International business sustainability and global value chains: Synthesis, framework and research agenda

Abstract

Global value chains (GVCs) have increased in importance and prominence within international scholarly literature over the last several years, with substantial contributions in the domains of international business, management, and corporate responsibility. The significance of GVC has been particularly highlighted over the past few years due to business interruptions and contextual turbulence (Covid pandemic, political, military, and socio-economic). Despite the growing attention of scholars and practitioners, relevant scientific research remains inconsistent, incomplete, and dispersed. In response, the present study is the first to comprehensively encapsulate the current state of research on GVCs through the lens of corporate sustainability by conducting a systematic review of all pertinently focused, peer-reviewed academic papers. This study defines and refines the association between sustainability standards, policies, and GVCs within an international business context. It also synthesizes the findings utilizing a multi-theoretical and multi-disciplinary framework to conclusively present avenues for future research and practical executive implications for international businesses, GVCs accounting, and business performance.