Internationalization Behavior of Small and Medium- Sized Enterprises from Emerging Markets - Implications for Sustainability

Abstract

This study examines the internationalization behavior of small and medium-sized enterprises from Paraguay exploring their internationalization activities using the Uppsala model as the theoretical framework. The research methodology is a comparative multiple-case study research design. The sample consists of 28 typical Paraguayan firms from different industries. The findings of this study show how and why the the firms of the case study select new foreign markets as well as market entry and market growth modes, then compares the results with the set theoretical framework, and offers explanations for the ones that differ. The study provides a guideline for internationalization to international managers and offers insights to the literature on the Uppsala model.

Keywords: international business, international management, international entrepreneurship, global marketing, emerging markets, developing markets, business development, internationalization, Paraguay, Uppsala internationalization process model

JEL Classification: F23, M13, M16, M31