Dissecting Chinese ODI: Dragon Multinationals in Italy

This paper provides original evidence about Chinese Outward Direct Investments in Italy. Data have been collected at the micro level, through a multiple-choice questionnaire, designed by the author and submitted to the whole population of Dragon multinationals. With a reply rate of 65%, we draw a detailed profile of Chinese parent companies and document the strategic features of their operations in Italy. Empirical findings are highly consistent with the theoretical expectations.