A noteworthy gap in export barrier literature lies in the absence of longitudinal studies examining temporal limitations. We address this gap using a two-point comparison of the influence of export barriers. We hypothesize an inverse relationship between changes in business confidence and the influence of export barriers, with export barriers increasing in influence as business confidence falls. On the basis of a comprehensive list of export constraints, our results show that 18 out of 42 export barriers increased in influence across the two-time periods. Not only do our results imply business sentiment is a plausible driver for perceived export barriers, they also open a new boulevard of enquiry regarding the theoretical underpinnings of the phenomena.