges. Findings depict that the pharmaceutical manufacturing enterprises significantly improved competitiveness by fulfilling social responsibility. Good internal control showed a mediating effect on the influence of corporate social responsibility. Moreover, a perfect equity incentive reflects the moderating effect in the relationship between corporate social responsibility and enterprise competitiveness. The study not only provides an empirical test for the relationship between corporate social responsibility and corporate competitiveness but also analyzes the transmission mechanism between internal control and executive equity incentive variables. The study findings stress monitoring stakeholders and improving the enterprise's internal control system. Moreover, it is necessary to establish a reasonable and effective executive equity incentive mechanism.

Automated summary

This study investigates the influence mechanism of corporate social responsibility on corporate competitiveness. A research sample was collected from 108 A-share pharmaceutical manufacturing companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2011 to 2020. The findings suggest that fulfilling social responsibility significantly improves the competitiveness of pharmaceutical manufacturing enterprises. Good internal control acts as a mediator in the relationship between corporate social responsibility and competitiveness. Additionally, a perfect equity incentive serves as a moderator of this relationship.