From intra-disciplinary synthesis to problematizing theorization: Rethinking MNE sustainability in local markets

This study conducted an intra-disciplinary review exploring how multinational enterprises (MNEs) contribute to sustainability in local markets within the fields of international business (IB) and strategy. It comprehensively examines four key themes of corporate social responsibility, economic (regional) development, social performance, and environmental sustainability of MNEs. By doing so, it seeks to consolidate fragmented findings from existing independent studies while broadening understanding through problematizing assumptions made in research. In addition, it sheds light on the complexities that MNEs face to address sustainability challenges, and how to strategically integrate economic, social, and environmental goals while adapting to global and local pressures. In turn, we propose new research directions and draw implications for MNEs in addressing grand challenges. Overall, this study contributes to deepening sustainability research in IB and strategy fields, and provides valuable insights for MNEs’ sustainable business practice.