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The internationalisation of Chinese apparel companies,1990-2020

Author

Listed:
  • Juxuan Zhang

    (Osaka University, Graduate School of Economics)

  • Pierre-Yves Doné

    (Osaka University, Graduate School of Economics)

Abstract

This paper investigates the dynamics of the internationalisation of leading Chinese apparel companies since the early 1990s. Following the general growth pattern of this industry, which was export-oriented until 2005 and focused on the domestic market since 2005, this paper adopts a business history approach to explore the strategies adopted during these two periods to invest in overseas expansion. Our discussion is based on an analysis of the top 25 largest Chinese apparel firms in 2019. Using a broad range of published sources and official data, we shed light on the internationalisation process of these firms and show the various strategies used to upgrade their position in the global value chains, from OEM manufacturers for global brands to the owners and managers of their own retail networks.

Suggested Citation

  • Juxuan Zhang & Pierre-Yves Doné, 2024. "The internationalisation of Chinese apparel companies,1990-2020," Discussion Papers in Economics and Business 24-05, Osaka University, Graduate School of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:osk:wpaper:2405
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Apparel industry; internationalization; foreign direct investment; China;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D22 - Microeconomics - - Production and Organizations - - - Firm Behavior: Empirical Analysis
    • F23 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - Multinational Firms; International Business
    • L67 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - Other Consumer Nondurables: Clothing, Textiles, Shoes, and Leather Goods; Household Goods; Sports Equipment
    • N85 - Economic History - - Micro-Business History - - - Asia including Middle East

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