Commercial diplomacy in practice: experiences of international business executives and representatives in Malaysia. (1st January 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ruël, Huub J.M.; de Boer, Sirp; ten Haaf, Wouter
• Is Part Of: International journal of diplomacy and economy. Volume 1:Number 3/4(2013)
• Page Start: 258
• Page End: 273
• Publication Date: 2013-01-01
• Subjects: international business executives -- economic diplomacy -- business diplomacy -- embassy -- commercial diplomacy -- Malaysia; International economic relations -- Periodicals; Diplomacy -- Periodicals; 337.05
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2049-0887

Abstract

Commercial diplomacy aims at creating and expanding business opportunities abroad. Empirical research on commercial diplomacy from a business perspective is scarce. This paper presents the results of a study on the experiences of an embassy's commercial diplomacy activities in Malaysia by home country business executives and representatives abroad. The findings show that companies familiar with the Malaysian business environment apply less for diplomatic business support, but that support towards newcomers is assessed as valuable. Businesses experience the commercial diplomatic services as reactive, though willing to help. Matchmaking facilities are valued, especially by companies that are not familiar with the Malaysian business environment.