ABSTRACT

The multinational enterprise has been the central figure in the evolution and expansion of global capitalism. Throughout history, multinational corporations have helped states to exploit their economic resources and become more competitive within the global economy. These corporations have greatly enhanced social welfare by introducing products and services throughout the world, creating jobs and transferring technologies. But, as we observed in the previous chapter, foreign investment by multinationals is no longer a purely Western phenomenon. Corporations like India's Tata Group, China's Geely, and Saudi Basic Industries have also invested heavily abroad through acquisitions. This sort of investment has provoked protectionist fears over potential job losses and the relinquishment of local control.