Title: The role and influence of Foreign Direct Investment on the development process: the case of the software industry in Romania, China, India and the Philippines

Authors: David Floyd, John McManus

Addresses: Faculty of Business Management and Law, Department of Corporate Strategym University of Lincoln, Room 3214 Bridge House, Bray Ford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK. ' Faculty of Business Management and Law, Department of Corporate Strategy, University of Lincoln, Room 3214 Bridge House, Bray Ford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK

Abstract: Much has been made of the importance of emerging markets and transition economies as the future of the software industry. This paper sets out to explain the main reasons why these markets are proving attractive to Foreign Direct Investment in Romania by examining theories of internationalisation and drawing on key FDI data. Contrasts are also made with other important markets, as well as transition economies, including China and India. The paper then goes on to examine industry-specific variables. The article then considers some alternative historical and cultural factors that may also have a role in explaining the success of this particular industry and location, and assesses whether government should continue to support this industry as part of the development process.

Keywords: software industry; global strategies; foreign direct investment; FDI; Romania; India; China; Philippines; transition economies; economic development.

DOI: 10.1504/GBER.2006.008779

Global Business and Economics Review, 2006 Vol.8 No.1/2, pp.119 - 132

Published online: 24 Jan 2006 *

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