Managing dynamics of inter-partner cooperation of IVJs in China

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the dynamics of IJV inter-partner cooperation andexamines the critical determinants of maintaining ongoing cooperative intern-partner relationshipbetween IJV partners.Design/methodology/approach The research is based on a dataset collected through a survey ofIJVs in China. Non-parametric statistics were used in the analyses to test a series of hypotheses.Findings The research finds that inter-partner cooperation is a comprehensive process andimpacted by a series of factors. Appropriate selection of local Chinese partners is critical to acooperative relationship between IJV partners. In particular, intrinsic capabilities of local partnerswere found more important than their external advantageous conditions. The technology transfercoupled by the organisational learning of foreign partners also significantly facilitates a cooperativeinter-partner relationship of IJVs.Originality/value IJV inter-partner cooperation is examined from a comprehensive perspective toreveal the dynamics of the cooperation. Critical determinants of inter-partner cooperation areidentified, enhancing our understanding of managing inter-partner cooperation of IJVs in China.