Research on the Embedding of Hometown Networks and Value Co-creation by Chinese Enterprises' Overseas Expansion in the Global South
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Against the backdrop of Chinese enterprises’ overseas expansion in the Global South, this study examines the embedding paths and value co-creation mechanisms of hometown networks in cross-border operations. Combining literature review with case analysis, we select representative Chinese firms in typical hometown regions of Southeast Asia and Latin America as our research objects. We construct a dual-perspective theoretical framework of social network embedding and value co-creation, then use in-depth interviews and content analysis to empirically investigate the structure of hometown networks, resource flows, and collaboration patterns. Our findings indicate that hometown networks play a critical role in information access, institutional coordination, and social trust building; the depth of embedding and efficiency of resource integration significantly influence firm performance. Moreover, multi-actor co-creation pathways generate synergistic gains in market development and localization. Based on these insights, we propose managerial recommendations for optimizing network embedding strategies and strengthening multi-stakeholder co-creation platforms, and we outline policy implications and avenues for future research.
Author: You Shuyuan
Institution: Guangdong Nanfang Institute of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Strategy and Management
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413219957