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How latecomers realize “going global” through technological catch-up: a longitudinal case study

Author

Listed:
  • Yu You

    (University of Chinese Academy of Sciences)

  • Yun Liu

    (University of Chinese Academy of Sciences)

  • Ruixue Zhao

    (University of Chinese Academy of Sciences)

Abstract

The intricate relationship between technological catch-up and outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) in developing nations, exemplified by China, stands as a cutting-edge area within the domain of enterprise innovation and internationalization. While an extensive body of literature focuses on elucidating how latecomers can effectively achieve technological catch-up through overseas investment and mergers and acquisitions, enabling them to acquire advanced technology and valuable experience, comparatively less attention has been given to examining the mechanisms by which technological catch-up propels the OFDI process of enterprises. To address this gap, this study conducts a longitudinal case analysis of the “going global” trajectory of CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive Co., Ltd. (CRRC-ZL), transitioning from a follower to a leading industry player. By synthesizing the concepts of technological catch-up with the Ownership, Location, and Internalization (OLI) paradigm, we construct a comprehensive model elucidating the internal processes propelling enterprises towards technological catch-up and subsequent “going global.” This research builds a bridge from technology catch-up to OFDI for latecomer companies, offering valuable managerial insights for latecomers navigating the strategic challenges of advancing beyond catch-up and entering international markets.

Suggested Citation

  • Yu You & Yun Liu & Ruixue Zhao, 2025. "How latecomers realize “going global” through technological catch-up: a longitudinal case study," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 50(3), pages 1269-1296, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jtecht:v:50:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s10961-024-10135-0
    DOI: 10.1007/s10961-024-10135-0
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    JEL classification:

    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • F23 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - Multinational Firms; International Business

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