In this paper, we provide some evidence that challenges the widespread consensus that exporters outperform nonexporters in productivity. Using Chinese textiles and electronics firms as a case study, we show that Chinese exporters exhibit characteristics different from those in other countries. We also show that, after controlling for firm characteristics and ownership, exporters are less productive than nonexporters when self-selection bias due to the endogeneity of export decisions is considered, a result contradicting the conventional wisdom. Some possible explanations are then provided.