Title: Unveiling the evolution of early internationalisation research: a bibliometric-systematic literature review

Authors: Gentjan Ulaj; Mahmut Hızıroğlu

Addresses: Faculty of Economics, Department of Business Administration, Istanbul University, Istanbul, 34116, Türkiye; Faculty of Economy and Business, University of New York Tirana, Tirana, 1000, Albania ' Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Kyrgyzistan Türkiye Manas University, Bishkek, 720042, Kyrgyz Republic; Faculty of Economics, Department of Business Administration, Istanbul University, Istanbul, 34116, Türkiye

Abstract: Early internationalisation (EI) has expanded considerably over the past three decades, yet its conceptual development and fragmentation remain insufficiently addressed. This study fills that gap by conducting a bibliometric-systematic literature review (B-SLR) of EI research from 1993 to 2023, drawing on Scopus data. Using performance analysis and co-word analysis, we examine key contributors and track thematic shifts across three decades of scholarship. Our findings reveal a shift from identifying the phenomenon to exploring its drivers, processes, and post-entry outcomes. Despite this progress, conceptual fragmentation persists. To support future research, we propose key questions across emerging areas such as decision-making, digitalisation, internationalisation speed, strategic capabilities, and institutional contexts.

Keywords: early internationalisation; born global; international new venture; international entrepreneurship; bibliometric analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGSB.2025.148575

International Journal of Globalisation and Small Business, 2025 Vol.15 No.1, pp.101 - 133

Received: 03 Feb 2025
Accepted: 06 Jul 2025
Published online: 12 Sep 2025 *

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