The growth of trade and investments across borders has meant that international business activities have become increasingly important in the 21st century. The combined global sales of multinational enterprises (MNEs) were about $26 trillion in 2012. Exports of goods and services exceeded $22 trillion in 2011. The course examines the implications of globalisation on business. It focuses on factors that affect business decisions and operations of multinationals and businesses engaged in international trade. The course also addresses the implications of this ‘global economy’ for the organization and operation of multinational firms. We also consider the ethical and environmental dilemmas and place the issues of sustainability at the centre of scrutiny of global business operation, highlight the politics of the relationship among multinationals, governments and broader society.

Aims
1. Provide an appreciation of key factors on which international business decisions are based;
2. Develop an understanding and appreciation of similarities and differences in the international business environment;
3. Distinguish the imperatives underpinning international trade and foreign direct investment;
4. Provide an understanding of the principles of the internationalisation process and draw implications for business management;

Learning Outcomes
On completing this course successfully you will be able to:
1. Distinguish between different political, social and economic systems and make accurate predictions of the nature of political and economic risk involved in business organisations operating within different nations
2. Critically evaluate the alternative theories of international trade and trace their implications for government trade policy
3. Analyze the process of globalisation in terms of its scope, form and geographical range, drawing out the implications for