Playing catch-up with China: challenges and strategies for smaller developing countries

Michel Leseure, Dinesh Hurreeram, David Bennett

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This paper considers how smaller developing countries can compete with China by examining the cases of two such countries; Mauritius and Morocco. In order to supplement their more traditional extractive and agro-based industries they have developed important textile and apparel sectors, supplying principally the EU. However, the textile industries in both countries have recently come under intense competitive pressure from China with its much lower production costs and huge capacity. This paper compares and contrasts the conditions under which Mauritius and Morocco have developed their textile industries as well as exploring the challenges they now face from China and the ways in which they have reacted to them. It also examines the wider industrial policy of both countries and the extent to which they have acquired the capability to meet the threats that now face them. Some specific strategies and actions are also described and evaluated with a view to providing advice and guidance for other smaller developing countries that face similar challenges in these and other industries.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)617-637
Number of pages21
JournalTechnology Analysis and Strategic Management
Volume21
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2009

Keywords

  • strategy
  • competitive advantage
  • textile and apparel industries
  • technology
  • leapfrogging
  • Mauritius
  • Morocco
  • China

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