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Spatial distribution of Japanese affiliates in Italy: a dynamic geo-spatial network analysis

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  • Massimiliano Porto

    (Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University)

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to analyze Japanese investments in Italy from 1972 to 2019 as a bipartite network where groups and actors are represented by Japanese parent and affiliate firms, respectively. By using a network approach, we identify how deeply rooted a Japanese firm is in Italy, where it decides to invest, and whether it decides to co-invest with a Japanese partner. We observe that a) most of the Japanese affiliates are located in Northern Italy; b) the gap with the number of affiliates in Southern Italy increased over time; and c) that the intermediary role of sogo shosha for Japanese manufacturing investments in Italy has decreased in the recent years.

Suggested Citation

  • Massimiliano Porto, 2024. "Spatial distribution of Japanese affiliates in Italy: a dynamic geo-spatial network analysis," Asia Europe Journal, Springer, vol. 22(3), pages 269-291, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:asiaeu:v:22:y:2024:i:3:d:10.1007_s10308-024-00700-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s10308-024-00700-5
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