+44-7897-074717Rapid Communication - Journal of Research in International Business and Management ( 2025) Volume 12, Issue 3
Published: 30-Jun-2025
International business sustainability refers to the integration of economic, environmental, and social considerations into global business operations. This study examines the strategic importance of sustainability in enhancing long-term value creation and competitiveness in international markets. It explores sustainable business practices related to environmental responsibility, social accountability, and ethical governance. The paper highlights challenges faced by multinational firms in implementing sustainability across diverse regulatory and cultural contexts. It also discusses the role of corporate sustainability strategies in managing risk, improving reputation, and meeting stakeholder expectations. By linking sustainability concepts with international business strategy, this study emphasizes that sustainable practices contribute to resilience, innovation, and sustainable global growth.
International Business Sustainability, Sustainable Strategy, Corporate Responsibility, Environmental Management, Social Sustainability, Ethical Governance, Global Value Creation, International Business.
operating in global markets. Increasing environmental degradation, social inequality, and regulatory pressure have compelled firms to reconsider traditional profit-driven business models. Sustainability integrates economic performance with environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Firms that embed sustainability into international operations enhance long-term value creation (Menzies et al., 2024).
Globalization has amplified the environmental and social impact of business activities. Multinational enterprises operate across countries with varying environmental regulations and labor standards. Managing sustainability across these diverse contexts is complex. International business sustainability provides a framework for aligning global operations with responsible practices. Environmental sustainability is a central component of international business sustainability. Firms face growing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, manage resources efficiently, and adopt environmentally friendly technologies. Environmental initiatives support regulatory compliance and brand reputation. Sustainable environmental practices enhance operational efficiency. Social sustainability focuses on fair labor practices, employee welfare, and community engagement. Multinational firms must ensure ethical treatment of workers across global supply chains. Social responsibility strengthens stakeholder trust and organizational legitimacy (Gomez-Trujillo & Gonzalez-Perez, M2020). Social sustainability supports long-term business stability.
Corporate governance plays a crucial role in international business sustainability. Transparent decision-making, ethical leadership, and accountability mechanisms guide sustainable behavior. Strong governance ensures alignment between sustainability goals and business strategy. Governance frameworks enhance credibility.
Cultural differences influence sustainability perceptions and practices. Values related to environmental protection and social responsibility vary across regions. International firms must adapt sustainability strategies to local expectations while maintaining global standards. Cultural sensitivity enhances sustainability effectiveness (Kourula et al., 2017). Sustainability also contributes to risk management in international business. Environmental and social risks can disrupt operations and damage reputation. Proactive sustainability strategies reduce exposure to regulatory, operational, and reputational risks. Risk mitigation supports resilience.
Innovation is closely linked to sustainability in international business. Sustainable innovation drives the development of new products, processes, and business models. Innovation supports competitive advantage while addressing global challenges. Sustainability-driven innovation enhances growth.
Stakeholder engagement is essential for effective international business sustainability. Firms interact with governments, communities, customers, and investors. Engaging stakeholders supports legitimacy and collaboration. Stakeholder-oriented sustainability strengthens relationships (Kolk et al., 2010).
Measurement and reporting are important aspects of sustainability management. International firms use sustainability indicators and reporting frameworks to assess performance. Transparent reporting enhances accountability and trust. Performance measurement supports continuous improvement (Mamasoliev, 2024).
International business sustainability plays a vital role in achieving long-term global value creation. This study highlights that environmental responsibility, social accountability, and ethical governance enhance organizational resilience and competitiveness. Multinational firms that adopt sustainable strategies are better positioned to succeed in complex international markets.
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Mamasoliev, S. (2024, October). International Business Law and US Market Expansion. In INTERDISCIPLINE INNOVATION AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH CONFERENCE (Vol. 2, No. 24, pp. 92-101).
Menzies, J., Sabert, B., Hassan, R., & Mensah, P. K. (2024). Artificial intelligence for international business: Its use, challenges, and suggestions for future research and practice. Thunderbird Int. Bus. Rev. 66(2), 185-200.