The Italian SMEs in the International context. A model to succeed in the global arena

This paper explores the internationalization process of the Italian SMEs, and aims to in- vestigate their behaviour in the international contexts to ultimately outline general models able to optimize their peculiarities. The empirical study ¯rstly examines 546 SMEs along their internationalization. The internationalization process is examined through its phases: decisions, marketing strategy, achievements and future perspectives. A second aim is to de¯ne sustainable paths for SMEs willing to expand successfully over the Country borders. It also proposes important issues and management implications to be considered in the international development of Italian SMEs.