Purpose This paper aims to analyse how the temporal dimension is conceptualised in studies of the internationalisation process of firms and its implications. Theoretical models such as U-Model and INV explain the process of internationalisation as dynamic; nonetheless, time is approached as an underlying aspect of the process. In this essay, time is brought to the spotlight since, despite its strategic relevance, it has been treated implicitly in studies of the internationalisation processes, except in those that address the speed of internationalisation. Design/methodology/approach Based on a critical reassessment of the academic literature, the authors present theoretical arguments and highlight elements to be considered in the analysis of the temporal dimension throughout the internationalisation process of firms. Findings This essay focuses on expanding the comprehension of temporality in the internationalisation process, that underlies periods of changes, implied also in periods of stability. The paper discusses time dimension implications during the internationalisation process and reveals that there is an interaction between temporal verticality (context/events), subjective dimension of time (perception and interpretation of time) and objective dimension of time (stability and changes). Therefore, it sustains that these interactions compress past, present and future actions in the internationalisation process. Research limitations/implications Because of the chosen research approach, this essay did not empirically apply the theoretical model and propositions. Therefore, future studies may empirically apply the propositions and use the temporal lens to look deeper at the temporality of internationalisation process and shed further light on the mechanisms that interlink the pre-and post-entry phases. Practical implications The argument helps entrepreneurs understand that actions throughout the internationalisation process are also influenced by the experience of time and not only governed by rational matters. Changes in the context can alter the perception of present time as being restricted, and in turn, may alter the flux of future internationalisation actions. However, if actions are conducted in a precipitated manner it can bring forth negative results for the firm. It is essential to recognise the importance of temporal verticality and subjective dimension of time as influencers of future actions of the objective dimension of time in the process of internationalisation. Originality/value While most research is restricted to understanding time as speed, this essay brings a theoretical model extending the knowledge of time in the literature of international business and international entrepreneurship, by including factors that imply temporality. By explaining the relationship between temporal aspects, it is argued that temporal verticality (events and context) influences temporal subjectivity (perception of the present and interpretation of the past) to direct future actions of the temporality of internationalisation (stability and changes).

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A complexidade do mercado estrangeiro traz desafios às empresas que procuram ampliar sua participação internacional, pois apresenta variáveis importantes que podem ditar se uma empresa será bem-sucedida em seus esforços para a internacionalização. Além disso, por se tratar de ambientes internacionais diferentes, a falta de conhecimento por parte das empresas implica um aumento da percepção de complexidade do mercado estrangeiro.Mesmo assim, o fenômeno da globalização faz com que empresas busquem se internacionalizar 6 , pois esse processo permite o descobrimento de novas tecnologias, de recursos mais acessíveis e de um aumento na qualidade do produto, e assim, de sua competitividade e rentabilidade.Partindo disso, podem-se caracterizar dois aspectos de análise importantes no processo de internacionalização de empresas. O primeiro deles seria o grau de internacionalização, que corresponde ao grau de participação internacional 1 Graduada em Relações Internacionais. UNISUL.

Objective of the study: to develop a method for the selection of international markets, in order to answer: how to select the most appropriate foreign market to the company's needs? Methodology / approach: This is a technological article whose intervention was to establish a target market in Africa that presented the greatest potential for attractiveness and accessibility. The ranking method was applied, preceded by a cut line (by clustering) of countries without the minimum requirements and the most attractive and accessible market was established through the decision matrix tool. Main results: The market selection started by defining the African continent and 49 countries were clustered, excluding unattractive ones, resulting in: South Africa, Angola, Algeria, Egypt and Morocco. Subsequently, ranking was applied and Angola was the target market selected for export. Theoretical / methodological contributions: Contributes methodologically using a blend of methods, clustering and ranking, which allows you to select the target market according to objective criteria. Relevance / originality: In view of the existing international market selection models, this method proposal is positioned as an improvement, as it brings two differentials, clustering as the cut line, and the decision matrix as a tool for ranking countries. Managerial contributions: The business contribution is to have a simple and accessible method, which takes into account the specificities of attractiveness and accessibility for a specific product, so that the selection of international markets is based on objective and not merely intuitive criteria, thus increasing the assertiveness in choosing the target market.

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