Abstract
This study examines the impact of protectionism on global companies by analyzing the trade disputes between Whirlpool and the South Korean electronics giants, Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics. Initially, the conflict centered on Whirlpool's anti-dumping petition concerning refrigerators, which arose from allegations of dumping by Samsung and LG, leading to significant trade tensions. As the dispute escalated, Whirlpool expanded its anti-dumping claims to include washing machines, highlighting the persistent and complex nature of these trade conflicts. This research analyzes the strategic responses of Samsung and LG using the Resource-Based View (RBV), Dynamic Capabilities, and Knowledge-Based View (KBV) frameworks. Through these theories, the study elucidates how the two companies leveraged their unique resources and capabilities to address the challenges posed by protectionist measures, and how they maintained their competitiveness in the global market. The findings underscore the importance of adaptive strategies and innovative approaches in overcoming international trade barriers. Additionally, this study emphasizes the critical role of government policies and international trade organizations, such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), in shaping the trade environment. The research highlights the necessity for global companies to develop flexible and resilient strategies to effectively navigate the evolving protectionist landscape and sustain their international competitiveness.
| Translated title of the contribution | Protectionism and Global Companies’ Responses: A Case Study of Whirlpool vs. Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Pages (from-to) | 357-383 |
| Number of pages | 27 |
| Journal | 혁신기업연구 |
| Volume | 9 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Sep 2024 |