Impact of the European Integration Processes   on Internationalization of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

Janina Witkowska

doi:10.18778/1508-2008.9.16

Authors

Janina Witkowska

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18778/1508-2008.9.16

Abstract

Internationalisation of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) may develop in different ways. One is a traditional, gradual transition through successive phases of internationalisation (a step-by-step process, like ‘rings in the water’).The other one has been labelled „Born Globals”. The foreign market entry choice open to SMEs may include: export activities, co-operation and foreign direct investment (FDI). This choice is determined by the assets and competitive advantages a given SME holds.

The aim of this chapter is to examine the interrelationship between internationalization of SMEs and the European integration processes. Special attention will be paid to FDI as a form of SME internationalization in the new member countries.

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