JOURNAL ARTICLEElvis Madondo · Hummerly Dhobha · Primrose Mutema · Eunice Akindeji
International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science · 2025
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This study examines the impact of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on economic growth in South Africa over the period 2000 to 2023. An Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was employed to assess the relationship between FDI inflows and Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while controlling for key macroeconomic variables. The findings reveal that FDI exerts a significant positive influence on economic performance, with a 1% increase in FDI inflows associated with a 1.93% rise in GDP. However, high inflation exerts a detrimental effect, with a coefficient of -1.99, highlighting the importance of macroeconomic stability. The analysis also indicates that trade openness contributes positively to economic growth, while political risk remains a substantial deterrent to investment, as shown by a coefficient of -3.11. These findings underline the importance of maintaining a stable political environment, managing inflation effectively, and enhancing trade liberalisation to maximise the benefits of FDI. Policy recommendations include strengthening regulatory frameworks and fostering trade openness.
DOI 10.20525/ijrbs.v14i7.43581 Crossref citations1 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLERefilwe Maduane-Komape
International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science · 2025
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This paper examines the causal relationship between foreign divestment (FD), economic growth, and financial development in African countries between 2000 and 2020. The research addresses the inadequately studied influence of macroeconomic variables on FD, focusing on the African context, where scholarly investigations on FD remain scarce. The study seeks to provide policymakers with insights on strategies to mitigate FD outflows and promote sustainable development. The research employs the Dumitrescu-Hurlin Panel Causality test to investigate causal relationships between FD, economic growth, and financial development. The study uses panel data covering multiple African nations over two decades, offering a robust temporal and spatial analysis. The approach emphasises examining unidirectional and bidirectional causation within the macroeconomic framework, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the interplay between these variables. The main findings of the study reveal a unidirectional causation between FD and economic growth across African countries, although this relationship is not consistent in all instances. Additionally, a bidirectional causal relationship is identified between FD and financial development (FIN). These findings underscore the interconnectedness of FD with macroeconomic stability and highlight the importance of fostering economic growth and financial sector development to address FD outflows effectively. This study contributes to the underexplored area of FD in African nations by highlighting its causal relationships with economic growth and financial development. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, scholars, and multinational enterprises (MNEs). The findings further underscore the importance of sound governance practices, economic stability, and financial sector development in mitigating FD outflows and fostering sustainable development in Africa.
DOI 10.20525/ijrbs.v14i4.39302 Crossref citations2 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLESujan Chandra Paul · Ashim Kumar Nandi · Fatema Tuz Zohora · Md Arif Hosen
International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science · 2025
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This study aims to explore the effect of foreign direct investment on the educational attainment. This paper employed the POLS and 2SLS models. In Pooled Ordinary Least Square Model, educational attainment in primary, lower secondary, upper secondary and masters’ level have the significant positive relationship with foreign direct investment. In Two stage Least Square Model, educational attainment in primary, lower secondary, upper secondary, tertiary and masters’ level have the significant positive relationship with foreign direct investment. This study contributes to look at the impact foreign direct investment on educational attainment. Panel data from 38 Asian countries was gathered for this study, which spanned the years 2011 to 2022. The study results have important policy implications as they are directly linked to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Target 4.1, which aims to guarantee that all girls and boys get free, equitable, and high-quality primary and secondary education by 2030, resulting in relevant and effective learning outcomes.
DOI 10.20525/ijrbs.v14i4.39440 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLENoel Nthangu · Mulatu Zerihun · Mushoni Bulagi
International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025
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Foreign capital inflows (FCI) are essential for economic growth in developing countries. This study examines the socioeconomic factors affecting FCI in 31 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, utilizing panel data from 1985 to 2019 and employing the System GMM dynamic modeling approach. The findings indicate that when foreign direct investment (FDI) is treated as an endogenous variable, real interest rate (RIR), life expectancy (LEX), GDP growth rate, and food security (foodsec) have significant positive impacts. Conversely, the real exchange rate (RER) and inflation (INF) negatively correlate with FDI. Human capital investment is not statistically significant while the relationship between lagged FDI and current FDI is positive but nonsignificant. When foreign portfolio investment (FPI) is considered an endogenous variable, only food security exhibits a positive and statistically significant factor, suggesting that food security can enhance FPI flows. The study recommends that SSA countries aiming to attract more FCI should focus on improving healthcare, food security, and education. It is also suggested that countries should develop highly skilled R&D employees, public and private scientific research institutions, and industrial concentration in a country because they fundamentally drive the development and success of foreign capital flow levels. Central banks should also implement effective strategies to optimize capital flows by advancing financial institutions.
DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i2.7510 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLEAnthony Kambi Masha · Ernest Nikisi · Bathathu Peter · Patrick Bwowe
International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025
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The overarching aim of this study is to shed light on the effects of the competitive dynamics between local and international enterprises in townships and rural regions of the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM), Eastern Cape province, South Africa. To achieve this aim, our study compares the effects of these selected strategies between local and foreign businesses owned by local and foreign traders in townships and rural areas in the CHDM. We employed a quantitative research approach using questionnaires to gather data. In the complete model, the indirect effect of product diversification (PD) on competition dynamics (CD) through pricing strategy (PS) is minimal and non-significant. Similarly, for foreign businesses and local businesses, the mediation effect remains negligible. These findings suggest that while PD influences CD directly in some contexts, PS does not play a significant intermediary role. Overall, the results highlight the direct impact of PD on CD, particularly for foreign businesses. The mediating role of PS is negligible, and the importance of diversification for competition differs significantly between foreign and local businesses. These findings suggest the need for tailored diversification strategies based on the business context to enhance competitive positioning
DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i2.7610 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLEElvis Madondo · Hummerly Dhobha
International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2025
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This paper explores the role of strategic government communication in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Zimbabwe in the post-Mugabe era, using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology. The study investigates how government communication strategies, including diplomatic engagement, national branding, and media outreach, influence investor perceptions and contribute to economic growth. The review identifies key insights, noting that Zimbabwe’s efforts to rebrand itself through campaigns like "Zimbabwe is Open for Business" have enhanced its image internationally and attracted investments, particularly in the mining and infrastructure sectors. However, the study highlights several challenges, including political instability, inconsistent policies, and competition from other African nations, which continue to hinder Zimbabwe's full potential in attracting FDI. The findings suggest that while strategic communication has been effective in improving Zimbabwe’s image, further steps are needed to ensure consistent policy frameworks and address investor concerns regarding security and economic stability. The paper concludes that sustained efforts in refining communication strategies, alongside policy consistency, are essential for Zimbabwe to become a more competitive investment destination. Additionally, future research directions are proposed, including comparative studies with other African nations and an exploration of the role of non-governmental actors and digital platforms in enhancing FDI attraction.
DOI 10.36096/ijbes.v7i2.7690 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLEMakatleho Georginah Domela · Ze Tian · Brian Mereta
International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science · 2025
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The study explores relationships between renewable energy variables across African nations, focusing on South Africa (RSA) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) using panel data from 2013 to 2022. Key variables include Chinese mining sector FDI (in USD), renewable energy capacity (in MW), technological advancements, policy frameworks, natural resource management, technological adoption, and risk perception. Employing descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation, and linear regression, the study reveals notable findings. Descriptive statistics highlight significant diversity in renewable energy capacity, policy support, and mining sector FDI levels across African countries, reflecting varying development stages and investment climates. The DRC exhibits slower FDI growth compared to South Africa. Correlation analysis indicates that Chinese FDI strongly correlates with technological advancements, favorable policy frameworks, and renewable energy capacity, while high-risk perceptions discourage investment and capacity development. Regression results identify technological advancements as the most significant predictor of FDI and sustainable growth, emphasizing its critical role in attracting investment. Although policy frameworks and risk perception show potential, further exploration with larger datasets is required to uncover their moderating or indirect effects. The study underscores the interdependence between technological development, investment flows, and renewable energy capacity. It calls on African nations to prioritize technological advancements, foster partnerships with Chinese firms for technology transfer, and implement robust policy frameworks. Policymakers should focus on political stability, economic reforms, tax incentives, streamlined approvals, co-financing mechanisms, and addressing structural challenges to effectively attract FDI and drive sustainable growth.
DOI 10.20525/ijrbs.v14i2.38750 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLEDarlington Chizema · Ramos E. Mabugu · Christelle Meniago
International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science · 2025
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Despite extensive research on foreign direct investment (FDI), the specific dynamics and determinants affecting FDI inflows to South-Eastern Asia remain largely unexplored. This study using Dunning's OLI theory to identify the economic determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) and examines the correlation between FDI inflows and the ease of doing business (EODB). This study aims to examine the effect of ease of doing business indicators on foreign direct investment inflows and the degree to which they affect the volume of FDI inflows in South-Eastern Asia. Interest in the determinants of foreign direct investment has surged, as it is regarded as essential for capital inflows to poor countries. This research utilises a Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) panel regression to analyse FDI flow variations among seven countries—Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam—during the period from 2006 to 2019. The results indicated a substantial and enduring correlation between foreign direct investment (FDI) and the enforcement of contracts, investor protection, tax compliance, and GDP per capita. The research underscores the significance of EODB variables in attracting FDI to South-East Asia. Policymakers must prioritise enhancing the business environment by streamlining processes, including investor protection and tax system simplification. By prioritising certain sectors, governments can cultivate a more conducive environment for foreign investors, leading to heightened FDI inflows. The results suggest that targeted reforms in these critical sectors can significantly enhance South-East Asia's appeal as a foreign direct investment destination.
DOI 10.20525/ijrbs.v14i2.39081 Crossref citations1 OpenAlex citations
JOURNAL ARTICLEWu-Hua Chang
International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science · 2025
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Taiwan's banking sector operates in a highly competitive market with narrow profit margins, creating significant pressure for internationalization. This study investigates the external environmental factors influencing the timing of Taiwanese banks' foreign direct investment (FDI) in Japan, with a particular focus on geopolitical risks. The research, based on secondary data analysis and in-depth interviews with senior executives from four Taiwanese banks that have recently invested in Japan, finds that key drivers such as the U.S.-China trade war, supply chain restructuring, Taiwan's New Southbound Policy, changes in Japan's defense and economic security policies, as well as the depreciation of the yen, widening interest margins, and Japan's policy support, play a crucial role in shaping the timing of these investments. Notably, geopolitical risks emerge as a significant determinant in FDI timing decisions. By highlighting the importance of geopolitical risks, this study contributes to the theoretical framework of FDI timing and recommends further research on cross-industry and investment performance to refine analytical framework for FDI timing in a fragmented global economy.
DOI 10.20525/ijrbs.v14i1.38680 Crossref citations0 OpenAlex citations