IJIKMMENA · Vol 5, No 1 · 2016

Challenges of going global for SMES’, IJIKMMENA, Ali S. A. Alyafie and Dr. Muneer M. S. Al-Mubarak

Ahlia University
Bahrain
Dean
College of Business and Finance, Ahlia University
Bahrain
Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the business literature by identifying challenges that hinder Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to go global.

Design/Methodology/Approach

This study presents a model that shows the effect of different factors on globalisation of SMEs. Findings: The paper demonstrates several challenges facing SMEs to go global such as lack of technology and information, cultural and social differences, regulations and legal environment and marketing products internationally. Research limitations/Implications: There are areas which need more investigation such as expansion in study factors, using larger sample and conducting in-depth research interviews.

Findings

The paper demonstrates several challenges facing SMEs to go global such as lack of technology and information, cultural and social differences, regulations and legal environment and marketing products internationally.

Original/Value of the Paper

Although several papers have discussed SMEs’ globalisation around the world, there has been little research focusing on factors and challenges that affect SMEs, particularly in the Middle East. Our study discusses important issues and suggests more research in this area.

Research Limitations/Implications

There are areas which need more investigation such as expansion in study factors, using larger sample and conducting in-depth research interviews.

Practical Implications

The paper can help SMEs’ owners and managers to go global, design new programs, and enhance human competencies taking into account the importance of dealing with diverse cultures for business success.

Keywords
GlobalisationSmall and Medium EnterprisesSMEsChallenges
Citation

Alyafie, A., S., A. and Al-Mubarak, M., M., S. (2016): Challenges of going global for SMES', IJIKMMENA, International Journal of Innovation and Knowledge Management in Middle East and North Africa, Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 1-11.