The Internationalisation of Chinese and Indian firms: Trends, Motivations and Strategy

Maastricht, the Netherlands
September 5-6 , 2008

The internationalisation of Indian and Chinese firms is an emerging phenomenon which is likely to change the landscape for many industrial sectors and with potentially large implications for corporate competitiveness and the structure of industries. What is this phenomenon and how is it driven by the  growth strategies of Indian and Chinese firms? The perspective that the conference will take on the subject is that that the internationalisation of Indian and Chinese firms represents the attempt of two very large (and populous nations) to integrate themselves into global oligopolistic markets hitherto dominated by firms from more developed economies.  The main advantage of the new entrants (firms from India and China) lies in low cost labour and the possibility of economies of scale.  However, successful internationalisation requires that they find innovative ways to develop lasting competitive advantage that will not be based on labour costs alone.  Furthermore, they must do this while often targeting a demand base that is not domestic and therefore not well understood.  The concluding panel discussion will reflect upon the lessons learnt from a study of Indian and Chinese experiences for other developing countries attempting to catch-up and integrate in the global economy.

Organisation and audience

Papers for presentation were by invitation only- a total of 7 papers and a Panel Discussion are envisaged. Click here for a preliminary program.

Participation is free and open to those interested in the subject to the carrying capacity of the conference room on the 4th floor of the UNU-MERIT.  To register your interest please go to the registration page.

For any other queries about the conference please contact the organiser Suma Athreye.