Article: Knowledge transfer and technological upgrading of foreign affiliates in Indonesia: firm level analysis Journal: International Journal of Knowledge Management Studies (IJKMS) 2022 Vol.13 No.2 pp.131 - 149 Abstract: Knowledge transfer is an essential process to generate the capacity of technological advancement for industrial development in developing countries. This paper aims to explore the role of knowledge transfer and learning process to support the improvement of technological capabilities of local suppliers. By using a sampling method of 26 multinational companies (foreign affiliates) in machinery and electrical components sector in Indonesia, several possible determinants pursuing knowledge transfer activities are analysed. The size of the sample is limited by the data collection. This study confirms findings that the possibility of knowledge transmission for local suppliers does exist, particularly for joint venture firms and those who have export activities. The foreign affiliates with research and development divisions are more likely to transfer knowledge to local firms. To explore in detail, two case studies were selected from the sample to describe how knowledge transfer activities managed among partners. It suggested that knowledge transfer as an effort of upgrading technology dependent on the learning experience between firm development and external source of knowledge. A process to formalise knowledge transfer relationships with equal benefits between sender and recipient is a key. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Knowledge transfer and technological upgrading of foreign affiliates in Indonesia: firm level analysis

Authors: Lutfah Ariana

Addresses: Research Center for Science, Technology and Innovation Policy and Management, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI), Jl. Gatot Soebroto Kav. 10, Jakarta 12720, Indonesia

Abstract: Knowledge transfer is an essential process to generate the capacity of technological advancement for industrial development in developing countries. This paper aims to explore the role of knowledge transfer and learning process to support the improvement of technological capabilities of local suppliers. By using a sampling method of 26 multinational companies (foreign affiliates) in machinery and electrical components sector in Indonesia, several possible determinants pursuing knowledge transfer activities are analysed. The size of the sample is limited by the data collection. This study confirms findings that the possibility of knowledge transmission for local suppliers does exist, particularly for joint venture firms and those who have export activities. The foreign affiliates with research and development divisions are more likely to transfer knowledge to local firms. To explore in detail, two case studies were selected from the sample to describe how knowledge transfer activities managed among partners. It suggested that knowledge transfer as an effort of upgrading technology dependent on the learning experience between firm development and external source of knowledge. A process to formalise knowledge transfer relationships with equal benefits between sender and recipient is a key.

Keywords: knowledge transfer; foreign affiliate; local supplier; multinational; upgrading technology; Indonesia.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2022.121843

International Journal of Knowledge Management Studies, 2022 Vol.13 No.2, pp.131 - 149

Received: 21 Jun 2020
Accepted: 25 Feb 2021
Published online: 07 Apr 2022 *

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Title: Knowledge transfer and technological upgrading of foreign affiliates in Indonesia: firm level analysis

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