The case describes the development of Alibaba.com, an Internet start-up originated from China that had become the worlds largest online business-to-business (B2B) marketplace for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) conducting international trade. In particular, it highlights the changing business environments in China, and the dynamic interaction of Chinese culture, Internet culture and Western management practices.
This case provides rich source materials to discuss three key issues. The first is about entrepreneurship in China and the characteristics of emerging Chinese companies. The second is how to organize and manage a fast growing Internet start-up. The third is a broad strategic issue concerning the development of B2B marketplaces, especially in the Asian context.
- Internet
- B2B exchange
- China
- Entrepreneurship
- Global trade. RD0901
- AR2001
