A state-market interplay framework for strategic knowledge management in Chinese MNEs
Ma, Yulun van Witteloostuijn, Arjen Li, Peter Ping
Ma, Yulun
van Witteloostuijn, Arjen
Li, Peter Ping
Publication Type
Journal article with impact factor
Editor
Supervisor
Publication Year
2026-06
Journal
International Business Review
Book
Publication Volume
35
Publication Issue
3
Publication Begin page
102572
Publication End page
102572
Publication Number of pages
Collections
Abstract
The internationalization of Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs) has triggered a rapid rise in research on their knowledge management practices. However, this literature lacks a coherent theory to explain variation in Chinese MNEs’ knowledge management strategies in and over time. In particular, we still lack an understanding of how firms navigate the unique tension between a home-country state-as-strategist and the market-led logic of global competition. To address this theoretical gap, this paper draws on a systematic review of 150 articles to develop a state-market interplay framework for the strategic knowledge management of Chinese MNEs. Our framework explains how the relationship between state-led and market-led logics generates three distinct strategic modes, each with a corresponding dominant knowledge management strategy: (1) Subordinated Interplay emphasizing knowledge acquisition; (2) Conflicting Interplay focused on knowledge transfer; and (3) Integrated Interplay concentrating on global knowledge creation. We also identify firm-level capabilities and external and internal catalysts that influence transitions between modes. The study contributes to International Business theory and the knowledge-based view by offering a typology of state–market interplay in state-capitalist economies and by explaining the institutional contingencies of firms’ knowledge strategies. We conclude by outlining avenues for future research.
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Keywords
35 Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services, 3507 Strategy, Management and Organisational Behaviour