Theorizing international business in Africa: A roadmap

Helena Barnard (), Kenneth Amaeshi and Paul M. Vaaler
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Helena Barnard: University of Pretoria
Kenneth Amaeshi: European University Institute
Paul M. Vaaler: University of Minnesota

Journal of International Business Policy, 2023, vol. 6, issue 4, No 1, 389-407

Abstract: Abstract International business in Africa is complicated by colonial history, late internationalization, and the growing interest of various foreign powers in Africa and its resources. We share key indicators about African countries and offer a conceptual map to help make sense of this complex scholarly terrain. We distinguish between three types of multinational enterprises (MNEs) operating in sub-Saharan Africa: Advanced MNEs (from high-income previous colonial and non-colonial countries), Emerging MNEs (from middle-income countries both inside and outside the region) and Nascent MNEs (from low-income African countries). We show how these distinct types of MNEs provide different development opportunities, how they engage differently with local, national, regional, and supra-national institutions, and why this matters for international business policy. We show how the papers showcased in this special issue contribute to a deeper understanding of international business in Africa and propose future research directions.

Keywords: Africa; China; Colonialism; Geo-political tensions; Positionality (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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DOI: 10.1057/s42214-023-00175-y

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