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Institutional action, institutional entrepreneurship, and China’s inward FDI policy: A co-evolution analysis

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  • Liu, Yuanyuan
  • Zhao, Yilin
  • Liu, Xiaming

Abstract

This paper provides a co-evolution analysis of China’s inward FDI policy. In parallel with the widely used concepts of institutional entrepreneur/entrepreneurship, it proposes and applies the concepts of institutional actor/action in an emerging economy setting, underscoring the significance of institutional action/entrepreneurship in shaping the trajectory of China’s inward FDI policy evolution. We argue that the policy formulation process is not solely instigated by the Chinese government but rather represents a co-evolutionary dynamic process involving China’s inward FDI institutional framework and institutional action/entrepreneurship. We advance a comprehensive conceptual framework for prospective research endeavors.

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Yuanyuan & Zhao, Yilin & Liu, Xiaming, 2025. "Institutional action, institutional entrepreneurship, and China’s inward FDI policy: A co-evolution analysis," International Business Review, Elsevier, vol. 34(1).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:iburev:v:34:y:2025:i:1:s0969593124000891
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ibusrev.2024.102342
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