Embeddedness in internationalization: Knowledge map and research agenda proposal

Abstract

This study conducted a bibliometric review of the literature on the importance of embeddedness in internationalization processes in order to map the research on this topic, identify its main trends, and propose future lines of investigation. The review covered articles published in academic journals listed in the Web of Science database. The analysis of the data obtained relied on the functions offered by IRaMuTeQ software. The results confirm internationalization is important in current business contexts in terms of the development of companies’ activities and these firms’ local relationship networks. Four clusters of articles were identified as major trends in the literature: international strategic management, networking through international joint ventures, international entrepreneurship, and trade and international relations. The findings contribute to mapping the existing literature on the importance of embeddedness to the development of companies’ international activities, as well as identifying potential new lines of investigation.