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The Impact of Host Countries' University Research and University-Industry Collaboration on the Location of Research and Development: Evidence from Japanese multinational firms

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  • SUZUKI Shinya
  • Rene BELDERBOS
  • KWON Hyeog Ug
  • FUKAO Kyoji

Abstract

We examine the impact of the strength of host countries' university research and university-industry collaboration on the propensity of Japanese multinational firms to conduct research and development (R&D) activities in these countries. We consider heterogeneous effects based on the type of R&D activity: basic research, applied research, and development for local markets and for global markets. Drawing on official survey data on R&D facilities of 498 Japanese multinational firms in 24 host countries, we find support for the notion that the strength of university research increases the probability that firms conduct R&D in a host country. Applied research activities are attracted to countries with relatively intensive university-industry collaboration. Moreover, firms from high-tech industries respond significantly more strongly to the presence of university research than those from low-tech industries.

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  • SUZUKI Shinya & Rene BELDERBOS & KWON Hyeog Ug & FUKAO Kyoji, 2012. "The Impact of Host Countries' University Research and University-Industry Collaboration on the Location of Research and Development: Evidence from Japanese multinational firms," Discussion papers 12080, Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry (RIETI).
    • Handle: RePEc:eti:dpaper:12080
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    3. Yumiko Myoken, 2014. "Investigating the Factors Fostering Sustainable Collaboration between Japanese Companies and UK Universities," International Journal of Business Administration, International Journal of Business Administration, Sciedu Press, vol. 5(3), pages 108-116, May.

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