Applying Theory of Reasoned Action to Explain Inter-Firm Cooperation : Empirical Evidence from Vietnamese Enterprises

Inter-firm cooperation has received attention in recent years due to its benefit. However, little has been studied about the role of behavior intention and process by which affects cooperation behavior. From studying influencing factors which come from environmental and organizational sets, the paper will draw clear picture about the determinants of inter-firm cooperation. Based on research survey from Vietnamese enterprises, the results have confirmed the mediator role of cooperation intention which is the heart of theory of reasoned action (TRA) in making inter-firm cooperation. The results also revealed the effect of partner's trust and government direction on this type of relationship. The interesting finding has stemmed from the role of relationship benefit and social influences on inter-firm behavior. The former and the later have impacted on inter-firm behavior in different ways