This paper is a comparative institutional analysis of the EC's decision-making process in trade policy by focusing on three variables, i.e., competence (whether national or EC competence in EC trade policy), control (who controls the EC's position in international trade negotiations: the...

This article seeks to explain the varying, and sometimes intriguing, outcomes of the past three revisions of the Treaty concerning the Community’s Common Commercial Policy (CCP). The analysis particularly focuses on the development of competence and decision rules, i.e. the process of...

Considers how non‐Thais can negotiate successfully withe business and government executives in Thailand. Gives an overview of Thailand’s geography, climate, population, religion and business practice. Discusses important aspects of the social‐cultural environment that have a significant...

There is constant tension within the EU arising from conflicting national interests. One aspect of this which has received little attention is that of conflicting national cultures. In the modern world, culture is mainly transmitted across national borders via the medium of television. This...

States that international companies must consider the cultural differences between countries or risk serious and expensive problems. Uses real‐life examples to examine mis‐understanding and failed communication in global business. Describes how such problems can be identified and...

Japanese companies are successfully operating in other countries but foreign companies operating in Japan have not been as successful. An exception to this experience is the insurer, American Family Life Assurance Corporation (AFLAC), headquartered in Columbus, Georgia, USA. Over 75 per cent of...

The relationship between cultural and social elements in Japan and the presence and maintenance of trade barriers is examined. The European Community and the US had $23 billion and $60 billion deficits with Japan in 1988, respectively. In particular, the US has experienced a trade deficit with...

Provides insights into the nature of relationships between UK hotel franchisees and their international franchisors, and shows how operating systems and service provision are adapted to take into account local management views. Identifies a process between the principals, termed...

Using indices of bribe for 19 countries, this study examines the determinants of bribe paying in international business. There is a strong positive correlation between countries where bribe taking is highly prevalent and those countries that are most likely to offer bribes. The propensity to...