Geoeconomic and Geostrategic Perspectives on Transnational Corporations in the International Economy: A Narrative Literature Review

Abstract

In a context marked by escalating geopolitical tensions, technological disruptions, and recent systemic crises (pandemic, war in Ukraine, U.S.-China rivalry), the strategies of transnational corporations (TNCs) are undergoing profound transformation. This article presents a narrative literature review aimed at analyzing the main theoretical approaches used to examine the geo-economic and geo-strategic dimensions of TNCs’ actions in the international economy. By critically mobilizing the concepts of geo-economics, geostrategy, and global value chains (GVCs), the study explores the interactions between state power logics and corporate global strategies. It highlights the tensions between economic rationalities, territorial and security concerns, and sheds light on the ongoing reconfigurations in internationalization trajectories. Within a broader analytical perspective, the case of Morocco is discussed as an illustration of a country seeking strategic repositioning, at the crossroads of productive regionalization dynamics, global risk diversification, and the pursuit of structural competitiveness. This work thus contributes to a deeper understanding of the evolving relationships between states and TNCs in a changing world, while identifying key theoretical frameworks relevant to the analysis of these dynamic.