An integrated model of internationalization for Singapore- based small-medium enterprises

Abstract

This thesis aims to address internationalization undertaken by SMEs in Singapore by establishing an integrated model of internationalization. We focus on two research questions: what is the extent to which the firms in our sample are internationalized and secondly, what are the determinants of their degree of internationalization.Our model is based on several streams of researcha??eclectic framework, inward internationalization, stage theory and network theory. We used survey instruments to gather data from a pool of 500 SMEs in Singapore. For data analysis, Herfindahl Index (HHI), overseas sales as percentage of total sales and number of countries were employed to test the degree of internationalization of Singapore firms. We conclude that the degree of internationalization is significantly influenced by the strength of ownership and location advantages. But there is no sign of support of stage theory, network theory and inward internationalization in explaining Singapore SMEsa?? internationalization.