Multinationals and Economic Development

Multinationals dominate world trade and direct investment. However, less developed countries have often regarded this power as detrimental to their fragile, growing economies and have pursued a policy of regulation. Modern economic theories of multinationals need to evaluate the effects of such policies. This book offers an alternative to restrictive policies, arguing that multinationals are best treated in the same way as local private firms. By integrating new theories of multinational enterprise and of development economics, the author presents a critical analysis of the various competing policy options and their consequences. Using empirical evidence from Asia, Africa and Latin America and covering such areas as imports, exports, resource utilization and new technology, the author asserts that a classical, neutralist policy towards MNCs would be the most effective way of stimulating growing economies. The book should interest those looking at less developed countries and those studying business and applied economics.