International Business Environment

Introduction

The course introduces students to the institutional conditions under which firms operate across national borders. The course focuses on political systems, legal frameworks, and technological developments that influence international business decisions. Students will study international and multinational organizations that shape global economic integration and evaluate how technological developments - such as artificial intelligence, algorithms, and digital platforms - create new opportunities and constraints for international business. The course further addresses emerging global challenges and equips students with data-driven approaches for analyzing international business environments from a sustainability perspective.

Course content

The course combines theoretical perspectives with empirical evidence to analyze international institutional environments. Key topics include:

• Institutions and international business
• Regulation of international trade
• International organizations and governance structures
• Regional dynamics and emerging economies
• Global challenges: digitalization, labor standards, poverty, and the environment

Case studies are used to apply theory to real-world international business situations.