Competing from the Periphery

How do small countries on the edge of economic regions compete effectively on the international stage? Are such countries condemned to a low level of economic participation or have they the strength and flexibility to overcome the disadvantages inherent in their size and location? How do these countries attract investment, employ their citizens and promote the export of locally produced goods and services in the face of competition from the economic giants on their doorstep? This publication attempts to answer these questions in light of a variety of different national experiences. It surveys traditional assumptions and current thinking in economics, management, marketing, manufacturing and technology. Studies of cases in Europe, particularly the Irish Republic, Portugal, the former Eastern Bloc and Scandinavia are featured.
 
How do small countries on the edge of economic regions compete effectively on the international stage? Are such countries condemned to a low level of economic participation or have they the strength and flexibility to overcome the disadvantages inherent in their size and location? How do these countries attract investment, employ their citizens and promote the export of locally produced goods and services in the face of competition from the economic giants on their doorstep? This publication attempts to answer these questions in light of a variety of different national experiences. It surveys traditional assumptions and current thinking in economics, management, marketing, manufacturing and technology. Studies of cases in Europe, particularly the Irish Republic, Portugal, the former Eastern Bloc and Scandinavia are featured.