Gestion des affaires internationales

Arnold Njike: arnold.njike-oya@univ-paris1.fr

This course aims to provide students with analytical tools to understand the modes of internationalization of firms, the role of multinational corporations in the globalization process, and their impact on national economies. It will encompass theoretical models of international trade applied to multinational enterprises, supplemented by recent empirical research findings. Topics covered in the course include the role of multinational corporations in global value chains, various forms of multinational expansion, the determination of multinational firm boundaries, empirical determinants of foreign direct investments, their impact on local economies, and issues related to corporate taxation. By course end, students will possess the skills to analyze research articles in the field, engage in discussions on key multinational firm issues, and grasp the significance of these concepts in a global context, equipping them for informed decision-making and critical thinking in the realm of international business.

Tentative Course Outline:

Session 1: Introduction to Multinational Firms and Globalization (3 hours)

Overview of the course

Importance of multinational firms in the global economy

Understanding global value chains

Multinational corporations' role in value chain integrationSession 2: Forms of Multinational Expansion (3 hours)

Horizontal and vertical foreign direct investments

Types, motives, and case studies for foreign direct investments

Session 3: Determining the Boundaries and Strategies of Multinational Firms (3 hours)

Factors influencing the scope and boundaries of multinational enterprises

Transaction cost theory and internalization theory

Multinational firm strategies and location choices

Session 4: Economic Policies and Attractiveness (3 hours)

The influence of host and home country policies on multinational operations

Case studies and policy considerations

Session 5: Multinational Firms and Taxation (3 hours)

Taxation challenges for multinational enterprises

Transfer pricing, tax havens, and recent developments

Session 6: Course Review and Discussion (3 hours)

Review of key concepts and topics covered in the course

Open discussion and Q&A with students

Recap of main takeaways and implications

Main References:

Antras, P., & Yeaple, S. R. (2014). Multinational firms and the structure of international trade.

Handbook of International Economics, Vol. 4, Chapter 2.

Barba Navaretti, G., & Venables, A. J. (2004). Multinational Firms in the World Economy.

Princeton University Press.

Additional articles and readings will be assigned for each session.

Evaluation:

Assignments and Homework: 40%

Class Participation: 10%

Final Examination: 50%