Creating globally competitive and innovative products : China's next olympic challenge
Date
2008
Authors
Wang, L.C.
Ahlstrom, D.
Nair, A.
Hang, R.Z.
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Advisors
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Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Sam Advanced Management Journal, 2008; 73(3):4-15
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Abstract
Powered by low production costs, China's export economy has dazzled the world and sparked outstanding growth for several decades. But can this economic model continue to deliver such results? While manufacturers may innovate to increase production efficiency, the products themselves are often re-exports or copies. Obstacles to product innovation include a hierarchical structure, undeveloped intellectual property laws, and disincentives for risk-taking. In-depth interviews with eight indigenous, coastal Chinese firms, mostly in light manufacturing, illuminate these problems and suggest changes that could boost innovation in the future.