WHAT MAKES CHINA'S INVESTMENT SUCCESSFUL IN AFRICA: THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT AND BEHAVIOR OF CHINESE ENTERPRISES IN TRANSITIONAL TIMES

In: Journal of developmental entrepreneurship: JDE, Band 17, Heft 4, S. 1250025

Abstract

Currently, much attention is paid to the political aims and influence of Chinese outward investment, especially in developing Africa. This paper attempts to fill the knowledge-gap of international entrepreneurship literature by analyzing the entrepreneurial behavior of Chinese firms under the background of south-south economic cooperation. Through the case studies, we analyze the distinctive entrepreneurial behaviors and characters of different types of Chinese firms with high entrepreneurial spirits in Africa during the transitional time. After comparing the various entrepreneurial behaviors between Chinese and West investors, this paper sheds light on the potential positive roles of the entrepreneurial spirit, high risk-behavior and adaptability to foreign environment, which are necessary to successfully seek new, overseas entrepreneurial opportunities from an emerging market. Applications for firms' managers and policy makers are also offered.