Are there micromultinational enterprises in Brazil? Three cases studied from the perspective of their degrees of internationalisation and use of networking

This paper describes the internationalisation processes of three Brazilian SMEs that do business in traditional industries and have achieved a considerable degree of product innovation. These SMEs can be considered 'micromultinationals' (mMNEs), according to the definition proposed by Dimitratos et al. (2003). We describe qualitative studies of these firms based on data collected in semi-structured interviews, by documentary research and in the field. These mMNEs have achieved degrees of internationalisation that are more complex than simple exportation and involve greater commitment of resources. These micromultinationals' use of networks or constellations have contributed to their internationalisation efforts, helping to reduce the effects of 'liability of foreignness' and of 'liability of smallness'. This paper not only offers support for management decisions, but also contributes to IB theory, especially with relation to internationalisation of SMEs in emerging countries, by applying the mMNE category.